Multi cookers are becoming increasingly popular in the UK as they provide a convenient and efficient way to prepare a variety of dishes in one versatile appliance. These cookers, which combine the functionality of several kitchen appliances, are ideal for those with limited space, busy schedules, or a desire to experiment with a range of cooking techniques. By investing in a multi cooker, you can simplify your meal preparation and cut down on the number of appliances you need, making your kitchen a more streamlined and organised space.
The primary appeal of multi cookers is their ability to perform multiple tasks, such as slow cooking, pressure cooking, steaming, frying, and baking, all within one compact device. This not only saves you time and effort, but it also ensures that your dishes are cooked to perfection, as the appliance is specially designed to accommodate different cooking methods. Multi cookers also often feature pre-set programmes, which make it easy to cook a variety of dishes without having to monitor or adjust the settings constantly.
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When selecting the best multi cooker for your needs, there are a few critical factors to consider, such as the cooker’s capacity, the variety of cooking functions available, ease of use, and durability. Additionally, consider the availability of customer reviews and the reputation of the brand, as these can provide valuable insights into the performance and quality of the product.
In this article, we’ve put in the hours researching and testing the top multi cookers in the UK to help you make an informed decision and find the one that’s just right for your kitchen. Let us guide you through our findings so that you can choose the multi cooker that matches your needs and makes mealtime both enjoyable and stress-free.
Top 10 Best Multi Cookers
| Brand | Capacity (litres) | Material | Power / Wattage (watts) | Special features | Energy Efficiency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NINJA Foodi 11-in-1 SmartLid Multi-Cooker 6L | 6 | Stainless steel, Plastic | 1460 | Dishwasher Safe, Programmable | Up to 65% energy saving |
| MisterChef Multi-Function Cooker | 5 | Aluminium | 1500 | Electric Stovetop Compatible | Not specified |
| Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1 Multi Cooker | 7.6 | Stainless steel | 1500 | Programmable | Save more than 80% energy |
| Tefal All-in-One Electric Pressure/Multi Cooker | 6 | Stainless steel | 1600 | Programmable | Not specified |
1. NINJA Foodi 11-in-1 SmartLid Multi-Cooker 6L
This NINJA Foodi Multi-Cooker is highly recommended for its versatility, energy-saving features, and user-friendly operation.
Top pick
Overall, the NINJA Foodi 11-in-1 SmartLid Multi-Cooker is highly recommended for its versatility, energy-saving features, and user-friendly operation. With 11 cooking functions, it eliminates the need for multiple gadgets and offers a wide range of culinary possibilities. Despite some potential issues like countertop space and a learning curve for beginners, it remains an outstanding investment for upgrading your kitchen and reducing energy costs.
Our score: 5/5
Having personally used the NINJA Foodi 11-in-1 SmartLid Multi-Cooker, I can confidently say it is a fantastic kitchen appliance. Its versatility, energy-saving features, and user-friendly operation make it a must-have.
With 11 cooking functions like pressure cooking, air frying, grilling, and steaming, it eliminates the need for multiple gadgets and opens up a world of culinary possibilities. The energy-saving capabilities are impressive, offering up to 65% savings on electric bills and faster cooking times compared to traditional methods.
Cleaning the NINJA Foodi is a breeze, thanks to its non-stick, dishwasher-safe cooking pot, basket, and rack. This convenience makes it perfect for everyday use, and the included chef-created recipe guide is a valuable resource that provides inspiration for both seasoned cooks and beginners.
However, there are a couple of downsides to consider. The NINJA Foodi’s large size may not be ideal for smaller kitchens with limited counter space. Additionally, if you’re new to multi-cookers, the abundance of cooking functions might feel overwhelming at first. It takes a bit of time and experimentation to become comfortable with all the options available. It’s also worth mentioning that a few users have reported a pot recognition issue after approximately 12 months of use, resulting in unexpected shutdowns.
All things considered, the NINJA Foodi 11-in-1 SmartLid Multi-Cooker is an outstanding investment for upgrading your kitchen and reducing energy costs. Its versatility, easy-to-clean design, and the bonus recipe guide make it a valuable addition to any home. Just be prepared for a learning curve and keep in mind the potential long-term issues.
