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INSTANT POT
®
RIO
™
MINI
4QT MULTI-COOKER
USER MANUAL
to your new Instant Pot
®
RIO
™
Mini!
This Instant Pot RIO MIni Multi-Cooker can help you cook healthy,
delicious meals easily — so you’ll have more time for all the other
things in your life. We hope you fall in love with Instant Pot cooking and
enjoy it in your kitchen for years to come!
Get started with your new Instant Pot!
Welcome
Before using your new appliance, read all instructions, including
the Important Safeguards. Failure to follow the safeguards and
instructions may result in personal injury and/or property damage.
CONTENTS
Important safeguards 2
Using your Instant Pot RIO Mini 10
Initial set up 12
Changing settings 14
Using the lid 15
About pressure cooking 18
Pressure Cook 19
Rice 21
Steam 23
Slow Cook 25
Sauté 27
Yogurt 29
Keep Warm 31
Delay Start 33
Maintenance 34
Cleaning 38
Troubleshooting 39
Error Codes 41
Replacement Parts 42
Learn more 43
Warranty 44
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IMPORTANT
SAFEGUARDS
Failure to follow safety instructions may result in personal injury
and/or property damage and may void your warranty.
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS
Before using your new appliance, please read all instructions, including
the Safety Information below. Keep this manual for reference.
Placement
• DO place the appliance on a countertop only. Always operate the
appliance on a stable, non-combustible, level surface.
• DO make sure all parts are dry and free of food debris before placing
the inner cooking pot on the cooker base.
• DO NOT place the appliance or power cord on or close to a gas or
electric stovetop or oven. NEVER use the appliance on your stove.
• DO NOT use the appliance near water, an external heat source
or flame.
• DO NOT use outdoors. Keep out of direct sunlight.
• DO NOT place on anything that may block the vents on the bottom
of the appliance.
General Use
The removable inner cooking pot is extremely hot during use and can
be extremely heavy when full of ingredients.
• DO use oven mitts when handling the inner cooking pot and
removing accessories.
• DO place hot accessories on a heat-resistant surface or cooking plate.
• DO use care when lifting the cooking pot from the cooker base to
avoid burn injury.
• DO use extreme caution when the cooking pot contains hot food, hot
oil or other hot liquids.
• DO use only the Instant Pot lid that came with this cooker base.
Using any other pressure cooker lids may cause personal injury and/
or property damage.
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• DO NOT use the appliance without the removable inner cooking
pot installed.
• DO NOT touch the appliance’s hot surfaces, or any accessories
during or immediately after cooking because they will be hot. Only
use the appliance’s side handles for carrying or moving.
• DO NOT use this appliance for deep frying or pressure frying with oil.
• DO NOT move the appliance while it is in use and use extreme
caution when disposing of hot grease.
• DO NOT allow children or persons with reduced physical, sensory
or mental capabilities to operate this appliance. Close supervision
is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children and
persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities.
Children should not play with this appliance.
• DO NOT use the appliance for anything other than household use.
It is not intended for commercial use.
• DO NOT leave the appliance unattended while in use.
Pressure Cooking
This appliance cooks under pressure. Allow the appliance to
depressurize naturally or release all excess pressure before opening.
Failure to follow these instructions may result in burns, personal
injury and/or property damage.
• DO make sure the appliance is properly closed before operating.
• DO check that the steam release valve is installed properly.
• DO use the pressure cooking lid when pressure cooking.
• DO turn the appliance off if steam escapes from the steam
release valve and/or float valve in a steady stream for longer than
3 minutes. If steam escapes from the sides of the lid, turn the
appliance off. Once steam stops, pressure is released and the cooker
has cooled, carefully make sure the sealing ring is properly installed.
• DO ensure the sealing ring is in good condition and installed properly.
• DO check the steam release valve, steam release pipe, anti-block
shield and float valve for clogging before use.
• DO NOT remove the pressure cooking lid with unprotected hands.
Failure to follow safety instructions may result in personal injury
and/or property damage and may void your warranty.
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• DO NOT attempt to force the lid off the Instant Pot cooker base.
• DO NOT move the appliance when it is pressurized.
• DO NOT cover or obstruct the steam release valve and/or float
valve with cloth or other objects.
• DO NOT attempt to open the appliance until it has depressurized,
and all internal pressure has been released. Attempting to open
the appliance while it is still pressurized may lead to sudden release
of hot contents and may cause burns, personal injury and/or
property damage.
• DO NOT place your face, hands or exposed skin over the steam
release valve or float valve when the appliance is in operation or
has residual pressure, and do not lean over the appliance when
removing the lid.
Overfill During Pressure Cooking
Overfilling may cause a risk of clogging the steam release pipe and
valve, developing excess pressure.
• DO NOT fill the inner cooking pot over the line labeled ‘PC MAX’ or
‘Max PC Fill’.
• DO NOT fill the inner cooking pot over the line labeled ‘1/2’ when
cooking foods that expand during cooking such as rice, dried beans
or dried vegetables.
• DO be aware that certain foods, such as applesauce, cranberries,
pearl barley, oatmeal or other cereals, split peas, noodles, macaroni,
rhubarb, or spaghetti can foam, froth and sputter, and clog the
steam release pipe and valve. DO NOT fill the inner cooking pot over
the line labeled ‘1/2’ when cooking these foods.
• DO NOT place oversized foods into the inner cooking pot as they
may cause risk of fire, personal injury and/or property damage.
