Activating Your Aroma Instapot: A Step-By-Step Guide

To turn on the Aroma Instapot, first place the appliance on a sturdy countertop or table near a power socket, ensuring there is ample space above it. Next, insert the inner pot into the cooker base and plug the power cord in. The Instapot will switch on and display an OFF status symbol on the control panel, indicating standby mode. Decide on your desired cooking method, such as sautéing or pressure cooking, and follow the corresponding instructions in the user manual. For pressure cooking, remember to add at least one cup of liquid, secure the lid, and choose your settings. The preheating and pressurizing stage will then begin, followed by the cooking stage and finally, the depressurizing stage.

How to turn on the Aroma Instapot: a step-by-step guide

The Aroma Instapot is a multi-use appliance that can cook foods quickly at high pressure. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to turn it on and get started with your first recipe:

Step 1: Unbox and Set Up Your Aroma Instapot

If you haven't taken your Aroma Instapot out of the box yet, now is the time to do so. Remove any plastic wrapping from the inner pot and accessories. The box should contain the base unit, stainless steel inner pot, lid, steam release valve, condensation collector, trivet, power cord, and some measuring utensils.

Step 2: Wash the Parts

Wash all parts of your Aroma Instapot before use. The lid, steam release valve, and inner pot can be washed in the dishwasher or by hand. Do not immerse the base unit in water—simply ensure it is dry and free of debris.

Step 3: Place the Inner Pot and Plug In

Place the inner pot inside the cooker base and plug the power cord into a power outlet. The Instapot will switch on and display an OFF status symbol on the control panel, which is called standby mode.

Step 4: Choose Your Cooking Method

Decide on the cooking method you want to use. This will depend on what you plan to cook. Most recipes will guide you on this. In general, you will choose between the Sauté function and a manual or smart program pressure cooking setting.

Step 5: Add Ingredients and Secure the Lid

Add your food, seasonings, and liquid to the pot. The liquid can be cold or hot; hotter liquids will reduce the time it takes for the Instapot to come to pressure. Check that the sealing ring on the inside of the lid is in place, then place and lock the lid on top.

Step 6: Select Your Settings and Start the Cooking Cycle

For pressure cooking, press the Pressure Cook or Manual button, then use the +/- buttons to adjust the timer according to your recipe. By default, the Keep Warm cycle will be selected, but you can turn it off if desired. Press the Pressure Level button to select Low or High pressure. Most recipes use High pressure.

For the Sauté function, press the Sauté button and add your ingredients once the display switches from On to Hot. The default temperature setting is Normal, but you can press Sauté again to select Less or More.

Step 7: Wait for the Cooking Cycle to Finish

The preheating and pressurizing stage will begin, and the pot will heat up, creating steam and pressure. This stage can take 5-20 minutes, depending on the amount of food and liquid. Once pressurized, the cooking timer will start counting down.

Step 8: Release the Pressure

After the cooking timer reaches zero, you can do a quick release or natural pressure release. For a quick release, press the quick release button or turn the steam release handle to the Venting position. Hot steam will escape, so be careful and keep your hand and face away. For a natural release, simply leave the Instapot undisturbed, and the pressure will release on its own in 10-25 minutes.

Step 9: Open the Lid and Enjoy!

Once the pressure is released, the float valve on the lid will drop, and you can safely open the lid. Stir the contents if needed, then serve and enjoy your meal!

Now that you know the basics of turning on and using your Aroma Instapot, you can refer to your user manual for further instructions and start experimenting with different recipes and functions. Happy cooking!

Aroma Instapot: safety tips and instructions

The Aroma Instapot is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for a variety of cooking functions, including pressure cooking, sautéing, slow cooking, steaming, and rice cooking. Here are some safety tips and instructions to help you use your Aroma Instapot effectively and safely:

Safety Tips:

• Always read the user manual carefully before using the Aroma Instapot for the first time. Understanding the safety mechanisms and features will help you avoid accidents.
• Never fill the Instapot beyond the maximum fill line. For foods that expand, such as rice, beans, or pasta, fill only halfway to avoid overpressure and potential explosions.
• Stay away from the steam release valve during and after cooking. The steam is extremely hot and can cause burns. Always open the lid away from your face and use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves for protection.
• Regularly inspect and maintain the sealing ring. Clean it after each use, check for cracks or damage, and replace it every 12 to 24 months to ensure a proper seal.
• Always ensure there is enough liquid in the Instapot before pressure cooking. The minimum amount required is one cup, but you may need more depending on the recipe.
• Do not leave the Instapot unattended during pressure cooking. Stay close by to monitor for any warning signs or potential issues.
• Avoid pressure frying in the Instapot. It is not designed for this purpose and can be dangerous.

Instructions for Use:

• Place the Aroma Instapot on a sturdy countertop or table near a power socket, ensuring there is ample space above for steam release.
• Plug in the power cord and ensure the inner pot is clean and securely inside the cooker base.
• Decide on the cooking method (sauté, pressure cook, slow cook, etc.) based on the type of food you want to prepare.
• Add food, seasonings, and the required amount of liquid to the inner pot. Stir the contents if needed.
• Check that the sealing ring on the lid is in place and secure the lid by twisting it until it locks.
• Select the desired cooking program (manual or smart program) and adjust the timer and pressure level accordingly.
• The preheating and pressurizing stage will begin, followed by the cooking stage once the desired pressure is reached.
• After cooking, you can choose to do a quick release or natural pressure release (NPR) depending on the food and recipe. Always follow the safety precautions when releasing steam.
• Once the pressure is released, open the lid slowly and stir the contents if needed. Then, remove the inner pot for cleaning.
• Unplug the Aroma Instapot and switch off the power to turn it off completely.

