Så använder du en multikokare för enkla en-grytsrätter: soppor, grytor och risrätter gjorda enkelt

One-pot meals are the holy grail of weeknight cooking: minimal cleanup, maximum flavor, and the comfort of a simmering pot that fills your kitchen with warmth. A multi cooker is the ultimate tool for this style of cooking, combining pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming, and even browning in a single appliance. Whether you're craving a hearty beef stew, a silky butternut squash soup, or a perfectly fluffy rice dish, a multi cooker makes it effortless. In this guide, we'll explore tips, techniques, and recipes to help you get the most out of your multi cooker for soups, stews, and rice dishes—all in one pot.

Why a Multi Cooker Is Perfect for One-Pot Meals

A multi cooker excels at one-pot cooking because it integrates multiple functions that traditional pots cannot. You can sear meat, sauté aromatics, pressure cook tough cuts of meat to tenderness, and then simmer everything together—all without switching pans. This not only saves time but also concentrates flavors. For soup lovers, the pressure cooking function extracts deep richness from bones and vegetables in a fraction of the time. For stew enthusiasts, the slow cook setting allows for all-day tenderness. And for rice, the precision temperature control ensures perfectly cooked grains every time.

Choosing the Right Multi Cooker Features

When selecting a multi cooker, look for models with adjustable pressure levels, a browning or sauté function, and a keep-warm setting. Many modern multi cookers also offer smart presets for rice, soup, and stew, which take the guesswork out of timing. For example, Breville's range of multi cookers includes models with intuitive digital controls and durable non-stick inner pots that make cleanup a breeze. If you also enjoy making sous vide dishes, consider pairing your multi cooker with the Joule® Turbo Sous Vide for precise water bath cooking—perfect for prepping proteins that you can later add to your one-pot meal.

Essential Techniques for Better One-Pot Meals

1. Sauté and Sear First

Never skip the browning step. Use the sauté function to sear meat in batches until deeply browned, then remove and cook onions, garlic, and spices in the rendered fat. This builds a flavor foundation that no amount of seasoning can replicate after cooking.

2. Deglaze to Unlock Flavor

After sautéing, add a splash of broth, wine, or water to the hot pot and scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. These bits are pure flavor gold. Deglazing also prevents burning during pressure cooking.

3. Layer Ingredients Wisely

For stews and soups, place dense vegetables (like carrots, potatoes, and celery) at the bottom, closer to the heat source. Put delicate items (like peas or fresh herbs) on top or add them after pressure cooking. For rice dishes, always rinse the rice first to remove excess starch, then add liquid in the correct ratio (typically 1:1.5 for white rice, 1:2 for brown rice).

4. Use the Right Liquid Amount

In pressure cooking mode, liquids do not evaporate much, so you need less than you think. For soups, use about 1–2 cups less than your final desired volume. For stews, aim for enough liquid to barely cover the ingredients. For rice, stick to the recommended water ratio to avoid mushy results.

Recipe 1: Hearty Beef and Vegetable Stew

This stew is a classic one-pot meal that benefits from pressure cooking. The beef becomes fork-tender in under 45 minutes.

• 1.5 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 lb potatoes, cubed
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions: Season beef with salt and pepper. Use the sauté function to brown beef in batches (do not crowd the pot). Remove beef, add onion and garlic, and cook 2 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute. Add broth, scraping bottom. Return beef, add carrots, celery, potatoes, and thyme. Close lid, set to pressure cook on high for 35 minutes. Quick release pressure, adjust seasoning, and serve with crusty bread.

Recipe 2: Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

A velvety soup that requires no blending if you mash the squash directly in the pot.

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream)
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions: Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add squash, broth, and ginger. Pressure cook on high for 10 minutes. Natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release. Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender to puree until smooth. Stir in coconut milk, season, and serve. Garnish with pumpkin seeds.

Recipe 3: Perfect Jasmine Rice with Herbs

Fluffy, fragrant rice every time—no need for a separate rice cooker.

• 2 cups jasmine rice, rinsed
• 3 cups water
• 1 tbsp butter or oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions: Rinse rice until water runs clear. Add rice, water, butter, and salt to the multi cooker. Close lid and select the rice function (or pressure cook on low for 10 minutes). Natural release for 10 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Stir in fresh herbs before serving. This rice pairs beautifully with any stew or soup from above.

Tips for Making Your Multi Cooker Work Harder

• Use the Keep Warm feature to hold soups and stews at serving temperature for hours without overcooking.
• Batch cook on weekends and reheat portions during the week. Most multi cookers have a reheat function.
• Experiment with grains like quinoa, barley, or farro. Adjust liquid ratios accordingly (e.g., 1:2 for quinoa).
• Add acid at the end—a squeeze of lemon or splash of vinegar brightens flavors without breaking down during pressure cooking.

Cleaning and Maintaining Your Multi Cooker

To keep your multi cooker in top shape, always unplug and let it cool before cleaning. Remove the inner pot and wash it with warm soapy water (most are dishwasher safe). Wipe the lid and sealing ring with a damp cloth. For stubborn odors, simmer a mixture of water and vinegar in the pot for 5 minutes. Regular maintenance ensures consistent performance and longer life.

Why Pair a Multi Cooker with Other Breville Appliances?

While a multi cooker handles one-pot meals beautifully, you can elevate your cooking game by combining it with other specialty appliances. For example, use the Barista Express® to brew a fresh espresso to sip while your stew simmers, or prepare a citrusy vinaigrette with the Citrus Press™ Pro to drizzle over your finished soup. And for tea lovers, the Tea Maker™ offers precise steeping for a calming cup alongside your meal. These complementary tools turn your kitchen into a streamlined cooking hub.

Conclusion

A multi cooker is a game-changer for anyone who loves hearty, one-pot meals without the fuss. From robust stews to creamy soups and fluffy rice, the versatility of this appliance makes it an essential tool for busy home cooks. By mastering a few key techniques—like searing, deglazing, and layering—you can create restaurant-quality dishes with minimal cleanup. Ready to simplify your dinner routine? Explore our range of multi cookers and accessories, and start cooking one-pot meals that your family will love.

For more inspiration, check out the Joule® Turbo Sous Vide to prep perfectly cooked proteins that can be finished in your multi cooker. Happy cooking!