10 Mistakes You Could Be Making With Your Instant Pot

The Instant Pot is a kitchen convenient cooking appliance, but even the most experienced home cooks can run into problems if they’re not using it correctly. Whether you’re new to the world of pressure cooking or a seasoned pro, here are ten mistakes you could be making with your Instant Pot.

Not Sealing the Lid Properly

It’s easy to overlook this step, but forgetting to properly seal the lid is one of the most common mistakes. If the lid isn’t on correctly, the Instant Pot won’t build pressure, and your food won’t cook. Always double-check the sealing ring and ensure the lid is locked in place before closing the steam valve to start pressure cooking.

Overfilling the Pot

Filling your Instant Pot to the brim can lead to messy kitchen disasters. There are max fill lines in the pot for a reason. Overfilling can block the steam valve and cause pressure to build improperly, which could lead to dangerous situations. Stick to the fill limits, especially when cooking foods that expand like rice or beans.

Using the Wrong Liquid Amount

The Instant Pot requires a minimum amount of liquid to generate steam and build pressure. Using too little will prevent it from functioning, while too much can dilute your dish’s flavors. Typically, 1 to 1.5 cups of liquid is sufficient for most recipes, depending on the size of your pot. Just make sure you’re following your recipe’s guidelines.

Trying to Open the Pot Too Soon

It’s tempting to open the lid right after the cooking time ends, but doing so too quickly can be a mistake. You need to wait for the pressure to release, either naturally or using the quick release valve. Opening the pot too soon could lead to a hot steam burst or undercooked food.

Using the Wrong Setting

The Instant Pot comes with a variety of settings, but it’s easy to confuse them. Not all recipes should be cooked on high pressure. Some dishes, like delicate vegetables or fish, need the lower settings to avoid overcooking. Make sure to select the correct setting for the type of food you're cooking.

Skipping the Sauté Function

Many recipes call for browning ingredients before pressure cooking, and skipping the sauté function can mean missing out on extra flavor. Browning meat or sautéing onions directly in the Instant Pot adds depth to your dish. Don’t skip this simple step if it’s included in your recipe.

Failing to De-glaze the Pot

If you use the sauté function, make sure to de-glaze the pot before starting pressure cooking. Failing to do so can trigger the burn warning, leaving you with food that’s stuck to the bottom. A splash of broth or water can help lift up any browned bits, ensuring nothing burns during cooking.

Cooking Dairy Too Early

Adding dairy, like cream or cheese, too early in the process can cause it to curdle under high pressure. To avoid this mistake, stir in dairy ingredients after pressure cooking, when the heat is more controlled, to keep your sauces and soups smooth.

Neglecting to Clean the Sealing Ring

The silicone sealing ring in your Instant Pot can absorb food odors and flavors, which may affect future dishes. If you neglect cleaning it thoroughly, your next batch of yogurt might end up smelling like last night’s curry. To avoid this, clean the ring regularly and consider having an extra one for desserts or neutral dishes.

Not Doing a Water Test

If you're using your Instant Pot for the first time or haven’t used it in a while, skipping the water test is a mistake. A water test helps ensure your Instant Pot is working correctly by allowing you to check if it builds pressure properly. This quick step can prevent bigger issues down the line.