If there’s one kitchen gadget I reach for almost daily, it’s my Instant Pot. Whether I’m cooking meat, legumes, or daals (lentils), this little appliance has made my life so much easier. In this honest review, I’ll share how the Instant Pot fits into my kitchen, why I think it’s worth buying, and which model I personally use.
Why I Finally Bought an Instant Pot
I’ll admit—I’m not someone who jumps on every kitchen gadget trend. Living in Germany, where kitchen space is often limited, I only want tools that are truly practical. Back in 2015, it was actually my husband who bought the Instant Pot when he found a great deal.
At first, I wasn’t convinced. But everything changed in 2016, when I had my baby. Suddenly, cooking needed to be faster and more hands-off. That’s when I discovered what a game-changer the Instant Pot really is.
How the Instant Pot Changed My Cooking
Here’s why I love it so much:
- Saves time – Most dishes cook in half the time (or less).
- Hands-off cooking – Once the timer is set, I don’t have to hover over the stove.
- Safe & stress-free – It automatically turns off when done, so I can focus on work, doing a workout, taking a nap, or even stepping outside.
- Keeps food warm – The “keep warm” function means dinner is ready when I am.
For a busy parent—or really anyone juggling multiple things at once—the Instant Pot is a lifesaver.
Which Instant Pot Do I Use?
I personally own [this model of the Instant Pot]. It’s perfect for a family of four and affordable compared to some of the larger models.
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Benefits of an Instant Pot vs. a Regular Pot
So what makes the Instant Pot stand out from traditional cooking methods?
- Pressure Cooking – Cuts cooking time by up to 50%. Perfect for tough cuts of meat, mutton, beef, chickpeas, and kidney beans.
- Slow Cooking – Ideal when you want meat that’s tender and melt-in-the-mouth.
- Set & Forget – No need to babysit your food. Just add ingredients, set the timer, and walk away.
This versatility is what makes the Instant Pot such a valuable addition to my small kitchen.
What Can You Cook in an Instant Pot?
The Instant Pot shines with recipes that usually take a long time:
- Beef stews and curries
- Bone-in chicken dishes
- Legumes like chickpeas, kidney beans, and lentils
- Soups and broths
I often cook beef, daals and chickpeas in mine—they’re done in a fraction of the usual time, with consistent results every single time.
Check out my Instant Pot Recipes section to find inspirations.
💡 Pro tip: I’ve shared a video on [how to clean the Instant Pot properly] over on my Instagram. Follow me there for more Instant Pot tips, cooking hacks, and family-friendly recipes!
Which Instant Pot Model is Right for You?
If you’re thinking about buying one, here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best Instant Pot for your needs:
- For Singles & Couples: [Instant Pot Duo Mini (3 liter)] – Compact and perfect for smaller portions. Great if you’re cooking for one or two people.
- For Families of 3–4: [Instant Pot Duo (6 liter)] – This is the one I use! Ideal size for everyday meals without taking up too much space.
- For Larger Families or Meal Preppers: [Instant Pot Duo Plus (8 liter)] – Extra capacity makes it easy to batch-cook soups, stews, or large cuts of meat.
No matter which size you choose, the core functions are the same—it’s just about matching the size to your lifestyle.
Final Thoughts: Is the Instant Pot Worth Buying?
For me, the answer is a big yes. The Instant Pot has become my most used kitchen gadget, and I honestly don’t know how I managed without it. If you want to save time, simplify cooking, and still enjoy delicious home-cooked meals, I truly recommend getting one.
👉 [Check the latest price of the Instant Pot here]