[Full Guide] How Long To Cook Salmon In Instant Pot?

Salmon is a delectable, nutritious fish full of omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein. By using an Instant Pot, you can easily cook salmon to perfection in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional cooking methods. This guide will walk you through the steps of selecting, preparing, and cooking salmon in an Instant Pot while providing troubleshooting tips and techniques to ensure your dish turns out moist, flavorful, and delicious every time.

Quick Answer: How Long To Cook Salmon In Instant Pot

When cooking salmon in an Instant Pot, the average cooking time is around 5 minutes on high pressure. However, the thickness of the salmon fillet will affect the cooking time. Thinner fillets may only require 3-4 minutes, while thicker cuts may need 6-7 minutes.

Selection

Selecting the right salmon is crucial for a successful dish. Choose fresh, high-quality salmon fillets with a vibrant pink or orange color, avoiding any fillets that appear dull or have a strong fishy odor. Additionally, consider the sustainability and source of the salmon, opting for wild-caught salmon whenever possible for superior flavor and nutritional value.

Preparation

1. Thawing: If using frozen salmon, ensure it is fully thawed before cooking. A gentle overnight thaw in the refrigerator is ideal, but if time is limited, you can submerge the sealed salmon in cold water for a quicker thaw.

2. Seasoning: Pat the salmon dry with paper towels and then season it to your liking. Common seasonings include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Be sure to coat both sides of the fillet evenly with the seasonings.

3. Prepping the Instant Pot: Before adding the salmon, ensure the Instant Pot is clean and dry. This will prevent any sticking during the cooking process. Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot and add one cup of water to create the necessary steam for pressure cooking.

Instant Pot Cooking Times For Salmon

The cooking time for salmon in the Instant Pot varies based on the thickness of the fillet. Here are general guidelines for cooking times:

• ¾ inch thick fillet: 3-4 minutes on high pressure
• 1 inch thick fillet: 5 minutes on high pressure
• 1 ¼ inch thick fillet: 6-7 minutes on high pressure

The cooking times can be adjusted based on your preference for the doneness of the salmon. Keep in mind that the salmon will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the Instant Pot, so slight undercooking is preferable to prevent dryness.

How To Cook Salmon In Instant Pot

1. Prepare the Instant Pot: As mentioned before, ensure the Instant Pot is clean and dry. Place the trivet inside and add one cup of water to the pot.

2. Season the Salmon: Season the salmon fillet with your choice of seasonings, ensuring both sides are evenly coated.

3. Place the Salmon: Gently place the seasoned salmon fillet on the trivet inside the Instant Pot. You can add herbs, lemon slices, or other aromatics on top of the salmon for added flavor if desired.

4. Close the Lid: Secure the Instant Pot lid and ensure the pressure valve is set to the sealing position.

5. Cooking Process: Set the Instant Pot to manual (pressure cook) mode and adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the salmon fillet.

6. Natural Release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release of pressure for 5-10 minutes before carefully switching the pressure valve to the venting position to release any remaining pressure.

7. Serve: Carefully remove the salmon from the Instant Pot using tongs or a spatula and serve immediately for optimal flavor and texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Overcooked Salmon

If the salmon turns out overcooked, reducing the cooking time by 1-2 minutes in the future should rectify the issue. It’s essential to keep an eye on the fish as cooking times can vary based on the specific model of the Instant Pot and the thickness of the fillet.

Undercooked Salmon

If the salmon is undercooked, you can simply return it to the Instant Pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, you can finish cooking the salmon in a preheated oven to reach the desired level of doneness while still retaining moisture.

Seasoning Absorption

If the salmon seems bland, consider marinating the fillet for 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate. Additionally, layering seasonings and using a flavorful liquid such as citrus juice or soy sauce can enhance the taste.

Sticking To The Trivet

To prevent the salmon from sticking to the trivet, ensure it has been thoroughly greased or lined with parchment paper. A light coating of oil or cooking spray on the trivet can also prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Pressure Release Issues

If you encounter difficulties releasing the pressure after cooking, use a long-handled utensil to switch the pressure valve to the venting position, taking care to avoid direct contact with the escaping steam to prevent burns.

The Instant Pot is a versatile and efficient appliance for cooking salmon, delivering moist, flavorful results with minimal effort. By carefully selecting high-quality salmon, properly preparing the fillets, and following the recommended cooking times, you can create a succulent and healthy meal in just a few minutes. Experiment with various seasonings and accompaniments to customize the flavor to your liking, and use the troubleshooting tips provided to address any potential issues. With this comprehensive guide, cooking salmon in an Instant Pot will become a hassle-free and enjoyable culinary experience.

Instant Pot Cook Times For Frozen Salmon

Cooking salmon in an Instant Pot is a quick and convenient way to enjoy this healthy and delicious fish. The Instant Pot, with its pressure cooking capabilities, can deliver perfectly cooked salmon in a fraction of the time it would take to cook using other methods.

One of the major advantages of using an Instant Pot to cook salmon is that it can handle frozen fillets with ease. This means that you can take the salmon straight from the freezer to the Instant Pot, saving you time and allowing for more spontaneous meals.

Cooking times will vary depending on the thickness and size of the salmon fillets. As a general guideline, for frozen salmon fillets that are about 1-inch thick, you can cook them on high pressure for 5-7 minutes. If the fillets are thinner, reduce the cook time slightly, and if they are thicker, increase the cook time.

It’s important to note that the cook time should always be adjusted based on personal preference. If you prefer your salmon on the rare side, reduce the cook time by a minute or two. For well-done salmon, increase the cook time slightly. The Instant Pot allows you to experiment and find the perfect cook time for your preferred level of doneness.

