Problem : The Screen Says Ovht
Your Instant Pot stopped cooking and has a weird Ovht code on the screen.;
The fix:;Ovht stands for “overheat.” This means that more than likely, your food is burning inside the locked pot. The code “C5” on the screen is also an indication that your pot is too hot.
Quickly release pressure until the float valve goes down and remove the inner pot. Chances are you didn’t put enough water or other liquids in the pot, which caused everything to overheat and burn. Next time, closely follow the recipe’s directions for how much liquid to add to the ingredients.
Problem : The Lid Won’t Shut
No matter how much you fight it, the darn lid just won’t close.
The fix:;Check the float valve , that small metal button near the release valve. If it’s up, push it down. The button has to be down for the lid to open or close.
If that doesn’t work, check that the seal in the right spot. It should be tucked in close to the edge of the lid.
The Instant Pot Keeps Beeping
Its normal for the pot to beep as it starts to heat, beep when its starting the timer, and beep when the timer is done. If its beeping otherwise, that usually means something is wrong, and you should look to see if theres a code flashing on the screen. This most often indicates an overheating issue that your Instant Pot wants you to know about ASAP.
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Redesigned Pressure Cooking Lid
The new Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus lid has some of my favorite changes on it. They added a pressure release switch so that you can release the pressure while keeping your hand a safe distance from the steam. In addition, they added a steam release cover that helps to prevent quick pressure releases from spitting liquids as happens with high starch foods. Less need for intermittent pressure releases!
The stream release cover has the added benefit of dampening the sound when using a quick release.
One problem I have run into in my kitchen when I am trying to get dinner on the table quickly is forgetting to make sure the pressure release valve is in the sealed position. Having moved to the switch with the Duo Evo Plus, they solved this problem. The switch automatically resets to the sealing position when you open the lid.;
I also like it better than the quick release on the Instant Pot Max because I can easily switch it on and off for an Intermittent Pressure Release.
So the little lid holders that sit into the housing to hold the lid have been redesigned. Theyre angled now and the holders have been moved from the sides to closer to the back. This makes a big difference in keeping the lid out of the way when youre stirring the pot.
Common Instant Pot Problems And How To Fix Them
Here are some troubleshooting tips for when your Instant Pot is acting up.
My Instant Pot is a huge part of my kitchen. I use it all the time. It can cook dinner in a matter of minutes, make complicated recipes seem easier and makes cleaning after meals much less painful.
So when it stops working as normal, I’ll admit that chaos ensues. I figured out how to troubleshoot the most common Instant Pot problems and have found that most are easy fixes. Here’s what you need to know to keep your Instapot up and running, too.
These tips are for most Instant Pot Models, including the popular Instant Pot Duo options. Make sure to always consult the user manual for your specific model to troubleshoot.
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Any Other Variations You Need To Know
- If you get the 8 quart model of the DUO, it will have longer pressurizing times, longer release times for it to depressurize, etc.. Thats simply because its bigger. And theres even a smaller 5qt version, but unless youre single I would at least opt for the 6qt.
- There is also a bluetooth model to control your pressure cooker remotely.
- If you cook bread a lot or anything that needs to rise, the 7-in-1 is a better option because the yogurt function can be the warm spot to proof your dough.
In the end, if you havent already purchased one, get the one that fits your budget and lifestyle the best. Theyre all great.
If youre looking for a great place to find recipes and get help, check out my co-run group,Instant Pot Recipes for Busy Parents & Families.
Where To Buy The Instant Pot Pro
The 6-quart Instant Pot Pro is available from , Williams Sonoma, Target, and Kohls.;
The 8-quart Instant Pot Pro is currently available from Williams Sonoma and .
A note if youre buying from Amazon: For some reason, the Pro is currently listed in the same listing as the Duo Plus. Be sure that you have the correct version selected and be aware that a lot of the reviewsespecially the negative onesare for the Duo Plus.
At Pressure Cooking Today, we believe in making real food with fresh and familiar ingredients.Browse my collection of the best pressure cooker recipes here on my website . Follow Pressure Cooking Today on and for the latest updates. Or join my to connect with other pressure cooking fans. Or you canjoin my free email list! Youll get just one email a week with my latest recipes. If youre interested in more than just pressure cooker recipes, I share my other adventures in the kitchen over at Barbara Bakes. Youll find some amazing breakfasts and breads, along with the best dessert recipes! Check it out today!
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Instant Pot Tips For Beginners
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my affiliate disclosure.
