Ninja Auto-iQ Multi/Slow Cooker CS960

1. Introduction

The Ninja Auto-iQ Multi/Slow Cooker CS960 is a versatile kitchen appliance designed to simplify your cooking process. It combines four manual cooking functions—slow cook, stove top sear/sauté, steam, and bake—into a single unit. Additionally, it features Auto-iQ technology with over 80 pre-programmed recipes, allowing for automated cooking with minimal effort. This manual provides essential information for safe and effective use of your appliance.

Image: The Ninja Auto-iQ Multi/Slow Cooker CS960, accompanied by its recipe cookbook and steaming/roasting rack.

2. Important Safeguards

• Read all instructions before using the appliance.
• Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
• To protect against electrical shock, do not immerse cord, plugs, or heating unit in water or other liquid.
• Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children.
• Unplug from outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before putting on or taking off parts.
• Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been damaged in any manner.
• The use of accessory attachments not recommended by the appliance manufacturer may cause injuries.
• Do not use outdoors.
• Do not let cord hang over edge of table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
• Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
• Extreme caution must be used when moving an appliance containing hot oil or other hot liquids.
• Always attach plug to appliance first, then plug cord into the wall outlet. To disconnect, turn any control to "off", then remove plug from wall outlet.
• Do not use appliance for other than intended use.
• This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

3. What's Included

Your Ninja Auto-iQ Multi/Slow Cooker CS960 package includes the following components:

• Ninja Auto-iQ Multi/Slow Cooker Base
• 6-Quart Lightweight Nonstick Cooking Pot
• Tempered Glass Lid
• Steaming/Roasting Rack
• 80+ Auto-iQ Recipe Cookbook

Image: The Ninja Auto-iQ Multi/Slow Cooker CS960 with its lid, ready for use on a kitchen counter.

4. Control Panel Overview

The control panel provides access to all cooking functions and settings. Familiarize yourself with the buttons and displays:

Image: A detailed view of the Ninja Auto-iQ Multi/Slow Cooker CS960's control panel, showing Auto-iQ recipe buttons, manual cooking functions, and digital displays.

• Auto-iQ Recipes: Buttons for Quick Meals, Layered Bowls, Grains, and Poached Infusions. Use the dial to select specific recipe numbers.
• Manual Cooking Functions: Dedicated buttons for AccuTemp Slow Cook, Steam, Bake, and Stove Top.
• Power Button: Turns the unit on/off.
• Start/Stop Button: Initiates or cancels a cooking cycle.
• Stay Warm: Automatically activates after some cooking cycles to keep food warm.
• Temperature/Time Display: Shows current temperature or remaining cooking time.
• Dial: Used to adjust recipe numbers, temperature, or time settings.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Using Auto-iQ Recipes

The Auto-iQ technology simplifies meal preparation by providing pre-programmed settings for various dishes. Refer to the included recipe cookbook for a full list of over 80 recipes.

1. Select a Recipe: Choose a recipe from the Auto-iQ cookbook.
2. Add Ingredients: Place all required ingredients into the 6-quart nonstick cooking pot. Ensure the pot is properly seated in the cooker base.


Image: A user adding ingredients, such as peas, to the cooking pot of the Ninja Auto-iQ Multi/Slow Cooker CS960.

3. Close Lid: Securely place the tempered glass lid on the cooking pot.
4. Power On: Press the Power button to turn on the appliance.
5. Choose Auto-iQ Category: Select the appropriate Auto-iQ category button (Quick Meals, Layered Bowls, Grains, or Poached Infusions) based on your chosen recipe.
6. Select Recipe Number: Use the dial to scroll through and select the specific recipe number displayed on the Auto-iQ Recipes screen.
7. Start Cooking: Press the Start/Stop button to begin the cooking cycle. The cooker will automatically adjust temperature and time according to the recipe.


Image: A user interacting with the control panel of the Ninja Auto-iQ Multi/Slow Cooker CS960 to select a recipe.

8. Completion: The unit will beep and switch to 'Stay Warm' mode (if applicable) once cooking is complete.

5.2. Manual Cooking Functions

For custom cooking, you can use the individual manual functions:

• AccuTemp Slow Cook:
  1. Press the 'AccuTemp Slow Cook' button.
  2. Select desired setting (Warm, Low, High) using the button.
  3. Use the dial to set the cooking time.
  4. Press Start/Stop.
• Steam:
  1. Add water to the pot and place the steaming/roasting rack.
  2. Place food on the rack.
  3. Press the 'Steam' button.
  4. Use the dial to set the steaming time.
  5. Press Start/Stop.
• Bake:
  1. Press the 'Bake' button.
  2. Use the dial to set the desired baking temperature.
  3. Use the dial to set the baking time.
  4. Press Start/Stop.
• Stove Top (Sear/Sauté):
  1. Press the 'Stove Top' button.
  2. Select desired setting (Low, High) using the button.
  3. Add ingredients for searing or sautéing.
  4. Press Start/Stop. Note: Time cannot be set for Stove Top mode.

6. Care and Maintenance

Proper care ensures the longevity of your Ninja Auto-iQ Multi/Slow Cooker CS960.

• Cleaning the Cooking Pot: The 6-quart lightweight nonstick cooking pot is dishwasher safe. For best results, hand wash with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge.
• Cleaning the Lid: The tempered glass lid is dishwasher safe.
• Cleaning the Base: Wipe the cooker base with a damp cloth. Do not immerse the base in water or any other liquid.
• Storage: Ensure all parts are clean and dry before storing. Store the appliance in a cool, dry place.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues with your Ninja Auto-iQ Multi/Slow Cooker CS960, please refer to the following common troubleshooting tips:

• Appliance not turning on: Ensure the power cord is securely plugged into a working electrical outlet. Check if the power button has been pressed.
• Food not cooking evenly: Ensure ingredients are distributed properly in the pot. For manual functions, verify correct temperature and time settings.
• Error codes on display: Refer to the full product manual or contact customer support for specific error code interpretations.
• Lid not sealing properly: Check for any food debris or damage around the rim of the pot or lid that might prevent a proper seal.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, product registration, or customer support, please visit the official Ninja website or contact their customer service department. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.

You can visit the Ninja Store on Amazon for additional product information and accessories.