Unlock Your Instant Pot’s Potential: Delicious Recipes Using Must-Have Accessories
The Instant Pot has revolutionized home cooking, transforming meal preparation from a chore into a quick and convenient process. But beyond the basic functions, a whole new world of culinary possibilities opens up when you incorporate the right accessories. This article explores delicious and diverse recipes that leverage the power of these accessories, taking your Instant Pot game to the next level. From perfectly cooked eggs to fluffy cakes and crispy roasts, we’ll show you how to maximize your Instant Pot’s potential.
## Why Invest in Instant Pot Accessories?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s address the ‘why.’ While the Instant Pot is a fantastic appliance on its own, accessories enhance its versatility and allow you to achieve results that are otherwise difficult or impossible. They can also save you time and effort by streamlining certain cooking processes.
Here are some key benefits:
* **Expanded Functionality:** Accessories unlock new cooking methods like steaming, baking, and yogurt making.
* **Improved Results:** Achieve better texture and consistency in your dishes.
* **Increased Convenience:** Streamline cooking and cleanup.
* **Healthier Cooking:** Steaming vegetables retains more nutrients than boiling.
* **Creative Culinary Exploration:** Experiment with a wider range of recipes and techniques.
## Essential Instant Pot Accessories
Before we get to the recipes, here’s a quick rundown of some essential accessories:
* **Steamer Basket:** Perfect for steaming vegetables, seafood, and dumplings. Look for one with long legs to keep food elevated above the water.
* **Springform Pan:** Essential for baking cheesecakes, cakes, and quiches. Choose a size that fits comfortably inside your Instant Pot.
* **Trivet:** Comes standard with most Instant Pots but is crucial for pot-in-pot (PIP) cooking and elevating food above liquids.
* **Egg Rack:** Allows you to cook multiple eggs at once, consistently and easily.
* **Silicone Egg Bites Molds:** Perfect for making egg bites, mini muffins, and other small treats.
* **Glass Lid:** Useful for slow cooking and keeping food warm after pressure cooking.
* **Sealing Rings (Extra):** Having extra sealing rings prevents flavor transfer between sweet and savory dishes. Silicone absorbs odors, so it’s good to have dedicated rings.
* **Silicone Sling:** Makes lifting hot pans and dishes out of the Instant Pot much easier and safer.
* **Mesh Steamer Basket:** Great for steaming smaller items like rice or quinoa.
* **Fat Separator:** Helps you remove excess fat from stocks and sauces.
## Delicious Recipes Using Instant Pot Accessories
Now, let’s get to the good stuff! Here are some delicious recipes that utilize these accessories to create culinary masterpieces in your Instant Pot.
### 1. Perfect Hard-Boiled Eggs with the Egg Rack
Say goodbye to green-ringed yolks and shells that stubbornly cling. The Instant Pot egg rack ensures perfectly cooked, easy-to-peel hard-boiled eggs every time.
**Ingredients:**
* 6-12 Eggs
* 1 cup Water
**Instructions:**
1. Place the egg rack in the Instant Pot.
2. Add 1 cup of water to the bottom of the Instant Pot.
3. Arrange the eggs on the egg rack.
4. Close and lock the lid. Set the valve to sealing.
5. Cook on manual (high pressure) for 5 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes (or quick release).
7. Immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath.
8. Peel and enjoy!
**Tips & Variations:**
* For softer yolks, reduce the cooking time to 4 minutes.
* For firmer yolks, increase the cooking time to 6 minutes.
* Add a tablespoon of vinegar to the water for easier peeling.
### 2. Fluffy Cheesecake with the Springform Pan
Who knew you could bake a decadent cheesecake in your Instant Pot? The springform pan makes it possible, creating a creamy and delicious dessert.
**Ingredients:**
* **Crust:**
* 1 1/2 cups Graham Cracker Crumbs
* 5 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, melted
* 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar
* **Filling:**
* 3 (8 ounce) packages Cream Cheese, softened
* 1 1/4 cups Granulated Sugar
* 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
* 1/4 teaspoon Salt
* 3 large Eggs
* 1/2 cup Sour Cream
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Crust:** In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 7-inch springform pan.
