Continue

OK

Ninja® Instant Cooker

Model #: PC101

The Ninja® Instant Cooker gives you 2 pressure levels, 5 Sear/Sauté settings, the ability to steam, and a Slow Cook function with multiple cook times and 3 temp settings—all in one nonstick pot.

Select model
Shop now
What's included
  • 1000-watt base
  • 6-quart ceramic-coated nonstick pot
  • Stainless-steel steam rack
  • Extra gray silicone ring
  • 10-recipe inspiration guide
Ninja® Instant Cooker
Ninja® Instant Cooker
Ninja® Instant Cooker
Ninja® Instant Cooker
Ninja® Instant Cooker
Ninja® Instant Cooker
Ninja® Instant Cooker
Ninja® Instant Cooker
Ninja® Instant Cooker
Ninja® Instant Cooker
Ninja® Instant Cooker
  • Details
  • Parts & Accessories
  • Videos
  • FAQs
  • Product Care
  • Troubleshooting
  • Manuals & Warranty
  • Recipes
  • Buy

Details

The Ninja® Instant Cooker gives you the ability to make the delicious, mouth-watering meals you and your family crave quicker than you ever imagined and up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods.* The Ninja Instant Cooker gives you 2 pressure levels and 5 Sear/Sauté temperature settings, from Low to High, for total cooking control. In addition, there is the ability to steam and the Slow Cook function offers the flexibility of multiple cook times and 3 temperature settings that yield tender, flavorful results. Whether you prefer to be more hands-on while you cook or you want to set it and leave it, the Ninja Instant Cooker is here to help you make meals in a flash in one ceramic-coated nonstick pot.

*Versus slow-cooked, braised, or low-simmer recipes.
Read More

Parts and Accessories

([[content.parts.collectionSize]] of [[content.parts.collectionCount]])
View more

Videos

Play

([[content.videos.collectionSize]] of [[content.videos.collectionCount]])
View More

FAQs


This FAQ page is a great place to find info, tips and help. Just make sure you’ve read your Owner’s Guide before using your unit.

General Information

Can I use this unit for canning?
No. The Ninja® Instant Cooker should not be used for canning.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Can this unit make yogurt?
No. You cannot make yogurt in this unit.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Can I use a slow cooker liner?
We do not recommend using a slow cooker liner because it will not fit properly into the cooking pot. However, if you do choose to use one, it will not harm the unit in any way.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Can I cook pasta in the unit?
Yes. To cook pasta in the Ninja® Instant Cooker, please follow one of the Ninja- approved recipes provided in your Inspiration Guide.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Does this unit come with a cookbook?
The Ninja® Instant Cooker comes with a 10-recipe starter kit and cooking charts. For more recipes go to www.ninjakitchen.com/recipes/.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
What are the dimensions of the unit and how much does it weigh?
The Ninja® Instant Cooker is approximately 12" long, 13" wide, and 13" high. It weighs approximately 12 pounds. The capacity of the cooking pot is 6 quarts, and can easily fit 4 pounds of pork shoulder.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
What is the difference between Pressure Cook HIGH and LOW?
Pressure cooking on HIGH uses more PSI (pounds per square inch) of pressure than when pressure cooking on LOW. Pressure cooking on LOW is generally used when cooking delicate vegetables, beans or legumes. To ensure that you are using the right amount of pressure, please refer to your cooking charts in your Quick Start Guide.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
What is the Stay Warm function?
Stay Warm will automatically turn on after the Pressure, Steam, or Slow Cook functions end. To keep food warm after using the other functions, press the Stay Warm button. A timer will start counting up and the unit will keep food warm for up to 12 hours. (The Stay Warm function is intended to keep cooked food at a safe temperature, not to reheat cold food.)
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
How can I get additional parts or accessories?
Additional parts and accessories can be purchased at www.ninjakitchen.com/accessories
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
What is the power cord length?
The power cord is 32 inches long.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Can I reheat food in my unit?
Yes.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Can I use the cooking pot on my stovetop or oven?
No. The cooking pot should only be used in your Ninja® Instant Cooker.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Does the outside of the unit get hot?
The outside of the unit will get hot, but the control panel, exterior handles, and handle on the lid will be safe to touch at any time during the cooking process.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Can I take the cooking pot directly out of the freezer and then pressure cook with it?
No. We do not recommend putting the cooking pot in the freezer and then directly into the cooker base.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Can I put the cooking pot into the fridge?
Yes. The cooking pot will not get damaged if it is stored in the fridge.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Can I make yogurt in my unit?
Yes. Although our there is not an automatic yogurt function on the unit, you can make yogurt with the Keep Warm function. Use a thermometer to ensure food-safe temperatures are maintained at all times.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
What should I do if the pressure release valve is not attached to the unit?
If for some reason the pressure release valve is not attached to your pressure lid, simply place the valve onto the silver post located in the middle of the circular indent and press down firmly. Please note, the pressure release valve will fit loosely, even when it is securely attached to the unit.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later

