Instant Pot Insert Pans || Ekovana vs. Maxrock

Here are links to the two sets of insert pans I showed in the video (affiliate - thanks!):
Maxrock brand: amzn.to/2hlTRO2
Ekovana Medium 6qt size: amzn.to/2t4j6Nq
New insert pan sizes from Ekovana:
Ekovana Mini 3qt size: ekovana.com/products/stackabl... (These are out of stock right now! I will update with an amazon link as soon as they're back!)
Ekovana Large 8qt size: amzn.to/2oDQd5V
Check out Amazon store with lots more of my recommended products here: www.amazon.com/shop/indigonili
Find me on Instagram: indigonili
Here are some more referral/affiliate links you can use if you'd like to support my channel! Just follow these links (or save them as a bookmark on your browser!) when you want to order from these sites. After you place your order they will give me a small commission on whatever you buy... with no extra cost to you. Thank you so much!
Amazon: amzn.to/1MC7dSd
CustomCollagen: www.customcollagen.com/?r=jqkgg
Zaycon Fresh: zayconfresh.com/refer/zf515974
Want to send us something? Ship to:
Indigo Nili
11124 NE Halsey St. #426
Portland, OR 97220

[@garydutko119]

Hi Nili, Thanks for the review. I actually bought both but only used the Ekovana pans in my 8qt Instant Pot. I just love the Instant Pot and every week keep experimenting with dozens of new recipes. Thank you so much for your videos and comments. You are the greatest!!!

[@oceanhome039]

I always enjoy your well-crafted and informative videos.

[@sandy-mr5gj]

NICE REVIEW ON THE INSERTS. YOU ANSWERED ALL MY QUESTIONS COMPLETELY.

[@veronicavalenzuela848]

Great review! I need one, don't have many accessories. I love your recipes and videos! Thank you

[@rowserm]

What a wonderful review. I appreciate you. Thank you.

[@georgeshotrodbarn2113]

Indigo that was a very good video you cover it all and cover it well very clear thanks.

[@atopnotaryservice1017]

I don't have many accessories but I do want the Ecovana.. your videos are great very informative thank you so much

[@nelly42442]

I like both but I think the Maxrock is better quality, awesome tutorial thank you

[@kj-sf4md]

Thank you. Excellent presentation.

[@jokeybob]

FYI: You can find cheap Velcro strips that I have used to keep drawers and cabinets shut in my RVs. They will certainly work to keep the Maxrock handles closed. Sold at Dollar stores and other fine cheap outlets. PS: with a cup of water on the bottom, those pans must displace water and have it cover a lot of the bottom pan sides. Only downside of either set is you can't use just one without doing some modification to keep the lid sealed. Also needs makeshift handle to remove it from instant pot.

[@risasklutteredkitchen1293]

Thanks for the Breakdown. I've been wanting the Ecovana.

[@LargeFamilyHomesteaders]

I'm glad you did this I was about to do some research but you saved me time thanks!

[@ArmorsArrows]

Encouraging Mamas did you get one of these.

[@rogerholloway8498]

What a great review! Thanks for helping me make up my mind!

[@renatara9026]

Thank you very much for this great video. It was very helpful to me.

[@Joanna_L]

Awesome comparison... Thanks!

[@JoeSmith-zg4fq]

Excellent presentation and comparasion

[@rcole6679]

Great comparison!

[@nancyincanada5553]

Very helpful video. Thank you!

[@rayotsuji9016]

Use a twist tie from the grocery store to secure the handle when storing the Maxrock

[@joanneklassen4637]

Thank you -very useful information

[@nigelcheung6536]

So,Maxrock is made of 304 stainless steel material then ,same as instant pot inner pot. That’s why it’s thicker and more durable .

[@bigwheelsturning]

The metal at the bottom of both racks also keeps direct heat off the bottoms of the pans while cooking.

[@windspan20]

Ekovana fits the 6qt perfect

[@Esha911]

Awesome review

[@GretchenHulett]

I love my Ecovana.

