Pressure cooker vs instant pot. Pressure cookers have been around for a long time, and for a good reason, they’re one of the top kitchen appliances. They’re a great way to make quick, healthy meals without spending much time in the kitchen. In this article, we’ll look at what pressure cookers are, the differences between an instant pot vs. a pressure cooker, how they work, and some of the benefits of using one.
What is a pressure cooker?
People often confuse pressure cookers and instant pots. Though both pressure cook, they have different functions. A pressure cooker is a sealed pot with a tight-fitting lid that cooks food quickly by trapping steam. The trapped moisture in the cooking process increases the pressure in the pot, which raises the boiling point of the water. This higher boiling point causes the water to heat more quickly, resulting in faster cooking times.
What is an instant pot?
An instant pot is an electrical pressure cooker with a digital display and smart functions on some models. It can be programmed to cook various food at different temperatures for specific lengths of time. Various Instant pot models come in multiple sizes and options, from the smallest instant pot to the instant pot duo or XL.
Instant pot vs. pressure cooker differences
Both types of pressure cookers have their pros and cons. A stovetop pressure cooker is less expensive than a standard electric pressure cooker or instant pot, and it’s smaller, so it takes up less storage space. However, it can be dangerous if not used properly.
What are the pros and cons of using a traditional stovetop pressure cooker?
PROS:
You save time
A traditional cooker is a great way to save time in the kitchen. Because the pressure cooking cooks food quickly by trapping steam, you can prepare a meal in a fraction of the time it would take to cook it in a regular pot. This is especially helpful when you’re short on time or have many dishes to cook.
Another benefit of using a pressure cooker is that it seals in the flavors and nutrients of the food. This is because the high pressure inside the pot causes the water to heat more quickly, which results in faster cooking times. This means that your food will not only be cooked faster but will also be more nutritious.
You save energy
An old-fashioned pressure cooker is a more energy-efficient way to cook food than an electric pressure cooker. With a stovetop pressure cooker, you can cook food at a higher temperature using less energy. This is because the stovetop pressure cooker doesn’t require electricity to operate.
It’s affordable
Stovetop pressure cookers are typically less expensive than electric pressure cookers. This is because stovetop pressure cookers don’t require electricity, making them less costly to produce.
Additionally, old pressure cookers often have fewer features than electric pressure cookers, making them less expensive (This is a pro and can also be a con).
Durability
Stovetop pressure cookers are typically more durable than electric pressure cookers. This is because stovetop pressure cookers usually have fewer features, which makes them less prone to breaking.
Additionally, stovetop pressure cookers are made of complete metal, which is more durable than plastic.
It doesn’t require any electricity
A stovetop pressure cooker is great because it does not require electricity. This can come in handy during emergencies when the power is out. The stovetop pressure cooker can cook food over a fire or gas stove.
CONS:
Not beginner friendly
The stovetop pressure cooker is not for beginner cooks. You need to remember the cooking time for your meals. Otherwise, it’ll take a lot of trial and error and googling to cook your foods at the desired pressure.
Not versatile and a single-function device
An old pressure cooker just performs one function – to cook food quickly. Also, The pot can be heavy and difficult to move.
It uses burner space on your stove or cooktop
It takes up stove space. You will be one burner short when using a traditional pressure cooker.
Not programmable
Less safe
You need to observe it to ensure the pressure isn’t too high. The only safety mechanisms are you, the cook, and the pressure regulator.
What are the pros and cons of instant pots?
PROS:
Versatile
The pot is lightweight and easy to move.
Set it and forget it!
The most significant benefit of owning an instant spot is it is programmable. I can schedule some of the dishes the night before when I cook biweekly. So, you can cook many different types of food without supervision.
It’s a slow cooker, and rice cooker and saves energy
The instant pot is also a slow cooker. This is because the instant pot has several preprogrammed functions, including slow cooking. This means you can cook food slowly and quickly in an instant pot.
One of the benefits of using the slow cooker function on the instant pot is that you can cook food while you’re away from home. This is because the slow cooker function on the instant pot allows you to set a timer so your food will be cooked automatically. This is a great feature for busy people who don’t have time to cook food manually.
Another benefit of using the slow cook function on the instant pot is that it’s energy-efficient. This is because the slow cooker function on the instant pot uses less energy than other cooking methods when cooking food, such as baking or frying.
It’s beginner friendly, Takes the guesswork out of cooking
It has many preprogrammed functions. This means you can cook food without guessing the cooking time or temperature.
The pre-programmed functions on the instant pot include a slow cooker, a pressure cooker, and a yogurt maker.
You have the option to choose between high and low pressure
Easy to clean
The inner pot is dishwasher safe, so cleaning is easy.
Safe to Use
It has several safety features that make it safer than a stovetop pressure cooker. An instant pot is safer because it has a built-in electric heating element.
CONS:
Not Cheap
Most instant pots are more expensive than a stovetop pressure cooker.
Takes Counter Space
The instant pot is a great kitchen appliance, but it takes up counter space. This can be challenging if you don’t have a lot of space in your kitchen.
Additionally, the instant pot can be challenging to store because it’s large and has an odd shape.
Preprogrammed functions are not user-friendly enough
Some people find the preprogrammed functions confusing to use.
It requires electricity
Electricity is required to operate the instant pot, which can be a con for some people. Some may not have easy access to an electrical outlet or may not want to use another appliance in their kitchen.
Additionally, An instant pot would not be helpful during emergencies that could cause power outages.
Which one is right for you?
The pressure cooker vs. instant pot debate has been around for a while. Both have pros and cons, but ultimately, the best choice depends on your needs. So which one should you buy? It depends on your needs and what you’re looking for in a pressure cooker.
If you’re looking for an inexpensive option that’s easy to use, then a stovetop pressure cooker is the way to go. If you want an all-in-one appliance that’s safe and easy to use, then an instant pot is the best choice.
My household has various cooking options, from the traditional pressure cooker to our newest addition: an instant pot duo. We love both pots because they offer us different things depending on what’s going on at home or if there is an emergency.
We have three small children who need quick meals. Still, suppose there was a situation where one of our appliances failed us (power outage or something). In that case, I’m glad for its backup plan: The old-school Pressure Cooker! It’s great to use this thing outside on the Grill’s side burner.
Thanks for reading to the End!
