As a home renovation expert who loves cooking, I‘m constantly exploring the latest innovations in kitchen appliances. Lately, I‘ve been obsessed with the Instant Pot – this magical pressure cooker has completely changed how I cook!
If you aren‘t yet familiar with the Instant Pot craze, let me catch you up to speed on this transformative kitchen gadget. In this complete guide, we‘ll dive into everything Instant Pot – from its origins, manufacturing, popular models, and how this appliance can upgrade your cooking game. Get ready for some fascinating history, data and tips from yours truly, a seasoned Instant Pot pro!
A Quick Intro to the Instant Pot Phenomenon
First things first – what exactly is the Instant Pot, and why is it so popular? Here‘s a quick overview:
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What It Is: The Instant Pot is a programmable, electric multi-cooker that uses pressure cooking technology to prepare foods very quickly, while still retaining maximum flavor and nutrients.
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Functions: This multi-functional device combines 7+ appliances in one – it can pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, make yogurt and more.
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Benefits: Cooks food up to 70% faster! Saves energy. User-friendly presets. Convenient and portable size.
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Sizes: Available in 3qt, 6qt and 8qt models to suit different needs.
Thanks to its versatility and speed, the Instant Pot has become one of the hottest kitchen gadgets in recent years. In fact, according to the NPD Group, Americans bought 2.6 million Instant Pots in 2020 alone. Wow! Let‘s look at how this sensation got its start.
The Origins of Instant Pot
The Instant Pot was invented in 2008 by a brilliant engineer named Robert Wang. A software designer by trade, Wang set out to create a fully automated, safe and high-tech electric pressure cooker.
After extensive research and prototyping, Wang launched the first Instant Pot in 2010 through his company Double Insight, based in Ottawa, Canada.
Some cool facts about Instant Pot‘s origins:
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Wang tested over 50 different names before landing on "Instant Pot" – his daughter‘s favorite!
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The first generation in 2010 cost $149, much pricier than the $79 – $129 range most models go for today.
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By 2013, over 1 million Instant Pots had been sold worldwide.
While inventing the Instant Pot in Canada, Wang eventually expanded manufacturing to meet worldwide demand. Let‘s look at where Instant Pots are made.
Where Instant Pots Are Manufactured
Given the Instant Pot‘s wild popularity, manufacturing takes place globally across North America and Asia:
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China – Some entry-level Instant Pot models are produced in China to supply international markets.
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United States – Certain higher-end Instant Pots for the U.S. market are now made stateside in Illinois.
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Canada – Instant Pot still operates manufacturing facilities in Ottawa and Fergus, Ontario to produce select models.
According to Instant Brands (the parent company), hundreds of thousands of Instant Pots for the U.S. and Canadian markets have their final assembly right in North America. However, for logistical reasons, not every single model is made here.
Other Notable Instant Pot Models, Sizes and Accessories
Part of what makes the Instant Pot so versatile is the range of sizes and models on the market. Here‘s a look at some of the most popular variations:
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3 Qt Mini – Perfect for singles, couples or side dishes. Runs $79 – $99.
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6 Qt – The most popular size for families. Prices range from $99 – $169. Many options like the Duo Plus, Lux, etc.
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8 Qt – Ideal for large households or meal prepping. Usually retails between $139 – $200.
In addition to the standard electric pressure cookers, Instant Pot also offers accessories like:
- Air fryer lids to turn it into an air fryer
- Glass lids for slow cooking without pressure
- Silicone steamer baskets and egg racks for specialized cooking
- Official recipe apps for guidance and inspiration
I‘d recommend starting with the 6 Qt to suit most needs. You can always size up or down from there!
Top Pressure Cookers Made in America
While some Instant Pot models are American-made, there are also other high-quality stovetop pressure cookers manufactured right here in the USA:
Presto Pressure Cookers
- Presto has made pressure cookers in Wisconsin since 1905 – over 100 years!
- Durable, reliable, and very budget friendly (as low as $30).
- Options in both aluminum and stainless steel.
Wisconsin Aluminum Foundry
- Handcrafted of heavy cast aluminum since 1948 in Wisconsin.
- Known for extremely rugged, long-lasting designs.
- Made of over 85% recycled materials.
All American Pressure Canners
- "Cadillac" of pressure canners – made in Wisconsin and Illinois.
- Polished aluminum or stainless steel models.
- Can safely preserve and can meats, stocks, fruits and more.
So rest assured, there are plenty of American-crafted stovetop pressure cooking options to complement your Instant Pot!
Instant Pot Models to Consider
As an avid home cook, I‘ve tested my fair share of Instant Pots! Here are some of my top recommendations:
Duo Plus 6 Qt
- Best overall for most homes
- Upgraded lid design from original Duo
- 14 smart programs for one-touch cooking
- Sleek LCD display with progress indicator
Lux 6 Qt
- Excellent budget option under $100
- 12 preset cooking programs
- Great basic model for beginners
Duo Crisp + Air Fryer 8 Qt
- The priciest option, but allows air frying
- 6-in-1 multi-cooker
- Large capacity great for families
- Air frying lid adds crispy chicken, fries, etc!
Duo Nova 7-in-1
- New easy-seal lid with quick release button
- Streamlined one-touch control panel
- 7 versatile functions like pressure cook, sauté, steam, etc.
- Available in 3, 6, and 8 quart sizes
I‘d recommend the Duo Plus or Lux for most needs and budgets. But go with the Duo Crisp or Nova if you want latest upgrades!
Tips for Cooking with Instant Pot
As a cooking enthusiast, I‘ve come to love using my Instant Pot on a near daily basis! Here are some pro tips for getting the most out of this awesome kitchen gadget:
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Adjust cooking times – Most recipes are designed for 6-8 quart pots, so reduce time 10-15% for smaller 3-4 quart pots.
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Use natural release for more tender meats – Allow pressure to come down on its own rather than quick release.
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Add water/broth – Pressure cooking requires liquid, so add ~1 cup unless a recipe specifies more.
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Sauté first to build flavor – Brown meats, sauté veggies, or simmer broth before pressure cooking.
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Utilize the delay start – Program meals to be ready when you walk in the door!
Once you get the hang of it, the Instant Pot can churn out everything from perfect roasts, stews and chili to yogurt, rice, beans, oatmeal and more in a fraction of traditional cook times. It‘s an incredible tool that makes weekday cooking so much easier.
Conclusion
I hope this comprehensive guide has helped explain the Instant Pot‘s origins, manufacturing, popular models, accessories and tips for the best cooking results!
In summary, while invented in Canada, Instant Pots are now manufactured across North America and Asia to meet high demand. There are several great models and sizes to suit your cooking needs and budget. And with a little practice, the Instant Pot can upgrade your kitchen game by making easy work of dishes that once seemed time consuming.
As a home renovation pro who loves streamlining cooking, I can‘t recommend the Instant Pot enough! Let me know if you have any other questions – I‘m always happy to share appliance advice. Happy pressure cooking!
