This Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 Pressure Cooker Review introduces the newest member of the Instant Pot family of Programmable Electric Pressure Cookers.
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Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 Pressure Cooker Review
Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 Pressure Cooker Review
Meet the new addition to the Instant Pot Family. Introducing the new Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker!!!!!
It’s a 3 Quart Baby and I LOVE it. I was so thrilled to receive and be asked by the Instant Pot Company to do a review on their new Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker.
This Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 Pressure Cooker Review, is not your normal review. But then again, I am not your normal Blogger!
Back to School Alert – Moms, Dads, I bet your college student would love an Instant Pot Mini in their Dorm room.
The Instant Pot Mini is small enough to easily fit on your Recreational Vehicles and Boats.
As a Floridian (born and raised in Miami) where Hurricanes happen, the Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 would be handy to bring to a Hotel (assuming they have power), as it would be easier to maneuver.
Its also great for Small Kitchens. But after playing around with this Mini for a while, I realized, this Instant Pot Mini has all kinds of potential for everyone and every family.
One Day Amazon Sale April 25, 2018. Click here to grab yours now!!!
It is great for large families too! Read on and I will tell you why you need an Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 in your life.
Cheesecake in the Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1
But first, before I go into detail and tell you all about the Brand New Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1, let’s get the most important question out of the way.
CHEESECAKE
Yes, you can make my standard Pressure Cooker New York Cheesecake in this Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1, without any modification whatsoever!
Look at the above photo. What do you see? That’s a 6 inch Cheesecake Push Pan sitting on the included Trivet.
Pressure Cooker New York Cheesecake
All my recipes are written for a 6 inch Cheesecake pan! Many of you know by now, that my favorite Cheesecake Pan to use in my Instant Pot DUO-60 is the 6 inch Push Pan.
Of course, if you own an Instant Pot DUO-80, you can use an 8 inch Cheesecake Pan and just double the recipe.
Now that this whole super important Cheesecake issue is out of the way, let’s begin the review of this marvelous machine.
Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 Pressure Cooker Review
Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 (Mini *Plus* to me)
Besides being adorbs, as I said above, this Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 is the perfect size for Dorm Rooms, Recreational Vehicles (“RVs”) and Boats.
But, the reason I love it for my RV, is not because of the ease of storage.
It’s not because of the small amount of counter space.
Can you guess?
Instant Mini is Great for RV and Boat SINKS!!!
As with all Instant Pots, the Cooking Pot for the Instant Pot DUO Mini 7-in-1 is Health Food Grade 18/18 Stainless Steel. The larger IP Cooking Pot in the photo above, is a 6 Quart Cooking Pot, so you can see the difference.
The Instant Pot DUO Mini 7-in-1 Inner Cooking Pot Dimensions are 7.8 x 5 inches/19.8 x 12.7 cm.
My first Instant Pot was an Instant Pot LUX. It was purchased back in 2011, specifically to use on my Recreational Vehicle (“RV”) to save room and take the place of my slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer and more.
The Instant Pot LUX was the perfect answer and saved me all kinds of room. Well, it would have saved me room, had I not decided to pack up extra appliances anyway.
But, there was just one teeny issue. The RV sink. It is not easy to wash a large pot in an RV sink.
It’s so small!!!! Even with the tall faucet we installed to make cleaning large pots easier, it was still a challenge.
Instant Mini is Great for RV and Boat SINKS!!!
Okay, so if you have not guessed by now, the best news for RV owners, the 3 Quart Stainless Steel Pot, easily fits into RV sinks. You know what that means, right?
No more fighting with the sink. No more water splashing all over the place!!!!!!! No more aggravation. I am sold! There is even room to spare!
For more RV talk, check out my RV Life – Recreational Vehicles, Motorhomes, 5 Wheels, Travel Trailers Facebook Group.
Size Comparison – 6 Quart v 3 Quart
Besides RV’s this new Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 is perfect for apartments and kitchens with limited space. The 3 Quart Instant Pot DUO Mini, is also great for any size family.
The Mini, does everything the Instant Pot DUO60 does and more!
For larger families, the Mini size is great for side dishes, such as my Pressure Cooker Green Bean Casserole, Homemade Barbecue Sauce (serve right from the Pot), Cranberry Sauce, my Simple Sweet ‘N Sour Dipping Sauce recipe, desserts, like my Slow Cooker Apple Crisp Recipe and more.
As shown above in the Cheesecake photo, you can even cook recipes using the Pot in Pot method.
Upgraded Performance Buttons
More good news. The Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1, is not JUST a smaller DUO. In my opinion, it is a smaller Instant Pot DUO-60 PLUS, (just without the egg, poultry, multi-grain and cake preset buttons).
The Instant Pot 7- DUO Plus Mini is more user friendly than the Instant Pot DUO60/80 Models.
Just one button for Yogurt!!!! Press it once and it says “Boil.” Press it again and you will see the More, Less or Normal Settings! No more confusing Adjust button.
You can easily use one-half gallon of milk and make your own Homemade Instant Pot Greek Yogurt.
I’ve added instructions for using the buttons on the Instant Pot DUO Plus / Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1, as both models work the same.
Another similarity to the Instant Pot DUO Plus, is the Sauté button. At any time while Sautéing, you can adjust to Less, Normal or More, without first turning of the Pot!
Which leads me to the next cool upgrade. All the preset buttons have Low, Normal, High with various preset time, which you can see by pushing the button over and over again.
For instance, push the Meat button and it displays Low/20 minutes. Push it again and it displays Normal/35 Minutes. Push it once more and it displays High/45 minutes. I love this option.
It is great for recipes like my Pressure Cooker Beef Stew with Root Vegetables, which cooks for less time than my Pressure Cooker Classic Pot Roast recipe, which would use the longer time setting.
The Pressure Level button adjusts between High and Low Pressure.
