So, you bought an Instant Pot…now what!?
Don’t be afraid of it…it’s not going to explode!
Electric pressure cookers are much safer to use than the old
stovetop cookers that you probably heard horror stories about.
The Instant Pot has 10 Proven Safety Mechanisms.
First Step…READ THE MANUAL.
I know it sounds boring, but please do it anyway.
Taking the time to learn the basics will prevent frustration later on.
You don’t have to memorize everything, but at least give it a quick read.
If you run into a problem later you’ll remember that the manual addressed
that issue and then you can go back & read it more thoroughly.
This image from the manual is really helpful for learning the parts:
Second Step…DO THE WATER TEST (aka: Initial Test Run).
It will give you a better understanding of how the Instant Pot
works & will help to ease any fear you might have about using it.
When the Water Test is done I recommend doing a Quick Release (QR).
This is one of the things that scares a lot of people, so it’s best to just go
ahead & do it to get over the fear. You can even repeat until comfortable.
*Make sure your hands & face aren’t over the steam release-it’s very HOT!*
Quick Release: When the cook time is up press Cancel & turn the
steam release handle to the Venting Position.
(with the Ultra you push the steam release button all the way down)
When the pressure drops the float valve (silver or red pin in the lid) will
drop down & unlock the lid. At this point you can safely remove the lid.
*NEVER FORCE THE LID OFF…it will come off easily when not pressurized*
Now you’re ready to cook!
You can start with something easy like hard boiled eggs,
or you can jump right in with a more complicated recipe.
Start with what you’re comfortable with & progress from there.
Either way, it’s best to start with recipes written specifically for
the Instant Pot until you fully understand how to use it.
Cook times can be tricky when starting out. It’s best to err on the side of
under cooking. If not done when you open the pot just close it back up &
add a little more time. Keep notes for the next time you cook that recipe.
Don’t get frustrated if something doesn’t come out perfect.
With a little practice you’ll have your favorite dishes perfected.
Check out the links below for more info & have fun learning!
HELPFUL LINKS FOR INSTANT POT BEGINNERS:
Instant Pot Basics (Step by Step)
Quick or Natural Pressure Release
Pressure Release: Natural vs Quick
Should I Cancel “Keep Warm” for a NPR?
Which Instant Pot Button to Use (1)
Which Instant Pot Buttons to Use (2)
How to Get a Pan Out Of the Pressure Cooker
Water Test: Step-by-Step & Video
VIDEO: How To Use an Instant Pot
VIDEO: Closing the Instant Pot Lid
VIDEO: Cleaning the Instant Pot Lid
VIDEO: Attaching the Condensation Cup
VIDEO: Removing the Oval Anti-Block Shield
VIDEO: Removing the Round Anti-Block Shield
VIDEO: Natural Release vs Quick Release
VIDEO: I Just Got My Instant Pot. Now What?
Instant Pot: What to Expect for Newbies
Instant Pot Setup Guide (Step-by-Step)
10 Common Mistakes You Can Avoid
Instant Pot Products w/Specs & Manuals
Instant Pot Community on Facebook
~Click to PIN IT~
Instant Pot Resources 
I think I broken my lid. A small cylinder came out of the lid and now won’t stay in when I turn the lid upside down. Is there supposed to be a screw or something?
LikeLike
Debbie…it sounds like the small cylinder you’re talking about could be your float valve. There should be a little silicone piece that goes on the end of it to hold it on. Open a Support Ticket with Instant Pot & they can help you out: http://instantpot.com/support/
LikeLike
I’m thinking of getting one of these and am so fortunate I ran across your blog! You have packed so much great information here, thank you! Pinned!
LikeLike