The Best Instant Pot Nova

Instant Pots are currently all the rage in the world of home cooking. However, there are many models to choose from, each with a number of unique features, and each model also comes in multiple sizes, so it can be hard to know which model to pick.

These multi-cooking machines are a great way to downsize if you have several different appliances crowding your kitchen. For most people, the Instant Pot can easily replace the pressure cooker and slow cooker because it can do both those jobs. It’s also excellent for other things, like steaming, roasting and sautéing.

There are several different Instant Pot models available. One of the most popular is the Instant Pot Duo Nova. This model is ideal for beginners because it’s simple to use, especially if you’re new to the world of Instant Pots. The Duo Nova model combines seven different appliance functions: pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, food warmer and yogurt maker.

Plus, it has an easy-seal lid and an LED display panel. It also has a cooking progress indicator so you have an idea of when your meal will be ready. One of the main reasons this model is best for beginners is because it has so many safety features. You can just turn on the setting you need and go about your other tasks — without having to constantly check on it or fiddle with it. Plus, cleanup is a breeze because the cooking pot is dishwasher-safe and highly durable.

The Duo Nova is powered by a highly intelligent microprocessor. It constantly monitors the temperature, time and heat, while making adjustments during the cooking process. This way, your meals are cooked about 70% faster than other methods.

• One of the most difficult things to decide when buying an Instant Pot Duo Nova is which size you’ll need for your family. The model comes in 3-, 6-, 8- and 10-quart sizes. The 6-quart size is the most popular one and many recipes are written for this Instant Pot size as well. This size is big enough to make a meal for around 3-6 people. If you’re only cooking for 1-2 people, then opt for the smaller 3-quart size. If, on the other hand, you have a big family, love leftovers or enjoy entertaining, then going with the 8- or 10-quart size is a good idea. This way, you’ll have plenty of room for yummy meals that could last for days.
• Keep in mind that the Instant Pot Duo Nova 3-quart size doesn’t have the poultry or multigrain smart programs, while the other sizes do. The rest of the features on all of the sizes are the same.
• The way an Instant Pot works is through the magic of a high-pressure wet environment. Steam management is key when it comes to the safety and efficacy of pressure cookers like Instant Pots. The technology in the Duo Nova has sensors and safety features, so that it can monitor when to keep the lid tightly sealed to keep the steam inside, and when to safely release the steam — slowly — after the meal has finished cooking.
• The Instant Pot Duo Nova gives you the option of releasing the steam manually or naturally. If you have some time, you can let the gadget release steam over the course of a few minutes. If you need to take a look at the food right way, you can opt for the quick release button which lets out the pressure and steam right away in a safe manner.