Instant Pot Natural Pressure Release Versus Quick Pressure Release
Learn the differences between a natural pressure release and quick pressure release and make cooking with your Instant Pot even easier!
NPR, QPR……what does it all mean? Whether you’re new to the world of electric pressure cookers or an official Instant Pot pro, releasing the pressure can be confusing and even a bit intimidating.
But friends, do not fret! I am here to help explain the different types of pressure release methods – natural release vs quick release. And when and how to use each of them. Plus I am sharing my favorite tips for making releasing the pressure on your Instant Pot super easy and stress-free.
This will help you easily make recipes like Instant Pot Chicken Curry and easy Instant Pot Frozen Chicken Breast.
Top Pick : Best Essential Instant Pot Accessories
22 Pcs Pressure Cooker Accessories Set Compatible with 5, 6, 8 Qt Instant Pots
My go to Instant Pot Accessories Set. Every Instant Pot User should have one.
What Is The Difference Between Natural Pressure Release and Quick Pressure Release?
I like to think of natural pressure release (NPR) as the ‘leave it be’ method. You just allow the pressure that builds up during the cooking time to dissipate without any action being taken. This is also known as slow natural release.
How to quick release – On the other hand, a Quick Pressure Release (QPR) is performed by turning the pressure release valve to the ‘venting’ position, which then lets all of steam release quickly.
What Happens During Instant Pot Natural Pressure Release?
The Instant Pot cook time ends and the steam release valve remains in the ‘sealing’ position. The pressure releases slowly, and the food inside will continue pressure cooking as the pressure decreases.
Once fully released, the quick release valve pin will drop, indicating that it is safe to unlock and open the lid.
The time it takes for a natural pressure release to complete varies. It will depend on the ingredients and amount of liquid in the Instant Pot . It can take anywhere from 5 minutes to 30 minutes to complete an NPR – a large liquid volume will take longer. Remember the food continues cooking during this time.
When To Use A Natural Pressure Release
Use the NPR method when cooking most meats, especially larger cuts. A natural pressure release is best for thicker foods and starchier items. Click on the recipes below which all use NPR.
What Happens During a Quick Pressure Release?
A strong jet of steam will escape from the pressure release valve. This is normal, but it can also a little scary at first.
If you notice drops of liquid or foam spattering out the valve, you can turn the valve back to the sealing position and use an Intermittent Pressure Release.
What Is Intermittent Pressure Release?
Quite simply, an intermittent pressure release is a combination of quick pressure release and a natural pressure release. With this method, you will perform a series of mini QPR’s by turning the pressure release valve from sealing to venting, until the pressure has fully escaped from the Instant Pot .
Doing an intermittent pressure release is helpful when cooking foods such as pasta, soups, and certain types of grains that tend to foam or spatter when performing a quick pressure release, but will overcook if the pressure is allowed to fully release naturally.
When To Use A Quick Pressure Release
Use the quick pressure release method when cooking delicate ingredients, like fish and vegetables, so you avoid overcooking them. Yeap, the QPR is a must when cooking dishes like these below.
Tips For Performing Quick Pressure Release
- It is important to keep your face and hands away from the Instant Pot steam jet as it is being released.
- Try using the handle of a wooden spoon, kitchen tongs or another utensil to turn the valve to the venting position and keep your hand a safe distance from the steam.
- Don’t release pressure directly under cabinets, shelving or other items that can be damaged by the steam.
- Do not turn off the Instant Pot before releasing pressure. You can use the ‘keep warm’ setting as it won’t interfere with the pressure release.
- Make sure to use the pressure release method stated in your recipe instructions (at least the first time).
Awesome Hack ==> The spoon that came with your Instant Pot has a square notch at the end of the handle that is designed to perfectly fit onto the valve so you can safely turn it to the venting position. #gamechanger
Instant Pot Must Have Accessories
Speaking of accessories, check out my must-have Instant Pot Accessories List. Also included are my favorite cookbooks and some super fun gift ideas for all the Instant Pot lovers in your life.
5 Instant Pot Recipes You Will Love!
- Instant Pot Frozen Chicken Breast.
- Instant Pot Shredded Chicken.
- Dump and Start Instant Pot Black Beans.
- Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats. Great for breakfast and brunch.
- Instant Pot Chicken Tacos.
Even More Instant Pot Tips
Want to learn more about your Instant Pot ?
- Click on the link to check out my super handy 18 Instant Pot Tips and Tricks post and do even more with your little kitchen miracle!
- You can also learn everything about your Instant Pot Buttons.
Thank you for reading my Natural Pressure Release versus Quick Pressure Release post. And please visit again as I continue dreaming up recipes, traditional African recipes, African fusion recipes, Sierra Leone recipes, travel plans and much more for you. Thanks for supporting Recipes from a Pantry, UK food blog.
I have a quick pressure release pot and love the sound it makes at the end of the cooking cycle
Oh I never knew about this. I just thought that you opened it and that was it. Very helpful for when I buy a pressure cooker
There’s definitely science in the steam technique. My mummy is fascinated about Instant Pots and would love to own one!
I’ve never used a pressure cooker, but I know my Mum used to have one when I was a kid.
This is really helpful, my mum received an instant pot for Christmas and has just started to make recipes in it
Once I got a pressure cooker, I never looked back. It does take a while to get used to though. Such a helpful post.
I’ve been meaning to splash out on an instant pot for a while now, I’m always drooling over all the tasty recipes I see you posting 😀
It’s really helpful to know more about the difference between a natural pressure release and quick pressure release as I didn’t really know x
I love the sound of an Instant Pot. My husband had an old fashioned pressure cooker when he was a student and it used to scare me in case it exploded, this sounds a lot faster, more sophisticated and safer!!
Really helpful advice – I have a pressure cooker – which still scares me when the whistle blows – I don’t think it will ever stop scaring me – I love the sounds of the instant pot!
This is so informative! I would love a pressure cooker to speed up homemade meals 🙂
Really helpful advice. I honestly didn’t know much about them and certainly wouldn’t know where to start.
I think I like the idea of the leave it be one!
You explained everything very well. I have yet to buy an Instant Pot for myself and hopefully by next month, I can finally buy one. I am bookmarking your article and use this as a guide. Thanks for sharing this post. It is really helpful.
I’m a newbie and this was a game-changer for me. Thank you so much for all your help and your delicious recipes. Keep ’em coming! 🙂