Multi-functional cooking pot: who is it suitable for and when is it unnecessary

It can handle dinner at the touch of a button, saving time and washing up, and offers many functions in one - that's a multi-functional cooking pot. But it won't bring true satisfaction to everyone. We'll take a look at what these pots can do, what types are available, what to look for, and when it's best to reconsider buying one.

What is a multifunctional cooking pot and what can it do?

A multi-functional cooking pot is an electrical appliance that allows you to prepare meals using various methods, without needing to use a hob or oven. Depending on the type, it can:

to cook (quickly and slowly)
to braise
to fry and sauté
bake
steam
prepare rice, soups and yoghurt
and some models can even handle sous-vide or pressure cooking

Multi cookers

High-quality multi-cookers

Who is it for:

For very busy people who want to cook a complete meal quickly
Just add the ingredients, set the program and attend to other things. The cooking pot can handle cooking without constant monitoring – ideal for anyone who prefers to relax in the evening rather than stand at the hob.
For families with children where cooking in large quantities is common
Multi-cookers have ample capacity and offer versatile use – from soups to risottos and stews. They can easily prepare lunch and dinner for four or more diners.
For lovers of healthy cooking
Steaming, cooking without fat, or hot air frying make the multi-cooker a great ally for those who care about a healthier lifestyle and want to avoid frying in oil.
For beginners and technically minded cooks
Thanks to preset programmes, you don't have to worry about complicated recipes. The cooking pot monitors the temperature, pressure and time itself. More advanced models also offer detailed settings for those who want to have fun with the food.
For those who have little space in the kitchen
If you don't have room for a rice cooker, steam cooker, deep fryer and slow cooker separately, a multi-functional model will help you save space and replace several appliances in one.

Who it's not for:

Those who only cook occasionally or in small quantities
If you're happy with simple meals cooked in a pan and cooking isn't a daily routine, a multi-functional cooking pot would only take up space on your worktop most of the time.
Those who enjoy cooking and like to be in control
If you enjoy cooking as a creative process and like to season, stir and adjust the temperature, a multi-functional cooking pot will restrict you. The automatic programmes are practical, but they don't allow you to interfere with the cooking – and as a result, they may feel more like a barrier than a help.
For those who already have a well-equipped kitchen
If you have a reliable pressure cooker, rice cooker, slow cooker and air fryer, a multi-cooker won't bring you anything fundamentally new. Functionally, it often overlaps with what you already own.
For those who aren't comfortable with modern technologies
Multi-functional cooking pots feature digital controls and a wide range of programs. If you have trouble with electronic devices, a multi-functional cooking pot may be unnecessarily complicated and inconvenient to use.
For those who don't want another large appliance
Even though one cooking pot replaces several others, it's still a bulky appliance that needs its space, and that's something to keep in mind.

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What to consider when choosing a multifunctional cooking pot?

Capacity

Before choosing, consider how many people you will be cooking for. A cooking pot with a capacity of 3 litres is sufficient for individuals or couples, but for a family of four it is better to opt for a 5-6 litre option. The capacity affects not only the amount of food, but also the dimensions of the cooking pot.

Functions and programmes

Multifunctional doesn't automatically mean it can do everything. Some models can pressure cook, others can air fry, prepare yoghurt, steam, or sous vide. Decide which functions you'll actually use and don't be tempted by just a long list of possibilities.

Controls

Do you prefer simple controls, or do you like a touchscreen display and detailed settings? Some models offer intuitive one-button operation, others require more setup – it depends on what suits you personally.

Cleaning

A removable bowl with a non-stick surface, minimal folds, and dishwasher-safe parts are significant advantages. When choosing, make sure that individual parts can be easily disassembled and cleaned even after daily use.

Accessories

Some models include a steaming basket, frying rack, a second inner pot, or a practical measuring cup. Consider whether such accessories will be useful to you, or whether they would remain unused.

Space

A multi-functional cooking pot can replace several appliances, but it still takes up space. Consider whether you'll keep it on the worktop permanently, or put it away – and whether you have enough space for it in a cupboard or drawer.

Is cleaning a multi-functional cooking pot complicated?

One of the great advantages of a multi-functional cooking pot is cooking in a single pot. This means less dirty dishes – and with a little care, relatively simple maintenance of the appliance itself. However, it's worth paying attention to the design of a specific model. Most multi-cookers have:

removable cooking pot with a non-stick surface – simply rinse it or put it in the dishwasher,
removable lid or at least parts of the lid (e.g. seal, valve) that need to be disassembled and washed from time to time,
condensate container that collects excess water during cooking – it needs to be emptied and cleaned occasionally,
accessories (baskets, grids, etc.) that are generally dishwasher safe, but some greasy or starchy residues may require manual pre-cleaning.

What to watch out for?
Models with many small components (e.g. a complex lid, valve or overly intricate design) can be more demanding when it comes to regular maintenance. With simpler cookers without a pressure mode, maintenance tends to be much easier.

If you're looking for an appliance that truly saves time and hassle, we recommend choosing a model where most parts are dishwasher-safe and don't require complicated disassembly.

Multi cookers

No. A multi-functional cooking pot can include a pressure cooking function, but it can do more than that – for example, steam, slow cook, prepare yoghurt or 'fry' with hot air. A pressure cooker is usually one-sided.

Yes, some models have programmes for baking bread, cakes or even savoury flans. However, the result varies depending on the design and performance – a conventional oven is better for more complex baking.

Yes, it usually is. Thanks to insulation, precise temperature control and the possibility of rapid cooking (e.g. under pressure), it can consume less energy than a conventional oven or hob.

Yes. That's the advantage – just select a program, or set a delayed start, and the cooking pot takes care of the rest. Thanks to the safety features, it can be left unattended, for example, when slow cooking overnight. Thanks to its safety features, it can be left unattended, for example, when slow cooking overnight.

Yes, thanks to gentle steaming or fat-free stewing, it is ideal for preparing homemade baby food. The advantage is also precise temperature control and the ability to prepare a larger batch at once.

Multi-functional cooking pot: who is it suitable for and when is it unnecessary

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Multi-functional cooking pot: who is it suitable for and when is it unnecessary

High-quality multi-cookers

Let's compare it

Is a multifunctional cooking pot right for you?