If you are looking for the best Instant Pot for a family of 4, I would suggest purchasing either the 6 or 8 Quart models. The first thing I have to say is that either of these two Instant Pot models is excellent. I would be happy to recommend either one of them to friends and family. The Duo model comes with a Manual mode, but this is not something that new users will want to use, so the numerous function modes are so handy. A fast-release switch also allows you to release steam more quickly without getting your hands near the steam. This addition guarantees that you don’t have to worry whether the Duo Nova fails to create pressure due to the open valve.
The steam function uses pressure cooking to steam and again, we struggled to find a good recommendation for timings and plumped for four minutes with one cup of water in the bottom of the pot. The steam rack provided isn’t great for this purpose and some of the broccoli pieces fell through the gaps. Preheating took five minutes and after the four minute cook time we used the quick release pressure button so that we could get the broccoli out immediately. Some of the larger florets had a good texture but the smaller ones were overcooked.
If you’re a beginner to the world of Instant Pots, it’s worthwhile reading the manual first just to get you familiar with the settings. Program buttons are well-laid out and easy to use, while the Keep Warm function and quick release button are handy features. Once you press the program of your choice, just remember to adjust the pressure that you need before it automatically sets the cooking time. When cooking has finished, it automatically sets to Keep Warm until you’re ready to dish out your delicious meal, so you’ll never have to reheat anything. Since each Instant Pot model is a little different, it’s important to read the manual and learn about the various features and settings of your Instant Pot. Cooking is made easier with the Instant Pot® Duo™ Nova multi-cooker.
While it isn’t a budget appliance, this Instant Pot is a great price when you take into account all the different uses and the other appliances it can replace. A 10-in-1 appliance, it can be used to air fry, broil, bake, roast, dehydrate, reheat, toast and warm. And, as noted, it works as a convection oven, plus as a rotisserie. Though not currently on sale, the following Instant Pot models are popular and well-loved by reviewers.
The Instant Pot reaches the ideal, high temperature to brown and crisp the meat before adding in the rest of your ingredients and stock to the pot. After closing the lid with a simple twist and lock, press the Pressure Cook button twice to set the temperature to either Low, Normal or High, which is set at 239°F to 245°F. The time also allows for preheat time which you can see on the handy progress bar on the display. It’s not uncommon for someone to forget to turn the valve to seal before starting to pressure cook. That is why all new Instant Pot models now feature this function.
Keep in mind that the instant vortex 3-quart size doesn’t have the poultry or multigrain smart programs, while the other sizes do. The rest of the features on all of the sizes are the same. The 8-quart Instant Pot Pro Crisp + Air Fryer is the Duo Crisp turned up to 11. This pro model has all the same functionality of the Duo Crisp plus an upgraded lid with advanced heat protection, auto-sealing, and gentle pressure release.
The Max has additional safety mechanisms , and the lid on the Max is dishwasher safe, which makes cleaning easier. Always use an authorized Instant Pot® inner pot made for this model when cooking. Failure to do so may cause personal injury or property damage.
Anyone with a big family will find the 8-quart Instant Pot is a perfect option for everyday needs. That being said, due to its large and bulky size, this tool isn’t ideal for small kitchens. The medium-sized 6-quart Instant Pot moosoo air fryer can feed six people at a time. It’s also the most widely-used size, so many Instant Pot recipes are written with this one in mind. Both Instant Pot Duo and Duo Nova are available in three convenient sizes (3-, 6-, 8-quart).