Food sticking to the bottom of an electric pressure cooker, such as an Instant Pot, can happen for a few reasons:
Temperature and Browning: When you're sautéing or browning food in the pressure cooker before pressure cooking, the high heat setting can cause the natural sugars and proteins in the food to caramelize and stick to the bottom of the pot. While browning adds flavor to the dish, it can also lead to sticking if not done properly.
Lack of Moisture: If there isn't enough liquid in the pressure cooker during the cooking process, the food can become too dry, leading it to stick to the bottom of the pot. Adequate liquid is crucial to creating steam and maintaining a moist cooking environment.
Overcooking: Cooking food for too long or at too high a temperature can cause it to break down and stick to the bottom. This is especially true for dishes that require shorter cooking times or delicate ingredients.
Burn Sensors: Many modern electric pressure cookers, including Instant Pots, are equipped with safety features like burn sensors. These sensors can detect when the temperature at the bottom of the pot becomes too high and may activate to prevent further heating. As a result, the cooker may display a "burn" warning, and the food could be stuck to the bottom.
To minimize food sticking to the bottom of an electric pressure cooker:
Use enough liquid: Ensure there is sufficient liquid in the recipe, especially when pressure cooking. Most pressure cooker recipes require at least 1 cup of liquid to create steam and prevent burning.
Deglaze the pot: After sautéing or browning, deglaze the pot by adding a splash of liquid (water, broth, or wine) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This will help prevent sticking during pressure cooking.
Adjust cooking times and temperature: Pay attention to the recommended cooking times and settings in your recipe. Overcooking or using too high a temperature can lead to sticking.
Stir well: Some recipes may require stirring during the cooking process to distribute heat and prevent the food from sticking.
Use proper settings: Different pressure cooker functions have different heat levels. When sautéing, use the appropriate sauté/browning setting rather than high pressure.
By following these tips and adjusting your cooking techniques, you can minimize food sticking and enjoy delicious meals from your electric pressure cooker without any trouble.