Cooking Basics

No, an Instant Pot isn’t approved for canning; use a pressure canner for low-acid foods and a boiling-water or steam canner for high-acid recipes.

Yes, you can reheat food in an Instant Pot using steam, sauté, or warm settings—always heat leftovers to 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Yes, an air fryer can dry foods when it holds low heat with steady airflow and enough rack space for long, even dehydration.

Yes, an air fryer can keep cooked food warm when you hold it above 140°F and limit the time.

Yes, you can stir food in a slow cooker, but avoid opening the lid since heat loss can extend cook time.

Yes, you can steam food in an Instant Pot; set a trivet or basket over 1 cup water and use Steam or Pressure Cook to reach tender results.

Yes, spraying a light coat of oil on food for air frying is fine—use a non-aerosol, high-heat oil and avoid spraying the basket itself.

Yes, reheating leftovers with an air fryer is safe when food is cooled quickly and heated back to 165°F.

Yes, reheating cooked food in an air fryer works well; heat leftovers to 165°F and use moderate temps to bring back crisp texture fast.

No, reheating slow-cooker dishes inside the cooker isn’t safe; heat to 165°F on stove, oven, or microwave, then use the cooker only to keep warm.