Product Specifications

How much food can I cook in the pot?
While pressure cooking, the cooking pot can hold up to 16 cups. For all other functions, the pot can hold up to 18 cups.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
What material is the pot made out of?
The cooking pot is made out of aluminum and has a nonstick ceramic coating that is FDA-approved and food-safe. Please note that this coating is PTFE-free.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
What is the temperature range in Stove Top LOW and Stove Top HIGH?
The temperature range is approximately 150 degrees F to 400 degrees F.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Is the cooking pot microwave safe?
No. The cooking pot should never be used in the microwave and is not microwave safe.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later

Product Usage

Can I use a slow cooker liner?
We do not recommend using a slow cooker liner because it will not fit properly into the cooking pot. However, if you do choose to use one, it will not harm the unit in any way.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
How long does it take to build pressure?
The time to build pressure varies based on the amount of food in the pot and the temperature of the food.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Can the cooking pot go directly from the fridge into the unit?
Yes. Please be aware that if the cooking pot is below room temperature when you start cooking, it will take longer for the unit to come up to temperature and build pressure.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
What kind of utensils should I use with the cooking pot?
We recommend that you use wooden, silicone-tipped, or non-metal-tipped utensils to prevent damaging the cooking pot's nonstick ceramic coating.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
How do I know if the unit is building pressure?
To indicate that the unit is building pressure, a rotating light will appear on the digital display. Once the unit reaches pressure, the countdown timer will begin, to indicate that the ingredients are cooking.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
How do I know that the pressure release valve is sealed?
The pressure release valve is sealed if it is turned all the way to the right in the SEAL position. Please note that the pressure release valve is loose-fitting and will not lock or click into the VENT or SEAL position.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
How do I know if the lid is locked?
To lock the lid into place, align the arrow on the lid with the arrow on the front of the unit. Turn the lid clockwise until it stops. There will be an audible chime when the lid is locked into place.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
How do I cancel a program?
Press the START/STOP button during any cooking function. The program will pause for 10 seconds, during which time you may press it again to resume cooking. After 10 seconds, the program will cancel.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Can I take the lid off the cooking pot when slow cooking?
Yes. If you would like to stir your food or check on it, you can remove the lid at any time. Please note that when you remove the lid, this may add time to the cooking process.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Can I deep-fry in the unit?
No. The Ninja® Instant Cooker should never be used for deep frying.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
How do I adjust the cooking time?
To adjust the cooking time use the + and - buttons on the sides of the digital display. Please note that you cannot adjust the cooking time in Sear/Saute.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Can I add ingredients while pressure cooking?
No. All ingredients must be added to the cooking pot before you start using the Pressure Cook function.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later