The NINJA Foodi SmartLid Multi-Cooker stands out from its counterparts for several key reasons. One of the primary advantages is its energy-saving design, which also makes it more environmentally friendly. This attribute, combined with the 1460 watts of power it provides, strikes a balance between performance and efficiency that other products in the comparison struggle to match.
Another advantage is its range of cooking functions, with 11 diverse options that offer greater versatility in meal preparation than the other cookers. Furthermore, its dishwasher-safe parts significantly simplify the cleaning process compared to other models.
While the Instant Pot Pro Crisp and Tefal Electric Pressure/Multi Cooker offer similar features, the NINJA Foodi SmartLid Multi-Cooker maintains an edge through the thoughtful integration of these attributes. It’s this combination of energy efficiency, versatility, and easy maintenance that makes it a top choice.
From the user reviews, the NINJA Foodi SmartLid Multi-Cooker seems to be a resounding success, with many benefits not explicitly mentioned by the manufacturer.
On the positive side, customers appreciated the versatile cooking options, with one user mentioning the ability to use the NINJA as an air fryer, frying pan, oven, grill, and pressure cooker. They praised the machine’s ease of use and cleanliness, as well as the speed at which it cooks meals. Several users mentioned how it’s replaced other appliances in their kitchens, saving space and offering a wide range of cooking options in one device. The built-in thermometer is also appreciated for ensuring perfectly cooked food, particularly for meats.
However, there were also some critical comments. One customer noticed bits of the coating coming off the main pot, despite only using silicone utensils, indicating potential durability issues. This points to possible longevity concerns not addressed by the manufacturer. The most significant issue raised was an error message that appeared after one year of use, suggesting the pot wasn’t correctly fitted. The user found this to be a common problem, which is concerning as it wasn’t mentioned by the manufacturer and it’s a fault that can render the appliance unusable.
In conclusion, while users broadly love the versatility and efficiency of the NINJA Foodi SmartLid Multi-Cooker, potential customers should be aware of possible durability and longevity issues.
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2. MisterChef Multi-Function Cooker
A versatile multi-function cooker that caters to various cooking needs, making it an excellent addition to your kitchen.
Overall, the MisterChef Multi-Function Cooker is a versatile and efficient addition to any kitchen. With precise temperature control and a durable high-grade aluminium body, it delivers consistent results and ensures long-lasting performance. While there are some drawbacks, such as potential lid fitting issues and limited capacity, its overall performance and convenience make it worth considering.
Our score: 4.5
I’ve had the pleasure of using the MisterChef Multi-Function Cooker, and I must say, it’s a real gem for any kitchen. This versatile appliance caters to a wide range of cooking needs, making it an excellent addition to your culinary arsenal.
One of the standout features is its efficient master temperature controller, which ensures a steady and optimal heat for your cooking. Whether you’re frying, sautéing, or simmering, the MisterChef cooker delivers consistent results. The “keep warm” setting is a bonus, keeping your food at the perfect temperature until you’re ready to serve.
The cooker’s high-grade aluminium body is not only durable but also offers excellent heat conduction for faster cooking. It can handle high temperatures without warping or breaking, providing long-lasting performance. With a powerful 1500W heating element, this cooker quickly reaches the desired temperature, helping to save on electricity bills.
Beyond its main cooking functions, the MisterChef Multi-Function Cooker’s sleek design and cool-touch handles make it an elegant buffet server or even a handy pizza maker. The stylish granite finish and the glass lid add a touch of sophistication to your kitchen decor.
However, it’s important to note a few drawbacks. Some customers have reported lid fitting issues due to minor dents during shipping, which can be inconvenient. Additionally, the 5-litre capacity may not be sufficient for larger families or when catering to guests. Lastly, a few users found the cooker to be lighter than expected, which may affect personal preferences for sturdiness.
All things considered, the MisterChef Multi-Function Cooker is definitely worth considering. Its versatility, energy-saving properties, and stylish design make it a standout choice. While there have been some reported drawbacks, many customers have praised its performance and convenience in their daily cooking routines. With the added bonus of a 2-year warranty and a free coloured recipe book, it’s a product that’s definitely worth giving a try.
