Sp e c i a l p o t t o u t e d t o d o j o b i n s h o r t t i me

The chatter on social media talks about the best gift received at Christmas this year — something called an “instanta or instant pot.” It turns out this is a third generation, programmable pressure cooker, but one that is nothing like the pressure cookers of old that often exploded, leaving part of the evening meal on the ceiling.

Information about different brands agree the pots are safe, intelligent, convenient and dependable, doing about seven jobs in one pot, saving cupboard space and speeding cooking up to 10 times. The pots are also said to use 70 per cent less energy than other forms of cookware.

This week’s recipes are offered as testing grounds for anyone lucky enough to have received an instant pot for Christmas.

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Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff

sauce.

Stir mushrooms into pot. Stir in flour until evenly incorporated. Pour in chicken broth and remaining salt. Close and lock lid. Set timer for 10 minutes. Set to high pressure according to manufacturer’s instruction, 1015 minutes.

Then release pressure carefully using the quick release method. Open cooker and add noodles. Seal and bring to high pressure again, about 5 minutes. Cook for 5 minutes. Release pressure naturally for 5 minutes. Release remaining pressure using quick release method. Open and stir in sour cream before serving.

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Instant Ribs