Upgrade Your Instant Pot with These Must-Have Accessories
An Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that has become incredibly popular. The more you cook with one, the more you’ll want to have fun by adding essential Instant Pot accessories to get the most out of your pressure cooker.
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The Instant Pot has revolutionized how we cook, becoming a staple of countertop appliances worldwide. This versatile electric pressure cooker has gained a loyal following due to its convenience and ability to cook a wide range of dishes quickly and easily, from poached eggs and instant pot yogurt to delicious desserts such as lava cake and mini cheesecakes. However, one of the secrets to unlocking the full potential of your Instant Pot is investing in the right accessories.
This guide will explore the top 10 must-have Instant Pot accessories, discuss choosing the right ones for your specific model, and share tips on using them effectively.
Additionally, we will suggest creative recipes to get you started. Whether you’re looking for creative chicken recipes or just trying to speed up dinner on worknights, the pressure cooker is perfect for whipping up unique flavors, giving you more time to figure out how to set the table. So get ready to take your Instant Pot game to the next level with our ultimate guide to the best Instant Pot accessories.
Top 10 Instant Pot Accessories Every Kitchen Needs
Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance used for various cooking tasks such as pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, and more. Here are some of the most common accessories for Instant Pot:
Steamer Basket:
- Perfect for steaming vegetables, fish, or other delicate ingredients.
- Keeps food separate from the liquid below.
- Available in various materials such as stainless steel and silicone.
Silicone Lid:
- Reusable, tight-fitting lid that seals in freshness.
- Ideal for storing leftovers or meal prepping.
- Dishwasher-safe and easy to clean
Egg Rack:
- Designed to hold eggs securely during cooking.
- It simplifies cooking hard-boiled or soft-boiled eggs.
- Stackable options are available for larger batches.
Glass Lid:
- Transparent, heat-resistant lid for easy monitoring.
- Suitable for slow cooking or sautéing.
- It fits most Instant Pot pressure cooker models.
Silicone Gloves:
- Protects hands from heat when handling the stainless steel inner pot or hot accessories.
- Silicone mitts are easy to clean and store.
- Provides a secure grip on items.
Stackable Stainless Steel Insert Pans:
- An Instant Pot insert allows for cooking multiple dishes simultaneously.
- Great for pot-in-pot cooking.
- Dishwasher-safe and easy to clean.
Springform Pan or Tiny Bundt Pan:
- Ideal for making cheesecakes, lasagnas, or other baked goods.
- Non-stick options are available.
- Compatible with various Instant Pot sizes, but be sure to measure accurately before buying.
Trivet or Tall-Legged Steamer Rack:
- It provides elevation for cooking food above the liquid.
- Suitable for a variety of dishes.
- Collapsible options are available for easy storage.
Yogurt Cups and Strainer:
- Enables making homemade yogurt in your Instant Pot.
- Reusable cups for portion control and storage.
- Strainer to achieve desired yogurt consistency.
Silicone Baking Cups:
- Helpful in making egg bites, muffins, or other treats.
- Flexible, non-stick, and easy to clean.
- It can be used for portion control and meal prepping.
“If you’re anything like me, your Instant Pot will quickly become indispensable in the kitchen. It can cook so many things without needing to be babysat, and the Instant Pot accessories help make so many more dishes possible. Silicone egg bite molds are fantastic not just for egg bites but for homemade corn dogs and pancake bites, too. A basket makes it far easier to remove large pieces of meat or the bones you use to make stock. And of course, the small springform pans are a must for everything from lasagna to cheesecake. Don’t forget extra silicone rings for sweet and savory dishes so the smells don’t pass from one dish to the next, too.” Michelle from Honey and Truly
How to Choose the Right Accessories for Your Instant Pot Model
When it comes to selecting your new favorite Instant Pot accessories, compatibility is crucial. With various Instant Pot models and sizes available, you must ensure that the gadgets you purchase are designed to work with your specific appliance. Here are some tips on how to choose the right accessories for your Instant Pot model:
- Know your Instant Pot model and size: Instant Pots come in different sizes, typically ranging from 3-quart to 8-quart models. Popular models include the Instant Pot Duo, Duo Plus, Lux, Ultra, and Max. Before purchasing any accessory, check your Instant Pot’s user manual or the label on the appliance to determine the exact model and size.