2. **Prepare the Filling:** In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in sour cream.
4. Pour the filling over the crust in the springform pan.
5. Cover the springform pan tightly with foil.
6. Pour 1 1/2 cups of water into the Instant Pot.
7. Place the trivet in the Instant Pot.
8. Gently lower the covered springform pan onto the trivet.
9. Close and lock the lid. Set the valve to sealing.
10. Cook on manual (high pressure) for 30 minutes.
11. Let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
12. Carefully remove the cheesecake from the Instant Pot and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Add chocolate chips, fruit, or nuts to the filling for added flavor.
* Top with your favorite fruit preserves or whipped cream.
* For a richer cheesecake, use full-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
### 3. Steamed Vegetables with the Steamer Basket
Steaming vegetables in the Instant Pot is a quick and healthy way to preserve their nutrients and vibrant colors. The steamer basket ensures they cook evenly without sitting in water.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound Broccoli florets, or other vegetables of your choice (carrots, green beans, asparagus)
* 1 cup Water
* Salt and Pepper to taste
* Optional: Lemon juice, herbs, or spices
**Instructions:**
1. Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot.
2. Place the steamer basket inside the Instant Pot.
3. Add the broccoli florets (or other vegetables) to the steamer basket.
4. Close and lock the lid. Set the valve to sealing.
5. Cook on manual (high pressure) for 1-2 minutes, depending on the vegetable. (Broccoli: 1 minute, Carrots: 2 minutes).
6. Quick release the pressure.
7. Carefully remove the steamer basket from the Instant Pot.
8. Season with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Don’t overcook the vegetables, as they will become mushy.
* Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of herbs for extra flavor.
* Try steaming a mix of different vegetables.
### 4. Pot-in-Pot (PIP) Rice with the Trivet
Cooking rice using the pot-in-pot method ensures perfectly cooked, fluffy rice that doesn’t stick to the bottom of the Instant Pot. The trivet elevates the rice above the cooking liquid.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice
* 1 1/4 cups Water
* Pinch of Salt
**Instructions:**
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear.
2. In an oven-safe bowl that fits inside your Instant Pot, combine the rinsed rice, water, and salt.
3. Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot.
4. Place the trivet in the Instant Pot.
5. Carefully lower the bowl of rice onto the trivet.
6. Close and lock the lid. Set the valve to sealing.
7. Cook on manual (high pressure) for 3 minutes.
8. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
9. Carefully remove the bowl of rice from the Instant Pot. Fluff with a fork and serve.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Adjust the water ratio depending on the type of rice you are using. For brown rice, use 1 cup of rice and 1 1/2 cups of water.
* Add a tablespoon of butter or oil to the rice for extra flavor.
* Experiment with different spices and herbs to create unique rice dishes.
### 5. Homemade Yogurt with Extra Sealing Rings (and Yogurt Setting if available)
Making yogurt in the Instant Pot is surprisingly easy, and the results are much healthier and more flavorful than store-bought varieties. Dedicated sealing rings prevent any savory flavors from tainting your yogurt.
**Ingredients:**
* 1/2 gallon Milk (whole milk or 2% milk works best)
* 2 tablespoons Plain Yogurt with Live Cultures (as a starter)
**Instructions:**
1. Pour the milk into the Instant Pot.
2. Press the ‘Yogurt’ button. The Instant Pot will likely default to ‘Boil’. If not, select ‘Boil’. This will heat the milk to the proper temperature.
3. Once the milk has boiled, the Instant Pot will beep. Let the milk cool down to 110-115°F (43-46°C). You can use a thermometer to check the temperature. This step is crucial for the yogurt to culture properly.
4. Remove about 1 cup of the warm milk and mix it with the 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt in a separate bowl. This will temper the starter.
5. Pour the tempered starter mixture back into the Instant Pot with the remaining milk. Stir gently to combine.
6. Press the ‘Yogurt’ button again. This time, select the incubation time. Incubate for 8-12 hours, depending on your desired tartness (longer incubation = more tartness).
