At first blush, the question of "how to open Instant Pot?" may sound a bit absurd. It is just a slide mechanism, right?
Well, yes, but this lid is designed for pressure cooking. Years ago, pressure cooking got a bad reputation because it could be dangerous.
The new era of electric pressure cookers has existed since 2010 and has many safety features to reduce the danger level. So, the amount of pressure and the safety levels are why it is important to answer this question.
To answer this question definitively, let's examine the pressure cooker process, safety issues, and some troubleshooting techniques.
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Pressure Cooking Process
Pressure cooking raises the ambient temperature to 15 atmospheric levels above the surface atmosphere. This means that water boils at a much higher temperature (250℉), and food cooks more rapidly.
The older pressure cooker was dangerous because you could open the lid while under pressure. Many people suffered severe steam injuries from prematurely opening the lids and quit using them.
The Instant Pot brand took these safety factors seriously when it launched its line of products at the end of 2009. Multiple safety features were built into the first model, and the newest models have over 100. The pressure cooker lid will not open during the pressure cooking cycle.
What Is An Instant Pot?
Before we discuss the Instant Pot lid, let's briefly discuss what an Instant Pot is. An Instant Pot is an electric multi-cooker that cannot only cook under pressure but also slow cook, air fry, steam, and perform many other cooking functions.
The Instant Pot has a digital interface that shows you the preheating, cooking, or steam venting stage and how much time is left. Because of the amount of pressure it builds during the cooking cycle, the Instant Pot cooks food rapidly.
Different lids for different Instant Pot models
The Instant Pot lid looks different depending on the model you have. Some seal and unseal by twisting, while others automatically seal when a separate lock is engaged.
I have a 13-n-1 Duo Max With an Ultimate Lid. The inside of the lid enables the Instant Pot to build pressure. I remove it if I use a "dry" cooking method, i.e., air fry, broil, etc., and insert it for "wet" cooking methods like pressure and the slow cooker function.
This model allows the lid to be opened during the dry cooking cycle because no pressure builds up. However, like all other models, the lid cannot be opened during the wet cooking cycle without the pressure insert.
How To Know If Your Instant Pot Is Pressurized
The Instant Pot's back has a float valve. Depending on your model, some are red, and some are black.
When the Instant Pot is pressurized, the float valve is up. When the Instant Pot releases all the pressure, the float valve drops. It takes about 20 minutes for pressure to build on the manual mode.
Instant Pot recipes will suggest the correct steam release method. Always check for this recommendation before cooking food.
Note: Wait until the float valve drops down completely before attempting to open it.
Steam Release
The built-up pressure in the pressure cooker releases steam through the pressure release valve, another name for the float valve. Never put your hands or face near the valve during the cooking cycle, as you could get burned. There are three steam release cycles: natural, quick, and pulse.
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Natural release
Natural release is a gradual steam release. After the cooking cycle, the steam releases on its own without you having to do anything.
The process takes 10-20 minutes, depending on how full the pressure cooker is. Natural release is good for foamy foods, as the hot foam does not leak out of the steam release valve. Soups, stews, and stir-fries to benefit from natural release.
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Quick release
The Quick release method involves manually turning the steam release valve to "vent" to release pressure instantly. Remember that steam is being released, so keep your hands clear. If need be, you can use a long wooden spoon.
Quick release is for foods that should not be overcooked, like vegetables, fish, and other delicate foods.
Pulse release
Not all models have the pulse release method. The newer models like the Duo With Ultimate Lid have this option, which is my favorite.
The pulse release option intermittently releases the steam and agitates the food, making a hazy, collagen-rich bone broth. It is also ideal for foods that need stirring, like risotto or polenta.
Instant Pot Lid
The pressure cooker lid is designed to create pressure, so it has a sealing gasket and a locking mechanism. The pressure cooker will not start cooking unless the lid is locked. You will see a warning on the digital interface, and it will make a beeping noise until you lock it.
Most pressure cooker models lock and unlock by twisting the lid clockwise and counterclockwise. You can only twist the lid counterclockwise if the pressure has been released. If, for some reason, the lid becomes defective, replacement lids are available.
As mentioned above, the Duo With Ultimate Lid has a removable insert for either "dry" or "wet" cooking methods. This lid also does not unscrew like the regular models. The lock is a horizontal lever, and the lid opens and shuts vertically.
Instant Pot Parts
Several accessories are available for an Instant Pot, such as silicone or glass lids, trivets, and steaming racks. However, the following parts are required no matter which cooking method you use.
- Base Unit - This contains the heating element
- Stainless Steel inner pot - Fits inside the base unit and holds the food
- Steam release valve - handle or button allowing you to release the pressure
- Condensation collector - The tray under the steam release valve to catch excess moisture
- Trivet (also called a roasting rack) - This keeps food off the bottom of the pot
Important Safety Features
Safety is a top concern for any cooking method, especially when pressure cooking. The Instant Pot pressure cooker is so popular because of its many safety features.
The interface has several alarms and digital readouts. These, among other things, let you know if you run out of cooking liquid, if the lid is locked, and when to remove the food.
Float valve
The float and steam release valves are critical to the pressure cooker process. For most models, the float valve must be manually sealed for the pressure cooker to build pressure. On the newer models, it is done automatically.
When the float valve is raised, the Instant Pot builds up pressure. When the float valve drops, the pressure cooker is depressurized. The Instant Pot lid will not release while it is under pressure.
The newest models do not have a manual float valve. Steam releases through an opening on the lid.
Instant Pot Water Test
If you are new to Instant Pot, performing a water test is a great way to ensure it operates correctly and lets you get used to the various functions. Performing a water test periodically also ensures that the Instant Pot is functioning.
How to perform a water test
- Make sure the base is plugged in
- Add three cups of water to the inner pot
- Make sure the silicone gasket is properly seated
- Close the lid and lock by turning it counterclockwise (newer models have a locking mechanism)
- Set the steam release handle to "sealing"
- Pressure cook for five minutes
- The Instant Pot will take 5-15 minutes to preheat, and then the water will cook under pressure for five minutes
- Quick release the steam
- Once the float valve drops, it is safe to open the Instant Pot
Inspecting the Instant Pot
You should inspect the pressure cooker before every use. Here is a short list of things to look for:
- Check the cord for any cracks or visible damage
- Pull the silicone ring away and inspect it for cracks or dry rotting
- Check the collar of the base, where the silicone ring sets, for food debris
- Make sure the float valve and locking mechanism works
What To Do If The Instant Pot Will Not Open
If your pressure cooker does not open, ensure that the float valve is in the lower position and that the Instant Pot is not under pressure. After ensuring it is not under pressure, unplug the pressure cooker for five minutes and try again. If you are still unsuccessful, call Instant Pot customer service at 1-800-828-7280 Monday to Friday, 9:00 A.M. – 4:00 P.M. ET.
Finally
The Instant Pot is one of the best multi-cookers on the market. Like all cooking appliances, you should familiarize yourself with it before using it.
Opening the lid seems easy at first, but the Instant Pot uses high pressure to cook. Understanding the safety precautions and various functions of an Instant Pot is a recipe for success.
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