The Pressure Cook button takes the place of the Manual button.
The Poultry preset button was removed, which I feel is a good thing. The cook time for Poultry is very little and it is easy enough to push the Pressure Cook button and set the time.
The Timer Button is now called “Delay Time,” which makes it more clear to users of its function.
The One-Touch Button operation, remembers the way you cook and each program remembers your last customization.
One feature unique to this Model (and not covered in the instruction manual), is that you have a choice to engage or not engage the “Keep Warm” feature when you press the “Pressure Cook” button (which replaced the “Manual” button).
When the Pressure Cook button is pressed, the “Keep Warm” button will illuminate. After the cook time is complete, your Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 will automatically go into the Keep Warm mode and the “Natural Release Pressure” (“NPR”) begins. Most of my recipes, like my Instant Pot Carnitas (Mexican Pulled Pork) recipe and my Pressure Cooker Hard Boiled Egg Loaf recipe, calls for NPR, meaning, do nothing and let the pot release on its own. This allows the food to slowly finish cooking.
If you press the “Keep Warm” button, after pressing the Pressure Cook button, the light goes off. After the cook time is complete, the Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 will turn itself off and the “Off” button will illuminate.
With either option, you can begin a “Quick Pressure Release” (“QR”) by gently pushing the Pressure Valve towards you. Using controlled intermittent movements is best, so that you don’t make a mess all over the counter. For recipes like my Pressure Cooker Picnic Potato Salad, this is a great feature.
As is standard with all Instant Pot models, there are 10 Safety Features built in.
Stuff that Comes with the Instant Pot Mini
You will get in the box with your Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1, the following:
Rice Cup
Rice Paddle
Soup Ladle
Short Legged Trivet
Condensation Collector
Detachable Power Cord
User Manual
Quick Reference Guide
Recipe Booklet
Condensation Cup Installation
The Condensation Cup is to collect excess liquid and steam.
All Pressure Cookers and Instant Pots work on Steam. The Steam powers the cooking.
You’ll want to use enough liquid to so that Pressure (steam) will build to cook your food.
But, you don’t want to use excess and boil your food….unless of course you are making Soup or Stew.
Even then, if converting your own Slow Cooker or Stove Top recipe, the amount of liquid will be less.
Remember, the food in your Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1, cooks in a tightly sealed vessel and will not cook down and lose liquid, like other methods.
The Sauté feature is for reducing liquid to achieve a thicker sauce or gravy.
Condensation Collector Snaps into Place
With a quick snap, your Condensation Collector is attached.
Make sure to remove it often and wash it out.
Mold will grow, if you let it sit for a while with the accumulated gunk excess liquid.
Instant Pot 7-1 DUO Mini Heating Element
This is the Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 Heating Element. Do not put any food directly on the Heating Element.
Your Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 will have an Orange sticker over the element.
Remove it right away.
Always Use the Cooking Pot
Folks, this is not negotiable.
Always, use the Cooking Pot to cook ANYTHING in your Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1.
The Cooking Pot goes directly over the Heating Element.
RV’ers and Boaters, your Stoves usually come with Marble or Wood Covers.
Never put your Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 directly on the Burners of your Stove. Make sure your Covers are in place.
Also, a good idea is to pull the knob off the Stove, so you don’t accidentally turn on your Stove!!!
For those wanting a cover for your home Stove, these wood covers do double duty as Burner Covers and Cutting Boards.
Markings for Locking the Lid
When you go to Lock your Lid in place, note the Arrow on the front of the Lid. That indicates that your Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 is locked in place.
In order to Lock the Lid, you will need to place the Lid on the Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 at about 10:00, and then twist the lid to the right.
Some people use Nail Polish and paint over the Arrow to make it easier to see.
Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 Pressure Valve and Pin
The Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 Pressure Valve needs to be in the sealed position in order for your pot to reach Pressure.
The Pressure Valve toggles and easily pulls off for cleaning. It is important to clean the Value after every use.
Use your fingers and push the Valve away from you to seal.
If you are Slow Cooking, push the Valve towards you, so that excess steam will escape.
When the Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 reaches Pressure, the Float Valve (the little silver pin, to the right of the Pressure Valve will pop UP.
The Float Valve is held on with a tiny silicone gasket. It is important to keep the pin and gasket clean. The Float Valve and gasket are easy to remove from the Lid.
Never, ever try to force open your Pot when the Float Valve is in the UP position. Never! There are safety features built in, so that you cannot open the lid, so don’t try to force it. Instant Pot took all the precautions to make their products very, very safe. 10 separate safety features!
Parents of college kids, fear not. These 10 Safety Features will keep everyone safe!
- 1. Pressure Regulator, ensures working pressure below the safety limit
- 2. Anti-Blockage Vent, prevents food debris from blocking the vent
- 3. Safety Lid Lock, prevents accidental opening of the cooker while it is pressurized
- 4. Designed with a sensor for lid position detection, monitors whether the lid is in an unsafe position for pressure cooking
- 5. Automatic temperature control, regulates temperature based on the type of program being selected
- 6. High Temperature monitoring, avoids burning food
- 7. Automatic Pressure Controller, keeps pressure always in the safe range
- 8. Electrical current and temperature fuse cuts off power if the current or internal temperature exceeds safety limits
- 9. Excess Pressure Protection, releases excess pressure into internal chamber in a dangerous situation
- 10. Smart detection of leaky lid (e.g. steam release is in the open position)
When the Float Valve has dropped and it is time to release the Steam after Pressure Cooking, use controlled jiggles, so that a little bit of Steam escapes slowly from the Pressure Valve.
Don’t be afraid. Use your fingers on the side of the Pressure Valve, like you see in the above photo, not on top. Make sure your face is away from the top of the Pressure Valve.
Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 Lid Holder
As is standard with the DUO models, the handles of the Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1, doubles as a Lid Holder!
