The Instant Pot is a versatile and popular multi-cooker that can perform a wide range of cooking tasks. However, there are still some things it can't do or may not be well-suited for:
Deep-Frying: The Instant Pot is not designed for deep-frying. It is a pressure cooker with a sealed lid, and attempting to deep-fry in it could be hazardous due to the high-pressure environment and the potential for hot oil splattering.
Browning and Crisping: While some Instant Pot models have a sauté function for light browning, they may not achieve the same level of browning or crisping as traditional stovetop methods or ovens. For a crispy texture, you might need to transfer the food to the oven or use a separate appliance like an air fryer.
Baking: The Instant Pot is not meant for baking in the traditional sense. While you can make some cake-like desserts using the "pressure cook" function, the results may differ from conventional oven-baked goods.
Large Cuts of Meat: While the Instant Pot is great for cooking tender cuts of meat quickly, it may not be ideal for large cuts that require longer cooking times to break down tough fibers and connective tissues.
Canning: The Instant Pot is not recommended for canning foods. Proper canning requires precise temperature control and processing times, which the Instant Pot may not provide.
Stir-Frying: The Instant Pot's cooking surface is not designed for stir-frying. Traditional woks or pans on high heat are better suited for this cooking technique.
Popcorn: Popping popcorn in the Instant Pot is not recommended as the pressure inside could cause the kernels to pop prematurely, leading to unevenly cooked popcorn or damage to the cooker.
Fermentation: The Instant Pot does not have specific features or temperature control necessary for fermentation processes.
High-Foaming Recipes: Cooking recipes that produce a lot of foam, such as some pasta dishes, can cause issues in the Instant Pot. The foam can block the pressure release valve and potentially lead to safety hazards.
Very Delicate Foods: Foods that require ultra-gentle cooking, such as soft-boiled eggs with very runny yolks, may not be as easily achieved in the Instant Pot.
While the Instant Pot is an incredibly versatile appliance that can handle a wide variety of cooking tasks, there are certain cooking techniques and applications where traditional stovetop methods or specialized appliances may still be preferred. Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and safety recommendations when using any kitchen appliance.