[
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "when%20I%20use%20my%20instant%20pot%20pro%20do%20I%20lock%20the%20lid%20when%20using%20the%20slow%20cooker%20part%2C%20and%20leave%20the%20lid%20off%20when%20sautae"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "Here\u2019s what the Instant Pot Pro manual says about using the lid in *Slow Cook* and *Saut\u00e9* modes\u2014when to lock the lid, when to leave it off:\n\n---\n\n## \ud83e\udd63 Slow Cook Mode\n\n- Use the **pressure cooking lid** and lock it in place when starting Slow Cook. ([manualslib.com](https://www.manualslib.com/manual/3396175/Instant-Pot-Pro.html?utm_source=openai))  \n- Make sure the **steam release valve is in the Vent position** (or use a glass lid that has a venting hole). This is required because slow cooking does *not* use pressure. ([manualslib.com](https://www.manualslib.com/manual/3396175/Instant-Pot-Pro.html?utm_source=openai))  \n- If using a glass lid with a vent, it\u2019s optional for monitoring, but the locking pressure lid is the standard. ([manualshelf.com](https://www.manualshelf.com/manual/instant-pot/pro-multi-use-pressure-cooker/user-manual-english/page-19.html?utm_source=openai))  \n- If you open the lid during slow cooking, you should add extra cooking time\u2014about **15\u201330 minutes**\u2014because you lose heat. ([instantpot.de](https://instantpot.de/media/download/Slow-Cooker-Combined-User-Manual-11-01-2024.pdf?utm_source=openai))\n\n---\n\n## \ud83d\udd25 Saut\u00e9 Mode\n\n- **Do not use the lid** during Saut\u00e9 mode. The manual explicitly says to leave it off. ([instantpot.co.uk](https://instantpot.co.uk/product-manuals/instant-pot-pro-5-7l-multi-cooker/?utm_source=openai))  \n- This allows you to brown meats, reduce liquids, or otherwise cook the contents exposed so moisture can escape and you get good caramelization. ([scribd.com](https://www.scribd.com/document/855530079/112-0123-01-113-0044-01-PRO-6QT-8QT-Manual-US-FINAL-LowRes-11-15-23?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\nIf you want, I can show relevant excerpts from the latest manual PDF so you can keep them on hand."
    },
    {
        "role": "user",
        "content": "I%27m%20blind%20how%20do%20I%20know%20if%20my%20vent%20is%20positioned%20correctly"
    },
    {
        "role": "assistant",
        "content": "Here are some tips for locating and using the steam release / vent switch on the Instant Pot Pro so you can tell by touch whether it\u2019s in **Sealing** or **Venting** position. These steps are based on both the official manual and hands-on feedback from users who are blind or low-vision.  \n\n---\n\n## \ud83d\udd0d Where is the Valve / Switch Located\n\n- On the Instant Pot Pro, the vent (aka steam release switch or quick release switch) is a separate mechanism from the lid-locking ring. It\u2019s mounted on the top of the lid. ([reddit.com](https://www.reddit.com/r/instantpot/comments/1fcsvph?utm_source=openai))  \n- The lid also has a float valve (a small metal peg) that moves up and down; this tells you when there\u2019s internal pressure. ([manualzz.com](https://manualzz.com/doc/66749372/instant-pot-pro-user-manual?utm_source=openai))  \n\n---\n\n## \ud83d\udc46 Sealing vs Venting \u2014 What You Should *Feel*\n\nThe switch has two distinct positions:\n\n| Position | How It Feels | What It Does |\n|---|---|---|\n| **Sealing** | Firm, solid. You should feel a click or some resistance when you move the switch into Sealing.\u2014it locks firmly into place. ([instantpotbasics.com](https://instantpotbasics.com/blog/ultimate-instant-pot-natural-release-symbol-guide-2025/?utm_source=openai)) | The lid is sealed; pressure will build up when cooking involves pressure. No steam escapes through the vent. |\n| **Venting** | Looser position, often just a partial twist or slide with less resistance. It may feel easier to move once the cooking program has ended. ([instantpotbasics.com](https://instantpotbasics.com/blog/ultimate-instant-pot-natural-release-symbol-guide-2025/?utm_source=openai)) | Steam can escape. You use this for quick release or when a program doesn\u2019t require pressure (like Slow Cook mode). |\n\n---\n\n## \ud83d\udd14 Float Valve \u2014 Secondary Indicator\n\n- The float valve is a small metal pin that sticks up when the pot is pressurized. When it drops (or lays flat), there is no pressure inside the pot. ([manualzz.com](https://manualzz.com/doc/66749372/instant-pot-pro-user-manual?utm_source=openai))  \n- You can carefully touch the float valve (**use caution \u2014 it could be hot during and right after cooking**) to confirm pressure status:  \n  - If it's **up**, internal pressure is still high \u2192 sealing.  \n  - If it's **down**, it\u2019s safe to open, and often means venting or after natural release.  \n\n---\n\n## \ud83d\udee0 Practice With Guidance\n\n1. Feel around the **top center** of the lid for the vent switch. It\u2019s one of the few protruding parts. ([reddit.com](https://www.reddit.com/r/instantpot/comments/1fcsvph?utm_source=openai))  \n2. Try gently switching between both positions (with no steam or heat). You\u2019ll learn the sensation of \u201clocked in\u201d vs \u201cfree / vent open\u201d.  \n3. Identify the float valve (near the vent) with gentle touch \u2014 \u201cup\u201d or \u201cdown\u201d lets you know if there's pressure inside.  \n4. With experience, you\u2019ll be able to do this all by touch before turning on the pot or when checking if it's safe to open.\n\n---\n\nIf you want, I can send you audio clips or a step-by-step tactile guide you can print with raised-embossing or braille to keep near your Instant Pot Pro for daily use."
    }
]