Millions have made the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus the hottest kitchen tool to have because it is 9 appliances in 1. This convenient pressure cooker can really do it all — is seven appliances in one due to its versatility and compact size.
I feel like I’m always trying to manage way too many pots and pans. Do you dream about perfectly cooked meals without the hassle of timing and monitoring your cooking? The Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus just might be everything your kitchen was waiting for.
This thorough review covers absolutely everything you should know about the most famous multi-cooker. We’ll run through its features, performance, positives and negatives and whether it belongs on your countertop.
What Is Great About the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus?
The technology and user-friendly design on the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus put it ahead of its fellow pressure cookers. Unlike simple pressure cookers, this model has advanced features such as precise temperature control and monitoring.
Features That Make It Stand Out
The gadget combines several cooking techniques in a single, small appliance. You’ll find a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker and food warmer all in one.
Temperature and pressure are automatically sensed and intelligently monitored sensors. That means predictable results each time you cook. The safety mechanisms prevent overcooking and ensure safe operation.
The big LCD display makes it clear what you’re doing. And you can watch exactly what happens on each cooking cycle. Some of this transparency is so that new users feel more comfortable.
Design and Build Quality
The thing is built of stainless steel and you can feel that. The inner pot’s tri-ply bottom promotes even heating. Browning is direct contact with pan and it doesn’t create hot spots that will burn food.
The outside stays cool while in operation. The sides and top are cool to the touch, so you won’t get burned. It’s easy to move the pot thanks to the robust handles.
This product is compact and fits well on most counter tops. And among all its features, it’s not an over-sized appliance for the size of things it can take on. This makes it ideal for UK kitchens that are often small and short of counter space.
Complete Feature Breakdown
7-in-1 Functionality
The Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus takes the place of seven other appliances. This flexibility is extremely useful in large, busy households.
Pressure Cooking: cuts cooking time by up to 70% vs. traditional cooking methods. Great for tough cuts, dried beans and hearty stews.
Slow Cooking: Functions the same as a stand-alone slow cooker. Perfect for set-and-forget meals that simmer away all day while you are at work.
Rice Cooker: Cooks rice to perfection every time. The smart sensors work to adjust cooking time and temperature depending on the rice type and amount.
Steaming: Helps you retain the nutrition in veggies and seafood. There’s also a steaming rack that you can use for that.
Searing: You can sear meats and vegetables right in the pot. This means there’s no need for extra pan and less clean-up.
Yogurt Maker: Make homemade yogurt with ease. The right fermentation happens by maintaining the exact temperature.
Food Warming: Maintain warm temperatures for meals. A great feature for potlucks and parties.
Smart Technology Integration
The innovative microprocessor takes over all functions of cooking! You just choose a program, and the machine takes care of the rest.
Pre-set settings eliminate the guesswork of cooking. Select from ingredients like soup, meat, beans, rice and more. Both programs auto-adjust time, temperature, and pressure.
A delay start feature allows you to prep ahead of time. Set your timer and come home to a fully-prepared dinner. This function is fantastic for those hectic week days.
Memory function keeps your personal cooking preferences. And the pot will remember those when it’s time to cook it again.
Safety Features You Can Trust
There are several safeguards ensuring the safety of you and your loved ones. Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus has more than 10 safety features.
Pressure regulation prevents dangerous build-up. The auto-pressure release system opens automatically if the pressure rises up to unsafe levels. This means you have peace of mind during operation.
Heat is continuously surveilled by temperature sensors. And if the pot gets too hot, it adjusts or shuts off automatically. This keeps them from burning or posing a hazard.
The locking lid locks securely, and you can’t lift the lid off while the pot is under pressure meaning it will seal all the way around where it contacts the pot. You can’t take the lid off a pot that’s pressurized. This feature prevents burns from steam.
Performance Analysis: Does It Cook as Well as It Claims?