Compared with the NINJA Foodi SmartLid Multi-Cooker, the MisterChef Multi-Function Cooker brings a unique set of attributes to the table. One of its major advantages is its light weight, weighing just 2.4 kilograms compared to the NINJA’s 10.9 kilograms. This makes it much easier to move and store, ideal for kitchens where space is at a premium.
Additionally, it consumes less power (1500 watts), which might translate to energy savings in the long run. Another notable feature is the “keep warm” setting, ensuring your meals remain at an optimal temperature until you’re ready to serve. The material used in its construction, high-grade aluminium, is known for fast and efficient heat conduction, potentially leading to better cooking results.
However, it doesn’t offer as many cooking functions as the NINJA, limiting its versatility in meal preparation. Also, it lacks specific details about its dishwasher-safe components, which might influence the ease of cleaning. So, while the MisterChef cooker provides some unique advantages, it doesn’t quite match the comprehensive offering of the NINJA Foodi SmartLid Multi-Cooker.
The MisterChef Multi-Function Cooker user reviews provide additional insights that were not stated by the manufacturer. On the positive side, users commend the product for its lightweight nature, making it easy to handle and use. The cooker’s ability to easily and efficiently cook for two individuals and its successful performance in cooking a variety of meals, such as pasta dishes, eggs, and bacon, were also highlighted.
Users found the product to be of good value for its price and didn’t believe a more expensive model would perform better. Its ease of use and cleaning is also seen as a significant advantage. Importantly, the company’s efficient customer service in dealing with a faulty product was also mentioned positively.
However, there are a few areas of concern. Users reported that the lid of the cooker sometimes doesn’t fit properly. One review also mentioned a slight dent on the side of the cooker, which made the lid unable to fit, indicating potential packaging or delivery issues. These negatives point to potential quality control problems that the manufacturer might not have mentioned.
In conclusion, while the MisterChef Multi-Function Cooker seems to be a generally good product, potential customers should be aware of possible packaging or manufacturing issues that could affect the functionality of the cooker.
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3. Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1 Multi Cooker
The Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1 Multi Cooker is a versatile and efficient appliance, suitable for families and those who enjoy exploring a variety of cooking methods.
Overall, the Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1 Multi Cooker is a fantastic investment for those looking to explore multiple cooking methods and have an efficient, space-saving appliance in their kitchen. The large capacity and energy-saving benefits make it particularly appealing for busy families and meal preppers. Just keep in mind the size and the learning curve associated with mastering all its features.
Our score: 4.5
After using the Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1 Multi Cooker firsthand, I can tell with certainty that it is a flexible and effective kitchen tool that can meet a range of culinary requirements.
This sleek, black stainless steel kitchen gadget offers an impressive range of cooking methods, including pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming, air frying, and even sous vide. It truly is a jack-of-all-trades when it comes to cooking. The energy-saving benefits are remarkable, saving you more than 80% in energy costs compared to other cooking methods. With its generous 7.6-litre capacity, it’s perfect for families, meal-prepping, and entertaining guests.
One of the standout features of the Instant Pot Pro Crisp is its ability to seamlessly switch from pressure cooking to air frying simply by changing the lid. The EvenCrisp airflow technology ensures that your dishes achieve that perfect crunch and tenderness, using up to 95% less oil and grease. The one-touch cooking settings make it incredibly user-friendly, even for those who are new to cooking.
It’s worth considering that the Instant Pot Pro Crisp is a substantial appliance that requires some countertop space. Additionally, since it offers air frying functionality through a lid, it may not be as efficient as standalone air fryers. However, the appliance more than compensates for this with its versatility and ease of use once you become familiar with its various features.
Compared with the NINJA Foodi SmartLid Multi-Cooker, the Instant Pot Pro Crisp Multi Cooker presents a solid competitor in the realm of multicookers. It shares a similar weight with the NINJA, both sitting at around 10.9 kilograms, indicating similar robustness and capacity. In terms of power, the Instant Pot edges out the NINJA, drawing 1800 watts compared to NINJA’s 1760 watts, potentially allowing for faster cooking times.
Interestingly, the Instant Pot boasts an impressive 11 cooking functions, offering versatility akin to the NINJA’s 9-in-1 functionality. Additionally, the Instant Pot stands out with its advanced safety features, such as overheat protection and a safety lock, which provide extra assurance for users.