How do I clean my unit?
The unit should be cleaned thoroughly after every use. Unplug the unit before cleaning. To clean the cooker base and the control panel, wipe them down with a clean, damp cloth. NEVER immerse the cooker base in water or any other liquid. NEVER clean the cooker base in the dishwasher. The cooking pot, steam rack, and silicone ring are all dishwasher safe. To clean the lid (including the pressure release valve and anti-clog cap) hand-wash in warm, soapy water. Air-dry all parts after each use. If there is food residue stuck on the cooking pot or steam rack, place the pot in the sink, fill it with warm water, and allow it to soak before cleaning.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
How do I clean the silicone ring?
To avoid odor, we recommend that you clean the silicone ring after every use. Remove the silicone ring by pulling it outward, section by section, from the silicone ring rack. Wash the silicone ring in warm, soapy water or on the top rack of the dishwasher to help remove any odor.
It is common for the silicone ring to retain the smell of acidic foods, even after cleaning.
The silicone ring can be installed with either side facing up. To reinstall the ring, press it down into the rack section by section.
NEVER pull out the silicone ring with excessive force, as this may deform the ring or the rack, affecting the pressure-sealing function. If your silicone ring has cracks, cuts, or any other form of damage, it should be replaced immediately.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later

Product Care


This FAQ page is a great place to find info, tips and help. Just make sure you’ve read your Owner’s Guide before using your unit.

How do I clean my unit?
The unit should be cleaned thoroughly after every use. Unplug the unit before cleaning. To clean the cooker base and the control panel, wipe them down with a clean, damp cloth. NEVER immerse the cooker base in water or any other liquid. NEVER clean the cooker base in the dishwasher. The cooking pot, steam rack, and silicone ring are all dishwasher safe. To clean the lid (including the pressure release valve and anti-clog cap) hand-wash in warm, soapy water. Air-dry all parts after each use. If there is food residue stuck on the cooking pot or steam rack, place the pot in the sink, fill it with warm water, and allow it to soak before cleaning.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
How do I clean the silicone ring?
To avoid odor, we recommend that you clean the silicone ring after every use. Remove the silicone ring by pulling it outward, section by section, from the silicone ring rack. Wash the silicone ring in warm, soapy water or on the top rack of the dishwasher to help remove any odor.
It is common for the silicone ring to retain the smell of acidic foods, even after cleaning.
The silicone ring can be installed with either side facing up. To reinstall the ring, press it down into the rack section by section.
NEVER pull out the silicone ring with excessive force, as this may deform the ring or the rack, affecting the pressure-sealing function. If your silicone ring has cracks, cuts, or any other form of damage, it should be replaced immediately.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later

Troubleshooting


This FAQ page is a great place to find info, tips and help. Just make sure you’ve read your Owner’s Guide before using your unit.

How do I vent the unit, with Quick release (QR) or Natural Release (NR)?
To Quick Release (QR) pressure once cooking is complete and the KEEP WARM button is illuminated, turn the pressure release valve all the way to the right to the VENT position. A quick burst of steam will spurt out of the pressure release valve. When all the steam is completely released, the float valve will drop down and the unit will be ready to open. DO NOT place your hand over the valve because hot steam will release immediately.

To Natural Release (NR) pressure from the unit, DO NOT turn the pressure release valve to VENT. Instead, when cooking time is complete, wait for the unit to naturally release the pressure on its own. This can take up to 20 minutes, depending on the amount of liquid and food in the unit. During this time the unit will switch to Keep Warm mode and the clock will start counting up. When Natural Release is complete, the red float valve will drop down.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
What should I do if I accidentally pour water into the cooker base instead of the cooking pot?
Make sure that the unit is unplugged and use a large towel to absorb as much water as possible. Once the cooking base liner is completely dry, you may cook in your unit. If you experience difficulties, please contact our call center.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Why is the clock counting up after cooking is complete?
After the cook time is complete, your unit will switch to Stay Warm. To indicate how long your food has been in Stay Warm mode, the unit will count up and remain on for up to 12 hours.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
When adjusting the clock, what increments of time are used?
  • Pressure Cooker: 1-minute increments for the first hour, then 5-minute increments from hour 1 to hour 4.
  • Slow Cook: 15-minute increments.
  • Sear/Saute: You cannot adjust the clock in this function.
  • Steam: 1-minute increments.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
What are the maximum cook times for each function?
  • Pressure Cooker: 4 hours.
  • Slow Cook: 12 hours.
  • Sear/Saute: You cannot set the time in this function.
  • Steam: 30 minutes.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
The unit is making a loud hissing noise.
Make sure that the pressure release valve is turned completely to the SEAL position.

