instant pot duo crisp 6 quart

Functions of the 6 Qt instant pot duo crisp

The control panel of the Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer/Electric Pressure Cooker is very easy to read and comprehend. Though the LED is small, the displays are easy to read, and interface navigation between the functions are relatively simple. Let us look at some quick highlights of the control panel that can help you understand the device better:

The time format on the control panel displays hours on the left and minutes on the right of the colon. Once the timer hits below 1 minute, the right side of the colon indicates the seconds remaining to complete the cooking.

Once the timer goes off, you will automatically see the light on the KEEP WARM button that will keep your food warm until you are back to check the cooker.

The control panel has no pre-sets; however, if you cook a specific dish multiple times, you can add it as a favorite pre-set to have the same function and settings every time you cook that meal.

On the control panel, you will see a button for DELAY START, which you can use if you want to cook a little later. It will ensure that the dish only cooks when you hit the START button, and until then, the panel will save your settings.

In case, if you want to cancel the meal preparation or wish to add or remove anything from the dish, you can always select the CANCEL button on the control panel, and the Instant Pot will immediately stop the cooking procedure.

The left side of the display is for the temperature setting. You can adjust the temperature by using the plus or the minus button.

On the right side of the display is for the timer. With the help of the plus and the minus button, you can change the timer setting.

The LED is a small black screen that appears on the control panel with blue scripts that signifies the settings you are using and also alerts if any of the devices/functions are missing in the Instant Pot.Features and Specification

Functional Advantages and Applications:

Air Fryer: In this mode, you will have to use the crisp lid, instead of the pressure cooker lid. The function helps in frying the meals depending upon the temperature and time requirement. You can select the temperature after pressing on AIR FRY,’ and set/change the temperature and the time that you wish to cook and then press to START for beginning the cooking.

Default temperature: 400°F / 204°C

Temperature range: 180°F: 400°F / 82°C: 204°C

Suggested use: Fresh / Frozen fries, chicken wings or shrimps

Default cooking time: 00:18

Cooking time range: 00:01: 01:00

Roast: In this function, there is no pre-set, you can choose the temperature, and the time you require to roast your meal or dish and press START to begin the cooking process. Once you have maintained the temperature and the time, the Instant Pot will remember the pre-set in case if you wish to cook the same dish again.

Default temperature: 380°F / 193°C

Temperature range: 180°F: 400°F / 82°C: 204°C

Suggested use: Beef, Lamb, Pork, Poultry, Vegetables, Scalloped potatoes & more

Default cooking time: 00:40

Cooking time range: 00:01: 01:00

Bake: Using the air fryer lid, you can bake any dish that you want. The function remains the same, choose the temperature and the time and hit START to begin the baking process. Make sure to have the lid over the launching or cooling pad when you have finished the baking.

Default temperature: 365°F / 185°C

Temperature range: 180°F: 400°F / 82°C: 204°C

Suggested use: Fluffy and light cakes, pastries, and buns.

Default cooking time: 00:30

Cooking time range: 00:01: 01:00

Broil: In the BROIL option, the appliance comes with a 400°F default temperature setting, which you cannot change. Since it’s a broiling option and it is the hottest setting, you can only change the time. Only after pressing the START option, the cooking will begin.

Default temperature: 400°F / 204°C

Temperature range: Not adjustable

Suggested use: Nachos, Onion Soup, Malt cheese, etc.

Default cooking time: 00:08

Cooking time range: 00:01: 00:40

De-hydrate: Just like any other pre-set, this one is also changeable, where you can change the temperature and timer as needed before you begin the process to DE-HYDRATE the meal.

Default temperature: 125°F / 52°C

Temperature range: 105°F: 165°F / 41°C: 74°C

Suggested use: Fruit leather, jerky, dried vegetables etc.

Default cooking time: 07:00

Cooking time range: 01:00: 72:00

Pressure cook: In this setting, it doesn’t allow you to choose the temperature as the built-in option available are the frequencies of HIGH and LOW. By clicking on the pressure cook button, you can select the frequency, choose the time for the meal preparation, and hit START. Ensure to change the lid to the pressure cooker lid; otherwise, the control panel will refuse to begin the process.

Pressure level: LO (low: 8 to 2 psi) / HI (high: 12 to 16 psi)

Suggested use: LO: Fish and seafood, Soft vegetables, rice. HI: Eggs, meat, poultry, roots, hard vegetables, oats, beans, grains, bone broth, chili.