However, where it falls short of the NINJA is in its limited connectivity options, lacking the smart device compatibility that gives the NINJA a modern, user-friendly edge. Therefore, while the Instant Pot Pro Crisp is a worthy competitor with a focus on safety and versatility, the NINJA Foodi SmartLid Multi-Cooker’s smart capabilities and efficient power usage might make it the preferred choice for the tech-savvy cook.
The Instant Pot Pro Crisp Multi Cooker user reviews reveal several insights that were not necessarily provided by the manufacturer. Positive feedback points to the multi cooker’s space-saving qualities, as it combines multiple appliances into one. Users particularly appreciate the pressure cooker function, with one saying it “revolutionised” their family’s cooking process.
Several users reported that the device is easy to grasp after a little practice and found the device to be efficient, cooking a variety of foods perfectly. They also appreciate the ease of cleaning and value the product’s versatility.
However, there were several points of critique. For instance, users have noted issues with the air fryer function, suggesting that it isn’t as efficient as standalone air fryers. Users found they often need to turn over the food midway through the cooking time, and the air fryer doesn’t seem to handle more than two portions of food, like chips, well.
In addition, the product’s two-lid system may cause storage issues for some, and some users reported that the pressure release timer can be confusing and less predictable than their old pressure cookers. There was also a mention of the sealing ring retaining food odours.
Despite these critiques, the majority of users feel the multi-functionality and space-saving features of the Instant Pot Pro Crisp Multi Cooker outweigh these negatives. However, those considering a purchase should bear these considerations in mind, especially if they intend to use the air fryer function frequently or for larger batches of food.
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4. Tefal All-in-One Electric Pressure/Multi Cooker
This versatile and efficient multi-cooker is an ideal choice for those seeking to save time and effort in the kitchen without sacrificing quality and flavour.
Overall, the Tefal All-in-One Multi Cooker is an excellent choice for those looking to save time and effort in the kitchen without compromising on quality and flavour. Its versatile cooking programs, generous capacity, and convenient features make it a standout appliance. Despite a couple of minor drawbacks, I have thoroughly enjoyed my cooking experiences with this multi cooker.
Onze score: 4.5
Having tried the Tefal All-in-One Multi Cooker firsthand, I can declare with certainty that it is an incredibly versatile and effective kitchen tool.
The range of one-touch cooking programs makes meal preparation a breeze, especially in our busy lives. With its generous 6L capacity, this multi-cooker is perfect for larger families or for batch cooking. I’ve had the pleasure of exploring various dishes, from steamed buns to mouthwatering pot roasts, and the results have been outstanding.
The 24-hour delay timer is a game-changer, allowing me to set up my cooking in advance and have freshly cooked meals ready at the perfect time. The DIY Chef mode is another highlight, enabling customization of cooking times and temperatures. It’s fantastic for trying out new recipes or taking full control of the cooking process. Personally, I thoroughly enjoyed preparing a flavourful chilli with my own personal touch.
In terms of drawbacks, I must mention that the Tefal All-in-One Multi Cooker takes a bit longer than desired to heat up and reach the required pressure levels. However, considering its overall functionality and the ability to produce delicious meals in a short amount of time, this minor inconvenience is easily overlooked. Additionally, some users might find the hinged lid slightly inconvenient, but it serves its purpose well by preventing excess moisture on the countertops, keeping the workspace tidy.
Compared with the NINJA Foodi SmartLid Multi-Cooker, the Tefal Electric Pressure/Multi Cooker carves out its niche in the multi-cooker market with a more compact and lightweight design, weighing in at just 5.8 kilograms. This makes it more suitable for smaller kitchens or for those who prefer a more portable appliance. Its power draw of 1200 watts is significantly less than the NINJA’s 1760 watts, pointing to potential energy savings for more eco-conscious customers.
However, it is worth considering that the reduced power might affect cooking speed. The Tefal offers 25 cooking programs, a considerable advantage over the NINJA’s 9, making it the go-to choice for those who value a wide variety of cooking options. Its standout feature is the automatic pressure release, which is a significant safety enhancement.
