To prevent food from sticking to the bottom of an electric pressure cooker like an Instant Pot or multi-cooker, you can follow these tips:
Preheat the cooker: Preheating the cooker before adding ingredients can help reduce the chances of sticking. Select the sauté function and allow the pot to heat up for a minute or two before adding oil or food.
Use enough cooking liquid: Make sure to add an adequate amount of cooking liquid, such as broth, water, or sauce, to create steam and prevent the food from sticking. The exact amount will vary depending on the recipe, so follow the instructions provided.
Deglaze the pot: After sautéing ingredients or browning meat, there might be browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Deglazing is the process of adding liquid, such as broth or wine, to the hot pot and using a spoon or spatula to scrape off the stuck bits. This helps prevent burning and sticking during pressure cooking.
Layer ingredients properly: Layer ingredients in the pressure cooker according to the recipe's instructions. Usually, it's recommended to place denser or larger items at the bottom and lighter items on top. This helps ensure even cooking and minimizes the risk of sticking.
Avoid overfilling: Do not fill the pressure cooker beyond the recommended maximum fill line. Overfilling can cause ingredients to come into direct contact with the heating element, increasing the likelihood of sticking and scorching.
Clean the cooker thoroughly: Properly clean the pressure cooker after each use to remove any residual food particles or oils that could lead to sticking during subsequent cooking. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance.
Use non-stick accessories: Consider using non-stick cooking accessories or inserts specifically designed for pressure cookers. These can help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
By following these tips, you can minimize the chances of food sticking to the bottom of your electric pressure cooker and ensure a more enjoyable cooking experience.