Unlocking The Air Fryer In Your Instant Pot

Instant Pot is a popular kitchen appliance that can be used for a variety of cooking functions, such as baking, steaming, pressure cooking, and slow cooking. While some Instant Pot models come with an air fryer feature, not all of them do. However, it is possible to transform your Instant Pot into an air fryer by purchasing a separate air fryer lid that fits onto your pressure cooker. This is a great option for those who want to save counter space and money by avoiding the need for a separate air fryer appliance.

Using an Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer

The Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer is a versatile appliance that can be used for a variety of cooking functions, including air frying. Here is a guide on how to use the Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer:

Getting Started

Before using your Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer for the first time, it is important to read through the user manual to familiarise yourself with the appliance and its features. This guide will provide you with important safety information and assembly instructions.

Using the Multi-Level Air Fryer Basket (Option 1)

• Place the Inner Pot in the Cooker Base.
• Place the Multi-Level Air Fryer Basket on the Air Fryer Basket Base and place both parts in the Inner Pot. It is recommended to lightly spray these parts with olive oil to avoid sticking.
• Add a single layer of ingredients to the basket.
• Place the Air Fryer Lid on the Cooker Base.
• Select the Air Fry Smart Program and set the desired cooking temperature and time using the '+' and '-' buttons. Note that the unit will default to the previous cook settings, so adjust as needed.
• Press Start. Note that lifting the lid during cooking will pause the cooking process, which will resume when the lid is replaced.
• Halfway through the cooking cycle, the unit will beep, indicating that it is time to turn the food. If you do not wish to turn the food, you can ignore the beep, and cooking will continue. If you do choose to turn the food, cooking will automatically recommence once you replace the Air Fryer Lid. When cooking fries, it is recommended to give the basket a good shake or stir to avoid sticking.
• Once the cooking program is completed, the unit will beep. Place the Air Fryer Lid on the Protective Pad and remove the food.

Using the Multi-Level Air Fryer Basket and Broiling Tray (Option 2)

• Place the Inner Pot in the Cooker Base.
• Place the Multi-Level Air Fryer Basket on the Air Fryer Basket Base and place both parts in the Inner Pot. Lightly spray with olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Add a single layer of ingredients to the basket.
• Add the Broil/Dehydrating Tray. Lightly spray with olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Add the remaining ingredients. If cooking meat chops, it is recommended to place them in a single layer on the Broil/Dehydrating Tray for best results.
• Place the Air Fryer Lid on the Cooker Base.
• Select the Air Fry Smart Program and set the desired cooking temperature and time using the '+' and '-' buttons. Note that the unit will default to the previous cook settings, so adjust as needed.
• Press Start. Lifting the lid during cooking will pause the process, and it will resume when the lid is replaced.
• Halfway through cooking, the unit will beep, indicating that it is time to turn the food. For best results, switch the ingredients from the bottom layer to the top layer to ensure even cooking. Cooking will automatically continue once the Air Fryer Lid is replaced.
• Once the cooking program is completed, the unit will beep. Place the Air Fryer Lid on the Protective Pad and remove the food.

Using the Stainless Steel Steamer Baskets (Option 3)

• Place the Inner Pot in the Cooker Base.
• Place the large or small Steamer Basket in the Inner Pot. Lightly spray with olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Use both baskets for dual-layer cooking or to bring the ingredients closer to the cooking element for best results, such as when cooking meat chops.
• Add the ingredients to the basket(s).
• Place the Air Fryer Lid on the Cooker Base.
• Select the Air Fry Smart Program and set the desired cooking temperature and time using the '+' and '-' buttons. Note that the unit will default to the previous cook settings, so adjust as needed.
• Halfway through cooking, the unit will beep to remind you to turn the food. For dual-layer cooking, switch the ingredients from the bottom layer to the top layer to ensure even cooking. Cooking will automatically continue once the Air Fryer Lid is replaced. If you do not wish to turn the food, you can ignore the alarm, and cooking will continue.
• Once the cooking program is completed, the unit will beep. Place the Air Fryer Lid on the Protective Pad and remove the food.

Safety and Maintenance

It is important to note that the air fryer components will be very hot during and after cooking. Always use oven mitts when handling these parts. The air fryer lid also becomes hot underneath, so it is essential to use the heat-proof Protective Pad and keep it away from children.

When cleaning your Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer, note that the Inner Pot, Protective Pad, Air Fryer Basket Base, Broil/Dehydrating Tray, Multi-level Air Fry Basket, and Mesh Steamer Baskets are dishwasher-safe. The Cooker Base and Air Fryer Lid cannot be immersed in water. Simply wipe them clean with a damp cloth.

Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid

The Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid is a handy tool that can transform your pressure cooker into an air fryer. It is a space-saving extension that sits on top of your pressure cooker. The Mealthy CrispLid is one such lid that fits on any 6 or 8-quart pressure cooker, including Crock Pot Express, Mealthy, and Instant Pot. It comes with a transparent tempered glass lid, a raised trivet, a fryer basket, stainless steel tongs, and a heat-resistant silicone mat. The CrispLid also features a safety mechanism that prevents it from turning on unless the handle is locked into place.

To use the CrispLid, simply place it on top of your pressure cooker, set the time and temperature, and start cooking. The transparent lid allows you to monitor your food as it cooks, so you can easily adjust the cooking time as needed.

The Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid is a great option for those who want the functionality of an air fryer without purchasing a separate appliance. It is perfect for those with limited counter space and for cooking for one or two people. However, it may not be ideal for cooking for larger groups, as the tray is relatively small.

The CrispLid is easy to clean, with the lower-level air fryer basket being dishwasher-safe, while the underside of the glass lid can be wiped clean with a damp cloth.

