Quick Answers
Pressure cookers and instant pots are both electric appliances that utilize pressurized steam to cook food quickly. The main differences are:
- Design – Instant pots have more features like different cooking functions and electronic controls, while stovetop pressure cookers are more simple.
- Convenience – Instant pots are easier to use with their digital controls and preset programs. Pressure cookers require more monitoring while cooking.
- Versatility – Instant pots can sauté, simmer, cook rice, make yogurt, etc. Pressure cookers mainly just speed up cooking times.
- Pressure – Instant pots reach lower pressures than stovetop pressure cookers, so they may need slightly longer cook times.
- Safety – Instant pots have more safety mechanisms than standard pressure cookers.
In summary, instant pots are more advanced, convenient and versatile, while stovetop pressure cookers are simple and direct. Both utilize pressurized steam to cook foods very quickly.
What is a Pressure Cooker?
A pressure cooker is a sealed pot with a valve that controls the steam pressure inside. By creating a pressurized environment, the boiling point of water increases from 212°F (100°C) to upwards of 250°F (121°C). This higher temperature cooks foods significantly faster.
There are a few different types of pressure cookers:
- Stovetop pressure cookers – This original design sits on a stove burner. It has a weighted valve on top that controls the pressure. These reach pressures of 15 psi.
- Electric pressure cookers – Instead of sitting on the stove, these have an electric heating element built into the base. They are controlled with dials and buttons.
- Instant pots – A newer electric design with electronic controls and multiple functions like pressure cooking, sautéing and rice cooking.
To use a standard stovetop pressure cooker:
- Food and liquid are added to the cooker and the lid is secured.
- Heat is applied to the bottom of the pot, either on the stove or by built-in heating element.
- Once pressurized, a simple weighted valve controls the internal pressure.
- Cooking times are much faster than normal.
- When done, the pressure is released manually or automatically based on the model.
Pressure cookers greatly reduce cooking times by anywhere from 50-70%. Foods that normally take hours to prepare become tender and fully cooked in a matter of minutes. This makes pressure cookers a handy appliance for fast meal preparation.
Benefits of Pressure Cookers
- Much faster cook times – Foods cook 70% faster or more.
- More nutrients retained – The fast cook times help retain more vitamins and minerals.
- Tender results – The pressurized steam tenderizes meats and other foods.
- Easy one-pot meals – Complete dishes with protein, veggies and starches can be made easily.
- Space saving design – Their sealed design allows for compact storage.
- Energy efficient – Less cooking time means using less electricity or gas.
Drawbacks of Pressure Cookers
- Safety concerns – Built up pressure can be dangerous if not handled properly.
- Learning curve – New users need practice to get used to timing and pressure release.
- Can’t check food – You can’t open the pot to check food or stir while pressurized.
- Liquid required – A minimum amount of liquid is required to create steam.
- Overcooking risk – It’s easy to overcook food if pressurized too long.
- Size limitations – Pressure cookers have smaller capacities than stock pots or dutch ovens.
What is an Instant Pot?
The Instant Pot is a branded electric pressure cooker that was introduced in 2010. It combines pressure cooking with several other cooking functions like sautéing, rice cooking, steaming and slow cooking. It uses electronic controls instead of manual dials and weights.
Some key features of the Instant Pot include:
- Microprocessor – It is digitally controlled for accuracy and convenience.
- Multiple functions – It can pressure cook, sauté, cook rice/grains, steam, slow cook and make yogurt.
- Preset programs – There are pre-programmed settings for foods like meat, beans, rice, porridge, soup etc.
- Adjustable pressure – The pressure can be changed to high (10.2-11.6 psi) or low (5.8-7.2 psi).
- Delay start timer – You can set it to start cooking up to 24 hours later.
- Large capacity – Sizes range from 3-8 quarts, good for cooking for families or meal prepping.
To use the Instant Pot, you simply add your ingredients, select one of the presets or manual functions, and set the time. It does the rest automatically, maintaining the proper pressure and temperature. The digital controls make it much easier to use than standard pressure cookers.
The Instant Pot line has continued to expand with new models like the Instant Pot Duo, Ultra and Max that have additional features. However, all the basic functions remain the same across models.
Benefits of the Instant Pot
- Very convenient – Just select a preset and cook time for hands-off cooking.
- Versatile – It can pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam and make rice, yogurt, etc.
- Large capacity – Good for cooking for families or meal prepping for the week.
- Consistent results – The digital controls help ensure your food comes out right each time.
- Safer – Has more safety mechanisms than a stovetop pressure cooker.
- Energy efficient – Uses less energy than continually cooking on the stovetop or oven.
- All-in-one – Replaces several other appliances like rice cookers and slow cookers.
Drawbacks of the Instant Pot
- Steep learning curve – All those buttons can be confusing for beginners!
- Possibility of errors – A wrong press of a button can lead to overcooked or undercooked food.
- Lower pressure – Does not reach as high of pressure as stovetop models, so cook times are a bit longer.
- Size – The larger ones take up a good amount of counter space.
- Cost – Pricier than basic stovetop pressure cookers.