Accessories
• DO use only accessories or attachments authorized by Instant
Pot Brands. The use of parts, accessories or attachments not
recommended by the manufacturer may cause a risk of electric
shock or other personal injury, fire and/or property damage.
Failure to follow safety instructions may result in personal injury
and/or property damage and may void your warranty.
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• DO use only an authorized Instant Pot inner cooking pot to reduce
the risk of pressure leakage.
• DO only replace the sealing ring with an authorized Instant Pot
sealing ring to prevent personal injury, property damage, and/or
damage to the appliance.
• DO NOT use the included accessories in a microwave, toaster oven,
convection or conventional oven, on a ceramic, electric or gas
cooktop, or with an outdoor grill.
Care and Storage
• DO let the appliance cool to room temperature before cleaning
or storage.
• DO NOT store any materials, other than the inner cooking pot, in
the cooker base when not in use.
• DO NOT place any combustible materials in the cooker base, such
as paper, cardboard, plastic, Styrofoam or wood.
Power Cord
A short power-supply cord is used to reduce the hazards resulting
from grabbing, entanglement or tripping. WARNING: Hot spilled food
can cause serious burns.
• DO keep appliance and power cord away from children.
• DO disconnect the power cord from the electrical outlet when not
• using the appliance and before cleaning.
• DO NOT let the power cord hang over edges of tables or counters.
• DO NOT let the power cord touch hot surfaces or open flame,
including a stovetop.
• DO NOT use below-counter power outlets.
• DO NOT use with extension cords, power converters or adapters,
timer switches or separate remote-control systems.
This appliance has a polarized plug and one blade is wider than the
other. To reduce the risk of electric shock:
• DO plug this appliance into a polarized outlet one way.
• DO contact a qualified electrician if the plug does not fit in the outlet.
• DO NOT attempt to modify the plug. If the plug does not fit full into
the outlet, reverse the plug.
Failure to follow safety instructions may result in personal injury
and/or property damage and may void your warranty.
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Electrical Warning
The cooker base contains electrical components that are an electrical
shock hazard. Failure to follow these instructions may result in
electric shock and/or death.
To protect against electrical shock:
• To disconnect, select Cancel, then remove plug from power source.
Always unplug when not in use, as well as before adding or removing
parts or accessories, and before cleaning. To unplug, grasp the plug
and pull from the outlet. NEVER pull from the power cord.
• DO regularly inspect the appliance and power cord for any signs
of damage or fraying.
• DO NOT operate the appliance if the power cord or plug is damaged,
or after the appliance malfunctions or is dropped or damaged in
any manner. For assistance, contact Consumer Care by email at
support@instantpot.com.
• DO NOT attempt to repair, replace or modify components of
the appliance, as this may cause electric shock or other personal
injury, fire and/or property damage, and will void the warranty.
For assistance, contact Consumer Care by email at
support@instantpot.com.
• DO NOT tamper with any of the safety mechanisms, as this may
result in personal injury and/or property damage.
• DO NOT put liquid or food of any kind into cooker base without
the inner cooking pot.
• DO NOT immerse the power cord, plug or the appliance in water
or other liquid.
• DO NOT clean the appliance by rinsing it under a faucet.
• DO NOT use the appliance in electrical systems other than
120 V ~ 60 Hz for North America.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Failure to follow safety instructions may result in personal injury
and/or property damage and may void your warranty.
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WHAT’S IN THE BOX
Lid (top)
Lid (bottom)
Float Valve Bottom
with Silicone Cap
Sealing Ring
Sealing Ring Rack
Steam Release Switch
Lid Position Marker
Steam Release Vent
Handle
Float Valve
Steam Release Valve
and Anti-Block Shield
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Cooking Pot
Cooker Base
Stainless Steel Cooking Pot
Half Full
Max Fill
Cooker Handle
Control Panel
Condensation Rim
Power Cord
Condensation
Collector
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Accessories
Illustrations are for reference only and may differ from the actual product.
Remember to recycle!
We designed this packaging with sustainability in mind. Please recycle
everything that can be recycled where you live.
Steam Rack
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USING YOUR INSTANT POT RIO MINI
Control panel
We’ve designed the control panel to be simple to use and easy to read.
Control Panel buttons and indicators
Smart Programs
Pressure Cook Sauté Rice
Off On Off On Off On
Slow Cook Steam Yogurt
Off On Off On Off On
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Controls
Time/Temp
Decrease Increase
Delay Start Keep Warm Cancel Start
Off On Off On Press to cancel Press to start
Indicators
Temp Level (Sauté, Yogurt)
Low Med High
Temp Level (Slow Cook)
Low High
Status Display Progress Indicators
Cooking, Delay and Warm
Times, Messages
Preheat Cook Warm
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INITIAL SET UP
Clean and assembly before use
1. Wash the cooking pot with hot water and soap. Rinse and use
a soft cloth to dry the outside. Or you can wash the cooking pot in
the dishwasher.
2. Wipe the heating element inside the multi-cooker base with a soft
cloth to ensure there are no stray packaging particles.
3. Install the condensation collector. See the instructions on page 37.
Connect to power
When you’re ready to use your Instant Pot, plug the power cord into
an electrical outlet. When you’re done cooking and whenever you’re
cleaning the multi-cooker, unplug the cord from the outlet.
Test run
Performing a test run is a great way to familiarize yourself with how
the multi-cooker works before you actually cook a meal.
To perform a test run:
1. Add 3 cups water to the cooking pot.
2. Place the cooking pot into the multi-cooker base.
3. Place the lid on top of the multi-cooker base and turn to lock.
See ‘How to close the lid’ below.