[@semco72057]

I just have a 3 qt Instant Pot so far, but have not used it yet. While viewing some videos I noticed that some of the inserts are better than others according to the users and have decided on which one I will be buying for my pot.

[@bethleehuff6279]

I have the 3 qt and love it for the 2of us. So where are the inserts and accessories for my pot?

[@r.severn7479]

Chiboz makes a set for 3qt.

[@kinglord5429]

I'm wondering trying pot in pot. Bottom pot will hold halved sweet potatoes sprinkled with cinnamon and some bourbon and pat of butter. Top will hold baby carrots sprinkled with cinnamon and pat of butter using steam lid. Each will be served in a bowl with the bourbon/butter mix poured over sweet potatoes. .

[@iwaphila]

I thank you for the video, how much longer do I increase cooking time using those pots

[@mguerramd]

Have you found a larger insert pot? The onesI have are about 3" tall, like these you are showing. I need a larger single vessel, no stacking, for certain recipes, maybe a 5" tall pot.

[@vegangelist]

Thanks for this. Do you have the dimensions height/width (with handles/rack attached) for the ekovana in both the 6 and 8 quart versions? Can't seem to find info on Amazon

[@kabutikawayanatpulot-pukyu4316]

Are both come with 2 lids? It would be awesome for refrigerating leftovers too if they have 2 lids.

[@davidperalrez4770]

I bought both of these. I like the way the maxrock closes better but I only put one cup of water in my 6 qt ip & the water covers the bottom of the sling because It's flat & no room to put a trivet under. Is it ok to cook with the water coming up over the bottom pan?

[@bigwheelsturning]

Do these pots get "stuck together" from the pressure? Other than cakes, do the one's with holes in them work better, and with shorter cooking times, because the pressure can get in??

[@putGodfirst_1]

Hi, IP newbie here....what do you do when cooking two different things and each has a different amount of time for cooking?

[@Albertojedi]

Hello Indigo. Have you tried the Chefmore brand? They are available at Amazon.

[@sandy-mr5gj]

AFTER READING ALL AMAZON REVIEWS, I OPTED FOR THE MAXROCK. I LIKE IT. DO YOU PUT YOURS IN DISHWASHER?

[@Kennych100]

Where can I get those stainless steel round containers you had it on display?

[@euvid1]

I wonder if having thinner metal might be good as perhaps the pots will heat up quicker than the thicker walled pans. I am so torn as to which one to buy for my duo 8 plus. Thank you for your reviewing these.

[@thatgirl626]

You were reading my mind, I’m late to the party, I don’t see the maxrock, which was OK, even tho Nili says no difference.

[@ducamealy5652]

I just wonder if the maxrock will not fit in the ekovana enclosure?

[@lawnmowerman2199]

As always we love your videos and pray for your family often! Going to buy a set of one of these, but.......how do you like either of these compaired to the " 3 different sized food storage units" that had the silicone ring on their lids with the clamps that you used in your video where you demonstrated "how to cook PIP method" Do you still use them? I don't know if the wire lifting handle makes that much of a difference......does it?

[@Superman-23]

Can you do oatmeal in the pans?...I was thinking with no lids to help it cook faster

[@sandy-mr5gj]

i bought the maxrock based on your comparison video re: better grade of steel--huge mistake. i have since purchased the ekovana mainly for the locking rack.

[@aliceadler4569]

Nili, I bought the 3 stacking stainless steel set way back when. Do you remember those

[@IndigoNili]

Yes! Those are great! I love prepping in them in advance and keeping them in the fridge until I'm ready to cook a quick lunch 🙂

[@IndigoCrow9.13]

Is there a specific type type of crockpot these would fit in? Anyone ever use these in a slow cooker? I just prefer slow cooking over instant because of my routine & work schedule. I want to cook rice/ grains & fish at same time but separate to avoid the soupiness & mush. Any input would be helpful because I’m looking to hopefully find the right crockpot that would work with one of these tins. :)

[@veganaoeltsch]

Hi, in which video i found a link to your 3er insert pans in stainless steel in 3 different sizes? The have clips on the side. Thank you und greetings from sweden :-)

[@cathya6963]

I made a mistake below - I meant to ask about making ice in the Maxrock container vs the Lakeshore Fresh Locker container (one you demo in you video rice/peas/eggs pip cooking) I use your method in the Fresh locker which vacuum seals,, the Maxrock containers don't. Have you tried making rice in the Maxrock containers pip?

