How Long to Cook Fish in Instant Pot: Perfect Timing & Technique

By Avi Green October 05, 2023

If you love a good barbecue but are looking to expand your culinary skills beyond the grill, using an Instant Pot to cook fish can be a game-changer. This modern kitchen gadget is not only a time-saver but also a fantastic way to ensure perfectly cooked fish every time. But how long should you cook fish in the Instant Pot?

Why Use an Instant Pot for Cooking Fish?

Using an Instant Pot can take the guesswork out of cooking fish, making it a suitable option for both novice and seasoned cooks. The Instant Pot's controlled cooking environment ensures that your fish comes out tender and flavorful without the risk of overcooking. Plus, it retains the fish's natural juices, enhancing its taste.

Choosing the Right Type of Fish

The type of fish you choose will significantly influence how long you need to cook it in the Instant Pot. Thicker cuts like salmon or cod will require more time compared to thinner fillets like tilapia or flounder. Generally, denser fish need about 5-10 minutes of cooking time, whereas lighter fish only need around 3-5 minutes.

Basic Steps to Cook Fish in an Instant Pot

Season Your Fish: Proper seasoning can elevate the flavor of your fish. Use herbs, spices, and a bit of lemon juice or zest for a zesty kick.
Prepare the Instant Pot: Add about a cup of water or broth to the pot. Insert the Instant Pot trivet or a steamer basket.
Arrange the Fish: Place the seasoned fish on the trivet or steamer basket. Ensure the pieces are not overlapping to allow even cooking.
Set the Timer: Lock the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure. Depending on the thickness, set the cooking time between 3 to 10 minutes.
Release Pressure: Once the cooking cycle completes, perform a quick release. Carefully remove the lid and check the fish's doneness.

Special Tips for Barbecue Enthusiasts

Barbecue enthusiasts might initially be skeptical about using an Instant Pot. However, it can be an excellent tool for preparing fish that complements your barbecue dishes. For instance, you can cook fish in the Instant Pot and then finish it off on the grill for that iconic smoky flavor. This method can save you time and ensure your fish is perfectly cooked.

Check out our guide on how long to cook fish on the grill for more barbecue tips.

Different Recipes to Try

The versatility of Instant Pots means you can use a wide array of recipes to keep things interesting. Here are some popular methods:

Lemon Herb Fish: Season with lemon, herbs, and a bit of garlic for a fresh, zingy flavor.
Spicy Cajun Fish: Use Cajun seasoning and a hint of chili for a spicy kick.
Herb Butter Fish: Infuse with herb butter for a rich and creamy taste.

For inspiration, explore our other blogs on how long to cook fish on Blackstone griddle and learn other techniques.

Temperature and Timing

Managing temperature and timing is crucial when cooking fish in an Instant Pot. Overcooking can make your fish rubbery, while undercooking poses health risks. Always use a food thermometer to ensure your fish reaches an internal temperature of 145F.

Visit this page to understand more about safe cooking temperatures for fish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While the Instant Pot simplifies fish cooking, certain common mistakes can still ruin your dish:

Overcrowding the Pot: Ensure pieces are well-spaced to cook evenly.
Skipping the Quick Release: Slow release can overcook delicate fish.
Wrong Liquid Ratio: Too much or too little liquid can affect the texture of the fish.

For more tips on avoiding pitfalls, see our detailed blog on how long to cook swai fish in the air fryer.

FAQ

What is the best type of fish to cook in an Instant Pot?

Thicker cuts like salmon, cod, and tilapia are ideal for the Instant Pot. Their dense structure holds up well under high pressure, ensuring a flavorful and moist end product.

Can I use frozen fish in the Instant Pot?

Yes, you can use frozen fish, but the cooking time will need to be adjusted. For frozen fish, add an extra 2-3 minutes to the cooking time specified for fresh fish.