Default cooking time: LO: 00:35 / HI: 00:30

Cooking time range: 00:00: 04:00

Sauté: Under this function, it provides high or low-frequency operation and timer control. To begin the sauté, select the settings and press START.

Temperature level: LO (low) / HI (high)

Suggested use: LO: simmer, reduce, thicken, and caramelize. HI: pan sear, stir fry, sauté & brown.

Default cooking time: 00:30

Cooking time range: 00:01: 00:30

Slow Cook: The function is useful when you wish to slow cook the dishes. The timer of this function can go beyond 24 hours as per the recipe requirement, and the frequencies provided shall be either high or low as per the cooking requirements.

Temperature level: LO (low) / HI (high)

Suggested use: LO: All day cooking can set for 6 hours for the best results. HI: faster slow cooking.

Default cooking time: 06:00

Cooking time range: 00:30: 24:00

Steam: It is an ideal option when you wish to steam your dish like rice or dumplings, etc. The pre-set continues to remain the same with the frequency of high or low, and the timer can decide the steaming requirement.

Sous vide: It is an ideal method for cooking the dish in the Instant Pot for non-fry cooking, which is especially useful for vacuum-sealed food cooking at a precise temperature for an extended period.

Default temperature: 56°C / 133°F

Default cooking time: 03:00

Cooking time range: 00:30: 99:30

Safety features built within the instant pot duo crisp 6 quart

When the pressure cooker is fully pressurized, you cannot open the lid until and unless the pressure is released. This feature has been incorporated to protect you from harm or damage due to an abrupt release of the lid forcefully.

Another good thing is that you cannot start cooking if the lid is not locked in its set place. Added to it, you will see a message “Lid” being displayed on the control panel.

There is a smart safety function that won’t let the temperature go beyond a limit. These limitations are further set as per the program you have opted for preparing the dish.

The food items may get stuck at the bottom, or there is not enough liquid in the pot for the pressure cooker. In that case, there is overheating. To prevent any kind of damage, there is an overheating protection sequence that limits the formation of excessive heat.

The Instant Pot has an automatic pressure control system which maintains the pressure and suspends heating if the pressure inside the pot is more than the desired level.

instant pot duo crisp 6 quart Control Panel

The Instant Pot Crispy Air Fryer Lid is an attachment to the Instant Pot Duo Crisp Pressure Cooker. Simply put, the New Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer combines air frying with the rest of cooking features with just a swapping of lids. While the pressure cooker lid offers the following functions:

Pressure cook

Sauté

Slow cook

Sous vide

Food warming

On the other hand, the Instant Pot Duo Crisp Air Fryer lid offers the following:

Air fry

Roast

Bake

Broil

Dehydrate

With its built-in smart programs, Instant Pot makes it easy for everyone to enjoy cooking whether they are chef or novice. Everyone can prepare their favorite healthy meal quick and fast.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Always clean the Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer/Electric Pressure Cooker after each use. Every part required to clean differently. Please find the chart beneath to understand the process of cleaning.

TIP: Always ensure that the device is unplugged and is at room temperature before cleaning.

Part Instruction Cleaning Method
Accessories

Steam rack

Condensation collector

Air fryer basket base

Protective pad and storage cover

Broil/Dehydration tray

Do not use harsh chemicals, detergent, powder or scouring pads

Use non-stick cooking spray on the tray and air fryer basket for easy cleaning.

Place on the top racks if you are using a machine to clean up

Empty and clean the condensation collector after every use

Dish wash or hand wash
Pressure Cooker Lid & Parts

Anti-block shield

Steam release Handle

Float valve

Sealing ring

Silicone cap

Use mild dish soap to clean up after every use

Place on top rack in the dishwasher

Clean the insides of the steam release pipe

Keep the sealing ring in a ventilated area to avoid any residual odor of flavored meals

For odors, you can add a cup of water, a cup of white vinegar in the inner pot, and run pressure cook for 5 to 10 minutes.

Dish wash or hand wash
Inner Pot In case of hard water staining, rub the pot with light hands using some vinegar on a sponge.

For burned food residue, soak it in hot water.

Dish wash or hand wash

 

As a standard cleaning protocol, always make sure to unplug the Instant Pot Duo Crisp 11-in-1 Air Fryer/Electric Pressure Cooker before you plan to clean. Similarly, make sure to cool down the appliance; otherwise, it will be a reason for the malfunction and sometimes fail to meet the warranty requirements.

FAQ about the Duo Crisp Air Fryer

What is the inner pot made of?