Learn how to use and better understand your Instant Pot with these 10 Instant Pot tips for beginners.
Are you new to the Instant Pot or perhaps have been too intimidated to even open the box? Get started! Believe meyou are going to love it. It has become a vital tool in my kitchen. I want to share 10 Instant Pot tips with you to help you gain your confidence and better understand your Instant Pot.
I bought my Instant Pot a number of years ago before it gained its current popularity. We had moved back to Canada from Australia and I needed to repurchase my small kitchen appliances. I had a slow cooker on my list and somebody mentioned that I should get an Instant Pot instead. Initially, I was a little hesitant and freaked out since when I heard the term pressure cooker, I had memories of a traditional version we had received as a wedding gift that I found absolutely terrifying to use.
I am so happy that I took the plunge and bought it. I dont have too many kitchen gadgets but the Instant Pot has become one of my must-haves. My Instant Pot gets used multiple times a week and sometimes daily for either a component of a meal or to make the main course itself.
I Cant Figure Out The Timer
This is a very common issue when first using the Instant Pot, and there are a couple of guidelines you really need to know to avoid mistakes or problems.
Selecting an option like poultry will automatically create a timer, which you then adjust to the proper time with the + and buttons below the timer screen. Remember that the timer does not include how long it takes the Instant Pot to heat up or cool down. Its designed to only be the time that the food inside is actively pressure cooking. Therefore, your Instant Pot will take time to reach pressure anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes, usually, but it depends on the initial temperature of the ingredients, the amount of the ingredients, and the type of ingredients. It will also take time to release pressure, especially if the recipe calls for a natural pressure release, which often takes another 10 to 20 minutes. Remember to include all this time in your cooking calculations.
Also Check: What To Do If Your Instant Pot Says Burn
Using The Wrong Steam
The Instant Pot uses pressurized steam to cook food. That steam has to be safely released before you can open your appliance and remove your finished meal.
“It’s important to follow your recipe to know which way to release the steam. Manual or quick release is not the best option for recipes with a lot of liquid or high starch content, like rice and oatmeal, which may splatter out of the pressure release,” said Wolner.
It’s also important to follow instructions when a recipe notes that you should use the quick-release function rather than allow the Instant Pot to depressurize over time.
Using the quick-release means the food inside the appliance won’t become overcooked. Letting the Instant Pot release steam naturally is a better option for meals that include tougher cuts of meat or legumes you want to soften.
Whats The Difference Between The 6
Whether you have already purchased a pot or not, you might be wondering if theres any difference between the two models. Because of course, if they sell 2 models, they cant be the same, right?
Ultimately it comes down to two main differences. * The LUX has one standard pressure setting and does not have a yogurt function. * The DUO has both high and low-pressure settings, plus has the yogurt button.;.
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Something Is Wrong With Your Sealing Ring
If you notice steam coming out from around the sides of the pot and around the lid, you may have an issue with your sealing ring. The rubber ring that fits snugly around your Instant Pot lid is called the sealing ring. When the sealing ring is not fitted around the edge of your lid correctly or it has been used too much it loses its shape, your Instant Pot will not pressurize.;
Examine your lid and make sure that the sealing ring is fitting around the edge snugly. If you notice that the sealing ring has a yellowed color and shapes into an oval instead of a round circle, you will need to buy a replacement sealing ring.;
Learn The Instant Pot Acronyms
You will notice a variety of acronyms being used in recipes or in groups and forums online. To help you make sense of it all, here are a few common acronyms and their meanings.
- IP = Instant Pot
- NR = Natural Release or Natural Pressure Release
- QR = Quick Release or Quick Pressure Release
- 5-5-5 = common instructions for cooking hard boiled eggs .
- HP = High Pressure
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Other Instant Pot Cooker Options
If the original Instant Pot design isnt what youre looking for, the brand offers plenty of alternatives. Specialized Instant Pot models have the same effortless controls, safety, and excellent quality as weve come to expect from Instant Pot, but they accommodate specific cooking methods.
For example, the Instant Aura Pro is a high-capacity slow cooker that can handle larger foodstuffs, including racks of beef or pork, with ease. The Instant Zest is perfect for those in need of a rice cooker. The Zest can cook large amounts of rice with ease, whether for commercial kitchens or large families enjoying a meal.
Both alternative cookers do their jobs exceptionally well. They also include plenty of fan-favorite features from the original Instant Pot series, such as multiple modes for cooking different foods and convenient timer settings. Instant Pot also offers blenders and toaster ovens. They truly have something to use for just about every kitchen task that you can imagine.
