FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
COOKING THE MEALS
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Do I need to thaw the meals before cooking?
Cooking methods vary by recipe, so always follow the instructions provided for your specific meal.
Pressure Cooker Recipes: Most pressure cooker meals are designed to be cooked straight from the freezer, and cook times are written specifically for frozen meals.
Slow Cooker Recipes: Some slow cooker instructions recommend thawing the meal overnight before cooking. This helps prevent meat from sitting in unsafe temperature ranges for too long.
Any thawing instructions will be clearly noted in the cooking directions.
How long do the meals take to cook?
Cook times vary by recipe.
Some meals are ready in under 30 minutes
Others (especially tougher cuts of meat) may take up to 2 hours
Many meals cook in 60 minutes or less in a pressure cooker
Exact cook times are listed in the cooking instructions.
What does the “total cook time” include?
Total cook time includes everything — from removing the meal from the freezer to having it hot and ready to serve.
Do I need to use a natural or quick pressure release?
This depends on the recipe. Most meat-based meals use a natural pressure release to keep the meat tender.
If a quick release is recommended, it will be clearly stated in the cooking instructions.
What if I open the lid and the meat isn’t done?
Give the meal a good stir, replace the lid, and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes, following the recipe instructions.
What if the pasta or rice isn’t fully cooked?
Add a small amount of water or broth, leave the lid off, and allow the meal to simmer until the pasta or rice is tender. Stir occasionally and add more liquid as needed.
COOKING TIPS & TROUBLESHOOTING
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How do I get the frozen meal out of the container?
You may need to run the container under hot water until the meal releases from the sides.
What if spices or ingredients are stuck in the container?
Pour the cooking liquid into the container, gently shake it around, then pour it back into the pot so nothing is wasted.
SERVING SIZE & FEEDING A CROWD
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How many servings is each meal?
Most meals are designed to serve 3–4 people, unless otherwise noted.
What if I need to feed 6–8 people?
To serve a larger group, you can cook two meals at the same time in a pressure cooker.
Stack both meals inside the pot. Any adjustments to liquid or cook time will be included in the cooking instructions.
STORAGE & SHELF LIFE
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How do I store the frozen meals?
Store meals upright in the freezer. Meals can be stacked on top of one another.
How long will the meals last in the freezer?
When stored at proper freezing temperatures, meals generally keep well for at least 4 months.
LEFTOVERS
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What can I do with leftovers?
Many recipes include ideas for repurposing leftovers into a new, easy meal so nothing goes to waste.
EQUIPMENT & COOKING METHODS
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Do I need to own an Instant Pot?
No. “Instant Pot” is simply a brand name. Recipes are written for electric pressure cookers. Always follow the cooking instructions provided for your meal.
What size pressure cooker do I need?
Most recipes are written for 6–8 quart electric pressure cookers. If using a smaller or larger unit, adjustments may be needed.
Can I cook the meals in a slow cooker?
Many meals can be cooked in a slow cooker or a pressure cooker.
Each recipe will include instructions for the cooking methods it supports and will note if overnight thawing is recommended for food safety.
INGREDIENTS & DIETARY QUESTIONS
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Are the meals spicy?
Some meals are very mildly spicy. Most families find the flavors approachable and well balanced.
Will my children like these meals?
Families often share that these meals are well loved — even by picky eaters.
Do you offer vegetarian meals?
Some meals may be vegetarian. Ingredients and dietary information vary by meal, so we recommend reviewing the nutrition facts and ingredient list to determine if a specific meal meets your needs.
Are any meals gluten-free?
Some meals may be gluten-free, depending on the ingredients used.
Because ingredients and preparation can vary, gluten-free status should always be confirmed by reviewing the nutrition facts and ingredient list provided for each meal.
Do you offer meals suitable for low-sugar, low-carb, or low-sodium diets?
Many meals are naturally lower in sugar, carbs, and sodium. Flavor comes from spices, herbs, and quality ingredients rather than excess sugar or salt.
Nutrition facts are provided so you can decide what works best for your needs.
FOOD SAFETY
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Can I refreeze a meal after it’s been thawed?
For food safety and best quality, we do not recommend refreezing meals once they have been fully thawed.
How should meals be handled after cooking?
After cooking, allow meals to cool slightly, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best quality, consume leftovers within a few days.
INSTRUCTIONS & ACCESS
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Where can I find the cooking instructions?
Cooking instructions are emailed with your order confirmation.
They can also be found on the website homepage under “Cooking Instructions.”
IMPORTANT NOTE
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Menus, recipes, and cooking methods may vary. Always follow the cooking instructions provided for your specific meal.