Congratulations on your decision to purchase the Ninja Foodi Pressure Cooker & Air Crisper! You’ve made an excellent choice. If you’re still unsure, this article is here to help you make up your mind
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN NINJA FOODI MODELS
The Ninja Foodi Pressure Cooker & Air Crisper comes in a variety of models and sizes, which can make choosing the right one a bit overwhelming. New models are regularly released, each offering different functions and features. To help with your decision, here’s a breakdown of the essential details.
Ninja Foodi Sizes The Ninja Foodi comes in three main sizes: 5 quart (4.7 liters), 6.5 quart (6 liters), and 8 quart (7.5 liters). While the circumference is the same across all sizes, the height varies.
- 5qt: Best for smaller meals like one-pot dishes, soups, and small roasts. It’s not ideal for layered or large meals, but it can handle two layers with the right accessories.
- 6.5qt: This is the most versatile size, perfect for almost any recipe. It strikes a good balance between size and functionality, with plenty of compatible accessories.
- 8qt: The largest model, great for big meals, soups, and large cuts of meat. However, the height can be an issue if you’re on the shorter side (like 5’2″).
Functions of the Ninja Foodi Ninja Foodi models vary in the number of functions they offer. While all models include basic functions, newer versions tend to offer additional ones at a higher price.
Standard Functions (Available on all models):
- Pressure Cook
- Steam
- Slow Cook
- Sear/Sauté
- Bake/Roast
- Air Crisp
- Keep Warm
Additional Functions (Available on select models):
- Sous Vide: Cooks food in a water bath at precise temperatures, ideal for tender chicken or steak.
- Yogurt: Makes homemade yogurt from milk and a starter culture.
- Dehydration: Uses the crisping lid at low temperatures to dehydrate food, proof bread, or even make yogurt.
- Broil/Grill: Available on most models, it can broil or grill food with intense heat.
- Proof: Newer models (OL series) include this feature for proofing bread at a controlled low temperature.
- Steam & Crisp: A combination function for steaming followed by crisping, perfect for whole chickens and bread (available on newer models).
- Steam & Bake: Similar to Steam & Crisp, but uses the bake function after steaming, ideal for baking bread.
NINJA FOODI PRESSURE COOKER & AIR CRISPER COMPARISON CHARTS
NINJA FOODI PRESSURE COOKER & AIR CRISPER 6.5 QUART COMPARISON CHART
Here is the downloadable chart : Ninja Foodi Pressure Cooker & Air Crisper 6.5 Qt Model Comparison
NINJA FOODI PRESSURE COOKER & AIR CRISPER 8 QUART COMPARISON CHART
If you prefer to download the pdf 8 quart comparison chart, here is the link: Ninja Foodi Pressure Cooker & Air Crisper 8 quart comparison chart
GETTING STARTED WITH THE NINJA FOODI
BEFORE FIRST USE
- Washing Parts: After unpacking the Ninja Foodi, ensure that all washable parts are cleaned. The silicone ring, basket, rack, and inner pot are dishwasher-safe (top rack), but avoid putting the pressure cooker lid and the base in the dishwasher.
- Cleaning the Anti-Clog Cap: The Ninja Foodi lid has an internal silver anti-clog cap that prevents food from clogging the pressure valve. It should be removed and cleaned after each use. A toothbrush works well for cleaning this part by hand.
- Condensation Tray: A condensation tray needs to be placed under the Ninja Foodi. This tray catches any water or condensation during pressure or steam cooking. Be sure to clean it regularly to avoid mold buildup, especially when using the pressure lid. Condensation does not occur when the tender-crisp lid is used.
PRESSURE TEST
To familiarize yourself with your Ninja Foodi and ensure it works correctly, it’s recommended to do a Pressure Test:
- Add 3 cups of water to the inner pot.
- Secure the pressure lid and turn the black valve to “seal.”
- Set the Ninja Foodi to High Pressure for 3 minutes.
- Start the process, and the Ninja Foodi will begin heating the water. You’ll see a rotating square light as it heats, which can take about 8-10 minutes.
During this test, some steam might escape from the black valve or the red button, which is normal. However, if steam leaks from the entire lid, stop the Ninja Foodi and check that the silicone seal is correctly positioned in the lid. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, contact NinjaKitchen for assistance.
WHAT DO ALL THESE ABBREVIATIONS MEAN?
When you start using your Ninja Foodi, you might come across abbreviations in recipes that can be confusing. Here’s a quick guide:
- PIP (Pot-in-Pot): Refers to a cooking method where you place a smaller pot or bowl inside the main pot to cook food. It’s especially useful when making dishes like rice or cakes alongside other meals in the same cooking cycle.
- PC (Pressure Cook): Refers to using the pressure cooking function. Typically, if no pressure level (high or low) is mentioned, assume it refers to High Pressure.
- NR (Natural Release): This means allowing the pressure to release on its own, without manually venting it. The process can take several minutes.
- IR (Instant Release): This is when you manually release the pressure using the valve to quickly stop the cooking process.
- AF (Air Fry): Refers to using the Air Crisp function to achieve a crispy finish on foods, often at a high temperature (e.g., 390°F for 5 minutes).
These abbreviations are part of a growing “pressure cooking language” that will make more sense once you familiarize yourself with the Ninja Foodi and its features.
CONCLUSION
With its versatility and ease of use, the Ninja Foodi is a game-changer in the kitchen. By understanding its functions and following these tips, you can unlock its full potential and elevate your culinary skills. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, the Ninja Foodi is a valuable tool to simplify meal preparation and create delicious dishes that impress. Embrace the possibilities and enjoy the culinary journey with your Ninja Foodi!