[@IndigoNili]

Yes! Rice works great in the Maxrock. It can be done with or without the lid too

[@sharanjitbhandal7953]

Can we uh the handles without buying the containers.

[@jazzloonz101]

Finally, I see what I needed to learn. I bought Ekovana for my 6 qt Lux and was disappointed to find I still have to use aluminum foil for custards, etc. There are no holes in them, which you mentioned. Now I am thinking that some recipes need the steam access and others don't. So now, do I buy the newer inserts for sale that come with holes predrilled? Do I really need both kinds to avoid the aluminum usage? I was going to have someone just drill holes in the lid but now I see that isn't probably going to help because I don't always want those holes. Is this right?

[@IndigoNili]

I just use one pot and leave the lid off if I want the steam

[@lizsaldana1]

Hi, do you know why the Maxrock pot in pot is currently unavailable? I'm looking for my 6 quart instant pot.

[@deborahbarry8458]

Liz Saldana I wondered that too

[@jessebey4896]

what name brand type of chesscake pan is that ?

[@mkdsk101]

Where can I buy the Maxrock?

[@kinglord5429]

I bought one from company called modern home. The bottom pan is bigger than top and it come with 2 lids, one solid other has vent holes so why pick one over example please

[@missbilbybadinage1199]

A little imagination can turn the steaming version into one of these to bake, these are unfortunately very expensive in Australia ($50 + p&h). I managed to get a 18 piece accessory set for that price, includes a spring pan & the strainer sits in perfectly.

[@jackiefuller3459]

I'm in Australia.....can you tell me what set you got please? :)

[@missbilbybadinage1199]

Jackie Fuller I searched on Amazon.com.au for a reasonably cheap (well...) they average about $50-$80, mine is blue and was $63 (‘it came with paper cake tin liners too.’). I did the 30 day prime free trial to get free postage.

[@nigel8499]

I bought this from Amazon UK Ekovana for £25.99 all good but more of a 'microwave alternative' ie reheating. But that's fine. I don't like microwaves. Price wise expensive, but I wanted quality. Basically a 'tifin'. The other one (maxrock) looks better due to grade of stainless steel. Although reading comments re water leakage, not had that problem with Ekovana. Ps Nili, it's is Ekovana, not Ecovana.

[@IndigoNili]

Lol. Thanks for catching my typo! I fixed it. :)

[@nigel8499]

Indigo Nili Pleasure, hope is all well. love your channel as you are so 'normal', God bless from UK.

[@pamelabarrett7645]

Can you use just one of the pans to cook with or do you have to always use both pans and leave the top one empty?

[@IndigoNili]

Yes, you can just use one pan 🙂

[@aperson1181]

Could you please update the reviews as these products are no longer sold?

[@cathya6963]

have you made rice in the maxrock? I use the ekovana and wondered if it would work as well in the maxrock.

[@rcole6679]

Why wouldn’t it?

[@nigelcheung6536]

Are u using a Maxrock ?

[@ChurchClown7]

I purchased the Ekovana and one of the pots split open on the first use. The cornbread tasted like rubber. The meatloaf tasted great. I think water got into both pots because of the parchment paper sticking out. I’m going to purchase the other set next and hope for a better quality. I have the 8 quart. The meatloaf and cornbread were not done after 36 minutes and 7 cooldown. Then as I was thinking about it I realized that I might have had a bigger meatloaf than you did. Anyway, very frustrated.

[@IndigoNili]

That is frustrating! I'd contact ekovana and let them know. They have great customer service... As far as the meatloaf, size would certainly change the cook time ☹️

[@rcole6679]

IP says to cook meat by the inch (not the pound). But, as you say, if your meatloaf was bigger (taller and heavier), you’d need to cook it longer. I’m still trying to get used to the idea that some foods cook at the same amount of time due to how quickly they reach the intended pressure. The longer the “come to pressure” time is, the longer it will be cooking overall, since the actual cook time is the same. I’m sure the amount of time it takes for a NR has an affect on the overall cooking time, as well.

