Cooking with the pressure cooker provides many possibilities for you and your family. You can quickly cook a variety of healthy and delicious meals. Those who are new to pressure cooking may be intimidated by the seemingly complex method of usage. However, it is actually very simple, once you give it a try. Below are a few tips and tricks that will enable you to make the most of your pressure cooker.
Buy The Right Type Of Electric Pressure Cooker
Make sure you buy a new pressure cooker and not once that has been used by someone else. Second-hand items may have damages that are not immediately obvious and these may cause accidents later.
Choose a model with stainless steel housing if you plan to pressure cook often. Stainless steel is the most recommended type of housing. Although more expensive, it is stronger than aluminum and has better stain and corrosion resistance.
The brand that you buy is also important. This gadget is made by many companies and some have better quality products. Read customer reviews online and choose a product that has a lot of positive reviews. A reputable brand will also have reliable after sales service and replacement parts will be readily available.
Choose The Right Size
Buy a size that is adequate for the number of people you will be cooking for. The 6- to 8-Quart capacity is adequate for a small family and can be used to cook for 4 to 6 people. Even if you are just cooking for two people, it is not advisable to buy a smaller size as you may have to cook for guests once in a while. Also, models with wide bottoms are preferable because they have bigger cooking surfaces.
Before Using Your Pressure Cooker
Once the pressure cooker is delivered to you, take time to go through the manual. Even if you have prior experience, new models may have features and buttons that are not familiar. Check the pot for dents, cracks and other types of damage. If you notice any damage, return it to the seller and ask for a replacement.
2 Ways To Release Pressure After Cooking:
Quick Pressure Release
When you are done cooking, perform Quick Release by lifting, turning, or pressing the pressure release valve (check the manual). Many people turn or press the pressure release valve using a long wooden spoon to avoid being burnt by steam. A loud burst of steam comes out as the pressure is released. Quick Release takes just about 1-2 minutes. This method is used for foods that can become too soft if cooked for too long.
Natural Pressure Release
Natural pressure release simply means you allow the pressure to drop slowly after you are done cooking. In most cases, this happens automatically and you do not have to do anything. This can take 15 to 20 minutes. Most electric pressure cookers have an indicator pin that drops down to let you know that pressure has been released. You can use a combination of Quick and Natural pressure release by waiting for 10 minutes then turning the pressure release valve.
High And Low Pressure
Most foods are cooked on high pressure while a few require low pressure. Check each recipe in this book so you can select the indicated pressure level. In addition, some models of electric pressure cookers have a medium pressure level.
Pre-Programmed Menu Buttons
Many models of electric pressure cookers come with pre-programmed menu buttons designed to make it easier to cook a variety of foods. Use these buttons only when they agree with the cooking time specified in the recipe. Sometimes you may have to cook for less time or more time. For instance, the meat setting may be 10-20 minutes which is not adequate for cooking tough cuts of meat. You will find that you have to set the time manually in most cases.