The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that has soared in popularity. And the more you cook with one, the more you’ll want to have fun by adding essential Instant Pot accessories to get the most out of your pressure cooker.
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Alpha-gal sensitivities vary by person. You should understand your dietary restrictions, making any adjustments needed, and directing any questions to your physician.
The Instant Pot has revolutionized how we cook, becoming a one of the most beloved cooking appliances worldwide. This versatile electric pressure cooker has gained a loyal following due to its convenience and ability to cook a wide range of dishes quickly and easily, from perfectly poached eggs to delicious mini cheesecakes. Acting as a culinary Swiss Army knife, the Instant Pot consolidates multiple kitchen gadgets into one. As you pressure cook, steam, and slow cook, you keep your countertop clutter-free by eliminating the need for separate appliances like a pressure cooker, steamer, slow cooker, and rice cooker.
However, one of the secrets to unlocking the full potential of your Instant Pot is investing in the right accessories. This article features my top must-have Instant Pot accessories, covering how to choose the right ones for your specific model and sharing tips on how to use them effectively.
It also shares some recipes to get you started. Whether you’re looking for creative chicken recipes or just trying to speed up dinner on worknights, the pressure cooker is perfect for whipping up unique flavors, giving you more time to figure out how to set the table. So get ready to take your Instant Pot game to the next level with these handy accessories.
In This Article
Top 11 Instant Pot Accessories Every Kitchen Needs
Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance used for various cooking tasks such as pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, and more. Here are some of the most common accessories for Instant Pot.
1. Steamer Basket
If you’ve ever tried to steam veggies or fish directly in the pot, you know it can turn into a mushy mess. That’s where the stainless steel steamer basket comes in, acting like an elevator for your food, keeping it above the water and in the realm of perfect texture.
A steamer basket is:
- Perfect for steaming vegetables, fish, or other delicate ingredients
- Keeps food separate from the liquid below
- Available in various materials such as stainless steel and food-grade silicone
2. Silicone Lid
Ever finish cooking and realize you’ve made enough to feed a small army? The silicone lid is your new best friend, turning your Instant Pot into an instant storage container much more efficiently than a sheet of plastic wrap.
An Instant Pot silicone lid is:
- Reusable, tight-fitting lid that seals in freshness
- Ideal for storing leftovers or meal prepping
- Dishwasher-safe and easy to clean
3. Egg Steamer Rack
Ever slice into a boiled egg only to find the yolk has pulled a disappearing act to one side? An egg rack is the proven solution for perfectly hard-boiled eggs every time. It holds your eggs upright, ensuring that the yolk stays dead center, making your deviled eggs or Easter eggs a work of art.
- Is designed to hold eggs securely during cooking
- Simplifies cooking hard-boiled or soft-boiled eggs
- Has stackable options available for larger batches
4. Glass Lid
If you’re used to a slow cooker with a glass lid that gives you a sneak peek at all the deliciousness going on inside, you’ll definitely want a glass lid for your Instant Pot.
A transparent, heat resistant glass lid:
- Is suitable for slow cooking or sautéing
- Fits most Instant Pot pressure cooker models
5. Silicone Gloves or Grips
An Instant Pot insert is often too hot to handle without an oven mitt, but it can be difficult to get a handle on things with a traditional pot holder. Silicone gloves take the stress out of the equation, letting you handle hot inserts and accessories with confidence.
Use silicone oven mitts to:
- Protect your hands from heat when handling the stainless steel pot or hot accessories
- Get a secure grip on items
6. Stackable Stainless Steel Insert Pans
Ever wish your Instant Pot came with a second story? Stackable insert pans make it possible to cook multiple dishes at once, turning your new favorite kitchen appliance into a high-rise for your food.
- Helpful for cooking multiple dishes simultaneously
- Great for pot-in-pot cooking
- Dishwasher-safe and easy to clean
7. Springform Pan
Have you ever tried to make a cheesecake layer cake in your Instant Pot only to face the dreaded “stuck to the bottom” scenario? A springform cake pan ensures that your baked delights slide out effortlessly, looking as if they were crafted by a professional baker.
Springform pans are:
- Ideal for making cheesecakes, lasagnas, or other baked goods
- Available in non-stick options
- Compatible with various Instant Pot sizes, so be sure to measure accurately before buying
8. Trivet or Tall-Legged Steamer Rack
Sometimes your food needs a lift, literally. A trivet or metal rack elevates your dishes and is perfect for cooking anything that you don’t want sitting in liquid. For example, I use a trivet to easily make a single serving of oatmeal in an oven safe bowl.
An Instant Pot trivets is:
- A proven way to elevate food you want cooked above the liquid
- Available in collapsible options for easy storage
9. Dehydrator Rack
If you’ve ever wanted to make your own dried fruits or jerky, this Instant Pot accessory makes it possible. A dehydrator rack:
- Uses stackable layers to make it easy to dehydrate fruits and alpha-gal friendly meats
- Is dishwasher safe for hassle-free cleaning
10. Silicone Baking Cups
Muffin tins are great, but they don’t fit in an Instant Pot. Silicone egg cups, baking cups, and cupcake liners are:
- Perfect for making egg bites, muffins, brownies, and other treats
- Flexible, non-stick, and easy to clean
- Useful for portion control and meal prepping
"If you're anything like me, your Instant Pot will quickly become indispensable in the kitchen. It can cook so many things without needing to be babysat, and the Instant Pot accessories help make so many more dishes possible. Silicone egg bite molds are fantastic not just for egg bites but for homemade corn dog and pancake bites, too. A stainless steel basket makes it far easier to remove large pieces of meat or the bones you use to make stock. And of course the small springform pans are a must for everything from lasagna to cheesecake. Don't forget extra silicone rings for sweet and savory dishes so the smells don't pass from one dish to the next, too."
