Pressure Cookers
A pressure cooker  cooks food using high temperature and, of course, pressure. Unlike its cousin, the slow cooker, the pressure cooker creates a sealed environment with atmospheric pressure of 15 psi. At this pressure, water boils at a much higher temperature (125° C instead of 100° C), cooking food rapidly while sealing in flavour, moisture and nutrients. Foods that would take hours to cook in a slow cooker or the oven can take a fraction of that time in a pressure cooker. A whole chicken may be cooked in as little as twenty-five minutes.
The newest models of pressure cookers have plentiful safety features to avoid the dangers of older, occasionally explosive models.
Important Features- Safety: Very important when using a pressure cooker. Be sure the model you choose has redundant safety systems:
- Good valves with pressure regulators (five or more pressure release mechanisms), and a quick-release mechanism.
- Pressure indicator to adequately measure proper timing.
- Heavy-duty, encapsulated three-ply base for even, consistent heat.
- Foolproof moving parts for ultimate durability.
- Stainless steel will be your best bet.
- Capacity
- Pressure cookers vary in size from four litres to seven litres. Usually size will correlate with price, starting at about £20 and going as high as £90.
- Electric vs. Stovetop
- The main difference is the price (electric pressure cookers are more expensive).
- What gives stovetop models an advantage is their higher safety standards and easy-clean feature (most models are dishwasher-safe).
- What makes electric models stand out is their timer.
- Pressure
- Most recipes for pressure cookers assume a pressure of 15 psi, which is standard for most pressure cookers.
- If you buy a cooker that uses a different pressure, you will have to alter recipes accordingly.
- Warranty
- Look for long warranties to guarantee a quality product.
- Special Features
- Timer, gadgets, etc.
- Browning and steaming functions.
- Non-stick finishes are rare, since they are rarely able to withstand the heat and intense uses of a pressure cooker.
- The best pressure cookers have user-friendly features, wide bottom for sautéing, and easy instructions.
Major Manufacturers
External Links- MissVickie.com -- Learn EVERYTHING about pressure cookers. Lots of diagrams, recipes, timing recommendations, and more.
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