A pressure cooker can prove to be a very useful addition to your kitchen if used correctly and taken care of. There are many things to learn and know about pressure cookers. It is important to get a little background knowledge before attempting to use a piece of equipment like a pressure cooker so that you are able to maximize its potential and prepare your meals to the best of you and your cooker’s ability.
Know the Parts of Your Cooker
If you want to get the most out of your pressure cooker you should study the parts. One of the most important parts of a pressure cooker is its regulator which controls the pressure levels inside of the cooker. Your pressure cooker will also have an air vent, cooking rack, cover handle, and more! All of these features help to make cooking with a pressure cooker as safe and efficient as possible.
Look Your Cooker Over Carefully
When getting ready to use your pressure cooker you should first check the surface to ensure there are no dents or cracks. This will help to avoid any problems while using your cooker because steam can escape through any cracks and cause burns. If the surface of your cooker does have some cracks or dents then you should replace it and not use it. Once you have inspected your pressure cooker and found it free of blemishes you can get ready to finally use it.
Pressure Cooking Begins
The first step in using your pressure cooker will be filling it with liquid to help steam buildup. Different cookers have different requirements. The ingredients in the recipe you are making also play a part in how much liquid will be needed. The liquid you use in your cooker can come in the form of broth, water, and meat or veggies. Some expert chefs will recommend that for foods such as grain or rice you should use less water than is required to leave room for any frothing and swelling.
Make Your Favorite Pressure Cooker Recipes
The next step is to place all of the ingredients inside the pressure cooker. Almost anything can be cooked such as meat, vegetables, fruit, and even grains. If this is your first time cooking with a pressure cooker it’s important to carefully follow the instructions on the recipe and your cooker.
You should also be careful to remember to lock the lid on your pressure cooker and make sure it is locked before beginning the cooking process.
Electric & Stove Top Pressure Cookers
Depending on the kind of pressure cooker you have you’ll either use it on the stove top or simply plug it in and push some buttons. They work similarly but electric pressure cookers tend to be less complicated due to the digital features. Stove top pressure cookers simply require a little extra attention but work just as good as electric. It’s all about personal preference when it comes to choosing which is right for you.
Always Read the Manual
It is recommended that before you use your pressure cooker that you read the owner’s manual for whatever model you have. If you follow the instructions for use and maintenance you will get a lot more life out of your cooker.
Proper Pressure Cooker Care and Maintenance
You should perform regular maintenance on your cooker especially after use to keep the quality of your cooker at its best. This includes inspecting all the pieces before use, replacing anything damaged, and cleaning each part after use. The majority of today’s pressure cookers are easy to clean and you’re making a meal using one pot so you have less to clean up.
Top Rated Pressure Cookers Reviews
Discover what other consumers are saying about the top rated pressure cookers available today. Researching the insights of others is a great way to determine which pressure cooker is right for your own individual needs.