Updated: Jul 22
I received an instant pot over Christmas and like so many other users. I was scared of this thing! My first use without my mom, I ran upon hitting the button to start and was hiding around the corner, it was even better when I was releasing the pressure, we won’t even get into that! I see a lot of people saying, “I haven’t used it yet, “It’s been sitting in my basement “, etc...I urge you to pull that glorious wonder machine out and just do it! I will admit there is some information to learn and general common sense! If your in that boat I also want you to know there are some great Facebook groups to help you learn the basics too! First and foremost read the included books and I’m serious! I’m not one to read instructions either but for this glorious beast, you need to. An important topic is natural release vs. quick release. The water test....do it. Get familiar with the machine like you would a new phone. Another easy start is hard-boiled eggs. I’m going to start compiling tried and true recipes! Check back often this will be an open blog post!
Before I start I want to add that it only took me about a weekend to get familiar with my instant pot!
Please keep
In mind when using your instant pot that although you set the time for whatever the recipe says, the pot has to come to pressure which varies with everything you put into it, on how long this will take! Don’t worry it’s doing what it needs to!
Hard-boiled eggs: with or without a trivet
We call it 5-5-5
5 minutes high pressure
5 minutes of natural release and
5 minutes ice bath or cold water
You will be amazed at how easy they are to peel and how great they taste! 5-minute egg salad yes please!!!!
Caramel or Dulche De Leche:
1 14 Oz can of sweetened condensed milk
1-pint mason jar with ring and lid or can & aluminum foil
Water
That’s all!
Here’s what to do I’ve only made it In the 8qt Instant Pot recipes!
Pour condensed milk into a clean dry jar get every last amazing drop, and put the lid and ring in your finger tight! Put in a pot on a trivet, and add water into the pot up to just above the condensed milk inside the jar. Close the lid and set it on a high-pressure manual for 30-40 minutes, natural release for 20 minutes. Remove the lid and carefully remove its HOT! Let sit till no longer burning hot, open the jar, and add just a few drops of vanilla (optional) or even sea salt! Stir, stir, stir until
smooth. The longer you cook the darker and smoother it will be! You may notice it looks curry it should stir smooth! Now try not to become a caramel addict like me!! Enjoy!
You may also make this in the can it comes in THOROUGHLY clean the can, remove the label and glue and remove the top, cover it with foil, and fill the pot with water just halfway up the can! Follow times above