It is primarily made from 304 (18/8) stainless steel with the aluminum core at the 3-ply bottom for optimal use but ensures you that no aluminum comes in contact with the food you’re cooking. There is also no aluminum coating and so the inner pot is in compliant with the FDA for safety standard requirements.

The steam rack is likewise made from food grade 304 (18/8) stainless steel, also ensuring safety for the food you’re cooking.

The air fryer comes with a ceramic nonstick coating making food easy to remove and the air fryer basket easy to clean.

Can the setting be adjusted when you have started cooking?

Even when you have started cooking, you can still make some adjustments to the cooking time, cooking temperature, and pressure level.

How many appliances can the Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer cover?

With the Instant Pot Duo Crisp+ Instant Pot, you can have your traditional pressure cooker, steamer, slow cooker, food warmer, and sauté pan all in one kitchen device. Added to these, you can also make use of it as an air fryer, broiler, mini-oven, food dehydrator, and broiler.

Are there foods I should avoid putting into the Instant Pot?

Foods that are high in sugar content ay trigger the Instant Pot to give out a burn alert. Also, extra caution is highly recommended when cooking food like applesauce, oatmeal, pearl barley, and noodles that tend to froth, splatter, or foam as they can cause clogging. When preparing these types of foods, make sure not to fill it beyond the 1/2 line as indicated in the inner pot.

To ensure longevity, regular cleaning of the lids and all their parts are important for proper functioning.

Can I use accessories from other brands with my Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer?

It is recommended that you purchase accessories and other spare parts only from stores authorized by Instant Pot Brands Inc. to ensure the highest level of safety.

Air Fryer Fats

Air fryer cooking is a healthy alternative for oil-based deep frying. Cooking with air fryer can reduce the presence of bad fats in the food.  Since the air fryer uses hot air technology, instead of oil, the cooking process helps to produce food with minimum fat. Hence cooking food using air fryer helps to substitute good fats with the bad ones.

What are the good fats? Monosaturated and polyunsaturated fats are good fats.  These fats are present in healthy oils like canola oil and olive oil. Saturated fats and trans fats are falling under the category of bad fats, which are common in most of the processed foods.

Good Fats

Good fats are heart-friendly, and it can protect the arteries from clogging. The good fats remain liquid at room temperature. Foods like vegetables, nuts, fish, and seeds are a rich source of good fats.

Monosaturated Fats

It protects the body by increasing HDL cholesterol while lowering LDL cholesterol. You can include monosaturated fats in your diet by consuming nuts, avocado, canola oil, and olive oil.

Polyunsaturated Fats

These fats also have similar body-protecting effects like monosaturated fats. It even lowers the triglycerides in the body. Polyunsaturated fats are essential fats because they are vital for the body, but the body does not produce these fats. Hence diet is the only source for polyunsaturated fats.  Polyunsaturated fats are present abundantly in seafood, corn oil, fish oil, and sunflower oil.

Bad Fats

These are unhealthy fats and not the best part of any diet. Bad fats are a reason for cardiovascular problems and cancer. Processed foods are usually high in bad fats. You can replace bad fats by consuming fruits like apple and orange. Saturated fats and trans fats are the two primary forms of bad fats.

Saturated Fats

Saturated fats contain exceptional proportions of fatty acid and glycerol, having no double bonds making it unhealthy for the human body. Meat, eggs, milk, and milk products contain saturated fats, which can raise the levels of LDL cholesterol in the body. While frying food, it generates lots of saturated fats, and air frying is the ideal solution to reduce the production of saturated fat in the food.

Trans Fats

Trans fats are trans fatty acids, which form out of the long chain of hydrocarbon and appears in saturated and unsaturated forms. Excess consumption of these fat is a reason for coronary artery diseases and may increase the level of bad cholesterol. It is highly detrimental to health, and its concentration is high in processed and packaged foods.  Trans fat causes most of the lifestyle disease the current generation faces.

Air Frying and how it works

Air Frying is an excellent way to bring out that lip-smacking flavor in your food without compromising its integrity. Air frying with this appliance can be done in three types of bases. One is the multi-level air fryer basket. Secondly, you can use any oven-safe cookware which fits inside the pot. And thirdly, you can put the food directly inside the pot.

There are different functions that you can choose with air frying, roasting is best for beef, lamb, pork, and other poultry products. It takes around 40 minutes to roast your food in the air fryer.

