It is not as straightforward as you would think to use your Instant Pot as a Slow Cooker. However, with these tips, you CAN use your Instant Pot for slow cooking.
Many people purchased an Instant Pot to make their lives easier and to cut down on appliances. While the Instant Pot does a wonderful job making Instant Pot Rice, replacing the need for a rice cooker, and is superb at making yogurt, replacing the need for a yogurt incubator, an Instant Pot DOES NOT make a great replacement for a Crockpot.
While the slow cook function on a pressure cooker is not a useless Instant Pot Setting, like Porridge or Beans, it requires modifications.
Another tip, taken from an Instant Pot Facebook group, is to open the valve all the way on your Instant Pot lid when slow cooking. This allows some moisture and steam to release and keeps the Instant Pot from overcooking your slow cooker recipes.
Instant Pot Slow Cook Temperatures Explained
The Slow Cook Function on the Instant Pot can be adjusted to Low, Normal, or High Temperature.
- Low on the Instant Pot Slow Cooker Function is like the keep warm on a traditional slow cooker. The low setting reaches about 170 degrees F.
- Normal on the Instant Pot Slow Cooker Function is equivalent to low heat on a traditional slow cooker. Normal reaches 200 degrees F.
- High on the Instant Pot Function does not get as high as high heat on a slow cooker, but by adding 15 minutes per hour of slow cooking, you can experience similar results. High reaches about 210 degrees F, which is 10-20 degrees less than a slow cooker on high.
How to Use the Slow Cook Setting on the Instant Pot
Below this explanation, you will find a printable chart you can keep on hand to help you quickly remember how to slow cook your favorite slow cooker recipes using the Instant Pot.
- To turn on the slow cook function, hit the slow cook button on your pressure cooker.
- Hit adjust/pressure or toggle your knob to select between low, normal and high temperature.
- Use the knob or +/- buttons to adjust the cooking time, which should be able to be set in 30 minute increments. Remember to add 15 minutes of cooking time per hour if cooking on High.
- Once the cooking time is set, the Instant Pot will heat and once fully heated, the cooking time will begin.
- After the cooking time elapses, most models will default to keep warm (be sure it is selected by hitting the keep warm button if not lit up.)
Click on Picture to access the DOWNLOAD and print.
How to use your Instant Pot as a Slow Cooker: Spoiler Alert–it is NOT as easy as you think!
FAQ
Do you Slow Cook with vent open?
Do you seal the Instant Pot when slow cooking?
Can you leave an Instant Pot on Slow Cook overnight?
Should I close the vent on my Instant Pot when slow cooking?
No, it is not necessary to close the vent on the Instant Pot when slow cooking. The vent should be left in the open position during the entire cooking process to allow steam to be released and prevent excessive pressure from building up inside the pot. This will ensure that food is cooked properly and safely.
When should I open the vent on my Instant Pot?
You should open the vent on the Instant Pot Slow Cooker when you want to release pressure and cook food at a lower pressure. This is typically done during slow cooking or when you want to prevent overcooking delicate ingredients. When should you close the vent?
How do you use an open vent in an Instant Pot?
The open vent allows steam to escape, resulting in a lower pressure cooking environment. 1. Prepare your ingredients and place them in the Instant Pot Slow Cooker. 2. Set the desired cooking time and temperature for slow cooking. 3. Ensure the vent is in the open position.
Can I adjust the vent setting on my Instant Pot slow cooker?
Yes, you can adjust the vent setting on your Instant Pot slow cooker. The vent knob can be turned to either the ‘Sealing’ or ‘Venting’ position, depending on whether you want to trap or release steam during cooking. Asim is the CEO & founder of AtOnce.