How To Steam Apples In Instant Pot

Steaming Apples in the Instant Pot: A Quick and Easy Guide

Steaming apples is a wonderful way to preserve their natural flavors and create a versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes, from desserts to main courses. And when it comes to convenience, the Instant Pot is a game-changer. In this guide, we’ll show you how to steam apples in your Instant Pot, so you can enjoy their deliciousness all year round.

What You’ll Need:

• Fresh apples (choose a variety that is suitable for cooking, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• Instant Pot with a steamer basket
• Water
• Optional: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or other spices for added flavor

Step-by-step Instructions:

1. Start by selecting firm and ripe apples. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or residue.
2. Prepare the Instant Pot by adding 1 cup of water to the inner pot.
3. Set up the steamer basket inside the Instant Pot. This will help elevate the apples and prevent them from touching the water directly.
4. Core the apples and cut them into quarters or slices, depending on your preference. Leaving the peel intact is optional.
5. Place the apple pieces into the steamer basket, ensuring they are evenly distributed and not overcrowding the pot.
6. Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and make sure the pressure-release valve is in the sealed position.
7. Select the “Steam” function on your Instant Pot and set the cooking time. As a general guideline, 5-6 minutes should be sufficient for softer apples, while 2-3 minutes will yield slightly firmer results.
8. Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes. Then, carefully switch the pressure-release valve to the venting position to release any remaining steam.
9. Open the Instant Pot lid, being cautious of the hot steam inside.
10. Your steamed apples are now ready! You can enjoy them warm as a side dish, incorporate them into recipes like apple pie or applesauce, or even blend them into a smooth puree for baby food.

Steaming apples in the Instant Pot is not only convenient but also preserves their nutritional value. By using this method, you retain more of the vitamins, minerals, and natural sweetness compared to other cooking methods. Plus, the steaming process brings out the apple’s natural juiciness, making them perfect for a variety of culinary creations.

So, the next time you have a surplus of apples or simply want to enjoy their wholesome goodness, give steaming a try in your trusty Instant Pot. It’s a time-saving, flavor-enhancing technique that will elevate your apple game to a whole new level.