7. After incubation, the yogurt will be ready. Transfer it to a container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow it to thicken further.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use a reliable thermometer to ensure the milk cools to the correct temperature before adding the starter.
* Experiment with different incubation times to achieve your desired level of tartness.
* Add fruit, honey, or granola to your homemade yogurt for a delicious and healthy breakfast or snack.
* If your Instant Pot doesn’t have a yogurt setting, you can use the ‘Keep Warm’ setting, but monitor the temperature closely to ensure it stays within the 110-115°F range.
### 6. Mini Frittatas with Silicone Egg Bites Molds
These bite-sized frittatas are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a quick snack. The silicone egg bites molds make them easy to cook and remove.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 Eggs
* 1/4 cup Milk
* 1/4 cup Shredded Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
* 1/4 cup Cooked and crumbled bacon, diced ham, or cooked sausage (optional)
* 1/4 cup Diced vegetables (onions, peppers, spinach, or your favorite)
* Salt and Pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
2. Stir in the cheese, bacon (or other meat), and vegetables.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Grease the silicone egg bites molds with cooking spray.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the molds, filling each one about 3/4 full.
6. Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot.
7. Place the trivet in the Instant Pot.
8. Carefully lower the egg bites molds onto the trivet.
9. Cover the molds tightly with foil.
10. Close and lock the lid. Set the valve to sealing.
11. Cook on manual (high pressure) for 8 minutes.
12. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
13. Carefully remove the egg bites molds from the Instant Pot. Let them cool slightly before removing the frittatas from the molds.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Experiment with different combinations of cheese, meat, and vegetables.
* Add a dollop of sour cream or salsa to the frittatas before serving.
* These frittatas are great for meal prepping and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
### 7. Fall-Off-The-Bone Ribs with a Trivet
Achieving incredibly tender ribs in a fraction of the time is possible with the Instant Pot and a trivet. The trivet prevents the ribs from scorching on the bottom.
**Ingredients:**
* 2-3 pounds Pork Ribs (spare ribs or baby back ribs)
* 1 cup BBQ Sauce
* 1 cup Water
* 2 tablespoons Dry Rub (paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, pepper)
**Instructions:**
1. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, combine all the dry rub ingredients.
3. Rub the dry rub all over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. Cut the ribs into sections that will fit comfortably inside your Instant Pot.
5. Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot.
6. Place the trivet in the Instant Pot.
7. Stand the ribs on their side, wrapping them around the inside of the Instant Pot on top of the trivet. Try to avoid overlapping the ribs too much.
8. Close and lock the lid. Set the valve to sealing.
9. Cook on manual (high pressure) for 25 minutes.
10. Let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
11. Carefully remove the ribs from the Instant Pot and brush them with BBQ sauce.
12. Broil the ribs in the oven for 5-10 minutes, or until the BBQ sauce is caramelized.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of the ribs.
* Use your favorite BBQ sauce or make your own homemade sauce.
* For a smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the water in the Instant Pot.
### 8. Batch Cooking Beans with a Mesh Steamer Basket (optional)
Cooking dried beans in the Instant Pot is much faster than stovetop cooking, and the mesh steamer basket (though not strictly required if you pour the beans directly into the pot with water) helps with easy draining afterwards.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound Dried Beans (kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, etc.)
* 6 cups Water
* 1 teaspoon Salt
* Optional: Bay leaf, onion, garlic
**Instructions:**
1. Rinse the dried beans and remove any debris or stones.
2. (Optional) If using the mesh steamer basket, place the beans inside. If not, you’ll pour the water and beans directly into the inner pot.
3. Place the beans (either in the steamer basket or directly into the pot) into the Instant Pot. Add the water, salt, and any optional seasonings (bay leaf, onion, garlic).
4. Close and lock the lid. Set the valve to sealing.
5. Cook on manual (high pressure) for 25-45 minutes, depending on the type of bean. (Kidney beans: 45 minutes, Black beans: 25 minutes, Pinto beans: 35 minutes. Soaking the beans beforehand reduces cooking time).
