Instant Pot Air Fryer: Is It Possible?

Instant Pot users curious about adding air frying to their cooking repertoire can rejoice – it is possible to transform your Instant Pot into an air fryer. The Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid is the key accessory that will enable you to air fry in your Instant Pot. This lid is not compatible with all models, so be sure to check your Instant Pot's model before purchasing.

The Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid works by sitting on top of your pressure cooker. You will need to use the provided basket inside your Instant Pot to hold the food that will be air-fried. Then, simply plug in the air fryer lid, place it on top of the Instant Pot, and set the temperature and time.

While the Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid is a convenient option for those who want to save on counter space and the cost of buying a separate air fryer, it does have some drawbacks. The air fryer lid is quite bulky and may not save you much space. Additionally, the tray is small, making it better suited for cooking for one or two people rather than a family.

Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid

The Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid is a special lid that can convert a pressure cooker into an air fryer. It is a space-saving extension that sits on top of a pressure cooker. It is compatible with all pressure cooker brands that are either 6 or 8 quarts in size, including Crockpot Express, Mealthy, and Instant Pot. The lid is not compatible with the mini or 10-quart versions but works with duo sv 60 models, as well as newer and older versions of the Instant Pot.

The Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid comes with a stainless steel inner pot and air fryer basket, a trivet, tongs, a heat-resistant silicone mat, and a recipe booklet. The lid features a transparent tempered glass design, which allows users to monitor their food as it cooks. It also has a handle that can be locked into place to activate the unit.

To use the Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid, users need to place food in the provided basket inside their Instant Pot. The air fryer lid is then plugged into an electrical outlet and placed on top of the Instant Pot. The temperature and timer can then be set, and cooking commences.

The Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid is a convenient option for those who want the functionality of an air fryer without needing to purchase a separate appliance. It is ideal for those with limited kitchen space and for those who want to save money by not buying an additional appliance. However, it may not be suitable for cooking for large families, as the basket is small and may require multiple batches.

The Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid has received positive reviews, with users reporting that it works well and delivers similar results to a conventional air fryer. It is also easy to clean, with the lower-level air fryer basket being dishwasher-safe.

The Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid typically retails for around $117, but prices may vary depending on the seller.

CrispLid by Mealthy

The Mealthy CrispLid is a lid that can be placed on top of any 6- or 8-quart electric pressure cooker, including the Instant Pot, to turn it into an air fryer. It is a heating device with a fan attached to a glass lid that cooks food inside the pressure cooker. The CrispLid has a temperature range of 300 to 500°F and can be set for up to 60 minutes. It comes with a trivet, a mesh air frying basket, tongs, and a silicone mat for resting the hot lid.

To use the CrispLid, first unplug your pressure cooker and release any pressure. Then, place the CrispLid on top of the stainless steel inner cooking pot and lower the handle until you hear a click. Set the desired temperature and time, and press the start button. When the food is cooked, turn off the CrispLid and place it on the silicone mat to cool.

The CrispLid is a convenient way to air fry without needing a separate appliance, saving countertop space. However, it has a small basket, so it may not be suitable for cooking for more than one or two people. Additionally, it can only be used with stainless steel pots and is not compatible with non-stick coatings.

The Mealthy CrispLid is a useful tool for those who want the functionality of an air fryer without the bulk of an additional appliance. It allows users to brown, crisp, or air fry food directly in their pressure cooker, making it a versatile addition to any kitchen.

Air frying vs. pressure cooking

How They Work

The main difference between an air fryer and a pressure cooker is that the pressure cooker relies on building up inner pressure, which raises the boiling point, while the air fryer circulates hot air. The pressure cooker cannot be opened during the cooking process, unlike the air fryer, which can be opened to check on, stir, or flip the food.

The pressure cooker is sealed shut, with a container and a lid. The foundation of every meal cooked inside the pressure cooker should include a liquid base, such as water or broth. Once the liquid starts to boil, the steam produced inside is kept in the sealed container, causing a pressure build-up. This results in a higher temperature and faster cooking.

On the other hand, air fryers are equipped with a fan and a heating element. With the help of the convection mechanism, these two components circulate heated air through the chamber of the air fryer at high speed. The rapid air technology gives the food a crispy texture on the outside, while preserving a juicy interior. Air fryers can be used for baking, grilling, roasting, toasting, frying, dehydrating, and reheating.

What They Cook

The air fryer is perfect for meats, snacks, vegetables, toasts, sandwiches, desserts, cakes, and other baked goods. It is suitable for foods that can be baked, roasted, grilled, or fried.

The pressure cooker, on the other hand, works better with stews and soups, which the air fryer cannot handle. It can also be used with meats, poultry, porridge, rice, beans, and vegetables.

Size and Maintenance

Air fryers are usually smaller than pressure cookers and are, therefore, easier to clean. They are also more portable.

Pressure cookers offer larger capacities, ranging from a few quarts to 15+ quarts. However, you cannot make smaller amounts of food as the pot has to be filled to a minimum level.