4. Press Pressure Cook.
5. Press the
Up or Down arrows to select 5 minutes time.
6. Press
Keep Warm to turn off Keep Warm.
7. Press
Start. The Progress Indicator shows Preheat.
8. When the pressure is ready, the Progress Indicator shows Cook.
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9. When the timer reaches 00:00, cooking stops and the Status
Display shows End.
10. Set the steam release switch on the lid to Vent
. When all steam
is released, the Float Valve drops into the lid.
See ‘How the Float Valve works’ on page 17.
11. Open the lid.
See ‘How to open the lid’ below.
Use care: the cooking pot will be hot. Let the pot cool before carefully lifting
it out.
12. Discard any remaining water, and then wash and dry the cooking pot.
Now you’re ready to cook a meal in your Instant Pot!
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CHANGING SETTINGS
Turn the sound On/Off
You can set the alert sounds to either ON or OFF.
1. When the Status Display shows OFF, press and hold Delay Start
and Keep Warm for 5 seconds.
2. The Status Display shows S On or SOFF. The new sound setting
is active.
Audible safety alerts cannot be turned off.
Cancel cooking
When in Preheating, Cooking or Keep Warm modes, press Cancel.
The Status Display shows OFF.
Memorized settings
Each time you use a smart program, the multi-cooker memorizes the
settings you select and they become the default the next time you use
that program. Each time you use a smart program, you can use the
default settings or change them. This applies to:
• Temperature settings
• Cooking time settings
You can erase the memorized settings and reset them to the original
factory settings.
Reset individual smart programs
• When the Status Display shows OFF, press and hold one smart
program button for over 3 seconds until the smart program flashes
twice and the multi-cooker returns to Ready mode.
The individual smart program settings are restored to the factory defaults.
Reset all smart programs
• When the Status Display shows OFF, press and hold Cancel for
over 3 seconds until all smart program buttons flash 3 times.
All smart program settings are restored to the factory defaults.
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USING THE LID
You’ll use the lid for most smart programs, and always for pressure
cooking. Always use the lid that came with this Instant Pot RIO Mini
multi-cooker base.
How to close the lid
1. Line up the
on the lid with the
on the multi-cooker base.
2. Turn the lid until the
on the lid aligns with the
on the multi-
cooker base.
For pressure cooking, the lid will automatically lock when the multi-cooker
starts building pressure.
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How to open the lid
1. If you’re using a pressure cooking smart program, make sure to
vent the steam first until the Float Valve drops into the lid.
See ‘How the Float Valve works’ below.
2. Turn the lid counterclockwise until the
on the lid lines up with
the
on the multi-cooker base.
3. Carefully lift the lid up and off the multi-cooker base.
How to release steam
Instant Pot RIO MIni can release steam in 2 different ways. Use the one
that best fits the type of food you’re cooking or the recipe calls for.
Natural steam release
Releases steam gradually over time (up to 40 minutes or more) after
cooking stops.
Use for: Foods that can simmer, like stews, chili, pasta and beans.
1. When a pressure cooking program ends, Natural steam release
begins automatically.
2. When all steam is released, the Float Valve drops into the lid.
See ‘How the Float Valve works’ below.
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Quick steam release
Quickly releases steam after cooking stops.
Use for: Foods that tend to overcook, like vegetables and seafood.
1. When a pressure cooking program ends, set the steam release
switch on the lid to Vent
.
2. When all steam is released, the Float Valve drops into the lid.
See ‘How the Float Valve works’ below.
How the Float Valve works
The float valve shows whether there is pressure in the multi-cooker
(pressurized) or not (depressurized). It appears in two positions:
Pressurized Depressurized
The float valve has popped up. The float valve has dropped down
into the lid.
The float valve comes installed in the multi-cooker. Do not touch the
float valve during use.
Caution: It may not be easy to see if the float valve has dropped into the
lid. Look closely at the float valve and never try to force the lid open.
Pressure Cooking Caution
This appliance uses pressure to cook. Allow the appliance to release
all excess pressure and steam before opening the lid. Opening the lid
before pressure is released may result in burns, personal injury and/or
property damage. Read more in the Safety section.
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ABOUT PRESSURE COOKING
Pressure cooking uses pressure to raise the temperature in the cooking
pot, allowing you to cook food much faster than normal. When pressure
cooking, the Instant Pot RIO Mini goes through 3 stages.
Pre-heating
While the multi-cooker pre-heats, it heats the liquid to create steam.
Once enough pressure has built up, the lid locks in place and the multi-
cooker is ready to start cooking.
Cooking
When the multi-cooker reaches the required pressure level, cooking
begins and keeps the pressure level consistent throughout cooking.
See the smart program instructions starting on page 19 for details.
Steam release
When food has finished cooking, the multi-cooker is still pressurized
and hot. Venting releases the pressure, lowers the temperature and
allows you to safely remove the lid.
See How to release steam on page 16.
Using liquid to create steam
Pressure cooking requires liquid in the cooking pot to produce the
steam needed. Here are the minimum amounts you’ll need:
Instant Pot Size Minimum Liquid for Pressure Cooking*
4 Quarts / 3.8 Litres 3 cups (25 oz / 750 mL)
*Unless otherwise specified in recipe.
Pressure cooking liquids should be water-based, such as broth, stock, soup or juice.
If using canned, condensed, or cream-based soup, add water as directed above.