[@Banagal]

I bought the Maxrock, which as I remember was the first one your reviewed. I've made meatloaf and cornbread several times in my 8 qt IP. Each time water got into both pots that resulted in watery cornbread and meatloaf. I've since used a single pot without the wire handle for pip warming of precooked foods without water getting in. I used aluminum foil to lift it out of the pot. Have you experienced water leakage in the Maxrock pots? Do you have recommendations to stop the water leakage so I can bake in them again? Thanks.

[@IndigoNili]

I haven't noticed a water leakage problem. Your pans aren't dented or warped at all, are they?

[@Banagal]

Thanks for your reply. No, my pans aren't dented or warped. They leaked from the very first usage, right out of the box. Though, when I do PIP with one pan without the wire handle/holder, there is no leakage. I use it to warm previously cooked meals without water leakage. I forgot to mention, I tried the blue egg silicone tray with lid. That leaked too. I left plenty of space on top of the egg mixture and place the lid on just as you demonstrated. It leaked every time. The lid warped on the egg tray. I finally gave up on that recipe. It must be operator error, just haven't identified what I'm doing incorrect.

[@Anthro777]

How much water are you putting in the pot? It should only be a cup or two. Should barely cover 1/4" of the bottom pan.

[@rcole6679]

Where’s the water getting in? If you just have an inch or so at the bottom, then the PIPs must be leaking. Otherwise, you’re drowning your PIPs, which isn’t necessary and causing the issue. Very strange...

[@vijayalakshmio7918]

@@Anthro777 . . O

[@jeanhecker4533]

So when you use these double pans you don’t add water to the insert bowl?

[@IndigoNili]

You always need water/liquid in the inner pot in order to pressure cook... Even with these pans 🙂

[@daviemccallum7759]

I have a problem with one them it has a split on the edge down and it has a bend on it

[@IndigoNili]

Oh dear! I'd contact the company. They have great customer service and should be able to help you out!

[@bettymartin6059]

How much are they pls

[@johncassani4610]

You didn't explain what they are used for?

[@cinderellaslifeadventures7269]

the maxrock pan you are showing does not have wholes in the top ,but the one in the link does, won't the wholes let water in ?

[@IndigoNili]

Since I made this video maxrock added an additional steamer lid to the set. So now you get one lid with holes and one without

[@michaeltonnemacher4257]

And I got the steamer lid in my set. Thanks for the videos again. You are my instant pot guru.@@IndigoNili

[@lynnettepolson]

Hi I think you just answered a question I had. I want to use a 6 qt liner w/trivet in my 8 qt IP so I don't get BURN on some of my recipes.Do you think that would work ,since you have both sizes to measure it for closing 8qt lid? Can you put 2 or 3 cups water of water in 8qt then put in 6qt liner so see if IP lid will seal properly? My husband pointed out 6 qt won't fit in 8qt if the diameter is the same. Can you tell me if they are same diameter too? Sorry for so many questions.

[@IndigoNili]

No, the 6qt liner won't work inside the 8qt

[@grizzlyadamsmith6038]

NO....DIAMETER IS NOT THE SAME....I HAVE BOTH 6 AND 8...IT'S EITHER/OR.....THANX...

[@SmartWentCrazy]

Why not just use Pryex?

[@kinglord5429]

Maxrock: the best type of food-grade stainless steel and the steel is thicker so it does not need to be curled under which avoids the problem of black polishing residue and food or whatever getting stuck in there(hard to clean) . Intresting the write this since lot have reported black goo coming out from the rolled edges on lot of these. Could use a knob on the lids but the sling is a deal bracker, should fold over to lock like you said. Good review

[@kinglord5429]

I wrote them and they have added upgraded vented lid and trivet, they are offering it to all owners of their old inventory. They have upgraded the sling to a locking one just not sure if it will be offered to everyone.

[@nigelcheung6536]

That’s the best explanation for the edge ... do you use a max rock ?