This is especially great for people with small kitchens and limited counter space.
Condensation will drip from the Lid and guess where it will end up?
Yep, in the Condensation Collector. Keep it clean. 🙂
It is 2 quarts!!
This is great or Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes, Pressure Cooker Potato Salad, Pressure Cooker Hard Boiled Eggs and more.
RSVP 2 Quart Stainless Steel Strainer Basket
Three “Rice” Cups of Rice, Fluffed
You could easily cook five “Rice” cups of rice in this Mini Pot. That would yield about 10 servings of rice.
Remember, a “Rice” cup is 3/4 of a cup, which is 6 oz (dry).
You don’t need many accessories, if any at all, really, for this Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1.
You will want a Bowl to heat up leftovers and to steam Vegetables, like Broccoli (so they don’t fall through the Trivet.
If you are making my Mashed Cauliflower, you can just put the Cauliflower on the included Trivet or use the Smaller Colander Bowl.
This 1.5 Quart Stainless Steel Bowl is perfect for Pot in Pot Cooking. It’s the one I recommend on my Instant Pot Favorite Accessories Page, so you may already own the Bowl! However for steaming Veggies, I recommend the Smaller Colander Bowl.
Pot in Pot Cooking
For Broccoli, I set the Pressure Cook time to “0” minutes. For my preference, it is over cooked. For my husband’s preference, it was perfect.
Timing is a personal preference and what is good for one, isn’t necessarily good for the other.
Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 (Mini *Plus* to me)
In conclusion, this Instant Pot 7-1 DUO Plus Mini is great for everyone, not just Students in Dorms, RV’ers and Boaters.
You can cook for one person, or you can cook for two or more. For larger families, this 3 Quart size is perfect for side dishes and desserts.
I didn’t mention much about the specs, because everyone else always does that, right?
But, in case you are wondering, the Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 is 3 Quarts and 700 watts. It is 11.4 x 10 x 11.2 inches and weighs 8.2 pounds.
I hope you have enjoyed my Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 Pressure Cooker Review and that I was able to answer any questions you might be wondering about this cute little model.
Feel free to post questions in the comment section below and I will be happy to answer.
The Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 is now available, so if you want one, click here to buy yours.
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Instant Pot Duo Mini 7-in-1 Pressure Cooker Review
This post is so helpful. I was on the fence about getting one (it was just sitting in my cart). But after reading this, I’ve completed my order! 🙂
You answered so many of my questions. Thank you!!
I Veronica. So glad I was able to help. Thank you. Jill
Can you sear or brown meat in the cooker before you actually cook a roast?
Yes, you can. Jill
I have the mini duo instant pot. The pressure valve does not come up at all. What is the issue?
I need a recipe for cold start yogurt in the 3 qt mini with the yogurt button.
Thank you
Joyce
Check the blog, there are several yogurt recipes there including the no boil method. Jill
Is this big enough to make meat dishes such as pot roast or pork?
Hi Bell. Yes, this is three quarts, which is a nice size for smaller portions. Jill
I just bought this instant pot duo mini and I am so pleased.I just read the above information and found it very helpful. I had the mini lux and gave it to my daughter. then decided to buy the duo I find it a lot easier to understand. I can’t wait to start using this one. jean
I have the 6qt and 8qt duo instant pots and I just purchased a duo mini. My question is where can I find recipes or how do I judge what amounts I need to cook in the duo mini. I’m assuming I can make the same things in the duo that I make in my other duo pots. Can you help please?
All recipes can be made in any size pressure cooker. Recipes can be halved or doubled, depending on size of pot. Jill
You have explicit instructions for the mini pot. What I am searching for is how many frozen boneless chicken breasts can I fit in the 3 at and the cooking time.
Thank you, Carol
Carol, as many as fit comfortably. Jill
I can’t get my mine to put more than 4 minutes to cook. how do you increase the time. for instance making hard boiled eggs calls for pressure cook for 7 minutes, mine will only go 4 minutes
Freddie, please check my hard boiled egg recipe. 7 minutes is way too long a cook time. Jill
I have read to cook chicken breasts 10 minutes but my timer will only go to 4:00. What am I doing wrong?
Is the cord on the IP Duo Mini and the cord on the regular IP Duo the same? I have a long cord for my IP Duo because of where the wall outlets are placed in my kitchen.
Yes, the cords fit both units. Jill
How do I adapt recipes I find on pintrest for 6 Qt Instant Pot to this Instant Pot mini?
Hi Tamara. The Mini is just a smaller size pot. Jill
Hi, I’m new to the IP world so my query may seem pretty dumb. I was just gifted a 3qt mini duo 7 settings IP. My family eats chicken 3/ week and I noticed this one does not have a poultry setting. Is this setting required to cook chicken or can I simply use pressure cook?
Is it possible to get a copy of your review for the Instant Pot Mini without all the ads? I have read it through and it is the best, most comprehensive review I have seen. I would really appreciate it if you could email a copy of your review to me. My email address is: [email protected] Thank you!
I know Jill says all recipes can be cut in half for the 3 quarter mini and I get that. I have seen many questions asking if the cook time is also cut in half but can’t seem to find an answer to that question. I have the 6 quart which I love and am considering buying a three quart but will not do so until I know the answer to my question on the cook time when cutting a recipe in half. PLEASE HELP!!!!
The cook time is the same, Paula. Jill
I had trouble cooking a 7 lb. pork butt on the slow cook option. After cooking it for 7 hours on slow cook temperature was on more, it was not tender.is there something else I should have done?
Pressure Cook. Jill
I have the Instant Pot Mini 6 instead of the Lux 7 Model. What differences do I need to pay attention to while reading the operating instructions and recipes you have included in this great overview of the product?
The LUX only has high pressure.