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PRESSURE COOK
Pressure cooking uses pressurized steam to quickly and evenly cook
foods. You can adjust the settings as your recipe directs.
Choose from these settings in the Pressure Cook smart program. The
program uses the default settings or the settings you selected the last
time you used the Pressure Cook program.
Default Cook Time Min Cook Time Max Cook Time
10 minutes 0 minutes 4 hours
Other settings
• Keep Warm is set to ON by default.
• Delay Start is available.
How to pressure cook
Prep
Cut, chop, season or marinate your ingredients according to
your recipe.
Preheat
1. Place the cooking pot into the multi-cooker base and add
ingredients and liquid.
2. Place the lid on top of the multi-cooker base and lock the lid.
3. Press Pressure Cook. The default or last-used cooking
settings display.
4. To change the cooking time, press the
Up or Down arrows
to select a time.
5. To turn off Keep Warm, press
Keep Warm.
You can activate Keep Warm at any time during cooking.
6. To start cooking later, press Delay Start, then press the Up
or Down arrows to select a delay time.
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7. Press Start. The Progress Indicator shows Preheat.
It can take 15 minutes or more to reach the pressure setting for cooking.
Frozen foods and large quantities increase the preheating time.
Cook
1. When the pressure is ready, the Progress Indicator shows
Cook
and the cooking timer starts counting down.
You can press Cancel to stop cooking and cancel the smart program at
any time.
You can press
Keep Warm at any time during cooking to turn it off.
Stop cooking
1. When the timer reaches 00:00, cooking stops and Natural steam
release begins. The Status Display shows End. If you prefer, you
can use Quick steam release by pushing the steam release switch
on the lid to Vent
.
2. If Keep Warm is ON, the timer starts counting up.
You can press Cancel at any time to stop Keep Warm.
3. When all steam is released, the Float Valve drops into the holder.
See ‘How the Float Valve works’ on page 17.
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RICE
The Rice smart program uses pressurized steam to cook rice quickly
and evenly. You can adjust the settings as your recipe directs.
Choose from these settings in the Rice smart program. The program
uses the default settings or the settings you selected the last time you
used the Rice program.
Default Cook Time Min Cook Time Max Cook Time
12 minutes 0 minute 1 hour
Other settings
• Keep Warm is set to ON by default.
• Delay Start is available.
How to cook rice
Prep
Prepare the ingredients according to your recipe.
Preheat
1. Place the cooking pot into the multi-cooker base and add
ingredients and liquid.
2. Place the lid on top of the multi-cooker base and lock the lid.
3. Press Rice. The default or last-used cooking settings display.
4. To change the cooking time, press the
Up or Down arrows
to select a time.
5. To turn off Keep Warm, press
Keep Warm.
You can activate Keep Warm at any time during cooking.
6. To start cooking at a later time, press Delay Start, then press
the Up or Down arrows to select a delay time.
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7. Press Start. The Progress Indicator shows Preheat.
It can take 15 minutes or more to reach the pressure setting for cooking.
Frozen foods and large quantities increase the preheating time.
Cook
1. When the pressure is ready, the Progress Indicator shows
Cook
and the cooking timer starts counting down.
You can press Cancel to stop cooking and cancel the smart program at
any time.
You can press
Keep Warm at any time during cooking to turn it off.
Stop cooking
1. When the timer reaches 00:00, cooking stops and Natural steam
release begins. The Status Display shows End. If you prefer, you can
use Quick steam release by pushing the steam release switch on
the lid to Vent
.
2. If Keep Warm is ON, the timer starts counting up.
You can press Cancel at any time to stop Keep Warm.
3. When all steam is released, the Float Valve drops into the holder.
See ‘How the Float Valve works’ on page 17.
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STEAM
Use Steam as you would a regular stovetop steamer, boiling liquid to
cook food with hot steam.
Choose from these settings in the Steam smart program. The program
uses the default settings or the settings you selected the last time you
used the Steam program.
Default Cook Time Min Cook Time Max Cook Time
10 minutes 0 minute 1 hour
Other settings
• Keep Warm is set to ON by default.
• Delay Start is available.
How to steam
Prep
Cut or chop your ingredients according to your recipe.
Preheat
1. Place the cooking pot into the multi-cooker base and add
ingredients and liquid.
2. Place the lid on top of the multi-cooker base and lock the lid.
3. Press Steam. The default or last-used cooking settings display.
4. To change the cooking time, press the
Up or Down arrows to
select a time.
5. To start cooking later, press
Delay Start, then press the Up
or Down arrows to select a delay time.
6. Press
Start. The Progress Indicator shows Preheat.
It can take 15 minutes or more to reach the temperature for cooking.
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Cook
1. When the pressure is ready, the Progress Indicator shows
Cook
and the cooking timer starts counting down.
You can press Cancel to stop cooking at any time.
Stop cooking
1. When the timer reaches 00:00, cooking stops. The Status Display
shows End.
2. The Steam smart program does not use pressure to cook, but a
small amount of pressure can build up and make it hard to remove
the lid. If that happens, set the steam release switch on the lid to
Vent
until any extra steam is released.
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SLOW COOK
Slow Cook lets you make your favorite simmering and stewing recipes,
just as you would in a slow cooker. Slow Cook does not use pressure to
cook food.
Choose from these settings in the Slow Cook smart program. The
program uses the default settings or the settings you selected the last
time you used the Slow Cook program.
Default Cook
Setting
Cook Setting
Options
Default Cook
Time
Min Cook
Time
Max Cook
Time
High High
Low
6 hours 30 minutes 24 hours
Cook settings
For Slow Cooking, you can choose either the Low or High setting.
