re: #298 William Lewis

Nothing wrong with one of those that is kept clean, maintained (safety valve, seal, etc) properly and used correctly. For someone who is not as good a cook as VB, the Instant Pot is like this but better. The simplicity of many of the recipes, the more fool proof operation, and multi-use options (This gift replaces both my slow cooker & my rice cooker.) make it a good thing for other people. I don’t know if VB would get as much out of it as someone like me though if she can teach her husband how to put a brisket into it and have a hot supper ready when she gets home? Even if only couple of times a month, that might make it worth while.

I use my IP almost daily. For instance, last night I got a craving for deviled eggs. Plopped some eggs in the steamer basket, set for 5 minutes. Done! Added bonus, eggs are ALWAYS easy to peel. Making red beans ‘n’ rice with smoked sausage tonight. I also use the saute setting for stuff like sauces and even scrambled eggs. Pot is so easy to clean.

Cons: I do not like the slow cook option in the IP at all. It doesn’t come to heat throughout as well and the bottom tends to burn. I think it’s the stainless insert. Don’t toss your slow cooker. I’ve tried doing cakes and brownies with an insert thingie but have not enjoyed the results. Haven’t tried a cheesecake.