Debating which appliance is right for you?
We’ll help you figure it out whether you need an Instant Pot or a slow cooker.
I’m naturally skeptical of new kitchen gadgets.
Credit: Hector Sanchez; Styling: Caroline M. Cunningham
Years of living in small spaces has turned me into something of a minimalist.
(My clothing closet is another story…) I’m especially suspicious of single-use gadgets.
And preferably not take up too much storage space.
Unsure which gadget you need?
Keep reading and we’ll help you figure it out.
Which To Buy: Slow Cooker Vs.
Instant Pot
Let the tendencies and cooking styles guide you to the right appliance.
If you like to keep things simple
Remember those Ronco infomercials from the 1990s?
“Just set itand forget it!
If straightforward, easy cooking is your culinary love language, then aslow cookeris the best gadget for you.
With few buttons and even fewer controls, theres very little guess work.
In fact, most models have just two options: low and slow, or lower and slower.
Ill admit, its kinda scary at first, but Ive gotten quite obsessed with it.
Its definitely more exciting than the middling cloud of steam released from lifting the slow cooker lid.
If thats the case for you, stick to your slow cooker.
But you know whats also cool?
Not having to program a robot to get supper on the table.
Of course you hate washing dishes.
But if you really REALLY hate it, you might want to consider a multicooker like the Instant Pot.
Many recipes recommend searing meat before adding it to the slow cooker.
“I couldn’t imagine I needed one.
I rarely use gadgets.
I have a well-stockedcrammed-fullkitchen.
“I was mistaken on all counts.
By the end of the first week, I was impressed.
By the time I finished my cookbook, I was a sincere convert.”
“They are a godsend those with tiny kitchens, or no kitchen at all,” she says.
That’s a convincing argument for anyone debating an Instant Pot or a slow cooker.
But if you would like something more versatile, go for a multicooker.
