The 3 Best Instant Pots for Vegans: Which One’s Right for You?

As someone who follows a plant-based lifestyle, I’ve found that the best Instant Pot for vegans can truly change the way you cook. These appliances go beyond just pressure-cooking meat; they're perfect for making legumes, grains, veggies, dairy-free yoghurts, and vegan desserts with ease.

Over the years, Instant Pot has grown into a lineup of versatile, multi-use cookers. I tested several top models for vegan cooking based on design, performance, ease of use, and value. So, whether you're new or experienced, there’s an Instant Pot that fits your plant-based needs.

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 8-Quart Electric Pressure Cooker
2. Best for Tech-Savvy Cooks: Instant Pot Pro Plus Wi-Fi Smart 6-Quart 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker
3. Best Budget-Friendly: Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 6-Quart Electric Pressure Cooker

The 3 Best Instant Pots for Vegans

1. Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 8-Quart Electric Pressure Cooker

What I Like

• Precise control for sous vide
• So many preset options
• Cooks evenly and efficiently

What I Don't Like

• A little pricier than some basic models

I've been using the Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 for a while now, and honestly, it has completely transformed the way I cook. It's one of those rare appliances that genuinely feels like it does everything. With this model, I can pressure cook, slow cook, steam, sauté, make rice, sterilise, cook sous vide, make yoghurt, and keep food warm.

The control panel is super intuitive, and I love how clearly it walks you through each step. One of my favourite features is the display that shows exactly where your food is in the cooking process. It's like having an intelligent little assistant on your countertop.

I've made everything from pulled pork and beef stew to perfectly fluffy rice and creamy yoghurt, and it's all turned out great. The sous vide function is surprisingly precise, and I've even used it to make custards and tender chicken breasts with restaurant-level results. Additionally, the 8-quart size is a big bonus for family meals or entertaining, as it easily handles large batches.

Plus, the stainless-steel inner pot heats evenly and doesn't move around while sautéing. Best of all, it's dishwasher-safe and a breeze to clean. It's fast, consistent, and easy to use. If you're ready to upgrade your cooking game, this is the one to get.

Capacity: 8 quarts | Dimensions: 13.43 x 13.55 x 12.76 inches | What's Included: Stainless steel steaming rack, 2 sealing rings

2. Instant Pot Pro Plus Wi-Fi Smart 6-Quart Pressure Cooker

What I Like

• Precise control through the mobile app
• Modern design with a large, intuitive display
• Great for hands-off cooking with Wi-Fi integration

What I Don't Like

• Requires app setup for full functionality

If you're someone who enjoys smart home technology or prefers to manage meals from your phone, the Instant Pot Pro Plus Wi-Fi might just be your perfect kitchen partner. I was genuinely impressed by how seamlessly this model connects with the Instant Brands Connect app, allowing you to start, monitor, and release pressure remotely.

That means you can load your ingredients in the morning and start cooking from your desk or sofa. It's convenient, futuristic, and surprisingly easy to use. Beyond the tech, the Pro Plus also delivers on performance. It pressure cooks, slow cooks, sautés, steams, warms, and supports sous vide.

The interface is large and intuitive, featuring a sleek dial and touch controls that feel more modern than those of older Instant Pot models. It even offers NutriBoost for enhanced rice and bean textures and features automated pressure release, one of the safest and most user-friendly features I've encountered.

During testing, I noticed how well it handles both delicate and hearty dishes. From creamy risottos to intensely flavoured short ribs, everything came out as expected or better. The updated stainless steel inner pot is stovetop- and oven-safe, and the QuickCool tray (sold separately) allows you to release pressure faster when needed.

Capacity: 6 quarts | Dimensions: 13 x 13 x 14 inches | What's Included: Stainless steel inner pot, steam rack, Wi-Fi connectivity via Instant Brands Connect app

3. Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 6-Quart Electric Pressure Cooker

What I Like

• Simple, user-friendly controls
• Reliable cooking results every time
• Affordable price for what it offers

What I Don't Like

• Fewer features than newer models

The Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 was actually my first Instant Pot, and it remains the one I recommend to anyone just starting out. It may not have all the bells and whistles of the newer models, but it absolutely nails the basics. With seven core functions including pressure cooking, slow cooking, rice cooking, sautéing, steaming, yoghurt making, and warming, this little powerhouse quickly earned its permanent place on my countertop.

The control panel is clear and easy to navigate, even for those without a technical background. I've used it to make everything from tender pulled pork to creamy risotto, and it's never let me down. I especially love the sauté function, which lets me brown meat and onions right in the Pot before switching over to pressure cooking, less mess, fewer dishes.

The 6-quart size is perfect for everyday meals, and the stainless steel inner pot feels solid and holds up beautifully over time. It's dishwasher-safe, too, which I appreciate after a long day. Sure, it doesn't have sous vide or Wi-Fi, but if you're looking for a dependable, budget-friendly best Instant Pot for vegetarians that does the essentials well, this one's hard to beat.

Capacity: 6 quarts | Dimensions: 13.38 x 12.2 x 12.48 inches | What's Included: Stainless steel inner pot, steam rack, sealing ring

Final Verdict

I was absolutely impressed with how each model suits a plant-based lifestyle, but the Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 stood out as the best Instant Pot for vegans overall.

It combines smart design, reliable performance, and advanced features like sous vide and yogurt-making—perfect for prepping everything from creamy curries to dairy-free desserts. But for beginners or those on a tighter budget, the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 proves you don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy reliable vegan meals every day.

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