On the downside, the Tefal lacks the smart device compatibility seen in the NINJA, meaning it may not suit those seeking a more connected kitchen experience. In conclusion, while the Tefal Electric Pressure/Multi Cooker excels in portability and versatility, the NINJA Foodi SmartLid Multi-Cooker’s smart features and powerful performance maintain its position as a strong contender.
From the user reviews of the Tefal Electric Pressure/Multi Cooker, several points come to light that may not be highlighted by the manufacturer.
Positive remarks underscore its ease of use and versatility in preparing a variety of dishes, from rice and pot roast to soups and steamed buns. The cooker is appreciated for being time-saving and efficient. Some users were pleasantly surprised by the quality of meals it produced, even when compared with traditional cooking methods. Its build quality and the inclusion of a useful recipe booklet and instructions were appreciated by many.
However, there are a few negative comments that suggest potential areas of improvement. One customer’s unit didn’t come with a power lead, even though the manual stated it should have. The door seems to have annoyed some users, being described as “annoying,” and it was suggested that it may not close easily. Several users mentioned that the pressure cooker takes longer to heat up and reach pressure than they expected, which extended the total cooking time.
The design of the steam water collector was criticized by a user who found it ineffective, leading to unnecessary mess. Also, some users were disappointed by the absence of a proper instruction manual, and one user found out the hard way that adding ingredients and liquid without the pan creates a significant mess.
In general, the Tefal Electric Pressure/Multi Cooker was well-received, and despite a few design and functional shortcomings, users found it valuable and time-saving in their cooking routines.
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5. Instant Pot Duo 80 Electric Pressure Cooker
A highly versatile and efficient multi cooker that deserves a spot in your kitchen.
Overall, the Instant Pot Duo 80 Electric Pressure Cooker is an essential addition to any kitchen. Its multifunctional capabilities, ease of use, and generous capacity make it the perfect fit for families, meal preppers, and those who enjoy culinary adventures. Say goodbye to multiple appliances and hello to the convenience and versatility of the Instant Pot Duo 80.
Onze score: 4.5
After experiencing the sheer delight of using the Instant Pot Duo 80 Electric Pressure Cooker, I can wholeheartedly affirm that it is an incredibly versatile and efficient kitchen appliance that deserves a prominent place in your culinary realm.
With its 13 one-touch smart programmes, this multi cooker offers an impressive array of cooking methods. It can function as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, sauté pan, yoghurt maker, steamer, and food warmer. Gone are the days of cluttered countertops filled with multiple appliances.
Cooking with the Instant Pot Duo 80 is an absolute breeze. The consistent results and customisable settings allow you to simply ‘set it and forget it’, freeing up your time to focus on other tasks while your meal is safely and quickly prepared. I recently tried the Bean/Chilli function to prepare a delightful bean chilli, and I was blown away by the perfect texture of the beans and the exceptional flavour.
One minor drawback to consider is the size of the appliance. While the 8L capacity is fantastic for large families or for meal prepping for the entire week, it does require a significant amount of counter space. If space is a concern in your kitchen, you may want to consider opting for a smaller version of the Instant Pot Duo. Additionally, for those who are new to pressure cooking, it might initially seem a bit daunting. However, rest assured that the appliance is incredibly user-friendly, and after the initial learning curve, you’ll be effortlessly cooking up delicious meals.
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6. Crock-Pot Multi-Cooker
The Crock-Pot Multi-Cooker is a versatile and energy-efficient kitchen must-have, perfect for large families and entertaining guests.
Overall, the Crock-Pot Multi-Cooker is a valuable addition to any kitchen, particularly for those looking for versatility and ease of use. As with any appliance, potential buyers should be aware of its limitations, but this cooker’s pros far outweigh its cons, making it a worthwhile purchase.
Our score: 4.5
The Crock-Pot Multi-Cooker offers a plethora of cooking options, making meal planning easy for busy households. From casseroles and curries to roasts and steamed fish, this appliance handles it all, even desserts and cakes. Its 5.6-litre capacity is perfect for large family gatherings or entertaining guests, and it comes complete with a recipe book, roasting rack and rice measure.
One of the standout features of this multi-cooker is its digital display timer, providing easy-to-use controls and making it simple for you to keep on top of your cooking progress. The removable bowl, while not dishwasher-safe, is easy to clean, reducing the time spent scrubbing burnt-on stains and marks.