11. Extra Steel Insert
Ever find yourself in the middle of a cooking spree, only to realize your Instant Pot insert is already simmering soup and you have a rice dish queued up? An extra insert:
- Makes it easy to cook multiple dishes back-to-back
- Is available in non-stick surfaces that are perfect for sticky foods
How to Choose the Right Accessories for Your Instant Pot Model
When it comes to selecting your new favorite Instant Pot accessories, compatibility is crucial. With various Instant Pot models and sizes available, you must ensure that the gadgets you purchase are designed to work with your specific appliance. Here are some tips on how to choose the right accessories for your Instant Pot model.
Know Your Instant Pot Model and Size
Instant Pots come in different sizes, typically ranging from 3-quart to 8-quart models. Popular models include the Instant Pot Duo, Duo Plus, Lux, Ultra, and Max. Before purchasing any accessory, check your Instant Pot’s user manual or the label on the appliance to determine the exact model and size.
Look for Compatibility Information
When browsing for accessories, carefully read the product descriptions to confirm their compatibility with your exact Instant Pot model and size. Many manufacturers list compatible Instant Pot models in their product listings or packaging.
Read Customer Reviews
To know whether an accessory will work well with your Instant Pot model, read customer reviews on websites like Amazon or other retailers. Reviews from users with the same Instant Pot model can provide valuable insights into compatibility and performance.
Consider Multi-Functional Accessories
Some accessories are designed to work with multiple Instant Pot models or serve various purposes, making them more versatile and cost-effective. Watch for these options and Instant Pot accessories sets when browsing accessories.
By verifying compatibility and researching the best accessories for your specific Instant Pot model, you can ensure a seamless and enjoyable cooking experience.
Tips for Using Instant Pot Accessories Effectively
To get the most out of your Instant Pot accessories and ensure they last, it’s essential to use and maintain them properly. Here are some tips to help you maximize the effectiveness of each accessory and keep them in top condition.
Read the Instructions
Before using any accessory, read the manufacturer’s instructions or guidelines provided with the product. This will help you understand how to use your new accessory correctly, avoid damage, and ensure optimal performance.
Use Accessories for Their Intended Purpose
Each item has a specific function, so use them accordingly.
Adjust Cooking Times Accordingly
Some accessories, like stackable insert pans or BPA-free silicone baking cups, may require adjustments to your cooking times or settings.
Clean Accessories After Each Use
To maintain your accessories and extend their lifespan, clean them thoroughly. Many accessories are dishwasher safe but double-check the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific cleaning instructions. Soak the accessories in warm, soapy water before scrubbing gently with a non-abrasive sponge or brush for stuck-on food.
Inspect Accessories for Wear and Tear
Accessories may show signs of wear and tear over time, especially the sealing rings. Regularly inspect your accessories for damage, such as cracks or warping, and replace them to maintain optimal performance and safety.
Store Accessories Properly
Keep your accessories organized in a cool, dry storage space when not in use. Some accessories, like silicone gloves or baking cups, may need to be completely dry before storage to prevent mold or mildew. Store smaller accessories inside the inner pot for easy access.
Learn From the Instant Pot Community
There are numerous online forums, social media groups, and blogs dedicated to Instant Pot enthusiasts. These resources can provide valuable tips, tricks, and recipes to help you get the most out of your accessories and expand your cooking repertoire.
Following these tips and regularly maintaining your Instant Pot accessories can ensure their longevity and enhance your overall cooking experience.
Creative Instant Pot Recipes Using Your New Accessories
If you’re new to pressure cooker recipes, start with simple recipes like mastering instant pot rice and steaming vegetables to familiarize yourself with your model before taking on more savory foods like Instant Pot chipotle chicken tacos.
Instant Pot accessories play a crucial role in unlocking the full potential of your versatile kitchen appliance. Investing in the right accessories for your specific model can elevate your cooking experience and allow you to explore an even more comprehensive array of delicious recipes, like mastering Asian noodles.
From steaming delicate vegetables to baking perfect cheesecakes, the possibilities are endless when you have the right tools.
Research and select the best accessories for your Instant Pot, keeping compatibility and functionality in mind. Experiment with different accessories and try new recipes that showcase their versatility. By doing so, you’ll expand your culinary horizons and make the most of your Instant Pot investment before you spend more on your slow cooker or air fryer collection.
Once you’ve stocked up on all the essential pressure cooker accessories, you can let your creativity run wild in the kitchen!
This article first appeared on Food Drink Life.
So I recently bought this dehydrator rack you recommend for my Instapot – and I’m so glad I did. It worked perfectly for dehydrating all the apples we picked last month – a great buy!
That’s awesome! These accessories help you do so much more with your Instant Pot!