High Setting Low Setting
• 2.5 hours to reach maximum
temperature of 205°F / 95°C (faster)
• 3 hours minimum cooking
time recommended
• Faster initial heating is ideal for
foods like leaner meats (chicken or
pork), soft vegetables and soups
• 4.5 hours to reach maximum
temperature of 205°F / 95°C (slower)
• 4 hours minimum cooking
time recommended
• Slower initial heating is ideal for
foods like tougher meats (pot roast
or brisket), dense roasts, bone in
meat and root vegetables
Other settings
• Keep Warm is ON by default.
• Delay Start is available.
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How to slow cook
Prep
Cut, chop, season or marinate your ingredients according to your recipe.
Cook
1. Place the cooking pot into the multi-cooker base and
add ingredients.
2. Place the lid on top of the multi-cooker base and lock the lid.
3. Press Slow Cook. The default or last-used cooking
settings display.
4. To change the cooking time, press Time/Temp until the time
flashes. Press the
Up or Down arrows to select a time.
You can change the cooking time at any time during cooking.
5. To change the cook setting, press Time/Temp until the temp
flashes. Press the Up or Down arrows to toggle between
Low and High options.
6. To turn off Keep Warm, press
Keep Warm.
You can activate Keep Warm at any time during cooking.
7. To start cooking at a later time, press Delay Start, then press
the Up or Down arrows to select a delay time.
8. Press
Start. The Progress Indicator shows Cook and the
cooking timer starts counting down.
You can press Cancel to stop cooking at any time.
Stop cooking
1. When the timer reaches 00:00, cooking stops. The Status Display
shows End.
2. If Keep Warm is ON, the timer starts counting up.
Press Cancel at any time to turn it off.
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SAUTÉ
Use Sauté in place of a frying or saucepan. Sautéing can deepen the
flavors of your food, or can simmer, thicken or reduce sauces. Sauté
does not use pressure to cook food.
Choose from these settings in the Sauté smart program. The program
uses the default settings or the settings you selected the last time you
used the Sauté program.
Default
Temperature
Temperature Options Default
Cook Time
Min
Cook Time
Max
Cook Time
High Low: 104°C / 220°F
Medium: 149°C / 300°F
High: 190°C / 375°F
30 minutes 1 minute 1 hour
Other settings
• Keep Warm is not available.
• Delay Start is not available.
How to sauté
Prep
Cut, chop, season or marinate your ingredients according to your recipe.
Preheat
1. Place the cooking pot into the multi-cooker base.
2. Press Sauté. The default or last-used cooking settings display.
3. To change the cooking time, press Time/Temp until the time
flashes. Press the
Up or Down arrows to select a time.
You can change the cooking time at any time during cooking.
4. To change the temperature setting, press Time/Temp until the
temp flashes. Press the Up or Down arrows to toggle
between Low and High options.
5. Press Start. The Progress Indicator shows Preheat.
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Cook
1. When the Status Display shows Hot, add ingredients.
Do not use the lid while sauteing.
2. The cooking timer starts counting down.
You can press Cancel to stop cooking at any time.
3. When the cooking time reaches 00:00, the Status Display shows End.
Sautéing before Pressure or Slow Cooking
Quite often, you’ll want to sauté foods to brown them before further
cooking them.
1. Sauté ingredients.
2. Press
Cancel.
You can deglaze the cooking pot now before switching to Pressure Cook or
Slow Cook (see Deglazing below).
3. Select the smart program you want to use to cook.
Deglazing
Deglazing is the process of adding a liquid to a hot pan, releasing all
of the delicious, caramelized pieces stuck to the bottom.
1. Remove food from cooking pot.
2. Add water, broth, or wine.
3. Use wooden spoon or silicone spatula to loosen food stuck to
bottom of the cooking pot.
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YOGURT
You can use your Instant Pot RIO Mini to easily make delicious, fermented
dairy and non-dairy yogurt. Yogurt does not use pressure to cook food.
We recommend following a trusted recipe when making yogurt. You
can find recipes at www.instantpot.com.
Choose from these settings in the Yogurt smart program:
Step Recommended
Temperature
Recommended
Time
Min Time Max Time
Pasteurization High 3 minutes Not
adjustable
Not
adjustable
Fermentation Medium or Low According to
recipe
30 minutes 99 hours,
30 minutes
Temperature settings
When you follow a recipe for making yogurt, it’s helpful to know what
the actual temperature settings are.
Temp Level Temperature
High 85°C / 185°F
Medium 40°C / 104°F
Low 33°C / 91.4°F
Other settings
• Keep Warm is not available.
• Delay Start is not available.
How to make yogurt
Pasteurizing Milk
1. Add milk to the cooking pot and place the cooking pot into the
multi-cooker base.
2. Place the lid on top of the multi-cooker base and lock the lid.
3. Press Yogurt. The default or last-used cooking settings display.
4. Press the
Up or Down arrows to select High temperature.
The display will show boiL. You cannot adjust the cooking time.
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5. Press Start to begin. The display shows ON.
6. When pasteurization finishes, the display shows End.
7. Remove the lid and allow the pasteurized milk to cool.
Note: Milk must reach a minimum temperature of 161°F / 72°C for pasteurization
to occur.
Adding Culture/Starter
1. Check that the pasteurized milk has cooled to 43°F / 10°C.
2. Add a starter culture to the milk according to package instructions.
If using plain yogurt as a starter, ensure that it contains an active culture.
