The pressure cooker pan features an airtight lid, creating a high pressure, increasing the boiling point.
As a result, vegetables, legumes, and meat cook twice and sometimes four times faster. Pressure cookers are especially in demand in areas with low atmospheric pressure, since in such conditions the boiling point of liquids is lower and does not reach 100 degrees. Acceleration is relevant for products that require prolonged heat treatment, as well as for dishes that take a long time to prepare, such as jellied meat and jam.
In the USSR, the first pressure cookers for gas and electric stoves appeared on mass sale in the seventies of the twentieth century. Housewives appreciated the new pots for their speed, and owners of electric stoves – for their efficiency, since accelerated cooking consumed significantly less electricity. Today the popularity of pans is lower, since they appeared electrical devices with sealed lids.
The operating principle of a pressure cooker is based on the fact that when increased pressure the boiling point is higher than with normal and reduced. In a hermetically sealed pan, the pressure increases, so the temperature of liquids (and there is water in all products) and steam is higher than the usual 100 degrees. For example, at a pressure of 1 bar, the boiling point of water is 120 degrees.
At the same time, even tender vegetables and fruits do not boil, retain their shape and color, since there is no oxidation - interaction with oxygen. There are facts that with such cooking, more vitamins and useful substances, because heat treatment lasts less time. Hence the name - pressure cooker, that is, quick cooking.
The structure of a pressure cooker is not difficult to understand. The saucepan is the most common, but it must be durable and able to withstand high pressure. The working volume of the pan is about a third less than the total volume, since there should always be space between the food (water) and the lid. This is important to consider when choosing.
The most important thing in the kit is the lid. It seals the container hermetically, preventing steam from escaping and pressure building. For maximum tight fit, the lid is supplemented with rubber or silicone o-ring. Good silicone is more practical and durable than rubber. Special locks or clips are provided for fixation, and for safety - blocking.
During heating, high pressure is created inside, which must be regulated to avoid explosions and burns. Provided for automatic adjustment safety valve , which releases excess air as needed. Most often there are several valves.
Modern models are equipped with the ability to adjust pressure and set the heat treatment mode. For example, 60 kPa is enough to cook vegetables, and 90 kPa is needed to quickly cook meat.
Cookware with a pressure cooker function is distinguished by material of manufacture, volume, bottom diameter, compatibility with different types slabs How to choose a pressure cooker for a gas stove, and which one is suitable for induction? What kind of pan is needed for porridge, and what can you cook jellied meat in?
Stovetop pressure cookers are made from of stainless steel and aluminum. These metals have good thermal conductivity, which also helps accelerate the heating of water and food. Models made of steel with an enamel coating are rare. Pressure cookers are not made from cast iron or ceramics.
Stainless steel pressure cooker pans are considered the most practical. Stainless steel is resistant to acids, withstands high temperatures, does not absorb fats and juices from food, and does not retain odors. You can cook almost anything in stainless steel cookware: jellied meat, jam, roast, porridge.
Cast aluminum pressure cookers are rarely found on sale. From cast aluminum, as a rule, they make small saucepans with a non-stick coating. They are suitable for stewing meat, poultry, fish, cooking cereals and legumes.
Lids pressure cooker pans are made entirely of metal or with inserts made of tempered glass. Glass lids are more convenient, since the dishes cannot be opened during cooking. Through the glass you can visually control the cooking. Some housewives do not accept blind cooking.
Small pressure cookers for gas and electric stoves in the shape of a ladle are suitable for cooking cereals, side dishes, and quickly cooking vegetables. Small saucepans are convenient for small families, as well as for young parents with preschool children. Quickly cooked but well sterilized vegetables, meat or fish can be easily pureed for baby food.
In non-pressure cooking mode, the ladle can be used as a regular cookware. For example, prepare milk porridge or quick soup. For convenience, a simple lid is included in the kit. Most practical option- stainless steel.
A medium-sized pressure cooker made of stainless steel or aluminum with a capacity of 4-6 liters is suitable for everyday tasks. In this you can stew meat with vegetables, cook meatballs, meatballs, stuffed peppers, stews, and poultry.
Please note that additional addition of ingredients during the cooking process is possible, but problematic, so it is better to choose recipes that do not require attention. According to the principle: add food, turn on the stove and turn it off after a while.
