Why is the Instant Pot Duo Plus 110-0032-01 the best electric pressure cooker? Review inside!

Description

My Experience Using This Multi-Functional Kitchen Appliance

As someone who spends a good chunk of my day in the kitchen, the idea of consolidating multiple gadgets into one seemed too good to pass up. That’s how I ended up with this compact yet robust 3-quart electric multi-cooker. I’ve been using it daily for a while now, and it’s been an interesting mix of convenience, surprises, and a few minor frustrations.

Features That Stand Out

This little powerhouse is marketed as a nine-in-one appliance that can pressure cook, slow cook, steam, sauté, make yogurt, cook rice, and even sterilize. Testing these features kept me busy for weeks. For instance, I pressure-cooked chicken thighs in 20 minutes, and they came out tender and juicy, a far cry from my previous attempts with traditional stovetop methods. The slow cooker function also impressed me, recreating my grandmother’s beef stew recipe with minimal effort.

The sauté function is a game-changer. I browned onions and garlic directly in the pot before throwing in my ingredients for a curry, which saved me from dirtying a separate pan. However, the instant feedback from the progress bar on the display was perhaps my favorite part of the gadget. Knowing exactly where I was in the cooking cycle eased my anxiety about overcooking or undercooking meals.

Pros

• Compact Size: Perfect for smaller households or meal preppers who don’t need a massive appliance.
• Versatility: From yogurt to soup, the range of dishes this appliance can handle is impressive.
• Easy to Clean: The stainless steel inner pot is dishwasher-safe and fingerprint-resistant, making cleanup a breeze.
• Safety Features: Over 10 built-in safety mechanisms, including overheat protection, are reassuring.
• App Integration: Access to over 800 recipes via the app is a nice touch for days when I lack inspiration.

Cons

• Not Truly Speedy: While pressure cooking cuts down actual cooking time, the preheating and depressurizing stages add minutes.
• Smell Retention: The silicone sealing ring on the lid tends to absorb strong odors, even after a thorough wash.
• Learning Curve: Mastering all the functions and settings took me a week, especially since the manual was a bit sparse.
• Condensation Issues: Steam release tends to leave moisture in inconvenient spots around the lid.

Comparing It to Competitors

I’ve had my fair share of experiences with similar products, including the Ninja Foodi and Crock-Pot Express. Compared to the Ninja Foodi, this device lacks the air frying capability, which could be a dealbreaker for some. The Crock-Pot Express, on the other hand, doesn’t feel as intuitive or durable. What sets this product apart is its polished design, clear display, and better app integration for recipe inspiration.

However, brands like Breville offer more premium options that feel sturdier and cook faster, albeit at a much higher price point. If you’re on a budget, this gadget provides an excellent middle ground.

Cost Analysis and Value for Money

Talking about its price without getting specific numbers, I would say it’s worth the investment if you’re someone who will use at least half of its functions regularly. If you’re just planning to use it for rice or as a slow cooker, you might find cheaper single-purpose appliances that do the job just as well. However, the time-saving convenience, safety features, and versatility make this a valuable addition to a busy household.

Additional information