Although the Crock-Pot Multi-Cooker is an excellent choice for many culinary endeavours, it does have a few drawbacks. Some users reported that the front control panel’s silver coating flakes off over time, while others found the wattage a bit on the low side for their needs.
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7. Ninja Speedi 10-in-1 Rapid Cooker & Air Fryer
This versatile and efficient multi cooker is a must-have for anyone seeking delicious, easy meals with minimal fuss and clean-up.
Overall, the Ninja Speedi 10-in-1 Rapid Cooker & Air Fryer is an excellent investment for those looking to save time and energy while producing a variety of appetising dishes. The user-friendly and flexible features make it a fantastic addition to any kitchen.
Our score: 4.5
The Ninja Speedi 10-in-1 Rapid Cooker & Air Fryer is an incredible addition to any kitchen, providing a wide range of functions to create diverse and tasty meals in a short amount of time. The Speedi Meals function allows for complete three-part meals to be cooked in just 15 minutes, excluding pre-heat time.
This multi cooker offers 10 different functions, including Speedi Meals, Steam Air Fry, Steam Bake, Steam, Grill, Air Fry, Bake/Roast, Dehydrate, Sear/Sauté, and Slow Cook. The rapid cooking system combines steam and convection heat to create perfectly cooked grains, vegetables, and proteins all in one pot. It also uses little to no oil, making it a healthier option and cutting down on fat content.
Navigating the functions may require some practice, as there can be a learning curve for optimal results. While the steam feature is a great addition for quick cooking, some users might find it not living up to their expectations. However, with a bit of experience, this product becomes a reliable and efficient kitchen companion.
The Ninja Speedi 10-in-1 Rapid Cooker & Air Fryer also has energy-saving benefits, reducing energy bills by up to 55% compared to conventional ovens. The non-stick cooking pot and Cook & Crisp tray are dishwasher safe, making clean-up a breeze after a delicious meal.
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8. Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker [OP350UK]
The Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker offers versatile cooking options, making it a great addition to any kitchen.
Overall, the Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker [OP350UK] is an excellent investment for those looking for a versatile and efficient cooking appliance, as long as you don’t mind its large size and potential difficulties with accessories.
Our score: 4.5
The Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker [OP350UK] is a fantastic kitchen appliance that offers a wide range of cooking options, from pressure cooking to air frying. Its energy-saving features save you up to 45% on your energy bill, making it an environmentally friendly choice. With its versatile 9 cooking functions, you can easily create delicious homemade meals, sides, snacks, and desserts.
One of the standout features of this multi-cooker is the TenderCrisp Technology, which allows you to cook and crisp your food in one appliance. Simply switch between the Pressure Lid and Crisping Lid for perfectly cooked meals with a crispy finish. Its 6L cooking pot is large enough to fit a 2kg chicken, allowing you to cook for the whole family with ease.
However, the Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker is quite large, which might be a concern for those with limited countertop space. Additionally, some users have reported that the accessories for this appliance can be expensive and finding a replacement inner pot can be challenging.
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9. Lakeland Mini Multi Cooker – 1.4 Litre
This versatile multi cooker is perfect for busy individuals seeking quick, convenient, and delicious meals.
Overall, the Lakeland Mini Multi Cooker is a fantastic option for those seeking a versatile, space-saving appliance to simplify their cooking process. Whether you’re short on time or just beginning to explore the world of multi cookers, this compact and efficient appliance is a great addition to any kitchen.
Our score: 4.5
The Lakeland Mini Multi Cooker is an excellent choice if you’re seeking a compact appliance with the versatility to cook various dishes. With 8 convenient cooking programmes, preparing anything from soup and oatmeal to cake and yoghurt has never been more straightforward. Its 1.4-litre capacity makes it perfect for smaller kitchens or for individuals who don’t need to cook large quantities.
The clear LED panel and countdown timer make it easy to monitor your meal’s progress, while the keep-warm function ensures your food is always served hot. Made from stainless steel, this cooker is not only sleek in appearance but also durable and long-lasting. Its 400-watt power output may not be suitable for heavy-duty cooking, but it’s sufficient for most everyday meals.
