Marianne Martinez
Cooking potatoes in an Instant Pot is a quick and easy process that can be done in about 30 minutes. The cooking time varies depending on the size of the potatoes, with small potatoes taking around 12 minutes, medium potatoes taking around 15 minutes, and larger potatoes taking up to 30 minutes. The type of potato used can also make a difference in the cooking time, with Yukon Gold, red, or yellow potatoes being popular choices. To cook potatoes in an Instant Pot, it is recommended to add water, place the potatoes on a trivet or steamer basket, and cook on high pressure. The Instant Pot is a convenient way to prepare potatoes for various dishes, such as mashed potatoes, potato salad, or roasted potatoes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cooking time | 8-30 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes and the recipe |
| Potato types | Baking potatoes, red potatoes, russet potatoes, Maris Piper, King Edward, Yukon Gold potatoes, long white potatoes, Peruvian potatoes, purple potatoes |
| Potato size | Small (~2 inches or 50 mm diameter), medium (~2 1/2 inches or 64 mm diameter), large |
| Potato preparation | Poke holes in the potatoes, peel or leave unpeeled, slice into rounds or cubes |
| Water | Add 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot, or enough to cover the potatoes |
| Salt | Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt to flavour the potatoes |
| Pressure release | Natural release or quick release |
| Accessories | Trivet, steamer basket or steamer rack |
| Toppings/seasonings | Butter, salt, pepper, fresh herbs, olive oil |
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What You'll Learn
Cooking time varies according to potato size
The cooking time for potatoes in an Instant Pot varies depending on the size of the potatoes. It is best to use potatoes that are as similar in size as possible to ensure even cooking. Small potatoes (around 2 inches or 50 mm in diameter) will take around 12 minutes to cook, while medium potatoes (around 2.5 inches or 64 mm in diameter) will take around 15 minutes.
For baby or new potatoes, the cooking time can be as little as 5 to 8 minutes, while larger potatoes can take up to 20 to 30 minutes. It is recommended to set the Instant Pot to the pressure cook mode and adjust the time according to the size of the potatoes, ranging from 8 to 15 minutes.
After the cooking program finishes, it is important to release the pressure. Some newer models have a computerized pressure release system, while others require manual release by moving the pressure vent to the "venting" position or pressing the pressure release button. Once the pressure is released, the potatoes can be removed from the pot.
It is worth noting that the cooking time may also depend on the type of potato and the desired texture. For example, diced russet potatoes or potatoes for potato salad may require a shorter cooking time to achieve a firmer texture. Additionally, the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the model and size of the Instant Pot.
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Use the pressure cook mode
Using the pressure cook mode, you can make tender, buttery potatoes with minimal effort in about 30 minutes. First, use a fork or knife to poke holes in the potatoes, approximately 1 inch apart. Next, add 1 cup of water to your Instant Pot and place the metal trivet over the top. Place the potatoes on the trivet, ensuring they are not stacked or overcrowded. The cooking time will vary based on the size of the potatoes, so it is best to use potatoes that are similar in size.
For small potatoes (around 2 inches or 50 mm in diameter), pressure cook for 12 minutes. For medium potatoes (around 2.5 inches or 64 mm in diameter), pressure cook for 15 minutes. For baby potatoes, pressure cook at high pressure for 5 minutes. For diced russet potatoes about 1 inch in size, pressure cook for 3 minutes when using a steamer basket. If you are cooking the potatoes in the main pot, 1 minute on pressure cook mode will be enough. If you are making mashed potatoes, you can leave out the trivet.
Once the potatoes are cooked, allow 10 minutes for the pressure to release naturally. If you are in a hurry, you can release the pressure 10 minutes after the beep. Remove the potatoes from the Instant Pot to prevent additional cooking. If the potatoes are not quite done, you can lock the lid back on and cook at high pressure for 2 to 3 minutes longer. Then, perform a quick pressure release by moving the pressure vent to the "venting" position or by pressing the pressure release button.
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Steam potatoes with a steamer basket
Cooking potatoes in an Instant Pot is a quick and easy process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to steam potatoes with a steamer basket:
First, scrub and wash the potatoes well. You can peel the potatoes or leave them unpeeled. Remove any sprouts or bad spots. If you are using conventionally grown potatoes, it is recommended to remove the skins. Chop the potatoes into uniform bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and quickly. For large potatoes, it is recommended to chop them into 1-inch cubes or 1.5-inch chunks.
Next, place the wire trivet or steamer basket inside the Instant Pot insert. Add 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot. If you are using a 6-quart unit, use only 1 cup of water. However, if you are using a larger pot, you may need to add 2 cups of water. Bring the water to a simmer before placing the potatoes on top of the trivet or steamer basket. Layering the potatoes is fine, but avoid overcrowding or stacking them. Make sure the potatoes are not sitting in the water.