Achieving Perfect Texture

To achieve the perfect texture when cooking salmon in an Instant Pot, it’s important to use the proper cooking method. The pressure cooking function of the Instant Pot allows the fish to cook quickly and retain its moisture and tenderness.

When placing the salmon fillets in the Instant Pot, ensure that they are not stacked on top of each other. This will allow the heat to circulate evenly and cook the fish uniformly. You can use a steaming rack or place the salmon on a trivet to elevate it slightly above the liquid in the pot. This will help to prevent the salmon from becoming waterlogged.

Once the salmon is cooked, you should allow for a natural release of pressure for about 5 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure. This will help to prevent overcooking and keep the salmon moist and flaky.

Flavor Infusion

The Instant Pot is not only great for cooking salmon quickly but also for infusing it with flavor. Adding seasonings and spices to the cooking liquid can enhance the taste of the salmon and make it even more enjoyable.

One popular method for flavor infusion is to create a simple marinade or sauce to cook the salmon in. This can be as simple as mixing together soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger, and pouring it over the salmon before cooking. The pressure cooking process will allow the flavors to penetrate the fish, resulting in a delectably seasoned dish.

You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create unique flavor profiles. Dill, lemon zest, and black pepper make for a classic combination, while cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper can add a spicy kick. The possibilities are endless, and the Instant Pot can help you achieve bold and vibrant flavors.

Other Instant Pot Cooking Methods For Salmon

While cooking salmon fillets in the Instant Pot is the most common method, there are a few other cooking techniques you can try to mix things up.

One option is to cook a whole salmon fillet in the Instant Pot. This is great for serving a crowd or for meal prepping. Simply place the salmon on a trivet or steaming rack, season it with your desired flavors, and cook on high pressure for about 6-8 minutes per pound. The result will be a perfectly cooked whole salmon fillet that can be served as is or flaked for use in other dishes.

Another method is to cook salmon steaks in the Instant Pot. Salmon steaks are thicker and meatier compared to fillets, and they can hold up well to the pressure cooking process. Season the steaks, place them on a trivet or steaming rack, and cook on high pressure for about 6-8 minutes, adjusting the time based on the thickness of the steaks.

Instant Pot Tips For Salmon

To ensure a successful and delicious salmon cooking experience in the Instant Pot, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Use a natural release of pressure: After the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for about 5 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure. This will prevent overcooking and maintain the moisture in the salmon.

2. Adjust the cook time based on thickness: Thicker salmon fillets will require a longer cook time, while thinner fillets will cook more quickly. Keep this in mind and adjust the cook time accordingly.

3. Elevate the salmon: Use a trivet or steaming rack to elevate the salmon above the liquid in the pot. This will prevent the salmon from becoming waterlogged and ensure even cooking.

4. Experiment with flavors: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasonings and marinades. The Instant Pot is a great tool for infusing the salmon with delicious flavors.

5. Use the sauté function: If you prefer a crispier skin on your salmon, you can use the sauté function on the Instant Pot after pressure cooking. Simply remove the salmon, pat it dry, and crisp up the skin in the pot for a few minutes.

Creative Instant Pot Salmon Recipes And Variations

Now that we have covered the basics of cooking salmon in an Instant Pot, let’s explore some creative recipes and variations:

1. Lemon Garlic Salmon: Season the salmon with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Place lemon slices on top of the fillets and cook on high pressure for 5-7 minutes. Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and garnish with chopped parsley.

2. Teriyaki Salmon: Create a homemade teriyaki sauce by combining soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. Pour the sauce over the salmon and cook on high pressure for 5-7 minutes. Serve with steamed rice and steamed vegetables.

3. Cajun Salmon: Rub the salmon fillets with a mixture of cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Cook on high pressure for 5-7 minutes. Serve with a side of coleslaw or mashed potatoes.

4. Honey Mustard Salmon: Mix together Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Spread the mixture over the salmon fillets and cook on high pressure for 5-7 minutes. Serve with a drizzle of additional honey mustard sauce.

5. Mediterranean Salmon: Season the salmon with dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Top with sliced cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Cook on high pressure for 5-7 minutes. Serve with a squeeze of lemon juice.

These are just a few examples of the many possibilities when it comes to cooking salmon in an Instant Pot. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with flavors and ingredients that you enjoy.

Conclusion

Cooking salmon in an Instant Pot is a fantastic way to enjoy this flavorful and nutritious fish. With its quick cook times, ability to handle frozen fillets, and flavor infusion capabilities, the Instant Pot is a versatile tool for salmon lovers. Follow the tips and recipes provided in this article to achieve perfectly cooked salmon with a variety of flavors. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, the Instant Pot is sure to become your go-to appliance for salmon dishes. Enjoy!

FAQS

Can I Cook Frozen Salmon In An Instant Pot?

Yes, you can cook frozen salmon in an instant pot. However, it is recommended to thaw the salmon first for more even cooking.

Do I Need Any Special Equipment To Cook Salmon In An Instant Pot?

No, you do not need any special equipment besides the instant pot itself. However, a steamer basket or trivet can help elevate the salmon for more even cooking.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Salmon In An Instant Pot?

The cooking time for salmon in an instant pot can vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of the salmon fillet. As a general rule, a 1-inch thick fillet will take about 4-5 minutes on high pressure followed by a quick release.

Do I Need To Add Liquid When Cooking Salmon In An Instant Pot?

Yes, you will need to add at least 1 cup of liquid, such as water, broth, or wine, to create the necessary steam for pressure cooking. This will also help prevent the salmon from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Can I Cook Other Ingredients With The Salmon In The Instant Pot?

Yes, you can add other ingredients, such as vegetables or seasonings, to the instant pot along with the salmon. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the ingredients you add.