Mix in 2 tbsp (30 mL) of yogurt per 1 gallon (3.7 L) of milk or follow a
trusted recipe.
3. Place the lid back on the multi-cooker base.
Ferment
1. Press Yogurt.
2. Press the
Up or Down arrows to select Low or Medium
temperature. The default cooking time will flash on the display.
3. Press the
Up or Down arrows to select the fermentation
time according to your recipe.
You can change the fermentation time at any time during fermentation.
A longer fermentation period will produce tangier yogurt.
4. Press Start. The Progress Indicator shows Cook.
5. When fermentation completes, the display shows End.
6. Open the lid and transfer the yogurt to a food storage container.
7. Place in the fridge for 12–24 hours to develop flavors.
How much to make?
Minimum Milk Volume Maximum Milk Volume
4 Cups
(32 oz / 1000 mL)
2.7 Quarts
(84 oz / 2.5 L)
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User Manual
KEEP WARM
You can use Keep Warm after cooking with the Pressure Cook, Rice
and Slow Cook smart programs. You can also use Keep Warm to reheat
food. Keep Warm does not use pressure to cook food.
Choose from these settings in the Keep Warm smart program. The
program uses the default settings or the settings you selected the last
time you used the Keep Warm program.
Temperature
Options
Default Time Min Time Max Time
Keep
Warm
High: 77°C / 171°F 10 hours NA NA
Reheat Low: 62°C / 144°F
Med: 68°C / 155°F
High: 77°C / 171°F
10 hours 10 minutes 10 hours
Other settings
• Delay Start is not available.
How to keep warm after cooking
1. When Keep Warm is turned ON for a smart program, it
automatically starts when cooking is finished. The timer shows the
time passed, up to 10 hours.
2. To turn off Keep Warm at any time, press
Cancel.
How to reheat
Prep
Place the food to be reheated into the cooking pot.
You can also use an oven-safe baking dish that fits in the cooking pot. Add 1/2-cup
to 1 cup of water to the cooking pot to avoid overheating the baking dish.
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User Manual
Reheat
1. Place the cooking pot into the multi-cooker base.
2. Place the lid on top of the multi-cooker base.
3. Press
Keep Warm. The default or last-used cooking
settings display.
4. To change the cooking time, press Time/Temp until the time
flashes. Press the
Up or Down arrows to select a time.
You can change the cooking time at any time during cooking.
5. To change the temperature setting, press Time/Temp until the
temp flashes. Press the Up or Down arrows to toggle
between Low, Med and High options.
6. Press
Start. The Progress Indicator shows Warm and the Status
Display shows the timer counting down.
7. When reheating completes, the display shows End.
8. To turn off Keep Warm at any time, press
Cancel.
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User Manual
DELAY START
You can use Delay Start to delay the beginning of a cooking program or
to set a timer (even if you’re not cooking in your Instant Pot).
Default Time Min Time Max Time
Delay start 6 hours 10 minutes 24 hours
Timer 10 minutes 1 minute 1 hour
Delay Start is not available with the Sauté, Yogurt or Keep Warm smart programs.
Delay the start of cooking
1. Select a smart program, adjust the settings as you want, then
press Delay Start.
2. Press the
Up or Down arrows to select a time.
3. Press
Start. The timer counts down.
4. When Delay Start ends, the smart program begins automatically.
Set a timer (without cooking)
1. When the Status Display shows Off, press
Delay Start.
2. Press the
Up or Down arrows to select a time.
3. Press
Start to begin the timer.
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User Manual
MAINTENANCE
Your Instant Pot RIO Mini includes parts that enable pressure cooking.
These parts must be installed for pressure cooking to work properly
and either cleaned or replaced regularly.
Failure to adhere to safety instructions may result in personal
injury and/or property damage and may void your warranty.
Sealing ring
When the pressure cooking lid is closed, the sealing ring installed on
the underside of the lid creates an air-tight seal between the lid and
the multi-cooker base.
• The sealing ring must be installed before using the multi-cooker
and should be cleaned after each use.
• Install 1 sealing ring at a time; use one for sweet dishes and one
for savory.
• Sealing rings stretch over time with normal use. To keep your
product safe, replace the sealing ring every 12 to 18 months.
Replace sooner if you notice stretching, deformation, or damage.
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User Manual
Install the Sealing Ring
1. Place the sealing ring behind the sealing ring rack and press it into
place. Press down firmly to ensure there is no puckering.
2. The sealing ring should be snug and should not fall out when the lid
is turned over.
Remove the Sealing Ring
1. Grip the edge of the sealing ring and pull it out from behind the
sealing ring rack.
2. Inspect the rack to ensure it is secured, centered, and an even
height all the way around the lid. If the sealing ring rack is
deformed, do not try to repair it.
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User Manual
Anti-block shield
The anti-block shield prevents food particles from coming up through
the steam release pipe, helping to regulate pressure.
As an integral part of product safety, the anti-block shield must be
installed before use and cleaned frequently.
Remove the Anti-Block Shield
Turn the lid over and hold it securely with one hand. Use the other
hand to grasp the Anti-Block Shield with your fingers and pull firmly
to remove it from the prongs underneath .
Install the Anti-Block Shield
Place anti-block shield over prongs and press down until it snaps into
position. Do not attempt to operate the pressure multi-cooker without
the anti-block shield installed.
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User Manual
Setting up the condensation collector
The condensation collector sits at the back of the multi-cooker base and
accumulates overflow moisture from the condensation rim. It should be
installed before cooking, then emptied and rinsed out after each use.