Love love this sight Finally know pressure cook button on mine means manual My question is what do I press when I pressure cook for example noodles and the more button lights up when I just need normal What button do I press to unjust this on the Mini Duo 7in1
I am considering buying one of the minis for my mom and a cookbook to go with it. I am wondering how much you have to adjust recipes that are generally written for the 6 quart size (eg cooktime would be longer I assume). Thanks!
Hi can you sous vide in the mini? Like those eggs ?
My Mom is interested in getting the 3 qt Instant Pot Mini b/c it is just her. She wants to know if she can make bread in it. I realize it doesn’t have a BREAD function, but I was wondering if another function would work similarly…
I was wondering if I could use your recipe for beef stew with root vegetables in the mini pot as is, or should I cut the recipe in half?
Thank you so very much for your help! ?
Thanks for the review! We are buying a second Instant Pot for our RV and this was so helpful. I will also buy one for my BFF’s birthday present this year!
Hi Michelle. I am glad you found my review helpful. Jill
Thanks so much for the review and helpful info about the IP Duo Mini. Especially helpful is the info on the bowls, strainers, etc. that will fit inside the Mini. I bought my Mini last fall and have been wanting to try some of the pot-in-pot recipes but didn’t know which pots would fit inside.
Do you know if anyone carries the colored silicone rings for the Mini yet? I’ve been looking but no luck finding them yet.
I bought my Mini because my husband and I will be empty nesters in a couple of years. In the meantime, I’ve still been able to make dinners for 4 people in my Mini so I think it was a good choice for us.
I am single and have the 3 qt unit. Because of the small size of the inner pot, should cooking time be reduced for meat/poultry? I have experienced some overly dry chicken and pork. It would seem logical to reduce but that may not apply here! Thanks
Can I use the instant pot recipes booklet included in my mini duo? Do I cut the recipes in half?
I want to make cheesecake in the mini. How do I do it without teh “cake” preset button?
Hi! Can you do cold start yogurt with Fairlife milk in the.mini?? In your review it.says half a gallon of yogurt and I think thats about what the Fairlife milk is
Loved the information. I am wondering when using a recipe for 6 qt instant pot how would you cut this down for the 3 qt? Is there a rule of thumb? Does the times to cook change for the pressure cooking or slow cooking?
You can cut the recipe in half. Jill
I just purchased the mini tonite after spending hours watching videos and reading articles. Your article above is one of the best regarding the mini. I am very concerned about the limited number of recipes for the mini and converting the many Duo 6 qt recipes out there.
I cannot find a hard boiled egg recipe for the mini. I need to cook 18 eggs weekly and hoped the mini would make it easier to peel the eggs as presented for the 6 qt.
Finally, can you recommend a really easy to understand mini recipe book, website, etc.?
I am not much of a cook so I need all the help I can get.
Thank you!
All my recipes are for the mini. All my recipes are for every brand of pressure cooker and all sizes. Jill
How many would the 3 quart comfortably cook for? I’m a single person looking to invest and trying to figure out if I should save money and get the mini or spend a little bit more and get the 6 quart.
Hi Nikki. You can’t go wrong with either size. You can easily cook for two in the 3 quart and have some leftovers. Jill
Just adding a thanks. I’ve been constantly cooking in my mini since cyber Friday purchase. There’s just 2 of us. I found you and others on FB. I find the mini cooks most all the recipes. I took inside dimensions and found lots of extras to use. I already had Oxo extendible handle steamer basket that fits perfect. Bento stainless tiered round boxes fit for having 3 small bins. Pyrex glass storage bowls as well as small French suffle dish work for most cakes, puddings, etc.
Now you’ve sold me on the air fryer. With these I don’t need to use the large oven! Still use our toaster oven, like I just broiled a chicken recipe of yours after cooking in IP to brown skin top- but soon use air fryer!. (Another side- I’ve been making tartine style sourdough bread for years, yesterday I made up your HokkaidoMilkBread, but my starter is so thick, added more- enough to moisten levain.)
Thanks for all the information. There are just the two of us at home, so I purchased the 3qt mini. The only problem I’m having is finding recipes specifically for the mini. I don’t want to over fill it and most recipes are for the larger unit. Is there a generL rule for converting larger recipes?
I was so pleased to read this article about the instant pot duo mini. We just got ours from Amazon, but there were very limited instructions in the little recipe book, which was the only book we got with our instant pot.
I will be interested in seeing some other recipes too.
How much yogurt does this make? Going to be making Greek style ! Trying to decide what size pot I’ll need. Really like the 3 Qt –
How do I convert recipes for the 6 qt. to use in my mini, most recipes are written for the 6 qt.?
Thanks, Judy
Hello Jill, thanks for posting this informative review. I just purchased the mini (my first pressure cooker too) Had been undecided about just a rice cooker or this. Figured this was much more versatile and I could grow with it! Hoping you can clear up the RICE button option. I did try my first batch but had to use the Pressure Cook button to se the time. When pressing the Rice button, I could not seem to customize the time for my Jasmati rice. How does that Rice function work? The manual does not explain it well enough. I would appreciate your input! Lesa
Just read farther down in the comments and found the answer to my question. Thanks!
Zoe
Most IP recipes seam to be for the larger pots. I have the mini if I cut amount in half do i cook for half the time?
Thank you for the great info. We just ordered one for our rv. It will take the place of multi appliances that we just dont have room for.
Hi Debra. Wonderful. I am sure you will enjoy the Mini. It’s plenty big enough for two and even for company. Jill
What great reviews you are doing! Thanks! I am wondering how it is to saute in the mini, as compared to the 6 quart. I wonder how many folks saute in a larger pan and transfer to the IP. I have already purchased the 6 qt at a great price during Christmas sales – less than I’d now pay for a mini. So it isn’t a question of price. It’s just my husband and I, not much meat cooking, and some leftovers are great.
