Pot-in-Pot Cooking with Your Instant Pot

Using the Pot-in-Pot (PiP) Method in Your Instant Pot

The Pot-in-Pot method works great for non-one-pot dishes. For this, you can use any heat-resistant container, such as Pyrex. The only thing to keep in mind is to use ingredients with similar cooking times, as it’s not very convenient to bring the pot to pressure a second time.

You can use any heat-resistant dish or pan, such as Pyrex or metal. We also frequently get asked if the smaller inner pots of the Instant Pot fit in the larger models: the only option here would be to use a 3L inner pot in an 8L model. In the 6L model, there is less space around it, but it can work in some cases. The 6L inner pot does NOT fit in the 8L.

A useful tip is to use ingredients with similar cooking times, as it’s not very convenient to bring the pot to pressure a second time, and it’s a shame to end up with overcooked vegetables as a result.

Example

As an example of how PiP works, I’ll use a vegetarian lentil curry with rice: First, use the Sauté function to sauté onions, garlic, and spices, then deglaze with some broth, scraping the bottom with a wooden or plastic spatula. Then add the lentils and place the steam rack in the pot. On top of the steam rack, place a container with rice, which will steam while the lentils cook.

This is just an example of how you can use this method; there are many possibilities for using it.

For PiP cooking, we are also working on a very nice accessory: stackable metal containers with 2 layers, so you can cook in multiple containers at once. This is suitable for the 8L models.

What is Pot-in-Pot (PiP)?

With PiP, you use one or more separate, smaller containers in the inner pot of the Instant Pot to cook, which you can place on top of the steam rack. The liquid sits below the steam rack, and the steam released from it brings the pot to pressure, cooking the dish.

Accessories for Pot-in-Pot Cooking with Your Instant Pot

We have found the ideal accessories for Pot-in-Pot cooking with your Instant Pot! The Ziva stackable stainless steel double steamer basket with lid.

When to Use PiP (Pot-in-Pot)?

When you want to make multiple dishes at the same time, like the lentil curry example above. But also think of: fish with green beans or asparagus, quinoa with vegetables, chicken and rice, beans and rice, chili con/sin carne, or different jars of baby food.

Small Quantities:

If you prefer not to clean your entire inner pot, want a smaller container to store in the fridge, or are making less than 1 cup of rice without enough liquid to create pressure.

Reheating:

Instead of using the microwave or stovetop, you can simply place your heat-resistant container in the Instant Pot and reheat. It’s also ideal when you have multiple containers that you can stack to heat everything at once.

Steaming Vegetables, Fish, and Other Delicate Ingredients:

For this, you can use a steamer basket, but a small bowl or dish works just as well. Keep in mind that for quick-cooking vegetables like broccoli, the Instant Pot can also be set to 0 minutes. Immediately release the pressure after the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

Au Bain Marie:

This method is typically used for delicate recipes where an even temperature, no direct heat, and slower heating are key. Instead of using a bowl over a pan, you can also place a bowl or container on the steam rack with a cup of water in the inner pot. Some examples: lava cakes, cheesecake, small jars of yogurt, or crème brûlée.

For Dishes with Little or No Liquid:

For example, lasagna, steamed cake, or bread. Cook your lasagna in a dish in the Instant Pot while the oven is preheating, then transfer it to the oven to brown the cheese. If you have one of the Crisp models, it’s even easier; you just need to swap the lid.

To Avoid the BURN Message:

When using milk, tomato sauce, or other thick sauces, you might frequently get a BURN message. This happens because the heat can’t distribute well enough and the bottom of the inner pot gets too hot. This message prevents food from burning or catching fire. It’s easy to prevent by preparing these dishes in a separate dish with only water in the inner pot.