The condensation collector catches any moisture that builds up on the rim. This usually comes from moisture dripping from inside the lid into the rim of the Instant Pot base, when the lid is propped open. You need to clean the anti-block shield periodically, especially after you’ve cooked frothy or starchy foods.
All Instant Pots are pretty easy to use, but the Duo really takes it to the next level. Despite its simple design and intuitive processes, the device is absolutely packed with cooking features. If you want to spice up your meal times without adding any extra stress, then the Instant Pot Duo is perfect for you. This is our favorite Instant Pot model overall, and we think the best value of all models available! If you are going to be using your Instant Pot on a regular basis, want to save more time, and want a few extra features and programs, this is the model for you.
If you’re a novice to the world of the best Instant Pots, or are looking to feed a crowd, the Instant Pot Duo Nova 7-in-1 Cooker could be your best bet. Unlike the classic Duo, the Instant Pot Duo Nova is designed with a lid that automatically seals the release valve when closed. This way, you don’t have to wonder if the Duo Nova is building pressure or not. Also, there is a quick-release button that you can use to release steam faster, without getting your hands near the hot steam.
If you opt for the 6-quart model, it’s compatible with the Instant Pot Air Fryer Lid that will open up to six more cooking techniques. You want a cooking pot with handles
The stainless-steel cooking pot doesn’t have handles for easy lifting, if you’d prefer handles consider another model such as the Instant Pot Pro or the Instant Pot Evo Plus. You should do a water test before the first use but you can also do it when you’re having problems with the Instant Pot pressurizing. Doing the water test will pinpoint whether there’s something about the recipe that’s causing your sealing issues. If a recipe doesn’t state whether to use high or low pressure, you can probably assume it’s high pressure. Instead, once you program the Instant Pot, it automatically starts after a few seconds.
The device has a fraction of the customer reviews that the Duo has, so it’s not as clear how the pressure cooker has been performing. Since then, it feels like Instant Pot has released a zillion new models (some with different versions), and all with slightly different features. The Instant Pot Max delivers maximum pressure and cooks 10% to 15% faster than other Instant Pot models (at 15 psi) and has 1,100 watts compared to the standard 1,000. Because it’s so powerful, you can cook traditional stovetop pressure-cooker recipes.
With revolutionary smart multi-cookers featuring new functions and uses constantly in development, it can be hard to tell Instant Pot products apart — especially the Instant Pot Duo and Duo Nova. The most obvious advantage of the Duo Nova slow cooker is that it’s available in 4 different sizes, rather than the Duo’s 3. The Duo Nova is available in a larger 10 qt size, which wouldn’t be an option if you picked the Duo. Any Instant Pot accessories or gadgets you may choose to buy to bulk up your cooker’s functionality are just a bonus.
The new lid is called “the ultimate” because, unlike the lids on other Instant Pot models, this one has one lid that can be used for both pressure-cooking and air-frying. If you’re looking for a specific smart instant pot duo nova program, double-check the model you’re buying before completing your purchase. Instant Pot has released new versions of models over time, which can include changing up the smart program combination.
For the most part, we found the differences in cooking abilities to be minor between the models in our fleet. That being said, we thoroughly enjoyed the food made by the DUO Nova, with it earning superlatives instant vortex in most of our cooking tests. Some odors, especially from intense recipes, stick to the sealing ring. Consequently, milder recipes might pick up some of the odor/flavors if you use the same sealing ring.
Compared to the Ultra, this model comes with two sealing rings, a steam rack, and a measuring cup. The team at Milly’s have a reputation for being the premier specialty retailer of kitchenware and cookware in New Zealand. If you have any questions about our products or anything else we offer, feel free to get in contact with our knowledgeable staff, they’re happy to help.
Similar in versatility but safer to use, the moosoo air fryer comes with more advanced features to provide its users with a superior cooking experience. So, after all that, which Instant Pot model would I actually recommend? In truth, the Duo and the Duo Nova are very similar products and in a lot of situations, they will offer exactly the same functionality and ease of use. The final drawback of the Duo Nova is that it is not widely available.