[@kinglord5429]

That is from their listing

[@SteelyPaw]

I just spent 25.00 with Amazon on Trivets, one with legs, one with handles. My IP did not come with the trivet that has handles which is really a menace to get bowls out when cooking with multiple foods and bowls. 304 Stainless steel is not magnetic, but for Pharmaceutical usage they use 316 stainless steel which is more expensive as well. .... If I cooked for a family like you do, I'd want those type of clocking pans you show.. For a single guy, I don't think the need is there....

[@jokeybob]

Pete, as a fellow single guy, I do see a need for the stalking pans. One for rice or potatoes. Other for main dish or a sauce.

[@brendaandersen4241]

Did you reread the product description insert or box...I believe it should have had one with handles.

[@sukisakain]

I am concerned about durability. Could you please update us on how they’ve held up?

[@IndigoNili]

They've both held up great! The Maxrock are made from heavier duty material so I would go for them if you're worried about durability.

[@sukisakain]

Thank you! 😊

[@carmendee6481]

So maxrock is better?

[@vegangelist]

Is there a brand that marries the better handle system of the ekovana with the better quality stainless steel of the maxrock?

[@IndigoNili]

I haven't seen one yet but I'll be sure to share if I do!

[@willowfreshqualityaccessor8966]

Try WillowFresh :)

[@jokeybob]

Just made a comment about using Velcro strips to hold the maxrock handles.

[@cowboyup545]

@@willowfreshqualityaccessor8966 Great pots like it cause you can steam and cook with the two lids,

[@nigelcheung6536]

They have already upgraded their handles

[@grizzlyadamsmith6038]

NEVER USED AMAZON...??....JUST WANT TO BUY THINGS LIKE THIS FROM A STORE...BUT CAN'T SEEM TO FIND ANY,...UP HERE IN THE GREAT WHITE NORTH....THANX IF YOU KNOW ANY STORE ADDRESS.....

[@citizenofnowhere7776]

Adam Smith I ended up buying the insert from Amazon because I had no other options. I did read a lot of reviews before buying.

[@Anthro777]

The only way I could buy the Ekovana pots were on eBay and only one seller out of hundreds shipped to Canada. The shipping cost was outrageous and the price was high but it was my only option. I could make a killing importing these to Canada and selling them.

[@freespiritsolo9998]

Are these NICKEL FREE?

[@slickwilly4613]

why do you need this pots? couldn't you use a small oven? its not like your getting the benefits of steam or pressure.

[@meggieb1574]

Has anyone tried using the disposable aluminum pans in an instant pot? They are oven safe so assume they would be fine but have never seen anyone use them.

[@IndigoNili]

I haven't but I'd assume that if they're oven safe they'll be fine in the IP.

[@SmartWentCrazy]

That's a good idea, let me know if you try.

[@meggieb1574]

@@SmartWentCrazy Its totally works!

[@SmartWentCrazy]

@@meggieb1574 yessss! Actually I've been using a steel bowl lately bc I don't really like having to clean that giant pot all the time. I've also seen videos of people using oven safe Pyrex.

[@gerilynne1955]

Ekovana pot is out of stock on Amazon. Feb.2019 bummer.

[@dontletmynamefoolya306]

I just ordered a ekovana set on Amazon. They are back in stock!

[@geraldinebecher7702]

@@dontletmynamefoolya306 Thanks for letting me know.

[@tanyaschwartz4872]

Can you still purchase these pot in pot pans

[@IndigoNili]

They both seem to be out of stock right now... Here's another brand I've tried that is very similar to the Ekovana brand: www.amazon.com/dp/B071GY3R42/ref=cm_sw_r_sm_apa_fabc_4866Fb8JJQY0N

[@grannysweet]

👍👍👍👍

[@littletime100]

I need to start getting some accessories,Not gotten that far yet,lol Still learning. Can you use pyrex dishes ?

