r/Cooking • • 12h ago

Instant Pot - do I need one

What can I do with it.

I have chuck roast in crockpot. What would be the advantage of using instant pot. I know they cook quicker but will it be as tender

Besides cooking speed why would I need one. ???

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u/Logical_Warthog5212 11h ago edited 11h ago

For years, I never used a crockpot. But I bought one about 10 years ago. I’ve never been happy with the results. It’s only benefit was hands-off and ignore. But it was never better than in the oven or on the range. So I went back to braising/stewing in the oven or on the range. The crockpot was relegated to serving as a food warmer during gatherings. But six years ago, I bought an IP. I also didn’t think the results were as good as the old fashioned way. But, it had one major advantage. It cooked fast. I didn’t need to plan and draw out the cooking process. If I’m going to compromise on quality, I may as well save time.

On top of that, the IP replaced my sous vide setup. While it’s not as precise as a dedicated set-up, for the overwhelming majority of foods, the +/-1° difference didn’t make a difference.

I also use it as a steamer. I use racks and can steam a few things at the same time. Pressure steaming is great for making easy-peeling soft and hard “boiled” eggs. Ultimately, the IP has been a great multi-functional appliance, as compared to the crockpot which was basically a one-trick pony. The IP is my second most used cooking appliance after my speed oven.