The baking functions transform your Instant pot air fryer into an oven for baking purposes. Cakes, pastries, buns, and other such food items can be easily prepared within 30 minutes.

For Broiling, the air fryer distributes heat from the top all the way down. That is why it is better if you would place the food items closer to the heating element for broiling purposes. Typically, a broiling sequence takes around 8 minutes to complete.

Some Features And Specifications That You Should Know About the instant pot duo crisp 6 quart:

The Instant Pot Crisp Duo and Air Fryer is a smart device, there is no doubt in that. Added to this, there are a few other things that make it a better choice over other such appliances. And these can further convince you to add it to your kitchen appliance inventory.

Intuitive Control Panel:

Starting with the control panel, you already know that it can help you perform up to 11 functions with your instant pot. At the same time, you can also fix your desired temperature and timer from the control panel too. You can increase the timer in increments of 5 minutes and temperature in increments of 1 degree.

Smart Programs:

There are a few intelligent programs that can also be set on the instant pot. This includes putting the pressure cooker or the air fryer on Standby Mode. Plus, you can also turn the sound off or on at your wish from the same control panel. The Delay start and Keep Warm functions are also some good and useful functions that you can work within the instant pot.

Ease of Clean:

Since you can remove most of the bigger parts from the instant pot, it is easier to clean and make sure that it stays clean. While using the appliance, make sure that you clean it before use and also do the same after you have used it.

Deep-fried texture without using much oil:

One of the greatest bonuses of using an air fryer is that you will get to eat crispy and deep-fried food without using oil. That is the real beauty of an air fryer. With the instant pot, there is, however, an add-on. The food fried in it will also have a golden finish, which further enhances your food’s quality and finish.

Specifications:

The Instant Pot Crisp Duo and Air Fryer works with 1500 watts of power and weighs around 22 lb. It is 14 inches long, 15 inches wide, and stands at 15 inches of height. The 8-quart lid sized instant pot is suitably large to place anywhere in your kitchen without taking up too much space.

Health First

When you fully immerse vegetables and other ingredients in the water to cook, it drains essential nutrients. Instant Pot needs much less water to cook food using high-pressure steam, and that’s why it helps in preserving nutrition.

Convenience & Comfort

Most Instant Pot models in the market offer a variety of cooking functions for various meal preparations, be it soup, stew, sauté, poultry, meat, seafood, and so on. Easy to use and easy to control functions provide you with the ultimate cooking convenience.

Removes Micro-Organism

In instant pot, cooking is carried out at high temperature by heating water and other added liquid ingredients. Such high-temperature cooking helps in killing harmful bacteria and viruses from vegetables and fruits.

Meal Planning

Once you’ve been doing this for a while, you’ll have a good idea of the recipes you like, a stockpile of freezer meals, and be pretty  tired of giving up hours every Sunday to prep stuff. When you have reached this stage, you’re ready to graduate to batch planning.

Batch meal planning is making a schedule for weeks at a time. I suggest starting with two weeks, then stepping up to four weeks. I wouldn’t plan for more than four weeks at a time because life can change so rapidly.

I’ll confess to you that I can’t get to meal planning every Sunday. Sometimes we’re busy and I can’t make time for it. Sometimes I’ll get through planning and shopping and take a nap instead of prepping. Batch planning means you don’t have to carve out time every week to plan.

It also helps you get ahead on prepping ingredients for the following weeks, cutting down on prep time later on, and reducing food waste. If there’s a recipe you want to make this week that includes two carrots, you can schedule a recipe for next week that uses four more and reduce the number you’ll have to freeze.

Another option in batch planning is picking a certain cuisine to focus on for a few weeks so you can master those flavors and cooking techniques. I prefer variety but for you budding chefs, this would be a great way to master a cuisine quickly.

If you’re human, you’re going to want to graduate to batch planning at some point. It’s easier to maintain but it’s daunting to start out with. Get familiar with weekly and biweekly meal planning before you jump into four-week plans.

I’ve included a sample four-week meal plan with meal prep guide. You’ll see suggestions for breakfasts, lunches, and five dinners each week. It isn’t a completely cohesive meal plan (in order to show menus from sales in different seasons) but it has the same variety I would use in a batch meal plan.

The one downside to batch planning is that you can’t see the ads in the future. Some stores put out their ads two weeks early but you won’t find them three or four weeks in advance. You can search for archives of your store’s ads to see what was on sale this time last year and get an idea of what will be on sale in the future. And when in doubt, you’re always safe with in-season produce and special buys.