No Instant Pot qualifies as basic, but the Duo is technically the most basic model you can buy. That makes it the perfect starter Instant Pot, especially if you’re on a budget or you just don’t want to invest in something more complicated right now. It’s not too big (though you can buy this model in the 8-quart size), not too small (though the 3-quart is great for dorm rooms), and not quite as complicated as some of the more expensive models.
I am the creator, photographer, and author of recipes and tips at Paint the Kitchen Red. I live in the glorious west in Salt Lake City, Utah with my family. I love all the amazing features of the moosoo air fryer, but there are a few things I really find great not only for me, but for anyone else looking for an Instant Pot.
While the other pots require you to be present to hit the steam release button, the Pro Plus can be vented through the app. Instant Pot created smart programs to help the home chef be able to cook with the press of a button. The smart programs created based on extensive testing, control heat intensity, temperature, pressure, and duration.
Sure, you can find some models that sell for less, but those models generally lack a saute function and thus, sacrifice quite a bit of the convenience that makes pressure cookers so attractive. The Crock-Pot competitor-turned-cult classic has been a staple in foodie kitchens since 2018(opens in a new tab). The collection of three or four models has grown into an army of pressure cookers, toaster ovens, air fryers, blenders, and coffee makers. Google autofills “Instant Pot” over “slow cooker” after typing in “potato soup.” When you consider the time, effort, and counter space that these powerhouses save, it makes total sense. Instant Pots are beloved because of their ability to cook foods quickly using pressure. But they’re also wildly popular in part because of their versatility.
Its updated lid means you never have to worry about whether or not you remembered to close the steam release valve again, because when you close the Duo Nova lid it automatically seals the pressure valve! To release the steam faster, just push the quick-release button to let the pressure out. Its updated lid means you never again have to worry about whether or not you remembered to close the steam release valve because when you close the Duo Nova lid it automatically seals the pressure valve! All Instant Pots can pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, cook rice, steam, and warm. As you climb the ladder of different models, buttons for things like cake making, roasting, and sous vide appear.
Instant Pot has an extremely large following, close to 300,000 on the Facebook Instant Pot Community page. You can also access and share hundreds of recipes via the Instant Pot app. Even if your recipe only calls for one minute of cook time, you are not about to go from frozen chicken breasts to a perfect roast with a well-done center. The act of sealing and coming to pressure feels like it takes forever (in reality, 5-10 minutes), and yes, it’s fine if your Instant Pot blows steam in the process.