Install the condensation collector
Align the grooves on the condensation collector with the tabs on the back
of the multi-cooker base and slide the condensation collector into place.
Remove the condensation collector
Pull the condensation collector away from the multi-cooker base;
do not pull down.
Note the tabs on the multi-cooker base and the grooves on the condensation collector.
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User Manual
CLEANING
Clean your Instant Pot RIO MIni after each use. Always unplug the unit
and let all parts cool to room temperature before cleaning. Before use
or storing, make sure all surfaces are dry.
Part Cleaning instructions
Accessories
• Steam Rack
• Wash after each use.
• Hand wash with hot water and mild dish soap or wash in
dishwasher, top rack.
• Never use harsh chemical detergents, powders or scouring
pads on accessories.
Lid and Parts
• Anti-Block
Shield
• Sealing Ring
• Condensation
Collector
• Hand wash with hot water and mild dish soap.
• Remove all small parts from lid before washing.
• With steam release valve and anti-block shield removed,
clean interior of steam release pipe to prevent clogging.
• After cleaning, store the lid upside down on the
multi-cooker base.
• Store sealing rings in a well-ventilated area to disperse odor.
• To eliminate odors from sealing ring, add 1 cup (8 oz / 250 mL)
water and 1 cup (8 oz / 250 mL) white vinegar to cooking
pot, and run Pressure Cook for 5–10 minutes, then use Quick
Steam Release.
• Empty and rinse condensation collector after each use.
Cooking Pot • Wash after each use.
• Hand wash with hot water and mild dish soap or wash
in dishwasher*.
• Hard water stains may need a vinegar-dampened sponge and
scrubbing to remove.
• For tough or burned food residue, soak in hot water for
a few hours before cleaning.
• Dry all exterior surfaces before placing in multi-cooker base.
Power cord • Use a barely-damp cloth to wipe any particles off cord.
Cooker base • Wipe the inside of the multi-cooker base as well as the
condensation rim with a barely-damp cloth, and allow to
air dry.
• Clean the outside of the multi-cooker base and the control
panel with a soft, barely-damp cloth or sponge.
*Some discoloration may occur after machine washing, but this will not affect the multi-
cooker’s safety or performance.
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User Manual
TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem Cause Solution
Difficulty closing lid Sealing ring not
properly installed
Reposition sealing ring,
ensure it is snug behind
sealing ring rack.
Contents in multi-cooker
are still hot
Set Steam Release to Quick
release, then lower lid onto
multi-cooker base .
Difficulty
opening lid
Pressure inside the
multi-cooker
Release pressure according
to recipe; only open lid when
the Status Display shows OK
to Open Lid.
Cooking pot is
stuck to lid when
cooking is complete
Cooling of cooking pot
may create suction,
causing cooking pot to
adhere to the lid
To release the vacuum,
set Steam Release to
Quick Release.
Steam leaks from
side of lid
No sealing ring in lid Install sealing ring.
Sealing ring damaged or
not properly installed
Replace sealing ring.
Food debris attached to
sealing ring
Remove sealing ring and
clean thoroughly.
Lid not closed properly Open, then close lid.
Sealing ring rack is
warped or off-center
Remove sealing ring from
lid, check sealing ring rack
for bends or warps. Contact
Consumer Care.
Cooking pot rim may
be misshapen
Check for deformation and
contact Consumer Care.
Minor steam
leaking/hissing
from steam
release vent during
cooking cycle
Cooker is regulating
excess pressure
This is normal; no
action required.
Steam gushes
from steam release
vent when Steam
Release switch is
in Seal position
Not enough liquid in
the cooking pot
Add thin, water-based liquid
to the cooking pot:
1 1/2 cups (12 oz / 375 mL).
Pressure sensor
control failure
Contact Consumer Care.
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User Manual
Problem Cause Solution
Display remains
blank after
plugging in the
power cord
Bad power connection or
no power
Inspect power cord for
damage. If damage is
noticed, contact
Consumer Care.
Check outlet to ensure it
is powered.
Cooker’s electrical fuse
has blown
Contact Consumer Care.
Occasional
clicking or light
cracking sound
The sound of power
switching and expanding
pressure board when
changing temperatures
This is normal; no
action needed.
Bottom of the cooking pot
is wet
Wipe exterior surfaces of
cooking pot. Ensure heating
element is dry before
inserting cooking pot into
multi-cooker base.
Error code appears
on display and
multi-cooker beeps
continuously
There is an issue with the
multi-cooker
Read “Error Codes” for
instructions.
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User Manual
ERROR CODES
If the control panel shows an error code from this list, there is an issue
with the Instant Pot RIO Mini. Here are the actions you should take to
fix the problem.
Problem Cause Solution
C1 Faulty sensor Contact Consumer Care.
C6H Issue with pressure switch Contact Consumer Care.
C7 Pressure not
building properly
Make sure the sealing ring
is installed correctly.
If issue persists, contact
Consumer Care.
PrSE Pressure has accumulated
during the Sauté program
Set Steam Release to
Quick release.
Open Lid The lid is on the base but
not locked during the
Sauté program
Do not use the lid when using
the Sauté Smart Program.
Lid Err The lid is not locked during
pressure cooking
Make sure the lid is on the
cooking base correctly and
set to ‘lock’.
Food burn High temperature detected
at bottom of cooking pot;
multi-cooker automatically
reduces temperature to
avoid overheating
Turn the Smart Program off,
release pressure according,
and make sure there is
enough liquid in the bottom
of the cooking pot.