If the unit is still hissing it may be an indicator that the silicone seal is not installed correctly. Press the START/STOP button to stop cooking. Turn the pressure release valve to the VENT position to remove any pressure from the unit. Once pressure is completely released remove the lid from the unit. Press down on the silicone ring that is located around the wire ring on the underside of the lid, ensuring that it is fully inserted and is lying flat.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
The pressure release valve always has steam coming out of it.
If there is steam coming out of the pressure release valve while pressure cooking make sure that the pressure release valve is in the SEAL position. Please note that if you are cooking in any other functions other than pressure cooking, the valve should be in the VENT position which will allow steam to release as needed.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Why is it taking so long for the unit to come to pressure?
The amount of time it takes to build pressure varies based on the selected pressure, current temperature of the cooking pot, and the temperature or quantity of the ingredients.
  • Check to make sure that the silicone ring is fully seated and flush against the pressure lid. If installed correctly, you should be able to tug lightly on the ring to rotate it.
  • Check that the pressure lid is fully locked and the pressure release valve is in the SEAL position when pressure cooking.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
How do I know if the unit is building pressure?
When the unit is building pressure rotating lights will display on the screen to indicate the unit is building pressure. Once the unit is pressurized, the screen will display start counting down the cook time. Please note that the rotating lights will also appear when the unit is preheating during the Steam function.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
What does "vEnt" mean?
If "vEnt" appears on the display screen it means that there is pressure building in the unit while using the SLOW COOK or SEAR/SAUTE function. Make sure that the pressure release valve is in the "VENT" position by turning the valve to the right.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
What does "ovHt" mean?
If "ovHt" appears on the display screen it means that the water level is too low. To continue using the cooking function you must add water. While adding water, check to ensure that the silicone ring is installed properly.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Why is the timer counting down slowly?
If the timer is counting down slowly you may have set the unit to hours instead of minutes. When setting the time the display will default to minutes when using the Pressure Cooker and Steam functions. It will automatically default to hours when using the Slow Cook function.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
How can I tell when the unit is pressurizing?
Rotating lights will display on the screen to indicate the unit is building pressure. Once the unit is pressurized, the screen will display the set cook time counting down.

Please note that rotating lights will also display during the Steam function’s preheat time.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
There is a lot of steam coming from my unit when using the Steam function.
It’s normal for steam to release through the pressure release valve during cooking. Leave the pressure release valve in the VENT position when using Steam, Slow Cook, and Sear/Sauté.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Why is the pressure release valve so loose?
The pressure release valve’s “loose” fit is intentional; it enables a quick and easy transition between SEAL and VENT and helps regulate pressure by releasing small amounts of steam during cooking to ensure great results. Make sure it is placed as far as possible toward the SEAL position when pressure cooking, and is rotated as far as possible toward the VENT position when quick releasing.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
How long does the unit take to depressurize?
Quick release is about 2 minutes or less. Natural release can take up to 20 minutes or more, depending on the type of food and/or the amount of ingredients in the pot.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
Why can’t I take the pressure lid off?
As a safety feature, the pressure lid will not unlock until the unit is completely depressurized. Turn the pressure release valve to the VENT position to quick release the pressurized steam. A quick burst of steam will spurt out of the valve. When the steam is completely released, the unit will be ready to open, indicated by the red float valve being in the lowered position. Turn the pressure lid counterclockwise, then lift it up and away from you.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
“E” code appears.
The unit is not functioning properly. Please contact Customer Service at 1-877-646-5288.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later
I can't install the lid.
If you are having trouble installing the lid, check to ensure that the silicone ring is securely in place. Make sure that the arrow on the lid is aligned with the arrow on the cooker base, then turn the lid clockwise until it locks into place.
Your feedback is on its way to us
Thank you for your feedback
Something went wrong, please try again later

Manuals & Warranty

Recipes

At the end of the power cord, there will be a 4-digit number engraved on the outside of one of the metal prongs. This is the date code of your unit, which tells you the date your unit was produced.