Ninja MC1010 Foodi Multi-Cooker Review 2023 Is It Worth the Hype

Description

A Multi-Tasking Kitchen Hero: Ninja MC1010 Foodi PossibleCooker PLUS

I’ve always been a sucker for kitchen gadgets that make life easier, and the Ninja MC1010 Foodi PossibleCooker PLUS caught my attention with its promise of replacing 12 different cooking tools. It seemed too good to be true, but after testing it in my kitchen, I can confidently say it’s a game-changer. That said, like any product, it’s not without its quirks. Here’s how it stacks up.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed about this multi-cooker is its sleek black finish. It’s modern but not flashy, making it fit seamlessly into my kitchen. The 8.5-quart capacity is impressive, and despite its size, it doesn’t feel overly bulky. I managed to cook a large pot of chili for a family gathering, and it still had room to spare. The removable glass lid is sturdy and lets you monitor your food without constantly lifting it, which is a huge plus.

The nonstick coating on the pot is another highlight. Not only does it make cleanup a breeze, but it also feels durable. I’ve used nonstick cookware in the past that scratched at the mere sight of a spoon, but this one has held up well so far. Additionally, the pot is oven-safe up to 500°F, which allowed me to sear and finish my braised short ribs without switching cookware.

Key Benefits

• Replaces 12 appliances: It’s marketed as replacing everything from a Dutch oven to a bread maker, and I found this claim surprisingly accurate.
• Triple Fusion Heat Technology: Cooking up to 30% faster than a conventional oven, this feature ensured my meals were evenly cooked.
• Large capacity: Perfect for big gatherings, I cooked for 20 people without breaking a sweat.
• Ease of use: The touch control method is intuitive, and the included recipe guide helped me get started.

Versatility and Cooking Performance

This isn’t your average slow cooker. The six cooking functions—Slow Cook, Sear/Sauté, Keep Warm, Sous Vide, Braise, and Proof—make it incredibly versatile. I started by testing the sear function for browning chicken thighs, and I was blown away by how evenly it cooked. There’s no need to pull out a separate pan, which saves time and dishes.

The Sous Vide mode was another pleasant surprise. I used it for steak, and it turned out tender and juicy, on par with dedicated sous vide machines I’ve tried. The proofing function also came in handy for baking bread, and while I’m no professional baker, it did a decent job maintaining a consistent temperature.

However, Triple Fusion Heat Technology deserves special mention. By combining heat from the bottom, sides, and steam, it ensures faster and more even cooking. My pulled pork was ready in record time, and the flavors were deeply infused.

Areas of Concern

• Weight: At nearly 15 pounds, the pot is heavy. If you’re someone who likes to move appliances around, this might be a downside.
• No presets: While the touch controls are simple, I missed having specific presets for common dishes.
• Hand-wash recommended: Even though the pot is nonstick, hand-washing is advised to extend its life, which might feel inconvenient for some.
• Price point: It’s not the cheapest option on the market, though its versatility does justify the cost.

Competing Products

When comparing it to products like the Instant Pot Duo Crisp or the Crock-Pot Express, the Ninja MC1010 Foodi stands out for its Triple Fusion Heat Technology and the ability to act as a Dutch oven. While the Instant Pot offers pressure cooking (a feature the Ninja lacks), it doesn’t match the Ninja’s oven-safe capability or the ability to sear directly in the pot.

On the other hand, traditional slow cookers like the Hamilton Beach Set & Forget are more budget-friendly but lack the Ninja’s versatility. If you’re looking for an appliance that can truly replace multiple tools, this one is a solid choice—though it does come at a premium.

Price Performance

For what it offers, the product delivers excellent value for money. The sheer number of tools it replaces means fewer gadgets cluttering your kitchen and less money spent on individual appliances. If you entertain often or cook for a large family, the investment starts to make even more sense. While there are cheaper alternatives, they don’t deliver the same level of versatility or advanced features like Sous Vide mode and oven-safe pots.

Final Thoughts

I’m genuinely impressed by how the Ninja MC1010 Foodi PossibleCooker PLUS has simplified my cooking routine. From browning meats to slow-cooking stews, it handled everything I threw at it with ease. While the weight and lack of presets are minor drawbacks, they’re overshadowed by the appliance’s versatility and performance. If you’re a home cook looking to streamline your kitchen without sacrificing functionality, this multi-cooker is worth considering.

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