[@IndigoNili]

Yes, you can use pyrex but cooking with glass increases the cook time a bit because it doesn't transfer heat as well as stainless steel

[@littletime100]

Thank you

[@SteelyPaw]

I used pyrex in mine all the time, even used the pyrex measuring cup for the small can of peas I cooked with my pork steak. If the glass will stand up to the microwave, it will stand up to the IP.... I have both the white pyrex with the blue flowers that were my moms and clear, it all works great if you can fit it in.. Make sure you have a Trivet with handles or make a sling out of foil to lift the pyrex out after your done cooking...

[@littletime100]

Thank you,I have the white pyrex .I am 65 so had mine for awhile lol. I will remember the trivet,thank you again

[@bigapple134]

and don't forget thrift stores and garage sales to get those older glass dishes that work in the IP

[@jameswoods6900]

I didn't know there was a 5 qt, I only see 3, 6, and 8

[@IndigoNili]

The older lux model has a 5qt size

[@angeliquemaez5569]

Hi Nili, I commented on another video that I just got the Mini 3qt but now after seeing your videos with these inserts I definitely want a 6qt. I can exchange mine at Kohl’s but Amazon day is coming up soon so I’ll just wait to see if they have an Instant Pot during the sales. Do you know if you can still get affiliate credit from your links on Prime Day? Or would the Prime deals only work from links within Amazon? Hope this question makes sense! I’d really like to give you the affiliate credit since I’ll probably be buying it anyways!! 😁

[@IndigoNili]

Hi Angelique! Yeah, for a first Instant Pot I recommend the 6 or 8qt... I love my mini as a second IP that sits on my counter that I can conveniently use it for small things. And, yes, my affiliate links will work for prime deals. Thanks for asking! As long as you get to Amazon using one of my links anything you purchase gives me credit... you don't even have to purchase the thing I originally linked to. Thanks so much!

[@angeliquemaez5569]

Indigo Nili perfect!!!

[@nazika7437]

Do they sell the ekovana handle alone?

[@IndigoNili]

I don't think so

[@nazika7437]

Indigo Nili thanks for your fast response

[@thuongngyuen1310]

Don't know how I lived without this for so long! I make dog food for 2 of our dogs kzbin.infoUgkxG-7WiT7ocumjytOpHDFt632PL0pxXRAg (we have 5!) and it is so much quicker in this. Love having the inner pot stainless so I can use my immersion blender right in it without worrying about scratching. It makes potatoes great and fast! Still working on the vegetables, first time came out great, second time I did different ones and they were a little too mushy. Just need to adjust the time. I highly recommend this pot!!!

[@MGeeDesigns]

I didn't think Instant Pot came in 5 qt??

[@IndigoNili]

The LUX version Instant Pot comes in a 5qt size

[@MGeeDesigns]

Ah, didn't know that. I have a 6 qt Lux that I've had for a couple years and have an 8 qt duo plus coming in a couple days.

[@originalBongoCat]

You can tell how cheap the ekovana pans are by the tinny ring as she jostles them about. That cheap grade of stainless will not last. Fissures will appear in the thin mirror finish revealing the base metal inside. On the other hand, I've had a MAXROCK set for over a year now, used dozens of times and they are solid. The robust stainless steel 304 grade will not fail. I only wish MAXROCK made a set for the 3-quart pressure cookers.

[@r.severn7479]

Chiboz makes a nice 3qt set. I bought the 3 & 5 qt set. Two nice size pans that only go in the 3qt cooker 1 way so their "harness" clears the antiblock shield and pin. Watch their video. Their "harness" stays clipped together, too.

[@r.severn7479]

Chiboz brand for 3qt set.

[@originalBongoCat]

@@r.severn7479 Thanks, but what is the grade of stainless steel. I'd like to get a set that is 304 (18/8).

[@r.severn7479]

Don't know what grade. I presume 304. Look up their web site.

[@systemtim]

Stainless steel can’t rust! Cheaper stainless steel is magnetic while the good stuff isn’t! It’s a simple test you can do in store.

[@rmkknight]

Re 300 series vs 200 series Food Grade Stainless Steel - Please refer to the following: mightynest.com/articles/stainless-steel-all-about-food-grade-304-188-and-1810

[@tkdlahs]

Thanks for the information!