Health

Air fryers reduce the fat content of fried foods by up to 80%. This reduced caloric intake may aid in weight loss.

Pressure cookers also have health benefits, as they use steam to cook food and keep nutrients inside.

Speed

Air fryers are faster than conventional ovens, but pressure cookers are even faster.

Cost

The acquisition price of both appliances is similar, but there are differences in power consumption and usage frequency. Air fryers may be used less often, while the Instant Pot may be used more regularly, increasing power consumption.

Both appliances are versatile and capable of producing great results in less time than traditional cooking methods. If you want to replicate deep-fried foods, go for the air fryer. If you don't plan on frying much at all, the pressure cooker is the better option.

Air frying vs. baking

Air frying and baking are two different cooking methods that can be used to prepare a variety of dishes. Here are the key differences between the two:

How They Work

• Air frying: Air frying uses rapid hot air circulation and minimal oil to cook food, creating a crispy exterior. It involves placing food in a perforated basket, which helps expose all sides to hot air, resulting in an even crispness.
• Baking: Baking cooks food using still, hot air. It is a dry heat cooking method that uses lower temperatures to slowly cook food, making it ideal for dishes that require even cooking or rising, such as delicate pastries, cakes, and bread.

Temperature and Heat Application

• Air frying: This method uses high heat, typically between 350-400°F, to cook foods like meats, fish, and vegetables, giving them a crispy texture.
• Baking: Baking uses moderate to low heat, usually between 280-375°F, to cook delicate items and recipes that use liquid batters, such as cakes, pastries, and bread.

Size and Capacity

• Air frying: Air fryers are typically countertop appliances that can cook one dish at a time. They are ideal for preparing single batches or smaller portions.
• Baking: Baking is usually done in a full-sized oven, which can handle multiple dishes or larger portions at once.

Suitability for Different Recipes

• Air frying: Air frying is ideal for recipes that benefit from a crispy texture, such as fried chicken, vegetable side dishes, and finger foods.
• Baking: Baking is better suited for recipes that require even cooking or rising, such as cakes, pastries, bread, and baked goods with higher fat and moisture content.

Combination Options

• Air fryer and oven combination: Some ovens, like certain KitchenAid wall ovens, come equipped with Air Fry Mode, allowing you to air fry directly in the oven. This combination offers the convenience of air frying in a larger capacity, making it ideal for serving crispy appetizers or hors d'oeuvres during dinner parties.
• Air fryer lids for pressure cookers: Additionally, there are air fryer lids available for pressure cookers, such as the Instant Pot, that transform them into air fryers. These lids are a space-saving option if you want to air fry in the same pot without purchasing a separate appliance.

In summary, air frying and baking are distinct cooking methods with different applications. Air frying is ideal for creating crispy textures with minimal oil, while baking is better suited for delicate dishes that require even heat distribution and slower cooking. The choice between the two depends on the type of dish you want to prepare and the desired level of crispness or moisture retention.

Air frying vs. deep frying

Deep fryers have been used for years to prepare our favourite fried treats, from donuts to fried chicken. However, air fryers have become a popular alternative in recent years.

Health

Air fryers are considered a healthier alternative to deep fryers as they do not require large amounts of oil. Deep fryers use fatty oils to cook food, which poses a safety risk and can be messy. Air fryers, on the other hand, use hot air and steam to cook food, resulting in less oil and fat consumption.

Cost

Deep fryers are generally cheaper to buy than air fryers, which can cost $100 at an entry-level price. However, air fryers are often on sale and can be used for multiple cooking modes, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run. The cost of oil for deep fryers can also add up over time.

Taste and Texture

Deep-fried food is known for its crispy texture and fluffy interior, which can be achieved by double frying. Air-fried food may not have the same level of crispness, but it delivers better taste as the food cooks with all the added flavours and seasonings.

Ease of Use

Deep frying requires more effort and maintenance than air frying. It demands constant attention during the cooking process and leaves behind a strong smell and oily residue. Air fryers, on the other hand, are easier to clean and require less setup and maintenance.

Speed

Deep fryers cook food faster than air fryers, which typically take longer due to their three phases of cooking.

Space

Air fryers are a good option for those who want to avoid multiple appliances on their countertop. Deep fryers are bulkier and require more storage space.

Food Options

Air fryers cannot be used for foods with wet batter. Dredged chicken, for example, needs to be deep-fried to cook out the flour. However, air fryers are great for breaded chicken, chicken wings, and other hand-breaded items.

Both air fryers and deep fryers have their pros and cons. Deep fryers deliver the classic crispy and fluffy texture, but air fryers offer better taste, convenience, and health benefits. If you are looking for a healthier and easier-to-maintain option, an air fryer is a good choice. However, if you prefer the traditional crispy and fluffy texture of deep-fried food and are willing to put in the extra effort, a deep fryer may be the right choice.

Frequently asked questions