Technology meets Tradition

In 2010, the original Instant Pot thoroughly disrupted the slow cooker category, leaving traditional units in the dust. Over the years, the brand has strived to win over more of the slow cooker consumers still clinging to their old crock pots. Analysis of slow cooker consumers revealed two distinct groups: reluctant adopters who are put off by the complexity of electronic pressure cookers, and others who prefer the concentrated flavors and succulent texture that slow cooking creates. Coincidentally, a sizeable percentage of slow cooker users own cast iron cookware for conventional stovetop cooking, because of its superior heat retention and searing performance. We saw an opportunity to appeal to both consumers with a product that combines the benefits of cast iron cooking with the simplicity and hands-off ease of a slow cooker.

Armed with those insights, Instant Pot sought to bridge the gap between slow cookers and pressure cookers with the Instant Precision Dutch Oven—a marriage of modern technology and traditional cast iron cookware. With a simplified interface, it offers a seamless solution for searing meats and sautéing vegetables before slow-cooking begins. By including only the most essential of buttons and settings on the control panel, the Precision Dutch Oven streamlines the braising process, delivering superior results with minimal hassle. Even at a price point several times higher than ordinary slow cookers, >400K units sold speaks to the success of this unique value proposition.