Overall, the Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid is a convenient and cost-effective way to add air frying capabilities to your pressure cooker, without sacrificing valuable kitchen space.

How to assemble the unit

To assemble the Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer, follow these steps:

• Place the Inner Pot in the Cooker Base.
• Place the Multi-Level Air Fryer Basket on the Air Fryer Basket Base and put both parts in the Inner Pot. You can lightly spray them with olive oil or Pam to avoid sticking.
• Add a single layer of ingredients.
• If you are cooking meat chops or want to do multi-level cooking, add the Broil/Dehydrating Tray and lightly spray it with olive oil. Then, add the remaining ingredients.
• Place the Air Fryer Lid on the Cooker Base. Ensure that the handle is locked into place, or the unit will not turn on.
• Select the Air Fry Smart Program and set the required cooking temperature and time using the '+' and '-' buttons. Note that the unit will default to the previous cook settings, so adjust accordingly.
• Press Start.

It is important to note that lifting the lid during cooking will pause the process, and it will resume once the lid is replaced. Additionally, the unit will beep halfway through the cooking process to remind you to turn the food. You can choose to ignore the beep and continue cooking, or you can switch the ingredients from the bottom layer to the top layer for even cooking. Once the cooking program is completed, the unit will beep again. Remember to always use oven mitts when handling the hot parts and place the Air Fryer Lid on a Protective Pad when removing food.

Using the Instant Pot Air Fryer Safely

The Instant Pot Air Fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for a variety of cooking functions, including air frying. Here are some important safety instructions to follow when using the Instant Pot Air Fryer:

Handle with Care:

During and after cooking, the air fryer components, especially the lid, will be very hot. Always use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves when handling any parts of the air fryer to avoid burns. Keep it away from children and pets.

Use the Protective Pad:

Place the air fryer lid on the provided protective pad when not in use or when removing it during cooking. This will help protect your countertops and surfaces from heat damage and keep the area safe.

Preheating and Temperature Control:

Preheat your Instant Pot Air Fryer before use, and always follow the recommended temperature settings for different types of food. Do not exceed the maximum temperature limit specified in the user manual.

Food Preparation:

Ensure that the food is prepared correctly before placing it in the air fryer. Cut food into even-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking. Spray the basket or rack with cooking oil to prevent sticking and for better crisping.

Avoid Overcrowding:

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket or tray. Leave enough space between the food items to allow for proper air circulation, which is crucial for even cooking and crisping. Overcrowding may also affect cooking time and food quality.

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance:

Clean your Instant Pot Air Fryer regularly to prevent the buildup of grease and food residue. Some parts, such as the inner pot, protective pad, and air fryer basket, are dishwasher-safe, while others should be wiped clean with a damp cloth. Refer to the user manual for specific cleaning instructions.

Safety Features and Warnings:

Familiarize yourself with the safety features of your Instant Pot Air Fryer model. Pay attention to warning indicators, such as overheat protection, and follow the instructions provided in the user manual for safe operation and maintenance.

By following these safety guidelines, you can confidently use your Instant Pot Air Fryer to create delicious and crispy meals while maintaining a safe cooking environment for yourself and your family. Always refer to the user manual for model-specific instructions and precautions.

Instant Pot Air Fryer cooking times

How to Make Your Instant Pot an Air Fryer

If you want to make your Instant Pot into an air fryer, you can buy a separate air fryer lid that fits the 6- or 8-quart Instant Pot. The Yedi air fryer lid, for example, is available on Amazon for around $50. Mealthy's CrispLid is another option that fits most 6- or 8-quart electric pressure cookers.

Cooking Times

The cooking time will depend on what you are cooking and the size of your air fryer. The Instant Pot air fryer lid takes slightly less cooking time than a larger basket-style air fryer.

• Preheat the air fryer before adding vegetables, chicken, fish, beef, or pork.
• Coat the air fryer basket with oil to prevent food from sticking.
• Cut vegetables and meats into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
• Avoid overlapping food items in the basket.
• Turn or flip foods halfway through the cooking time to allow for even browning.
• Check on the food periodically, as cooking times may vary depending on the wattage and size of your air fryer.
• For frozen foods, there is no need to preheat the air fryer, but it is best to keep the food frozen until you are ready to cook it.

Vegetables

• Asparagus (medium thickness): N/A
• Butternut squash (halved): N/A
• Butternut squash (1 inch): N/A
• Cauliflower (florets): N/A
• Potatoes (sliced 1/4 inch): N/A
• Sweet potatoes (whole): N/A
• Sweet potatoes (cubed): N/A
• Sweet potatoes (thin fries, fresh): N/A

Poultry/Chicken

• Chicken breast (bone-in): N/A
• Chicken breast (boneless): N/A
• Chicken thigh (bone-in): N/A
• Chicken thigh (boneless): N/A
• Chicken (1 1/2 inch cubes): N/A
• Chicken (whole 3 lbs): N/A
• Cornish game hen (2 lbs): N/A
• Turkey breast (4 lbs): N/A

Seafood

N/A

Beef

• Steak (rare): Internal temperature of 145°F
• Steak (medium): Internal temperature of 160°F
• Ground beef: Internal temperature of 160°F

Pork

• Baby back ribs (1 rack): N/A
• Ham (fully cooked, 3 lbs): Internal temperature of 165°F
• Pork tenderloin (1.5 lbs): Internal temperature of 145°F

Frozen Foods

• Chicken breast (breaded): N/A
• Chicken wings (frozen raw): N/A
• Chicken wings (frozen precooked): N/A
• Shrimp (frozen cooked): N/A

Frequently asked questions