Pressure Cooking Excellence
The Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus doesn’t disappoint when it comes to pressure cooking. This is the way cuts of meat that would take hours to be tender transform in minutes. They will cook perfectly when you use the proper method.
The heat distribution is even so no hot spots. Which is to say: no more burnt bottoms or unevenly cooked interiors. Each piece cooks in the same amount of time.
Steam circulation ensures thorough cooking. A pressurized sealed environment gets hot air into every nook and cranny of your food to make your meals taste so much better! That means better flavour penetration and better texture.
Slow Cooking Capabilities
Most popular for pressure cooking, this model is great for slow cooking too. “Low and slow” is ideal for tender perfection.
Temperature control is constant during long cooks. Unlike other multi-cookers, this doesn’t have hot and cold spots when slow cooking.
The inner pot’s coating is very effective for slow cooking. It provides even and gentle heat distribution. This will help to avoid the food burning on the bottom if the simmering is to be prolonged.
Rice and Grain Performance
The rice cook setting is the best I’ve seen. Whether you favour white rice, brown rice or the many specialty grains, this pot can cook them all.
Its fuzzy logic technology automatically adjusts cooking settings. It takes into account factors like the type of grain you want, how much, and what consistency you’re after. It takes the guesswork out of grain cooking.
Quinoa, barley and any other grain are perfectly cooked every time. It eliminates the risk of overcooking and ensures that your food is perfectly cooked.
Size Options and Capacity Guide
The Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus is available in three different sizes. Choose whichever suits your household needs best.
| Size | Capacity | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Quart | 2-3 people | Singles, couples, small portions | £80-100 |
| 6 Quart | 4-6 people | Average families, meal prep | £100-130 |
| 8 Quart | 6-8 people | Large families, batch cooking | £130-160 |
Which Size Should You Choose?
The 6-quart model is the best size for most UK households. It has sufficient room for family dinners, and it’s more compact than many other models, so it can sit nicely on a standard countertop.
Think about how you cook when you’re picking size. If you meal prep or cook for a large family, consider the 8-quart model for more flexibility. The 3-quart model saves space and energy for singles or small families.
Also, keep in mind that for pressure cookers, the sweet spot for the volume should be between 1/3 to 2/3 full. Do not select a size too large for normal cooking requirements.
Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus vs Other Models
Comparison with Standard Duo Model
The Evo Plus is an upgrade over the basic Duo model. The most important change is updated control panel which features improved visibility.
Buy EVO Plus From AmazonThe Evo Plus comes with a progress indicator for the cooking process. This feature is useful for keeping track of just how far along you are in the cooking process. You don’t get this useful feature on the regular Duo.
Buy Basic Duo From AmazonThere are model dependent rules for releasing steam. Quick release button of the Evo Plus is more user-friendly. This enables the steam to be vented safer and easier.
Against Other Pressure Cooker Brands
With a direct comparison to other brands of pressure cooker to be found in the UK, the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus holds its own pretty well.
The construction is more robust than with many competitors in a similar price range. The quality of stainless steel construction and attention to detail becomes evident with each use.
The recipe experience is a big advantage for Instant Pot. You are able to find literally thousands of recipes created for this cooker. Most other brands provide little in the way of dedicated recipes.
UK customer service and warranty support is great. Spare parts are easy to find and the company reacts quickly if there are any problems.
Real User Feedback: What UK Users Say
Positive Feedback Highlights
UK users are full of praise for the time-saving advantages. Busy parents love coming home to ready-to-serve meals. The delay start feature is frequently highlighted in good reviews.
Cooking quality impresses most users. Many users say their pressure-cooked meals taste better than food made in the traditional way. The intense flavour level is off the charts.
Convenience delights new pressure cooker users. You’ll get over the intimidating mystique of pressure cooking in no time with this easy-to-use model.
Common Complaints and Issues
Timing adjustments may have a learning curve for some users. Not all recipes created for other cooking methods will port across seamlessly. The majority do pick it up fast with some practice.
