Trying to decide between a pressure cooker and a crock pot? Both are common appliances found in the kitchens of many homes but you may not be aware of the differences. While they do share some similarities, they also have some differences. Understanding the difference can help you choose between the two so that you pick the right one for your needs.
Cooking Times
The cooking times for each appliance will be different. Crock pots are designed to cook very slowly so you can have a meal ready whenever you want it to be. Pressure cookers are designed to lessen cook time so your food is ready faster. For instance, you could cook meat in a pressure cooker in less than half an hour while it could take up to eight hours in a crock pot.
Different Lids
Pressure cookers have a lid that is sealed tight, often locked while the food cooks. A crock pot will have a lid that can be locked but also easily removed when needed. In addition, your food won’t be ruined if you remove the lid on a crock pot while your food is cooking, unlike a pressure cooker. Once you remove the lid you’ll have to restart the process of pressure cooking your food. They are not designed to be opened during operation and is one reason it’s important to know how to use your pressure cooker if you want your food to be cooked correctly.
Variation of Supervision While Cooking
Pressure cookers should never be left in operation without close supervision. You will easily overcook your food, among other reasons to not leave it unattended. A crock pot, however, is designed to be left unattended for hours while it slowly cooks the food inside.
Similarities of Crock Pots and Pressure Cookers
While there are several differences in the two, there are also some similarities. Both provide a one-pot solution for any meal. You can do everything in one pot which is a huge advantage come time to clean up after your meal.
In addition you won’t have to worry about adding any extra liquid as the food cooks in either of these appliances. Both will keep the liquid inside and not evaporate, like liquid does when cooking over the stove top.
Do You Choose a Pressure Cooker or Crock Pot?
The choice is yours and hopefully the above will help you make a better decision. You might even consider both if you want to be able to cook both ways; quickly and slowly. Both come in a variety of sizes so you can choose based on your personal preference.
Top Pressure Cooker Reviews Can Help
If you’re leaning towards buying a pressure cooker you may want to consider our top pressure cooker reviews. See what other consumers are saying about the many different pressure cookers so you can choose the best pressure cooker for your needs. You might also ask family members or friends who use one or both of these appliances to see what they would recommend. It all comes down to what will suit your needs the best and only you can make that decision.