- Durability issues – Some reports of problems with reliability over time.
Pressure Cooker vs. Instant Pot Comparison
Now that we’ve reviewed both types of appliances, here is a detailed feature-by-feature comparison between stovetop pressure cookers and Instant Pots:
| Feature | Pressure Cooker | Instant Pot |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Stovetop appliance made of aluminum or stainless steel. Has a weighted valve to regulate pressure. | Electric appliance made of stainless steel. Uses electric controls and digital interface. |
| Functions | Main function is pressure cooking to quickly cook foods. | Can pressure cook plus has settings for sautéing, cooking rice/grains, yogurt, steaming, slow cooking and more. |
| Pressure | Reaches pressures of 15 psi, leading to temperatures around 250°F. | Max pressure is lower at around 11.6 psi and 228°F. |
| Safety | Relies on weighted valve and analog pressure indicator. Must be monitored closely. | Has digital monitoring, lid safety lock, pressure release valve, and other safety features. |
| Ease of Use | Must be monitored and adjusted manually throughout cooking. Timing and pressure release take practice. | Presets and digital interface make it very simple to use. Just add food, set time, and press start. |
| Convenience | Requires more effort to monitor pressure and cook times. Not “set and forget.” | Very convenient with presets and delayed start. Walk away while cooking. |
| Capacity | Typically smaller capacities of 4-8 quarts. | Available in sizes from 3-8 quarts. |
| Price | Inexpensive, usually $40 and up depending on size. | More expensive device, $80-$200 depending on model and features. |
As seen in the comparison, instant pots are generally easier to use, offer more versatility with their multifunction design, and have more built-in safety mechanisms. However, stovetop pressure cookers reach higher pressures and may have faster cook times for some foods. They are also more affordable and compact.
Pressure Cooker vs. Instant Pot Cooking Times
Since instant pots operate at lower pressures than standard pressure cookers, there can be some differences in recommended cooking times. Here is a comparison of average cooking times for common foods:
| Food | Pressure Cooker Time | Instant Pot Time |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 8-10 minutes | 15-20 minutes |
| Beef stew | 15-20 minutes | 25-30 minutes |
| Dry beans | 10-15 minutes | 25-30 minutes |
| Vegetables | 2-4 minutes | 5-10 minutes |
| Rice | 4-7 minutes | 8-12 minutes |
| Hard boiled eggs | 4-6 minutes | 5-8 minutes |
While instant pots require a bit more time compared to stovetop pressure cookers, the cooking times are still drastically faster than traditional cooking. The convenience and extra features of the instant pot make up for the small difference in cook times for most users.
Common Pressure Cooker vs. Instant Pot Questions
Which is safer, a pressure cooker or instant pot?
Instant pots are widely considered safer than standard pressure cookers. Features like lid locks, pressure release valves, and electronic monitoring make them less likely to over-pressurize or accidentally open when pressurized. However, when used properly under the manufacturer guidelines, both are safe kitchen appliances.
Do instant pots actually save time cooking?
Yes, instant pots can greatly reduce cooking times, although not quite as much as stovetop pressure cookers. Foods that normally take 1-2 hours on the stove or in the oven can be ready in 10-30 minutes in the instant pot instead. Just keep in mind, preparing ingredients and pressure release time should be factored in.
Which instant pot size should I get?
The 6-quart size is the most popular for most households, providing enough capacity for cooking meals for a family. The 8-quart is best for larger families or making big batches of soup or chili. Get a 3-4 quart mini if you just need to make side dishes or meals for 1-2 people.
Can all recipes be converted between pressure cookers and instant pots?
Most pressure cooker recipes can be adapted for the instant pot, although the cook time may need to be increased slightly. Check an instant pot recipe blog or cooking charts for guidance. Instant pot recipes may also work in a stovetop pressure cooker but cook times should be reduced.
Is the instant pot worth the higher price?
For most home cooks, yes the extra versatility and convenience of the instant pot makes it worth the higher price. Being able to pressure cook, sauté, slow cook, make rice, steam, and more in one appliance saves counter space and money over buying separate small appliances. The ease of use also makes it accessible for beginners.
Tips for Using a Pressure Cooker or Instant Pot
If you’re new to pressure cooking, keep these tips in mind:
- Cut food to even sizes for most consistent cooking.
- Adjust liquid to the minimum amount needed to create steam.
- Allow the pot to fully pressurize before starting cook time.
- Do a natural pressure release for large cuts of meat.
- Use cooking charts or recipes tested for your model.
- Start with a small batch size until you get the hang of it.
- Prevent clogging the vent by not filling past max fill lines.
- Be aware the metal insert can get very hot!
With a little practice, you’ll be pressure cooking like a pro in no time and taking advantage of the huge time savings.
Conclusion
Both pressure cookers and instant pots utilize pressurized steam to supercharge the cooking process. While standard stovetop pressure cookers have some advantages like higher pressure and lower cost, instant pots offer much more convenience and versatility. Their beginner-friendly digital controls, integrated safety mechanisms, and multiple functions in one appliance make for a great all-around cooker. For most home chefs, the instant pot reigns supreme!