I am new to the world of Instant Pot and this has been the best resource I have found to explain the Duo Mini and how to use it. Especially the explanation about the Pressure Cook button being the same as the Manual button, which all recipes seem to reference. I now feel more confident in cooking in it. And love that you have included a list of accessories that can be used, which I have not seen elsewhere either.
Thank you for all the informative and helpful information you posted about the duo mini What size whole chicken will fit in it for rotisserie chicken. I bought a small Cornish hen and use it for all my chicken salad recipes. I save the bones in a bag in the freezer to make broth in future. I am going to be 80 in May and love cooking and love the Duo Mini
Thanks so much for the wonderful review for the duo mini. I just rec’d mine tonite and am just a bit afraid of it. This review has given me the confidence to tackle my first recipe tomorrow.
Hi Jill,
I’m a total novice to the IP (just got my Duo Mini yesterday) and cooking in general.
I’ve noticed most of the recipes online for hard boiled eggs are for the 6 quart IP and they say to use 1 cup of water. So my question: With the Duo Mini, should we use 1 cup of water or 1/2 cup of water since it’s 3 quarts? (Sorry for the dumb question. I really have no idea.)
Thanks,
Hadley
Jill, you are the best resource, hands down, for everything Instant Pot!
Thank you, Denise. 🙂 Jill
If I get the 6 quart pot, can I easily use recipes designed for the mini? Occasionally I’d like to have the full size but mostly I’m cooking for two people and don’t want a lot of leftovers. Thanks.
Sure, Peggy. Any recipe can be made in any size pot, just like any recipe can be made in any size oven. Adjust ingredients for the size you are using. Jill
Thank you so much for doing a review on the Mini (including pictures and accessories.) I just bought one myself and have been having a challenge of finding items or reviews that will work for the 3 quart model. I always see the 6 quart but I have a small apartment and live alone. So the 3 quart is just right. Looking forward to making some delicious meals.
Congrats, Aaron. Jill
Hi, I got a Instant Pot 3 quart as a Christmas present and have been looking at different blogs etc for recipes for this size. No one seems to address what changes need to be made using this size instead of the 6 quart which seems most recipes are written for. . Would you pass on any advice about this? a lot of your recipes look delicious!! Merry Christmas from Iowa
I am confused on how to adjust the less, normal, more modes. There is no adjust button. Also, when I use the rice program with 1 to 1 water to rice as advised, it comes out unevenly cooked and quite a lot of it dry and undercooked as well as stuck to the bottom of the pot. What am I doing wrong?
Just keep pushing the button and it will cycle through the temps. Jill
I have duo 80 instant pot and I want to make cake how can make send me information
Thank you very much
I’m very interested in getting a 3qt Instapot. There are only 2 of us to cook for, so I wondered if this would be adequate or do I need the 6 qt?
Hi Denise. I feel a 6 quart is nice to have for yogurt and soup and larger recipes, when you want leftovers. A 3 quart for smaller recipes and also great or sides and desserts. Jill
Would a 3quart hold a chicken? I thought I bought the 6quart. Debating about returning it or keeping it. I’m single and live alone
It would hold a Cornish hen. Maybe a small chicken. I like my 3 quart very much for smaller recipes. The 6 quart is good for every day. Jill
Hello. I bought the 6 in 1 mini at walmart and had saved your review to see what size accessories to buy. Your review is on the 7 in 1. I think the major difference in the 2 is the yogurt function, which I would like to try. Can it be done in the 6 in 1 Mini? I already have and love the 6qt duo which is similar to the mini. I am comfortable with all the buttons on it, so just wondering your suggestion. Thanks and keep the recipes coming!
I sure enjoyed reading your introduction to the 3 qt IP. It’s my first one. I am most curious about proportions of ingredients when looking at larger pot recipes.
1/2 as much? Is there a rule of thumb? I’m 70, an experienced cook. I’ve used pressure cookers all my life, like my mother and grandmother before me. I collect cookbooks too as you do.
I don’t want to overload this smaller device. But I’m alone now and don’t want to cook for 6 or 8.
I’d love your advice.
Marion, some recipes, like the risotto, can be made in full. Others like the Zuppa Toscana, would need to be cut in half. Jill
I have not been able to find a silicone ring for the mini. Where can I get one?
This is the absolutely best review of the 3 quart IP Duo, that I have ever read, well, I haven’t read many, but this answers all my questions. A friend, who won’t fess up, left it at my house, and I still haven’t found out who it is, so I’ll just leave it and enjoy it. I’ll see if I can find your recipes, as that’s what I was looking for on Google, when your revue came up, thank you so much.
Thank you so much, Jenny. I use mine all the time, so I am very familiar with the workings of the 3 quart. Jill
I ordered my mini today for the amazing price of $44.19 after watching the price during Cyber week/Black Friday. It was $49, then $51,99, then down to what I paid, then way up to $59.49 within 2 hours of my purchase! Wow! So I feel pretty lucky to be adding this li’l guy to my collection. (I now have a 6, 8, and the 3 on the way.) So…on to my question. Do you have any idea if they will be making a glass lid for this model?
Hi Stephanie. I a not sure, but will ask the company and get back to you. I hope you will enjoy all your pots. I really like the Plus models. Jill
Help !!!!! I thought I bought the 6 quart but I bought the 3 quart model – I have a family of four —— I keep reading review after review and I’m more confused now than ever . Is a 3 quart big enough for a family of four ? I know all the recipes are for the 6 qt . Should I just return it and get the 6 quart ? Help meeeeee ?
Hi Sherry. I would keep the 3 quart to use as sides, desserts and smaller recipes, like risotto. A six quart would be nice to have. I suggest the DUO Plus. Jill
Amazon now has mini Duo and Lux. Lux has ‘egg’ button. I already have a 6qt duo. Lux is a bit more money than duo for the mini. Not sure which to get….