Editors’ Recommendations
Im Getting An Error Code Message
Instant Pots use error codes to indicate specific problems. If a code is popping up, you should look it up to see what it means. You can find a list of the codes on the support page. C1, for example, means theres a faulty temperature sensor, C5 means that theres not enough water in the inner pot, and so on.
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What Is An Instant Pot
The Instant Pot is an electric pressure cooker. However, it can also sauté, slow cook, steam, cook rice, keep foods warm and more. Basically, it works by allowing steam pressure to build up inside the pot, creating a high temperature environment that cooks foods faster. The Instant Pot has many features that make it safer and easier to use than a traditional stove top pressure cooker .
I have the popular 6-Quart Instant Pot Duo but they also make a mini 3-Quart version and a large 8-Quart version. There are also a number of different models available within each sizing. I recommend comparing the differences to find the best Instant Pot model for you.
How To Use The Yogurt Function On The Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus
- Press the Yogurt button then;turn;the;knob;to;pasteurizing;and press;Start.
- Across the top of the display are 3 sets of squares, the first set will begin blinking as it preheats. When that set switches to the second set wait for the display to read HOT;then it will quickly switch to the last set and read END.
- Open and check the temperature for reading of 180° .
- Move the Inner pot to sink to cool down to 110°-115°.
- Add the starter Whisk in well.
- Move the inner pot back to the IP.
- Push the;Cancel Button, Press the Yogurt button ;TURN the knob to the ferment and then press the Start button
- Display reads 08:00 and begins the fermenting/incubation stage.
- Leave it to incubate for 8 hours and then move the inner pot to the fridge for a minimum of 4 hours then pour the yogurt into the strainer and place back into the fridge for 8 hours or more.
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The Lid Wont Come Off
First, make sure enough steam has been released after pressure cooking. Whether you choose a natural pressure release or quick release, give the Pot time to get rid of the steam and cool down. Remember, Instant Pots are designed to be extra-safe, so the pot wont let you open the lid with too much pressure still inside the pot. A little bit of patience can often fix this issue.
Otherwise, the lid probably wont come off because the steam release button is stuck. If youre sure all of the pressure has been released from the pot, use a spoon handle and tap the button beside the release valve.
Why Choose Instant Pot What Even Is It
- Can cook unthawed meat in approximately 45 minutes
- Has a stainless steel inner pot which is healthier than most other options.
- Can cook unsoaked beans in no time!
- Has a slow cook function, but can also do the same recipes in 1/4 or less of the time.
- Typically you can throw things in with 5-15 minutes of prep, walk away, and have a meal on the table in under an hour.
- Consolidates the need for things like rice cookers, veggie steamers, crock pots, and more. This means especially if youre low on kitchen space it is a great all-in-one.
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What Does The Instant Pot Do Exactly
If this programmable countertop multi-cooker earns a spot in your kitchen, youll probably start relying on it more than any other cooking appliance. The specific functions of your Instant Pot will vary based on which model you purchase, but these are the basic programs that will be present in most models:
- Slow cooker
- Pressure cooker
- Rice cooker
- Yogurt maker
- Warmer
Many models also come with additional programs, including sous vide machine, egg maker, cake maker, and sterilizer. You can even purchase an air frying lid for your pot.
Depending on the size and type of your model, you can insert certain types of dishes directly into the appliance, including cupcake molds or springform pans. You can also use aluminum foil to separate certain ingredients in your instant pot, which allows you to cook veggies and meats at the same time for recipes like fajitas. You can find lots of different Instant Pot recipes online.
The device also features a timer and various settings for whether you want to set to cook on low, medium, high, or keep warm.
Buy one now from:
What Comes With The Instant Pot Pro
The Instant Pot Pro comes with one red and one clear silicone ring, which we generally separate for savory and sweet meals.;
It also comes with a redesigned low steam rack with handles that can fold over flat.
It is also compatible with all standard pressure cooking accessories, including the Quick Cool Tray that came out for the original Duo Evo Plus.
For lots more details, check out our in-depth discussion on the Instant Pot Burn Notice: What to Do and How to Avoid It in the Future.
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The Instant Pot Display Wont Turn On
Most display issues are often the direct result of a power problem. One quick way to try and fix your display is to make sure the power cord is fully plugged into your Instant Pot. If you previously tried this and the screen still wouldnt turn on, you should try to plug your Instant Pot into a separate outlet entirely. If youre still unsuccessful, contact Instant Pot support.