For jellied meat, jam, whole poultry carcasses, pieces of meat for complex dishes and preparing dinner for the family, you need a pressure cooker with a capacity of at least 6 liters. Don't forget to take into account that useful volume is always less. For most tasks, a volume of 7-9 liters is suitable.
Pressure cookers with a steamer function are designed for cooking on gas and electric stoves healthy steamed dishes. with a pressure valve allow you to process vegetables or prepare manti and dumplings in a matter of minutes.
There are steamers and pressure cookers different sizes. There are low pans with perforated inserts. They can be used for small portions. For manti and heat treatment large quantity For vegetables, it is better to choose a pressure cooker with a multi-tiered insert or several inserts that are installed on top of each other like a pyramid.
If you are planning to buy a pressure cooker for a gas stove, then you can consider all the pots available in the market. Even if the diameter of the bottom is smaller than the burner, the problem can be easily solved with the help of an overlay. Both steel and aluminum cookware, but the bottom must be fire resistant.
A pressure cooker for an electric stove must match the diameter of the bottom to the existing burner. The bottom should be smooth and even so that the contact with the electric burner is as tight as possible. Clearance gaps will lead to unnecessary energy consumption. Please note that low-quality metal can be deformed by high temperature, which also slows down the heat treatment time.
Induction cookers work on a different principle - they do not heat themselves, but heat the cookware. But the operation of the stove is only possible if the circuit is closed. Dishes must be made of energy-absorbing material magnetic field. Stainless steel is the leader in this segment.
An ordinary one will not work - the stove simply will not turn on. But there are aluminum pressure cookers with induction bottoms. In this case, on the bottom or inside the bottom there is an additional plate of ferromagnetic metal - steel or copper.
To speed up heating and reduce the risk of burning, an encapsulated bottom was invented. The peculiarity of this bottom is its multilayer structure - inside, between the aluminum and steel plates, there is a thicker disk made of cast aluminum or copper.
Best Pressure Cooker for Induction Cooker – steel with encapsulated bottom. This duo minimizes energy consumption and speeds up cooking.
To buy a safe and durable pressure cooker, carefully study the specifications and accompanying documents. Remember that this is not just a pan, but a complex device that works under pressure.
To choose the right pressure cooker for a gas stove or electric hob, consider these points:
Carefully read the operating instructions and certificates, make sure that everything specified is included in the kit.
Stainless steel pressure cookers made in Russia are more attractive in cost than imported ones. Therefore, pay attention to domestic products if you want to save money and are ready to be content with standard functions.
Some models of pressure cookers with Russian names (“Varya”, “Comfort”, “Kudesnitsa”) are actually produced in China, but for Russia. If you prefer domestic goods, look for products from the Ural Household Products Plant called “Miracle-50 N” (5 liters) or “Miracle-70 N” (7 liters).
Kitchenware and accessories from the Czech brand Tescoma are trusted by Russian housewives. The Magnum pressure cooker is made of 18/10 stainless steel, complemented by a three-layer bottom, suitable for gas and induction cookers. There is a measuring scale inside for easy cooking. The handles do not get hot and can withstand heavy pans. Volume 7 liters.
Aluminum pans should not be discounted either. Anodized aluminum is safe and durable. An aluminum pressure cooker from the Chelyabinsk manufacturer Chudo-55 with a capacity of 5 liters is ideal for everyday tasks. There is an insert for steaming. The handles are removable.
Ratings of pressure cooker pans are often topped by products from the German manufacturer Bekker BK. The BK-954 model is made of mirror polished stainless steel and features a lid locking system and a durable silicone seal. The encapsulated bottom is compatible with all types of slabs. Total volume – 6 liters. Bakelite handles do not heat up. It is convenient to remove from the stove with one or two hands.
Cast aluminum pan from Norbert Woll GmbH with an induction bottom, suitable for dishes of any consistency. Bottom diameter – 28 cm.
Chinese manufacturers are attracted by competitive prices. The Appetite aluminum pressure cooker with a capacity of 9 liters is suitable for jellied meat and large pieces of meat. In a tall saucepan you can boil, stew and steam.
The Chinese company has several models of pressure cookers of different sizes made of stainless chromium-nickel steel with a mirror polish. The rubberized gasket ring ensures reliable sealing. The tempered glass lid is equipped with a pressure regulation valve and a locking system.
Detailed instructions for using the pressure cooker must be included with the product. Some nuances may vary depending on the model and manufacturer. Here are only general recommendations on safety and use.