Just ordered one and looking forward although a little worried as my mother blew her oldie up with beets!!!!! when I was a child and have been afraid of them ever since and never owned one. I`m an elder senior now and alone so thought for my limited cooking it would be ideal. Thanks for the great writeup and advice.
Great review! I got my Mini duo just the other day and love it! I have a 6qt LUX which I also love. I took the LUX along on a three month RV trip and was really happy to have it. One of the reasons I wanted the Mini is that I think it will be much easier in the camper than the larger 6qt. was.
My Mini didn’t have an orange sticker over the heating element but did have a circular orange paper which covered the whole bottom of the pot. I can imagine the problems that would cause if someone doesn’t remove it/or the sticker!
Need to buy one to go with my 6qt.
Thank you! This is exactly the information I’ve been looking for. I have a small Class B camper van with limited cabinet space. I think the 3 qt will be perfect. And I’ve saved this review…so many helpful tips!
Kat
So glad it was helpful. Jill
Excellent! Thank you for this excellent review. You answered all of my questions about this cooker, and gave me a resource for when I start using it and am looking for recipes.
Hi Jill, When I click on the link for the 3 quart stainless steel strainer basket, it takes me to the link for the larger basket that fits in the 6 quart. I tried to do a search on Amazon, but I couldn’t find the smaller size. Help!
Hi Jade. Thanks for letting me know about the link. I have made the correction. Jill
Very helpful review! You’ve already said that we can cut recipes in half for the Mini. Will this affect cooking time?
Karl, the cooking time should be the same. Jill
I wondered how the cooking time would be same, though. As we will halve the recipe from the 6 qt recipes, but the wattage is also 300 lower. 700 for the mini versus 1000w for the 6 qt. that will make a difference in cooking tie. Don’t you think so?
Thanks!
No difference, as the smaller model takes longer to come up to pressure, which evens it all out.
Hi I want to be sure I am getting the right size accessories for my mini. Are the links all for the mini? Thanks!
Hi Nancy. The items in this post will fit the Mini. Towards the end of the page, you will see photos of a couple of items in the Mini. Jill
I am single. I live alone. I cook for myself. This smaller size is perfect for my needs. No more fussing with “pot in pot” cooking. It is nice that a company if finally realizing the reality of how people live and eat in modern society. Fewer and fewer of us need to cook the quantities needed to feed a family of 6 or 8.
Hi Chris. Any recipe can be cut in half or more. Enjoy your Instant Pot. Jill
I-m thinking of the mini for 2 people but I want to do all the same stuff. Do you think they will get a yogurt jars or egg cooker for the mini? I also notice there isn’t a replacement seal listed. I NEED my accessories!
Susyn. The Mini comes with a trivet and I link to the basket that can hold eggs. Small mason jars will fit in the mini. The 3 quart seal, I believe is out. I will link it in the accessories page. Jill
Thanks so much for your well-written and informative review of the Mini Instant Pot! Are the recipes included in the Recipe Book included with the Mini scaled to its 3 quart size? Can other recipes for a 6 quart Instant Pot be cut in half for the Mini?
Hi Glenda. You can cut recipes in half or use them as is. Most recipes don’t fill up the whole pot. Jill
Great information. I live full time in my 5th wheel space is a consideration. I haven’t tried it yet, I used one 35 years ago. Old school I hope I can do this.
Where do you find recipes for the mini.. All I can find is recipes for the 6 qtu
Any pressure cooker recipe is for any pressure cooker. Jill
I have the same question. I’ve bought a mini for my inlaws for Christmas so they can cook small roasts, stews etc, but when halving the 6 qt recipes how do you convert the times? Do you know of a good resource for 2-4 serving mini-specific recipes? Thanks!
Debbie, my blog is a great resource for recipes in the Mini. Just cut the recipes in half. Jill
When using the mini do you use half the quantities noted in recipes for the 6 qt instapot
Some recipes will still fit, others might not. You can halve any of them for smaller amounts. Enjoy. Jill
Do you half the water also if it would be under 1 cup? Everything I read says a minimum of 1 cup of water but that relates to the bigger pots. I feel like some of my food is getting drowned. I can’t find an answer to a minimum for the smaller pot.
Thinking of buying Instant Pot but trying to decide if I want the mini or the Duo 60. There is just me and already have 6qt slow cooker. Any comments?
Hi Dana. I would do the 6 quart and if you find you want a smaller one for side dishes, then maybe consider a 3 quart. You want to make sure that if you need to make a larger portion, you can. Jill
How can I adapt an recipe that is for a larger pot to my InstaPot Mini? Most books I have read are geared toward the larger appliances. Is there a certain ratio of ingredients?
Just bought the Mini. Love new kitchen tools. How do you use “manual function” on the Mini – there is no actual button for it. If I choose “Pressure Cook” button does the display give me the go ahead to adjust time.
Thanks,
Veronica
Hi Veronica. The name changed from Manual to Pressure Cook. Jill
Great review!! May I ask how many Grams of meat can I fit into the mini? Just say for a beef stew. Can I also put a whole chicken (1Kg) inside?
Hi Elaine. Glad you enjoyed my review. I would imagine a small chicken would fit, although I have not tried. Jill
HI. great review, thanks. I wish the mini had the full functionality though. You say its just like the duo plus oh except it doesn’t do a whole bunch of things! Multigrain is the biggest for me – it’s really important to a healthy diet to eat a variety of grains not just rice every day…..
Anyway – baking – do you have any cake recipies i can make in the mini?
The Mini has full functionality. There are cake recipes on the blog. Enjoy. Jill
Is there any way to make a half recipe of your One Pot Pressure Cooker Chinese Orange Pepper Chicken as pot-in-pot in the mini? I can’t make any of my gear fit.