Sometimes the sealing ring picks up odours from spicy meals. This happens with all pressure cookers. This problem can be solved by regular cleaning (and even replacing) as needed.
Some reviewers express regret over the size. Users regret not having chosen a different capacity when, in hindsight, they’ve learned the consequences. This makes it even more crucial to order the correct size in the beginning.
Best Recipes and Cooking Tips
Ideal Recipes for the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus
Beef Stew: Tough cuts become tender and flavourful in less than an hour. The pressure cooking works perfectly to tenderize tougher cuts of meat and break collagen down.
Risotto: Perfect every time without standing over the pot! The sauté function develops flavours, while the pressure cook settings finish the process with precision.
Whole Chicken: So juicy and tender in 30 minutes. The steam is what keeps the meat moist, and the pressure is what cooks it evenly.
Dried Beans: No need to soak beans overnight; cook them dry in an hour or less. Great for meal prep and frugal cooking.
Pro Tips for Best Results
Use sufficient liquid for pressure cooking. The minimum quantity will vary between recipes, but you should never go below what the manufacturer suggests.
Natural pressure release is better for sensitive foods. For tender meats and delicious grains, let the pressure fall on its own. Quick release is the way to go with vegetables and foods that have a tendency to get overcooked.
Layer ingredients the right way for one-pot meals. Place longer-cooking things on the bottom and faster-cooking ones on top. This way everything will be done at the same time.
Maintenance and Cleaning Guide
Daily Cleaning Routine
The inner pot is dishwasher-safe for easy clean up. It is made of stainless steel, has no issues going through the dishwasher every day.
Clean the outside of the product with a damp cloth after each use. Do not use abrasive cleaners that could damage the finish. Plain soap and water work fine.
Clean the lid components separately. The sealing ring, anti-block shield and float valve are all removable. These parts impact safety and performance.
Deep Cleaning Schedule
Clean your Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus every month and it will remain in proper working order. Wash out all the removable parts and deep-clean it.
The sealing ring is worthy of special mention. Wash it individually and inspect for cracks or wear. Replace every year, or when odours become persistent.
Check the condensation collector regularly. Keep it empty and wipe it out to avoid build-up that may interfere with its performance.
Pros and Cons Summary
Major Advantages
Time Saving: Less cooking time than regular cooking. Great for any time when you’re short on time and need to make something quick and easy.
Versatility: Replaces multiple kitchen appliances. This is easy on the budget, saves storage space and cleanup is super easy.
Predictable Results: Smart tech gives consistent cooking results every time. No need to guess at timing or temperature.
Energy Efficient: Lower consumption of electricity compared to running several independent appliances. It also holds the heat very well with insulated construction.
Safety: Several safety protections to protect from accidents. Far safer than a conventional stovetop pressure cooker.
Notable Drawbacks
Learning Curve: Takes time to master various functionality and timing adjustments. It can be maybe a little bit confusing to start for new users.
Counter Space: It occupies countertop space. Not great for tiny kitchens.
Sealing Ring Problems: The rubber seal has a tendency to absorb smells and has to be replaced regularly. This contributes to long-term cost.
Limited Browning: It sautés fine, but cannot brown as well as a dedicated pan. Some recipes will benefit from pre-browning in another pan.
Price and Value Analysis
UK Pricing Breakdown
The Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus is available at different prices depending on retailer and size. This is what you should expect to pay:
- 3-Quart: £80-100 available at all major UK retailers
- 6-Quart: £100-130 depending on promotions
- 8-Quart: £130-160 for the biggest capacity
Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus Review
Is It Worth the Investment?
Just imagine the price to have 7 different appliances replaced. In fact, you could buy a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker and steamer separately for more than the cost of the Evo Plus alone.
Add to that the savings on energy, thanks to shorter cooking times. It uses a lot less power to pressure cook.