Forbidden:
How to use a pressure cooker:
It is important to ensure that the pressure control valves do not become clogged; if they become dirty, they should be washed. It is advisable to store the O-ring separately, especially if the pressure cooker is rarely used. Dishes must be stored dry.
In a pressure cooker you can cook quickly and easily, saving time and effort for more enjoyable things to do and relax. Be sure to choose for yourself suitable model in the online store or in mall of your city.
A pressure cooker is one of the devices that can provide indispensable help to any housewife. It greatly simplifies the cooking process. At the same time, the device makes it possible to prepare many dishes and diversify your menu.
A pressure cooker for an induction cooker has the following operating principle. It speeds up the cooking process due to the fact that it is a sealed container in which the pressure and temperature are higher than in a regular pan.
When choosing a pressure cooker, you should consider the following characteristics:
pressure cooker, then its choice should be approached with special attention, after all we're talking about about the quality of food. In this article we will talk about how to choose a pressure cooker and not regret your choice.
Before choosing a pressure cooker, you need to understand what it is and what it is intended for.
A pressure cooker is a kitchen appliance shaped like a pan. Products are prepared in a container that is hermetically sealed. The cooking temperature of food is higher than the boiling point, and the released steam, having no outlet, creates overpressure, which significantly reduces cooking time.
In addition, a pressure cooker has several more advantages, namely, the avoidance of excess steam, the ability to cook dishes without using fat, the absence greasy stains and splashes, no remains of burnt food on the stove.
There are mechanical and pressure cookers. Both have a number of pros and cons, which need to be discussed in more detail in order to thoroughly understand this kitchen appliances and choose the best option for you.
The material for its manufacture can be aluminum, steel, or a combination of both of these metals.
The main advantages of a mechanical aluminum pressure cooker are: affordable price, a simple configuration that visually represents a simple saucepan with a hermetically sealed lid. Distinctive features This type of pressure cooker has thick side walls, a multi-layer bottom, and is closed with a screw-on lid, which is equipped with a pair of pressure release valves - the main one and the emergency one.
When choosing any pressure cooker model, you need to pay special attention to the quality of the rubber (silicone) gasket, which must be free of defects and deformations, and must fit tightly.
The only disadvantage of a mechanical aluminum pressure cooker is that it does not work well with a glass-ceramic or induction hob, and also leaves stains on the glossy surface that cannot be washed off.
A mechanical pressure cooker made of steel or combined metals is more practical to operate, equipped with minimal systems controls, namely, an automated system for locking and unlocking the lid, as well as a pressure selection valve, which can have two or more operating modes. The disadvantage of such a pressure cooker is its cost, which is almost 2.5 times higher than the cost of an aluminum pressure cooker.
The high price is justified by the quality and ease of use of a steel mechanical pressure cooker or a pressure cooker made of combined metals, because such a pressure cooker will not open at will; it secures the lid well until the pressure in the container becomes safe for opening. In addition, it is possible to set such a pressure cooker to the pressure required for preparing a specific dish.
Well, the most important advantage of almost all models of mechanical pressure cookers is the presence of a self-cleaning emergency valve, which will not allow scale to accumulate in the device.
Pressure cookers made of steel or combined materials, work with all types of kitchen hobs.
Currently, there is a huge variety of models of electric pressure cookers. For example, there are pressure cookers designed for one type of cooking (cooker, rice cooker, pasta cooker, etc.). Multifunctional multicookers are more convenient to use and store.
How to choose a pressure cooker from such an abundance of models? Certainly, the best option pressure cooker is the one that is capable of . Its only disadvantage is the high price.
All electric pressure cookers are fully automatic, have timers and intelligent systems management, carry out exactly any task assigned to her, prepare the dish exactly on time.
People no longer want to spend a lot of time preparing food - they are looking for more quick way cooking your favorite dishes. Life is fleeting, and it flows through our fingers while we earn money and spend short hours of leisure - and when cooking takes up the lion's share of time, there is only free time in the day to lie down and relax. Technology adapts to our needs and pressure cookers were invented to reduce the time we spend on cooking.
