5 Must-Try Multi Cooker Recipes for Easy Meals

The multi cooker has revolutionized the way we prepare meals, combining the functionalities of various kitchen appliances into one convenient device. This incredible piece of kitchen technology can pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, and even make yogurt. Here are five must-try recipes that showcase the versatility of your multi cooker, making meal preparation not only easy but also full of flavor.

1. Hearty Beef Stew

Nothing comforts the soul like a rich and hearty beef stew, especially when you can set it and forget it in a multi cooker.

• Ingredients:
• 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp flour
• Salt and pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 lb potatoes, cut into chunks
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp thyme

Instructions:

1. Season beef with salt, pepper, and coat with flour.
2. Using the sauté function, heat oil and brown the meat in batches, then set aside.
3. Sauté onions and garlic in the same pot.
4. Return the beef, add broth, vegetables, tomato paste, Worcestershire, and thyme.
5. Cover, lock the lid, and set the cooker to pressure cook on high for 35 minutes.
6. Release pressure naturally, stir in peas, and let sit for a few minutes before serving.

👨‍🍳 Note: Adjust cooking time based on the size and tenderness of your meat.

2. Lemon Herb Chicken and Rice

Here’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for a healthy dinner or meal prep.

• Ingredients:
• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
• 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 ¾ cups chicken broth
• Herbs like thyme, rosemary, parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, zest of lemon, and herbs.
2. Set the multi cooker to sauté mode, brown chicken on both sides, then remove.
3. Sauté onions and garlic, then add rice to toast slightly.
4. Pour in broth, add juice from half the lemon, and place the chicken on top.
5. Lock the lid and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then release any remaining pressure.
7. Garnish with remaining lemon juice and fresh herbs before serving.

3. Vegetarian Chili

Even without meat, a good chili can be satisfying and flavorful. Here’s how to make it in a multi cooker:

• Ingredients:
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 bell peppers, diced
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 can black beans, rinsed
• 1 can kidney beans, rinsed
• 1 can corn, drained
• 1 can tomatoes, crushed or diced
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper
• 1 cup vegetable broth

Instructions:

1. Set multi cooker to sauté, heat oil, and cook onions until translucent.
2. Add garlic, peppers, and zucchini, cook for a few minutes.
3. Add beans, corn, tomatoes, spices, and broth.
4. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, quick release.
5. Serve hot, topped with avocado or cheese if desired.

4. Creamy Risotto

Forget about constant stirring with this effortless multi cooker risotto recipe.

• Ingredients:
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
• ½ cup white wine (optional)
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock, warm
• 1 cup grated Parmesan
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In the multi cooker on sauté mode, melt butter and cook onion until soft.
2. Add rice, toast for a couple of minutes.
3. Pour in wine (if using) or some stock, let it mostly absorb.
4. Add remaining stock, lock the lid, and cook on high pressure for 6 minutes.
5. Quick release, stir in Parmesan, season, and let rest for 5 minutes.
6. Garnish with parsley before serving.

👨‍🍳 Note: You can substitute wine with additional broth if you prefer.

5. Coconut Curry Lentil Soup

This vegan soup is hearty, nutritious, and incredibly easy to make in a multi cooker.

• Ingredients:
• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 1 can coconut milk
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• Spinach or kale (optional)
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat oil on sauté mode, cook onions and carrots until soft.
2. Add garlic, curry powder, and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in lentils, coconut milk, broth, and tomatoes.
4. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release.
5. If using spinach or kale, stir in and let them wilt before serving.
6. Season to taste and enjoy.

The beauty of the multi cooker lies not only in its convenience but also in its ability to preserve and enhance the flavors of your ingredients. Whether you're in need of comfort food like beef stew, a complete meal with chicken and rice, or a quick yet nourishing soup, this device proves its worth. It’s an essential tool for anyone looking to simplify their cooking routine while still enjoying diverse, delicious, and nutritious meals.

Can I use a multi cooker to bake cakes?

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While multi cookers can act as a makeshift oven, results might vary. Many models have a bake or cake function, or you can use the pot-in-pot method where you place a smaller, oven-safe dish inside the cooker.

How long do I need to release the pressure?

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It depends on the recipe. Natural release allows the food to continue cooking slowly and is ideal for meats and stews. Quick release is used when you want to stop the cooking process immediately or for recipes like risotto or steamed vegetables.

Is it necessary to deglaze the pot?

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Yes, after sautéing or browning, deglazing the pot with liquid helps lift the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, ensuring your dish doesn’t burn or trigger the safety mechanism of the cooker.