Thank you for this review. I usually take my 35 year old Dazey multi pot/slow cooker/deep fryer in our RV. I was considering getting the IP mini for our RV and this is a great review of it. Now I just have to convince my hubby that I need the smaller IP. BTW – I didn’t know that you have a RV FB page, so I guess it is another group I will be joining. Thanks Jill.
Forgot to add that we could have really used the IP mini last year during our 4 week nearly 6,000 mile trip to the western US from NE Ohio for our 35th anniversary.
Hi KB. Thanks. I am glad you found my review helpful. For two people, the 3 quart is great in an RV. Jill
Thanks for the informative review! I’m still deciding between the 3 and 6 qt Instant Pot. Will the mini fit a full rack of baby back ribs?
Hi Debbie. If the 6 quart fits two racks, I would think the 3 quart would fit one, but I have not tried it myself. Jill
Hi Jill. How do you adjust the Saute temperature on the DUO MINI? I pressed the minus sign but it reduced the cook time. Thank you. Linda
Thank you, found it “All the preset buttons have Low, Normal, High with various preset time, which you can see by pushing the button over and over again.” ;D
Thanks for all the good info/education! It is appreciated.
Purchased the mini and now am wondering how easy it is to adapt recipes for larger pot to the mini.
Hi Gretchen. Just cut the recipe in half. Jill
Thanks for this great review! What’s the minimum liquid for this IP mini?
Hi Tammy. As I mentioned before to you, that depends on the recipe. Some ingredients release enough liquid on their own. Jill
Can you can in small jars in the mini? pints? 1/2 pints?
AH, pressure cookers are not for canning. Jill
Hi Jill! Thanks for your review of the mini! I love my 6 qt and I take it when we travel in our RV however, like you mentioned, it is a little too big to be easily washed in the sink, not to mention that it takes up valuable storage space. I was excited to hear that Instant Pot came out with a mini! I have been dreaming of one for a couple of years…ever since I got my 6 qt because I am only cooking for my husband and me. We are heading to the beach soon and I am getting ready to order a mini to take with us! I’m curious, will you be creating recipes with smaller quantities or maybe a blog post explaining how to customize your exisitng recipes for the mini? Is it just as easy as cutting the ingredients in half and cooking for the same time stated in the original recipe? Thanks in advance for your help.
Karilyn. It IS just as easy as cutting the recipe ingredients in half. Have fun at the beach. Jill
Thanks Jill! My mini arrives tomorrow and I cannot wait to try it!
~Karilyn
So even if you cut a recipe in half, the cooking times stay the same? How do you modify a standard recipe for the instant pot? Are there any rules?
Thanks for this — I just got mine today and can’t wait to try it out. I already have a DUO50 for the RV and love it, but it’s bulky. This will be the perfect replacement for road trips.
Hi Gwen. It is a cutie and will be much easier in the RV. I didn’t mind the larger pressure cooker in the RV, but washing it was difficult. The mini fits right into my RV sink, which is so much better. Jill
I just bought the 3 qt – perfect size for my single household.
What is the rule when cooking a much larger recipe for the pressure cooker, crock, etc, that will be compatible to a small unit.
Hi Valerie. Just cut the recipe in half. Enjoy your Mini. Jill
My crock pot broke and I’m trying to decide if I should replace it with a 3 quart or 6 quart instant pot. My oldest son is leaving for college and I will begin cooking for three.
Hi Tammi. I would get the 6 quart, if you are cooking for three people. The 3 quart is nice for small meals and side dishes. Jill
My mini just arrived and I love it. Yayyyy!!!
Thank you for this review! I see you have the collander for the mini – but do you yet know/have listed the other accessories that fit the mini, like the pyrex bowl, replacement inner pot and such?
Or would I just buy the mini and then tote my inner pot/bowl around to measure? I appreciate you!
Hi Brandi. I am not sure what you mean about toting around the inner pot. Jill
I think by ”toting”, they mean take the inner pot with them to the store to see if the accessory they are looking at will actually fit inside the inner pot.
Hi! do you have a risotto recipe for the mini duo 3 quart?
Thanks
Hi Christopher. There are several risotto recipes on the blog. Jill
It looks wonderful. I do wish the trivet had handles, like the one with the duo 60. I find them very handy and never feel the need for a foil sling.
I have a family of 5 but limited counter space; can i cook meats, etc in this enough to feed my family or should i go with the 6 quart?
Hi Karin. For a family of five, I would go with the 6 quart. Jill
Will the cook times be the same as for my 6qt version? My mini is due to arrive at our camp site today. Very excited ?
I just got my mini a couple days ago and since I am a family of one, this works well for me.
I got mine on Friday. I love it! A couple of people are saying it takes longer to come to pressure due to the lower wattage. I hadn’t noticed any difference. Did you? Anyway I have two 6 qts and now the mini. Pressure cooking has become one of my passions. The other one being Electric smoking meat etc. Th only thing I don’t have is an air fryer. I am still on the fence about getting one. Thanks for your time.
Hi Pamela. In some circumstances I have noticed a slight difference in time it takes to come to pressure. Mostly when just using it for boiling water, using the PIP method. In cutting recipes in half, it doesn’t seem to make a difference. Jill
After reading your great review of the mini, I clicked through to try and order but Amazon says they are not shipping any more units now because of reported problems with the appliance. Do you know what problem is causing this?
Hi Gail. From what I have heard, they are short on product. There is no problem with the pot itself. I just checked and it shows available. Instant Pot Mini Jill
I found the mini on amazon yesterday but it’s not on there today. I went to the instant pot website and no mention of it. Is it me or has it disappeared?
Hi Karen. It should be there. Jill
Looks great. Is it available in Australia?
