I love cooking with pressure cookers, even before the invention of the insta pot! They’re known for being efficient, locking in nutrients, and producing delicious meals. But people still feel uneasy cooking with them. Once the steam builds up, it can sound intimidating! People worry about the lid flying off, some kind of explosion or getting scalded if the pressure isn’t properly released.
With modern pressure cookers now, there’s no need to worry. There are safety features that ensure your pressure cooker won’t turn into a kitchen destroying pot. Here’s how to safely use a pressure cooker.
How to Use a Pressure Cooker
Today’s pressure cookers come with great safety features, and using them properly is straightforward. Here’s how to get started:
Get to Know Your Cooker
Start by reading the manual. Each model has unique features, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with yours.
Check the Parts
Look over the gasket (the rubber sealing ring) for any wear and tear, and make sure the pressure valve is clean and functioning.
Don’t Overfill It
Keep the contents below two-thirds full. If you’re cooking foods that expand, like rice or beans, stick to half-full.
Add Enough Liquid
Pressure cookers rely on steam to work, so always include at least a cup of liquid, unless your recipe says otherwise.
Secure the Lid
Make sure the lid is locked into place before turning on the heat.
Adjust the Heat Correctly
Start with high heat to build pressure, then turn it down to medium or low to maintain it.
Release the Pressure Safely
Follow your recipe for the right method—either letting the pressure release naturally or using the quick-release option. Be careful and keep your hands and face away from the steam valve.
Clean After Each Use
Wash all parts, especially the gasket and pressure valve, to prevent food buildup that could cause issues down the road.
Benefits of Using a Pressure Cooker
Pressure cooking is fast! It saves time, especially for tougher cuts of meat and legumes which normally take hours to cook. Quicker cooking also means using less gas or electricity for stovetop heat.
Let’s talk about flavor. Pressure cookers trap steam and flavors, so your meals come out tasting rich and delicious. And since food cooks quickly and with less water, more vitamins and minerals are preserved compared to boiling or frying.
What to Cook in a Pressure Cooker
Pressure cookers shine with meals that usually take hours to make. Here are some top picks:
Tough Meats Like Beef Brisket, Short Ribs, and Chuck Roast
Pressure cooking melts the tough fibers, giving you tender, flavorful meat in a fraction of the usual time.
Stews and Soups
Pressure cookers are great for making stews and soups with meat and vegetables in half the time but with all the flavor.
Beans and Legumes
Dried beans like chickpeas, black beans, or lentils cook up evenly and fast without soaking for hours.
Grains and Rice
Pressure cookers make perfectly cooked rice, quinoa, and other grains simple and hassle-free.
Curries and Braised Dishes
Curries get a flavor boost, and braised meats turn out moist and packed with taste.
One-Pot Meals
Dishes like risotto, jambalaya, or casseroles come together beautifully in a pressure cooker.
Sweet Treats
Try desserts like puddings, cheesecakes, or steamed cakes—many models like the insta pot handle these surprisingly well.
What to Avoid
Not everything works well in a pressure cooker. It’s best to avoid softer foods like fish that are more on the delicate side, anything that is breaded as it should taste crispy and would turn to mush, and dairy-heavy dishes.
What to Look For When Buying a Pressure Cooker
Stainless steel pressure cookers tend to be more durable and distribute heat more evenly. They are definitely a great long-term investment.
Features like locking lids, pressure indicators, and automatic shut-offs make cooking worry-free, especially for beginners.
So take a deep breath, read the manual, and give it a shot. Your taste buds (and your busy schedule) will thank you.