While you might not know much about pressure cookers you might be surprised to learn just how long they’ve been around. And because of this they have come a long way in terms of design, safety and efficiency. Stove top pressure cookers have often been the preferred choice by many, including restaurants, but electric pressure cookers are increasing in popularity for many reasons.
Difference Between Stove Top and Electric Pressure Cookers
Pressure cookers are designed to allow you to make delicious food in a shorter time than traditional cooking methods. Electric pressure cookers are starting to replace many first generation cookers and for good reason. So what’s the difference between an electric pressure cooker and a stove top one?
The only real difference is the way it heats. Stove top pressure cookers use the stove to heat up while electric pressure cookers have a built-in mechanism that heats it up. The latest electric pressure cookers also include digital controls so you can easily monitor and alter the steam inside with ease. Some allow you to set a specific cooking time, if the dish you’re preparing allows for it.
Pros of Electric Pressure Cookers
Cook Without Worry
With an electric pressure cooker you don’t have to constantly babysit it while it is in operation. It vents steam automatically when needed so there’s never a risk of it reaching unsafe pressure levels. You can leave the electric pressure cooker unattended while you attend to other matters in the kitchen.
Safety Features
Electric pressure cookers also include ideal safety features so the pressure and temperature inside remain steady and prevent any harm to the operator. A locking lid system will stay locked until the pressure inside reaches an accepted level. This is a very good benefit for those just learning to use electric pressure cookers.
Easy to Clean
Today’s electric pressure cookers are easy to clean due to the removable insert and non-stick coating construction. Kind of like a crock-pot, you can simply take it out and wash it up when you’re finished using it. They’re much easier to handle than stove top pressure cookers for many users.
Ease of Use Compared to Stove Top Pressure Cookers
One of the great benefits to cooking with electric pressure cookers is that they require less of your attention. Obviously, you still need to use caution at all times when using them, but you won’t need to keep an eye on it consistently like you would a stove top pressure cooker.
The pressure release happens without you having to release it manually. They include digital displays and buttons so you can choose the appropriate settings based on what you’re cooking.
You Don’t Need a Stove to Use It
An electric pressure cooker doesn’t require a stove to be used. Instead of using the stove’s heating element it contains its own built-in. It simply needs electricity.
Electric Pressure Cookers Offer Energy Efficiency
Electric pressure cookers take a little more time reach their max pressure but only a few more minutes than stove top pressure cookers. The pressure release however takes a lot longer because it happens naturally.
In addition, you can expect an electric pressure cooker to take a little longer to cool down because the heating element is built-in, unlike a stove top cooker where you simply remove it from the heat source. However, electric pressure cookers keep the heat inside instead of escaping throughout your kitchen like a stove top cooker would.
Food Maintains High Quality
Any good pressure cooker is going to provide high quality cooked food. They’re all designed to keep the nutrients from escaping the food and water doesn’t get wasted. Many pressure cooker owners attest to better tasting food versus traditional cooking methods.
Electric Pressure Cookers Offer Automated Controls
Everything is automated when you cook with an electric pressure cooker so less work is required on your part. The pressure and temperature are automated. Some models allow you to choose how long you want to cook the food and adjust the pressure level based on the food you are cooking. Some models even have pre-set cooking times for certain foods which can be very convenient when you’re in a rush. An electric pressure cooker shuts off when the food is done and even offers a warm setting so you can keep it warm until ready to serve.
Cons of Electric Pressure Cookers
Not Always Precise
One downside to electric pressure cookers is that they’re digital and monitoring the cooking process can require some trial and error in the beginning. Luckily, you can easily figure this out after the first few uses and determine just how close your electric pressure cooker is in terms of correct pressure and temperature.
A Little More Expensive
Electric pressure cookers are slightly more costly than other pressure cooker types. It also requires electricity so this may or may not be a deal breaker for you. Of course, you will get your money’s worth if you use it enough.
Check Out the Top Pressure Cooker Reviews
Pressure cooking is a great idea if you want to make your favorite meals with ease and in less time than traditional cooking methods. They come in a variety of sizes so you can choose the right one for your needs.
Check out the top pressure cooker reviews to see what others have to say about their experience and help you better decide which electric pressure cooker is right for you. Cooking with a pressure cooker has never been easier which you’ll soon discover for yourself.