I don’t understand how something that is a cylinder can have three dimensions. What I would like to know is what is the diameter of the footprint, and the total height. I have limited counterspace and these dimensions are what are important for me. Very thorough review, but I’m not clear how short bursts of steam are emitted to effect an “automatic” QR when Keep Warm is turned off. From where is the steam emitted if the release valve is still in the “sealed” position from pressure cooking? How is this type of release different from a natural pressure release on other models. Company manuals for the DUO says that Keep Warm does not kick in until pressure has essentially been naturally released. Also, once the float valve is down, there should not be anymore pressure to be released by manually “giggling” the release valve. Did I not read those parts correctly?
Got mine Today!! Very fast shipment
Got mine today!! Thank you for the great info in the review.
Hi!
I just ordered the mini IP, I’m single and have some guests from time to time, the size should be perfect for me.
It would be great if you could do a list of accessories fitting the new 3q IP 🙂
tks
How would you adjust your recipes to the mini?
I’m so grateful for this review. I just put one in my cart and then wasn’t sure if I could use the pans to bake banana bread. Your review cleared this up for me.
And thanks for linking your review in the Full-time, Part-time RV group!
Hi Joni~
Thanks so much. I am glad the review has helped. Jill
Hi Jill,
How about the time to come to pressure. Compared to a 6 quart model would you say it is a little faster, a little slower, or about the same?
Thanks for your great review! Do you know if there is a steamer type basket that will fit in the 3 quart pot like there is for the 6 quart?
Hi Mary. From what I can tell, this steamer basket will fit. I ordered one, so when it arrives, I will snap a photo. Jill
Does this smaller model require any adjustments in your recipes? I have a 8 qt duo and found I have to make adjustments for most of the recipes written for a 6 qt! Also does it come up to pressure in the same amount of time with the lower wattage???
Will the mini have extra seals available for the lid? I didn’t see any at this time.
Do you cut the recipes in half, what about the cooking times? I did notice the wattage is reduced.
Never mind the cheesecake, can I make Grandma Mills’ amazing banana bread in the mini? I know my Nordicware bundt pan isn’t going to fit in there.
Hi two questions. Where can I buy a glass lid to convert the 3 qt to a standard slow cooker? Also does the recipe book that comes with the 3 at have scaled down recipes?
This is going in my office at work for lunches! I’ll be able ho reheat leftovers or make something fresh–no more cold boring sandwiches!
Hi Jill, Any indication from the company as to when additional 3 quart sealing rings might become available?
Kay, I have not heard, but will inquire about this. Jill
It’s cut! I did not know I needed one
Hi Paula. I don’t understand the first part of your comment. Jill
I think she meant to say “out”, Jill..
Oh my gosh, Joanna, of course. I usually look at these comments really late. Duh me! Oy. I feel so stupid. 🙂 Thank you. Jill
haha, I thought she meant it’s CUTE.
I thought she meant CUTE, haha
I love my 8 qt IP but am excited about the 3 qt mini. Can you cook a full pound of dried beans in it or would you have to use only 1/2 pound? Thanks for your great review.
Hi Judy. I have not yet cooked beans in my Mini, but my guess is probably. Jill
I have a 2-quart slow cooker and I always cook a pound of dried beans in it. I add to that 1C sesame seeds, a lot of ginger/garlic/onion mixture, spices, 6 cups of water and it’s filled to the brim, too high, so the 3-quart will be a real pleasure. I’ll have room to add sauteed mushrooms and another onion. This 3-quart could be perfect for me except I wish it were 4 quarts!
Great Review, you are a star
Awwww, Helen, how sweet, thank you so much. Jill
Thanks for a great review Jill! Considering this for my small kitchen. Love my 6 quart but have no room for a large one. The fact that it holds half gallon of milk for yogurt may have sold me on it.
Can you show the mini side by side with a 6-quart IP for comparison purposes? Thanks
Hi Karen. I added a photo for comparison. Jill
Thank you
If I would want to make ribs for 4, would there be room in this pot? We do RV and often want to make meals for ourselves and another couple as guests. This would be a lot of work, but I wonder if you could mark your recipes that fit in the new smaller IP?
I’ve been trying to decide if I had room for my 6 qt. in our trailer for our next trip, this new size sounds great.
Hi Linda. All you would need to do, is cut the larger recipes in half. Many of the 2-4 serving size recipes, will still fit. As far as ribs. We actually cooked ribs last night and I went to the kitchen to grab the from the fridge, so see if I could tell how many would fit. I must have lost my mind, as I ended up eating the leftover for lunch. Anyway, if you did ribs, you would need to cut them into pieces. I would think a rack, cut up would fit. Maybe more, but I can’t say, since I have not tried that yet. Jill
Jill- love the mini review. I have a 6qt and was going to give it to my daughter for her apartment but then saw the mini review. Can she make most of your wonderful recipes but just make half the recipe ? What about soups, is it big enough to make soups?
I bought an 8qt on prime day but think it is too big, I’m used to my 6qt. Any thoughts on the size of the 8?
Many thanks – Midge
Hi Midge. Some recipes will need to be cut in half and all the soup recipes. Many of the recipes for chicken, beef, etc. will be fine as is. If you check out my photos in various recipes, you will see a lot of extra room in the 6 quart. Jill
Thanks do much Jill
You said never to open the lid when the pot still is pressurized but I thought Instant Pot had a safety feature that made it so you could never open the lid anyway if it is pressurized… does this model not have this safety feature?
Gina, it does. I changed the wording to say not to attempt to open it….. Thanks for pointing this out. Jill
So this won’t ship for a month or two?????
Hi Deb. It always says that about shipping. I do not know why. It should ship timely. Jill
Does it fit a whole gallon of milk for yogurt?
Hi John. It was a typo. I meant 1/2 gallon of milk. Jill