- Look for compatibility information: When browsing for accessories, carefully read the product descriptions to confirm their compatibility with your exact Instant Pot model and size. Many manufacturers list compatible Instant Pot models in their product listings or packaging.
- Read customer reviews: To know whether an accessory will work well with your Instant Pot model, read customer reviews on websites like Amazon or other retailers. Reviews from users with the same Instant Pot model can provide valuable insights into compatibility and performance.
- Consider multi-functional accessories: Some accessories are designed to work with multiple Instant Pot models or serve various purposes, making them more versatile and cost-effective. Watch for these options and Instant Pot accessories sets when browsing accessories.
By verifying compatibility and researching the best accessories for your specific Instant Pot model, you can ensure a seamless and enjoyable cooking experience.
Tips for Using Instant Pot Accessories Effectively
To get the most out of your Instant Pot accessories and ensure they last, it’s essential to use and maintain them properly. Here are some tips to help you maximize the effectiveness of each accessory and keep them in top condition:
- Read the instructions: Before using any accessory, read the manufacturer’s instructions or guidelines provided with the product. This will help you understand how to use your new accessory correctly, avoid damage, and ensure optimal performance.
- Use accessories for their intended purpose: Each addition has a specific function, so use them accordingly.
- Adjust cooking times accordingly: Some accessories, like stackable insert pans or BPA-free silicone baking cups, may require adjustments to your cooking times or settings.
- Clean accessories after each use: To maintain your accessories and extend their lifespan, clean them thoroughly. Many accessories are dishwasher safe but double-check the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific cleaning instructions. Soak the accessories in warm, soapy water before scrubbing gently with a non-abrasive sponge or brush for stuck-on food.
- Inspect accessories for wear and tear: Accessories may show signs of wear and tear over time, especially the sealing rings. Regularly inspect your accessories for damage, such as cracks or warping, and replace them to maintain optimal performance and safety.
- Store accessories properly: Keep your accessories organized and stored in a cool, dry place when not in use. Some accessories, like silicone gloves or baking cups, may need to be completely dry before storage to prevent mold or mildew. We always store our smaller accessories inside the inner pot for easy access.
- Learn from the Instant Pot community: Numerous online forums, social media groups, and blogs are dedicated to Instant Pot enthusiasts. These resources can provide valuable tips, tricks, and recipes to help you get the most out of your accessories and expand your cooking repertoire.
Following these tips and regularly maintaining your Instant Pot accessories can ensure their longevity and enhance your overall cooking experience.
Creative Instant Pot Recipes Using Your New Accessories
If you’re new to pressure cooker recipes, start with simple recipes like mastering perfectly cooked Instant Pot Brown Rice, Instant Pot Quinoa, Instant Pot Salted Potatoes, and steaming veggies to familiarize yourself with your model before taking on more savory foods like Instant Pot Birria.
Instant Pot accessories play a crucial role in unlocking the full potential of your versatile kitchen appliance. Investing in the right accessories for your specific model can elevate your cooking experience and allow you to explore an even more comprehensive array of delicious recipes, like mastering Asian noodles.
From steaming delicate vegetables to baking perfect cheesecakes, or making a delicious Apple Crumble dessert, the possibilities are endless when you have the right tools.
Research and select the best accessories for your Instant Pot, keeping compatibility and functionality in mind. Experiment with different accessories and try new recipes that showcase their versatility. By doing so, you’ll expand your culinary horizons and make the most of your Instant Pot investment before you spend more on your slow cooker or air fryer collection.
Once you’ve stocked up on all the essential pressure cooker accessories, you can let your creativity run wild in the kitchen!
If you’ve tried any of these instant pot accessories, please rate them and let us know what you thought by leaving us a comment below. We’re always interested in feedback!
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