Aroma Instapot: how to perform a water test

Before using your Aroma Instapot for the first time, it is important to perform a water test to ensure the device is working correctly and to help you familiarise yourself with its basic functions.

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing a Water Test

Step 1: Plug in your Aroma Instapot and place the inner pot into the cooker base.

Step 2: Pour 2-3 cups of water into the inner pot.

Step 3: Check that the sealing ring is installed correctly and ensure nothing is blocking the venting knob and floating valve.

Step 4: Close the lid by turning it in a clockwise direction until you hear a beep.

Step 5: Set the steam release to the "Sealing" position.

Step 6: Select the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" button and adjust the cooking time to 5 minutes.

Step 7: Wait for the cooker to reach pressure and begin the countdown.

Step 8: Once the cooking cycle is complete, release the pressure.

Step 9: Open the lid and remove the inner pot.

What to Look Out For

During the water test, you will see steam coming from the floating valve as the water heats up and builds pressure. Once there is enough steam, the floating valve will pop up and seal the pot, and the cooker will begin the pressure cooking cycle.

It is normal to see some steam venting from the floating valve until the cooker reaches the proper pressure. If you see major steam release from the steam release handle during the cooking cycle, ensure that the handle is in the "Sealing" position.

Troubleshooting

If your water test is unsuccessful, check the following:

• Ensure the sealing ring is correctly installed and nothing is blocking the venting knob and floating valve.
• Check that the steam release handle is in the "Sealing" position.
• Make sure the inner pot is dry and try again.
• If the float valve is stuck, ensure the steam is completely released and then press the valve down with a long-handled utensil.
• If issues persist, contact Customer Care.

Aroma Instapot: how to adjust settings and select functions

To adjust settings and select functions on the Aroma Instapot, follow these steps:

• Plug the Instapot into a power outlet and place it on a sturdy surface.
• Ensure the inner pot is inside the cooker base and clean.
• Decide on the cooking method: either Sauté food first, then use a manual setting, or select one of the smart programs.
• If you want to Sauté, press the Sauté button. After about 10 seconds, the cooker will display "On" to indicate that it has begun heating. You can now add ingredients.
• To adjust the temperature, press the Sauté button again to cycle through the Less, Normal, and More options.
• Press Cancel to stop the Sauté process.
• To deglaze the inner pot, add some liquid and use a wooden or silicone scraper to loosen anything stuck to the bottom.
• If you want to use a manual setting:

• Press the Pressure Cook button (Manual on older models).
• Use the +/- buttons to adjust the timer.
• Press the Pressure Level button to select Low or High pressure.

If you want to use a smart program:

• Press one of the Smart Program buttons.
• Adjust the cooking time and pressure level if desired.

• Secure and lock the lid.
• Once the Instapot beeps and the timer reaches zero, the cooking process is done.
• You can now do a Quick Release or Natural Pressure Release.

For a Quick Release, press the button on top of the lid to manually release the pressure immediately. Be careful, as hot steam will escape.

For a Natural Pressure Release, simply leave the Instapot undisturbed. The pressure will release by itself after 10-25 minutes.

Aroma Instapot: how to troubleshoot common issues

The Instapot Won't Turn On

Firstly, check that your Instapot is plugged into a functioning power outlet. The power cord may not be entirely connected, or the outlet itself may not be active. If you're still having issues, try plugging your Instapot into a different outlet.

The Lid Won't Open

Make sure that enough steam has been released after pressure-cooking. Give the Instapot time to cool down. You can also try using a spoon handle to tap the button beside the release valve.

The Lid Won't Seal

Check for food blockages or a slipped sealing ring. You can also try moving the lid back and forth from the locked position until you get the hang of it.

The Display Won't Turn On

Try plugging your Instapot into a separate outlet. If the display still won't turn on, contact Instapot support.

The Pot is Getting Streaky or Cloudy

Try running your Instapot in the dishwasher to remove streaks and smudges. You can also mix vinegar with the residue to restore its shine.

The Pot Isn't Building Pressure

Check that the sealing ring is correctly positioned and not damaged. You should also ensure that the steam release valve is functioning properly and is free from debris. Finally, review your recipe and make sure you have the recommended amount of liquid.

The Pot is Leaking Steam

A small amount of steam leaking from the valve while the pot is heating up is normal. However, if steam is leaking continuously, try cleaning and repositioning the valve. If this doesn't work, you may need to replace the valve.

The Float Valve is Stuck

Unclog the valve and wash the lid to ensure that all bits of food are removed.

The Pot is Showing a 'Burn' Message

Add more liquid to the pot, or allow it to cool down if you've been sautéing on high heat. For more complex meals, layer your starches and sauces on top of other ingredients.

The Pot is Beeping

If your Instapot is beeping outside of the usual times (when it starts heating, when the timer starts, and when the timer is done), this usually means something is wrong. Check to see if there is a code flashing on the screen, as this could indicate an overheating issue.

Frequently asked questions