Now, cover the Instant Pot with the lid and turn the vent to the "Sealing" position. Press the ""Steam" button and adjust the cooking time based on the size of your potatoes. For tiny bite-sized baby potatoes, steam for 1 minute. Small potatoes can be steamed whole and will take around 8-12 minutes. Medium potatoes will take around 10-15 minutes. Large potatoes will take the longest to cook, up to 30 minutes.
Once the potatoes are cooked, allow the pressure to naturally release for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully open the vent with a utensil, being mindful of the hot steam. Use a pair of heat-safe mitts to remove the steamer basket of potatoes. The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender. If they are not quite done, you can cook them for an additional 2 to 3 minutes at high pressure.
Finally, serve the potatoes as desired. You can enjoy them as-is or use them in recipes such as mashed potatoes, potato salad, roasted potatoes, or air-fried potatoes. If you are not using the potatoes right away, let them cool completely and then refrigerate in a covered container. Potatoes will generally keep for about 3 to 5 days in the fridge.
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Make mashed potatoes
Making mashed potatoes in an instant pot is a quick and easy process. The first step is to prepare the potatoes. Peel the potatoes, and then slice them into large rounds or chunks. The number of potatoes you use will depend on how many servings you want to make. A good rule of thumb is to use three pounds of potatoes, or about six medium potatoes, for a standard amount.
Once your potatoes are prepared, place them into the instant pot. You can add some water or stock to the pot as well, which will create a light and smooth texture when mixed with the mashed potatoes. You can also add some salt at this stage for flavour. Secure the lid on the instant pot, and set the steam release handle or switch to the sealing position.
Now, you can begin cooking the potatoes. Set the instant pot to pressure cook on high pressure for around 8-12 minutes. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the model of your instant pot and your desired level of doneness for the potatoes. Keep in mind that it will take some time for the instant pot to come to pressure, which can range from 8 to 10 minutes.
Once the timer goes off, release the pressure from the pot. You can then drain the potatoes and return them to the instant pot with the power off. At this point, you can add in your desired mix-ins such as butter, milk, sour cream, cream cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Use a potato masher, food mill, or ricer to mash the potatoes to your desired consistency. If you prefer smoother mashed potatoes, you can use a hand-held mixer to whip them. Taste the mashed potatoes and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.
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Use potatoes in potato salad
Using potatoes in potato salad
Potato salad is a tasty and versatile dish that can be made in an Instant Pot. It is a quick and easy dish to make, perfect for summer barbecues and potlucks. The beauty of this recipe is that the potatoes and eggs can be cooked together in the Instant Pot, meaning less washing up and quicker preparation.
Ingredients
For a potato salad, you will need potatoes (of course!), eggs, and then various other ingredients to flavour the dish. The potatoes should be starchy and dry, such as Russets, Yukon Golds, or red potatoes. Other varieties may contain more water and turn to mush under pressure. For the full list of ingredients, you can use the following as a guide:
- 3-4 eggs
- 3 pounds of potatoes (cubed)
- Mayonnaise
- Mustard
- Vinegar
- Pickle juice
- Smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Red onion
- Parsley
- Pickles
You can also add in some celery and bell peppers for extra crunch and nutrition.
Method
To make the potato salad, first, add water to your Instant Pot and then add the cubed potatoes. Place the eggs on top of the potatoes. Secure the lid and turn the valve to sealing. Set the timer for 4 minutes on high pressure. Once the timer goes off, release the pressure and carefully open the lid. Remove the eggs and place them in a bowl of cold water. Peel and separate the eggs, placing the yolks in a separate bowl. Mash the yolks and then stir in the mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, pickle juice, smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Chop the egg whites and add them to a large bowl with the potatoes, pickles, onion, parsley, and dressing. Toss to combine and then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Tips
This potato salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. The longer it sits, the more the flavours will blend and develop. You can also adjust the seasonings to your taste and add in other ingredients, such as bacon or cayenne pepper for a spicier dish.
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Frequently asked questions
Cooking time depends on the size of the potatoes. Small potatoes (around 2 inches or 50 mm in diameter) take 12 minutes, while medium potatoes (around 2.5 inches or 64 mm in diameter) take 15 minutes. Baby potatoes are cooked in 5 minutes, and diced russet potatoes (about 1 inch in size) take 3 minutes.
The maximum cooking time for potatoes in an Instant Pot is around 30 minutes.
The potatoes are done when they are fork-tender. If they aren't quite done, you can cook them at high pressure for another 2 to 3 minutes.
Yukon gold potatoes are recommended for the best taste and texture, but red or yellow potatoes also work well.
Wash the potatoes and remove any sprouts or eyes. Poke holes about 1 inch apart all around the potatoes using a fork or knife.