The time you’ll save has real meaning for busy families. Once you get used to the convenience and consistent results, the price seems quite reasonable. For more smart kitchen solutions and the latest deals on appliances like the Instant Pot, check out https://smartlivingdealz.com/.
Where to Buy in the UK
Authorized Retailers
Amazon UK: Regularly boasts the lowest prices and regular sales. Prime members receive free shipping and easy returns.
Argos: Has different sizes in stock and offers same-day collection. Great for seeing the product before buying.
John Lewis: Outstanding customer service, and offers an extended warranty. Higher prices but superior support.
Currys PC World: Offers competitive pricing and in-store demos. Good for hands-on evaluation.
What to Look For When Buying
Look for warranty coverage and support here in the UK. Be sure you’re purchasing from authorized dealers for the best customer service.
Compare prices across multiple retailers. Sales and promotions alone can result in major savings.
Look for package deals featuring accessories. Extra sealing rings, steamer baskets and recipe books are great bonuses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus to pressurize?
The time to pressurize varies with the quantity of food and water. In general, this will take 10-15 minutes to build up pressure. The cooking time does not start until the pressure reaches the desired level.
Is it possible for me to cook frozen meats in the pressure pot?
Yes, the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus cooks frozen meat well. Increase the cooking time to allow for thawing and heating. For best results when using frozen ingredients, use the manual pressure setting.
How regularly should I change the sealing ring?
Replace the sealing ring every 12-18 months or when damaged and worn. If it starts to hold on to odours or develops cracks, replace it sooner. Having different rings for different types of cooking is great because it doesn’t allow cross-contamination of flavours.
How loud is the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus?
During most of the cooking cycle, the pressure cooker works quietly. You will hear some hissing as the steam builds up and escapes. It is significantly quieter than stovetop pressure cookers.
Can I use this for canning and preserving food?
The Duo Evo Plus should not be used for canning. It doesn’t get hot enough to safely preserve food. Save it for fresh cooking and meal prep instead.
Natural vs. quick pressure release: What’s the difference?
Natural release allows pressure to drop slowly as the pot cools down. This takes 10 to 40 minutes and is better for meats and grains. Quick release opens the steam valve immediately for quick venting and is great for vegetables and delicate foods.
Does it work on any voltages for worldwide use?
UK models are made for 230V electrical systems. They’re not going to work properly with other voltages without a transformer. Check the specifications if you’re thinking about using it in other countries.
How can I avoid receiving the burn error?
The burn notice comes up when food sticks to the bottom. Use adequate liquid, don’t overstuff your pot, and layer ingredients the right way. After sautéing, deglaze your pot to get rid of all the stuck pieces before pressure cooking.
Bottom Line: Is the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus Worth It?
The Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus does live up to its reputation as being convenient, versatile and cooking consistently. For all the substantial initial outlay, it provides good value for most UK households.
There are pressure cookers that even beat this multi-cooker when it comes to pressure cooking alone, but nothing else comes close to this versatility. Just the time saved is worth buying the thing, for busy families and working professionals.
But it isn’t right for everyone. For those with limited counter space or who rarely cook at home, the pros may not outweigh the cost and space requirements.
If you’re among the home cooks who love preparing tasty, healthy meals in minimal time, the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus makes a fine addition to any kitchen. The safety, reliability, and versatility all add up to a pretty compelling package.
The learning curve is real but surmountable. The vast majority of users adapt quickly and can’t imagine cooking without it. Mastering this cooker is easier than ever, thanks to the extensive online community and resources available.
In the realm of instant pot reviews, the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus is one of the best multi-cookers money can buy in 2025. Its track record and high user satisfaction make it a smart pick for anyone adding a multi-cooker to their home.
Whether you are a pressure cooking newbie or upgrading from an older model, you should seriously consider this UK favourite. It’s the perfect mix of technology, safety and functionality that will help you cook better!
