How To Cook Sweet Potatoes In The Instant Pot

Are you a fan of sweet potatoes? Do you own an Instant Pot? If your answers are “yes” and “yes”, then you’re in for a treat! Cooking sweet potatoes in the Instant Pot is not only quick and easy, but it also results in the most delicious and perfectly cooked sweet potatoes you’ll ever taste. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the simple steps of cooking sweet potatoes in the Instant Pot, so you can enjoy this nutritious and versatile ingredient in no time!

The Benefits of Cooking Sweet Potatoes in the Instant Pot

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a moment to appreciate the numerous benefits of using an Instant Pot to cook sweet potatoes:

Time-saving: Cooking sweet potatoes in the Instant Pot is a real game-changer when it comes to saving time. Instead of waiting for the oven to preheat and then roasting the sweet potatoes for up to an hour, the Instant Pot significantly reduces the cooking time and allows you to have perfectly tender sweet potatoes in just a fraction of the time.
Retains nutrients: The Instant Pot uses pressure cooking, which helps to retain more of the nutrients in sweet potatoes compared to other cooking methods. This means you can enjoy all the health benefits that sweet potatoes offer.
Consistent results: The Instant Pot ensures even cooking throughout the sweet potatoes, resulting in consistently soft and fluffy flesh. No more overcooked or undercooked sections!
Versatility: Once your sweet potatoes are cooked in the Instant Pot, you can use them in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to casseroles and salads. The possibilities are endless!

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Sweet Potatoes in the Instant Pot

Now that you’re aware of the fantastic benefits, let’s get started with the step-by-step process:

Begin by selecting firm sweet potatoes with no soft spots or blemishes. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry.
Place a trivet at the bottom of your Instant Pot and pour in one cup of water.
Using a fork, poke a few holes into each sweet potato. This will allow steam to escape during the cooking process.
Arrange the sweet potatoes on the trivet inside the Instant Pot, making sure they are not touching the sides or the water.
Secure the lid, set the vent to “sealing” position, and select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode.
Adjust the cooking time based on the size of your sweet potatoes. For small to medium-sized potatoes, set the timer for around 12 minutes. If your sweet potatoes are larger, increase the cooking time to 15-17 minutes.
Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes. Carefully release any remaining pressure by turning the vent to the “venting” position.
Using tongs, remove the sweet potatoes from the Instant Pot and let them cool for a few moments before serving.

Tasty Serving Suggestions

Now that you have perfectly cooked sweet potatoes, it’s time to enjoy them in a multitude of mouthwatering ways. Here are a few serving suggestions to spark your culinary creativity:

Baked Sweet Potatoes: Slice open the cooked sweet potatoes and top them with a dollop of butter, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a drizzle of honey. It’s a comforting and nutritious treat!
Sweet Potato Fries: Cut the cooked sweet potatoes into strips, season with your favorite spices, and bake them in the oven until crispy. Serve them as a healthier alternative to regular fries.
Loaded Sweet Potato Skins: Scoop out some of the cooked sweet potato flesh, fill the skins with cheese, bacon, and sour cream, and bake until golden and bubbly. A perfect appetizer or party snack!
Sweet Potato Mash: Mash the cooked sweet potatoes with a little butter, salt, and pepper for a delightful side dish that pairs well with any main course.

Now that you know how to cook sweet potatoes in the Instant Pot, the possibilities are endless. This versatile ingredient can be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes that are sure to please your taste buds. So grab your Instant Pot, stock up on sweet potatoes, and get cooking!

Want to share your tips and tricks for making sweet potatoes in the Instant Pot? Join the discussion in the Cooking Techniques forum!

FAQ:

Can I cook sweet potatoes in the Instant Pot?

Yes, absolutely! The Instant Pot is a fantastic tool for cooking sweet potatoes. It allows for quick and efficient cooking while maintaining the natural flavors and nutrients of the sweet potatoes.

Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes before cooking them in the Instant Pot?

While it is not necessary to peel the sweet potatoes before cooking them in the Instant Pot, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. The skins of sweet potatoes are edible and can add a nice texture to dishes, but some people prefer to peel them for a smoother consistency.

Should I cut the sweet potatoes before cooking them in the Instant Pot?

It is recommended to cut the sweet potatoes into chunks or halves before cooking them in the Instant Pot. This helps to ensure even and quicker cooking. Cutting them into smaller pieces also allows you to use the sweet potatoes in various recipes more easily.

How long does it take to cook sweet potatoes in the Instant Pot?

On average, it takes about 15 to 20 minutes (plus additional time for the Instant Pot to come to pressure) to cook sweet potatoes in the Instant Pot. The actual cooking time may vary depending on the size of the sweet potatoes and your preferred level of tenderness.

How much water should I add when cooking sweet potatoes in the Instant Pot?

To properly cook sweet potatoes in the Instant Pot, you’ll want to add about 1 cup of water to the pot. This helps create steam, allowing the sweet potatoes to cook evenly.

Can I cook sweet potatoes with other ingredients in the Instant Pot?

Absolutely! You can add other ingredients such as spices, herbs, or even other vegetables when cooking sweet potatoes in the Instant Pot. This allows you to infuse different flavors into the sweet potatoes and create a delicious and versatile dish.

How can I tell if the sweet potatoes are cooked through in the Instant Pot?

You can check if the sweet potatoes are cooked through by using a fork or a knife to pierce the flesh. If it goes through easily without resistance, then the sweet potatoes are tender and ready to be enjoyed. If there is still resistance, you can cook them for a few more minutes and recheck for tenderness.

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How To Cook Sweet Potatoes In The Instant Pot