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 20 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
7. (If using a steamer basket) Carefully remove the mesh steamer basket containing the cooked beans from the Instant Pot.
8. Discard the cooking liquid (or reserve it for soups or stews).
9. Season the beans as desired and enjoy!
**Tips & Variations:**
* Soaking the beans for several hours before cooking will reduce the cooking time and make them easier to digest. Drain the soaking water before cooking.
* Add different spices and herbs to create unique bean dishes.
* Cook a large batch of beans and store them in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.
### 9. Rich Bone Broth with the Instant Pot
Making bone broth in the Instant Pot extracts maximum nutrients and flavor in a fraction of the time compared to traditional simmering.
**Ingredients:**
* 2-3 pounds Bones (chicken, beef, or pork – roasted bones provide richer flavor)
* 1 Onion, roughly chopped
* 2 Carrots, roughly chopped
* 2 Celery stalks, roughly chopped
* 2 cloves Garlic, smashed
* 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
* 1 teaspoon Salt
* 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
* 10 cups Water
* Optional: Bay leaf, parsley stems
**Instructions:**
1. If using raw bones, roast them in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 30-40 minutes to enhance flavor. (Skip this step if using pre-roasted bones).
2. Place the roasted bones in the Instant Pot.
3. Add the onion, carrots, celery, garlic, apple cider vinegar, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or spices.
4. Pour in the water, ensuring the bones are covered.
5. Close and lock the lid. Set the valve to sealing.
6. Cook on manual (high pressure) for 2-3 hours. Longer cooking times extract more nutrients.
7. Let the pressure release naturally completely.
8. Carefully strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth to remove any solids.
9. Discard the solids.
10. Let the broth cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 6 hours. The fat will solidify on top, making it easy to remove.
11. Store the bone broth in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Use a variety of bones for a more complex flavor.
* Add leftover vegetable scraps to the broth for extra nutrients.
* Drink bone broth on its own or use it as a base for soups, stews, and sauces.
### 10. Easy Egg Loaf for Sandwiches using a loaf pan (fits inside instant pot)
Cooking an egg loaf in the Instant Pot with a loaf pan offers a convenient and hands-off approach to preparing sliced eggs for sandwiches, salads, and more.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 Large Eggs
* 1/4 cup Milk or Cream
* 1/4 cup Chopped Vegetables (optional, such as bell peppers, onions, spinach)
* 1/4 cup Shredded Cheese (optional, such as cheddar, mozzarella)
* Salt and Pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Grease a loaf pan that fits inside your Instant Pot. A 7×3 inch loaf pan typically works well. Ensure it’s oven-safe and can withstand the pressure cooking environment.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. If desired, stir in chopped vegetables and shredded cheese.
4. Pour the egg mixture into the prepared loaf pan.
5. Cover the loaf pan tightly with aluminum foil. This prevents excess condensation from entering the egg loaf.
6. Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot.
7. Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot.
8. Carefully place the covered loaf pan onto the trivet.
9. Close and lock the Instant Pot lid. Set the valve to Sealing.
10. Cook on Manual (High Pressure) for 25 minutes.
11. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
12. Carefully remove the loaf pan from the Instant Pot. Let the egg loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a cutting board.
13. Slice the egg loaf and use it for sandwiches, salads, or other dishes.
**Tips & Variations:**
* Customize the egg loaf with different vegetables, cheeses, and seasonings to your liking.
* For a spicier egg loaf, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture.
* Ensure the loaf pan is stable on the trivet to prevent it from tipping over during cooking.
* Adjust cooking time slightly depending on your Instant Pot model and desired firmness of the egg loaf. It’s better to undercook slightly, as it will continue to cook as it cools.
## Conclusion
The Instant Pot, combined with the right accessories, is a powerful tool for creating a wide variety of delicious and healthy meals. By exploring these recipes and experimenting with different accessories, you can unlock your Instant Pot’s full potential and elevate your cooking to new heights. Happy cooking!