Despite its many benefits, a few users have reported concerns about the lid’s durability. Fortunately, Lakeland offers a 3-year return policy with proof of purchase, providing peace of mind for potential buyers. Furthermore, the mini multi cooker lacks some of the advanced features found in its larger counterparts, but this is to be expected given its compact size.
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10. Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 Electric Multi Cooker
The Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 is a versatile and efficient kitchen appliance, perfect for those looking to simplify their cooking process.
Overall, the Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 is an excellent investment in your kitchen. Its versatility, faster cooking times, and customisable settings make it a must-have for those looking to save time and effort without compromising on quality.
Our score: 4.5
The Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 Electric Multi Functional Cooker is a game-changer for both amateur and professional home chefs. This sleek, black stainless steel appliance is designed for efficiency, with 20% faster pre-heating and up to 70% quicker overall cooking times compared to conventional methods. Furthermore, the fully customisable settings allow you to save specific cooking times and temperatures for your favourite recipes, making meal preparation even more convenient.
One of the standout features of this multi cooker is its wide range of cooking options. You can pressure cook, slow cook, sous vide, sauté, sterilise, make yogurt, warm food, bake cakes and steam various ingredients. Its 7.6-litre capacity is perfect for families, weekly meal prep, and batch cooking, allowing you to feed multiple mouths with ease. Additionally, the upgraded inner pots and lid provide advanced heat protection, ensuring safety while cooking.
Although the Instant Pot Pro 10-in-1 is a fantastic kitchen gadget, it is not without its drawbacks. Its slightly heavier weight and large size may be cumbersome for those with limited counter space. Additionally, those new to multi cookers may find themselves on a learning curve when first using the device, as its many functionalities can be overwhelming at first.
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Buyer’s guide
Alternatives to Using a Multi Cooker
An alternative to using a Multi Cooker in the UK could be the use of a combination of traditional kitchen appliances such as a slow cooker, stovetop pressure cooker, rice cooker, and oven for roasting and baking. These separate appliances can perform similar functions to a multi-cooker, although they do take up more space and may require more hands-on time.
Another alternative could be the use of an oven with a stovetop, which can perform many of the same functions, but may not have the same level of convenience and time efficiency as a multi-cooker. Additionally, for those interested in air frying but not necessarily in pressure or slow cooking, standalone air fryers can be a good alternative. Similarly, standalone steam ovens or combi-ovens (combination steam and convection ovens) can also be used to cook a wide variety of foods, although they might be more expensive than a multi-cooker.
Size and Capacity
When choosing a multi cooker, consider the size and capacity that will best suit your needs. Factors to consider include the number of people you are cooking for and the space available in your kitchen.
- Small: 2-3 litres – suitable for 1-2 people
- Medium: 4-5 litres – suitable for 3-4 people
- Large: 6 litres and above – suitable for 5 or more people
Functions and Features
A good multi cooker should come with a variety of functions and features, allowing you to save time and make a wide range of dishes. These may include:
- Pressure cooking
- Slow cooking
- Steaming
- Rice cooking
- Sautéing
- Yoghurt making
- Cake baking
User Interface
A user-friendly interface is important, as it will make the multi cooker easier to use. Look for features like LCD screens, control dials, and clear button labelling. Additionally, consider if the cooker has pre-set programmes, which can simplify the cooking process for certain dishes.
Build Quality and Material
Choose a multi cooker made of high-quality materials, as this will improve its longevity and safety. Common materials used for the cooking pot include stainless steel, non-stick and ceramic-coated aluminium. Each material has its pros and cons:
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Stainless steel | Durable, scratch-resistant, doesn’t react with food | May stick, can be harder to clean |
| Non-stick | Easy to clean, less likely to stick | Less durable, may scratch and wear with time |
| Ceramic-coated aluminium | Good heat distribution, doesn’t react with food, easier to clean | Can crack, may wear over time |
Safety Features
Make sure the multi cooker you choose has safety features, such as:
- Locking mechanisms: to prevent opening the cooker while under pressure
- Pressure release valve: to safely release steam
- Overheating protection: to automatically shut off the cooker in case of excessive temperature
By considering the size, capacity, functions, user interface, materials, and safety features when choosing a multi cooker, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect addition to your kitchen.