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User Manual
REPLACEMENT PARTS
We offer genuine replacement parts for your Instant Pot RIO Mini
multi-cooker, if you need them. Visit www.instantpot.com to order.
Part Part number
Stainless Steel Inner Cooking Pot 212-0150-01
Steam Rack 310-1033-01
Sealing Ring 211-0001-01
Condensation Collector 310-0001-01
Steam Release Valve 310-0022-01
Float Valve 310-0098-01
Anti-Block Shield 310-0006-01
Manual 399-1291-03US
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User Manual
LEARN MORE
There’s a whole world of Instant Pot
®
cooking information and help just
waiting for you. Here are some of the most helpful resources.
Register your product
Instantpot.com/register
Contact Consumer Care
In the Instant Connect
™
App
Instantpot.com/customer-care-center
support@instantpot.com
Download the Instant Connect
™
App
Discover guided cooking and recipes
Available at iOS and Android app stores
Cooking charts and more recipes
Instantpot.com
How-to videos, tips and more
Instantpot.com
Replacement parts and accessories
Instantpot.com
Join the community
Product specifications
Model Volume Wattage Power
RIPC41 4 Quarts
3.8 Litres
800 W 120V ~ 60Hz
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User Manual
WARRANTY
One (1) Year Limited Warranty
This One (1) Year Limited Warranty applies to purchases made one year from the
purchase date or delivery date, whichever is later, from authorized retailers of Instant
Pot Brands by the original appliance owner and is not transferable. Proof of original
purchase date and, if requested by Instant Pot Brands, return of your appliance, is
required to obtain service under this Limited Warranty. Provided the appliance was used
in accordance with the use & care instructions, Instant Pot Brands will, in its sole and
exclusive discretion, either: (i) repair defects in materials or workmanship; or (ii) replace
the appliance. In the event that your appliance is replaced, the Limited Warranty on the
replacement appliance will expire twelve (12) months from the date of receipt. Failure to
register your product will not reduce your warranty rights. The liability of Instant Pot
Brands, if any, for any allegedly defective appliance or part will not exceed the purchase
price of a comparable replacement appliance.
What is not covered by this warranty?
• Products purchased, used, or operated outside of the United States and Canada.
• Products that have been modified or attempted to be modified.
• Damage resulting from accident, alteration, misuse, abuse, neglect, unreasonable
use, use contrary to the operating instructions, normal wear and tear, commercial
use, improper assembly, disassembly, failure to provide reasonable and necessary
maintenance, fire, flood, acts of God, or repair by anyone unless directed by an
Instant Pot Brands representative.
• Use of unauthorized parts and accessories.
• Incidental and consequential damages.
• The cost of repair or replacement under these excluded circumstances.
EXCEPT AS EXPRESSLY PROVIDED HEREIN AND TO THE EXTENT PERMITTED BY
APPLICABLE LAW, INSTANT POT BRANDS MAKES NO WARRANTIES, CONDITIONS
OR REPRESENTATIONS, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, BY STATUTE, USAGE, CUSTOM OF
TRADE OR OTHERWISE WITH RESPECT TO THE APPLIANCES OR PARTS COVERED BY
THIS WARRANTY, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, WARRANTIES, CONDITIONS, OR
REPRESENTATIONS OF WORKMANSHIP, MERCHANTABILITY, MERCHANTABLE QUALITY,
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR DURABILITY.
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User Manual
Some states or provinces do not allow for: (1) the exclusion of implied warranties of
merchantability or fitness; (2) limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts; and/or
(3) the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages; so these
limitations may not apply to you. In these states and provinces, you have only the implied
warranties that are expressly required to be provided in accordance with applicable
law. The limitations of warranties, liability, and remedies apply to the maximum extent
permitted by law. This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also
have other rights which vary from state to state or province to province.
Product Registration
Please visit www.instantpot.com/register to register your new Instant Pot Brands
appliance. Failure to register your product will not diminish your warranty rights. You will
be asked to provide the store name, date of purchase, model number (found on the back
of your appliance) and serial number (found on the bottom of your appliance) along with
your name and email address. The registration will enable us to keep you up to date with
product developments and recipes, and contact you in the unlikely event of a product
safety notification. By registering, you acknowledge that you have read and understand
the instructions for use, and warnings set forth in the accompanying instructions.
Warranty Service
To obtain warranty service, please contact our Consumer Care Department by email
to support@instantpot.com. You can also create a support ticket online at
www.instantpot.com. If we are unable to resolve the problem, you may be asked to
send your appliance to the Service Department for quality inspection. Instant Pot Brands
is not responsible for shipping costs related to warranty service. When returning your
appliance, please include your name, mailing address, email address, phone number,
and proof of the original purchase date as well as a description of the problem you are
encountering with the appliance.
DO NOT place this
appliance on or close to
a gas or electric burner,
or inside an oven. NEVER
use on your stove. Always
operate this appliance on
a stable, non-combustible,
level surface, such as a
kitchen countertop.
In Canada, distributed by
Instant Pot Brands
199 Bay Street, Suite 4000
Toronto, ON M5L 1A9 Canada
In U.S., distributed by
Instant Pot Brands
8725 W Higgins Road, Suite 725
Chicago, IL 60631 U.S.
instantpot.com
© 2025 Instant Pot Brands
399-1291-03US
Art release date
07/28/2025
INSTANT POT
is a registered trademark
of Instant Pot Brands
