In this article: Tips for choosing an Instant Pot and Instant Pot cooking basics for beginners, from an interview with Jen of Instant Pot Creations.
I recently had the privilege of interviewing Jen from Instant Pot Creations. As someone who didn’t yet own an Instant Pot, I had plenty of questions. Through Instagram Live she welcomed me into her kitchen, answered my questions, and demonstrated how she uses this popular electric pressure cooker.
Jen’s Instagram Channel: Instant Pot Creations | Jen’s Blog: Jenuine Home
Here’s what I learned from our conversation.
Instant Pot Cooking Basics for Beginners
An interview with Jen from Instant Pot Creations and Jenuine Home
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links for your shopping convenience.
How did your Instagram channel, Instant Pot Creations, get started?
Jen bought an Instant Pot to see what all the excitement was about but was intimidated to use it at first. After searching for clear, reliable resources and not finding enough, she started sharing her successful recipes and step-by-step posts. People responded and asked for guidance, so she gathered everything in one place. Her channel grew quickly because many home cooks were looking for straightforward Instant Pot instruction and ideas.
How does the Instant Pot differ from older stovetop pressure cookers?
The Instant Pot automates most of the pressure cooking process. Once you add ingredients, lock the lid, seal it, and set the time, the unit brings itself to pressure, cooks for the programmed time, and releases pressure according to the chosen method. You don’t need to watch a dial or gauge—the Instant Pot handles it for you, which is why many find it easier and safer than traditional stovetop pressure cookers.
Why do people love the Instant Pot?
Busy cooks appreciate the Instant Pot because it:
- helps streamline meal prep and kitchen time,
- reduces the number of dishes used, and
- speeds up cooking for healthier, home-cooked meals.
Which Instant Pot should I buy and what features matter?
There are many brands and models on the market, but Jen recommends choosing a model with a stainless steel inner pot—stainless lasts longer and is more durable. The 6-quart Duo is the most popular and affordable model for families. Some cooks keep a smaller 3-quart pot as a secondary unit for tasks like cooking rice separately, while others prefer the 8-quart for larger batches. Consider your household size and the types of meals you’ll prepare when choosing capacity.
This time of year often brings the best Instant Pot deals, so watch for sales if you can.
What should I do the first time I bring an Instant Pot home?
Follow these simple initial steps:
- Remove and inspect all parts. Take out any paper liners between the pot and heating element. Never run the Instant Pot without the inner pot in place.
- Wash the removable parts thoroughly.
- Run a quick “water test” to confirm the machine is working correctly. During the water test you’ll see the float pin rise as pressure builds, some steam will vent briefly, the unit will make normal operating sounds, the display will show the time, and it will beep when finished.
Jen has beginner videos and a step-by-step water test saved in her Instant Pot 101 highlights for new users to reference.
Is there a steep learning curve?
Learning the Instant Pot is a bit like learning a new cooking method: each type of recipe has its nuances. It is more like cooking with a slow cooker in purpose, but the technique is different. One crucial point: never skip adding liquid. The Instant Pot relies on steam to build pressure, so always include the recommended amount of water, broth, or other liquid. Even experienced users continue to learn new tricks and recipes over time.
Tell me about your Instant Pot recipe e-book.
Jen’s family shifted toward whole-food, elimination-style cooking after her daughter developed oral allergy syndrome and other family members had nut and dairy sensitivities. The recipes in her e-book reflect that dietary journey: they focus on nourishing whole foods, avoid common triggers, and are designed to be both flavorful and suitable for many dietary restrictions.
The e-book shares recipes that helped her family heal and transition to healthier meals, and it aims to support others dealing with gluten, dairy, soy, and other food sensitivities.
What accessories does Jen recommend?
Jen shared several accessories she uses with her Instant Pots:
- Extra silicone sealing rings so you can keep one ring for savory or spicy foods and another for sweet dishes.
- A cheesecake pan sized for pressure cooking.
- Small containers suitable for baby food or baking muffins in the pot.
- Loaf pans designed to fit in the Instant Pot for bread or meatloaf.
- A clear lid to use when operating the Instant Pot as a slow cooker.
- A Pyrex bowl for pot-in-pot cooking and layering.
What can people expect from the Instant Pot Creations Instagram channel?
Jen’s goal is to encourage people to use their Instant Pots with confidence. She produces approachable content, step-by-step videos, and community challenges like the weekly Instant Pot Cooking Challenge every Thursday. Participants cook a themed dish, share their results, discover recipes, and connect with other home cooks learning pressure cooking together. It’s a practical, community-driven way to gain confidence and recipe ideas.
Thank you, Jen, for answering questions and sharing your tips. If I get an Instant Pot this holiday season, Instant Pot Creations will be the first place I turn for recipes and guidance.
Photo credits: Jennifer Whiting and Lisa DeJager Photography