In fact, people have long been looking for a way to cook food faster, but it all came down to elementary law physicists: the boiling point of water cannot exceed its capabilities, 100°C - and that’s all. In order for the food to cook faster, this temperature needs to be somehow increased, but the maximum that can be achieved is to increase the heat and speed up the approach of the boiling point of water, and then all that remains is to obey the standard course of things: the meat is cooked for an hour, the beets for an hour and a half, the potatoes for about 20 minutes. And at this time you have to be in the kitchen and make sure that water does not flood the stove. Multicookers do a great job of solving the second problem by giving you more freedom while cooking, but they can't force food to cook faster than the boiling point allows.
And yet, it would be strange if a person did not come up with something to increase his comfort - imagine, this was first done back in the 17th century. The first to bypass physics was the quick-witted Frenchman Denis Papin, who quickly found application for new discoveries in the field of the influence of atmospheric pressure on the boiling point. And the influence is most direct - the higher the pressure, the higher the boiling point becomes. All that remained to be done was to create a sealed vessel in which pressure would rise during heating.
A pressure cooker is a modern and fast tool for cooking healthy food. Extreme pressure and heat reduce usual time cooking up to 70% while saving approximately 50% of energy. Gentle treatment of ingredients retains most of the vitamins, minerals and nutrients, making food healthy and tasty. A practical tool: pressure cookers are ideal for cooking almost all types of food - from vegetables, meat and fish to grains, bean porridge, soups, and stews. Even preparing special dietary or baby food is not difficult. The pressure cooker also impresses with its ease of use and safety. Simply put, this is an indispensable all-rounder in your kitchen.
The difference in cooking time is truly impressive - dishes cook 3-5 times faster than in a pan over a fire. If chicken cooks in a pan for about 40-45 minutes, then a pressure cooker will cook it in about 15 minutes. You can cook the toughest beef, which can take several hours to cook, in less than an hour, and the vegetables will be ready while you drink your morning coffee .
For some reason, one of the most common concerns about a pressure cooker is its effect on the amount of nutrients it supposedly destroys. quick cooking. These concerns are even offensive for a pressure cooker, because it preserves vitamins many times better than conventional cooking, which oxidizes food due to oxygen and literally “boils” vitamins through prolonged heat treatment. The pressure cooker is sealed, so the chances of oxygen getting into it are zero, and the food retains many useful substances. In addition, the taste of the food does not fade as much as when cooking in a pan.
Food in a pressure cooker can be stewed, boiled and even steamed. You can trust the pressure cooker to cook everything that you are used to cooking in the oven, double boiler or in a saucepan - and it will handle it brilliantly. Cook light soups in it in just a few minutes, stew meat and poultry, desserts, fish and seafood, steam vegetables - in short, it is ready to take on almost all the dishes that form the basis of your diet. The only things she doesn’t like are those that foam during cooking, splash and clog her working valve - apple and lingonberry compotes, rhubarb, cereal porridges, pasta.
First of all, we pay attention to the material. Pressure cookers are typically made from either stainless steel or aluminum, and sometimes a combination of these metals. In general, it is not recommended to purchase food equipment made of aluminum; this material quickly loses its attractive appearance due to a gray coating. In addition, they cannot be used to cook foods that have increased acidity, since in this case aluminum is released into the food, which has a bad effect on the taste and healthfulness of the dishes.
All self-respecting manufacturers produce pressure cookers made of stainless steel or similar alloys. This material does not oxidize food, preserves its natural taste regardless of the acidity level, and also heats the bottom of the pressure cooker evenly, so that food does not burn.
Pressure cookers are either electric or mechanical. Electric ones work like multicookers from the mains, while mechanical ones need to be placed on the stove like a regular pan. An electric pressure cooker is more comfortable to use; the entire process of cooking food takes place without your participation: press the “start” button and for a while you can throw out of your head the thought that you are cooking something and go on a visit or to the store without a twinge of conscience . You can also delay the start time of preparing the dish - put in the vegetables in the morning, come home at lunchtime - and a hot vegetable dish awaits you there. Convenient, of course. But mechanical pressure cookers take less space and are less likely to break.
To minimize the chance of damage, you need to choose the right pressure cooker. We will look at the best pressure cookers from reliable, world-famous companies, which are widely used in Europe both in professional and home kitchens.
The German company WMF has been famous for its high-quality stainless steel for decades, and a series of collections of mechanical pressure cookers are 100% created from this material. Thanks to the special TransTherm bottom, the pressure cooker is suitable for all types of hobs: gas, electric, induction and glass ceramic hobs. The internal coating of the pressure cooker is made of WMF’s own development - the high-tech material Cromargan®. In addition, the pressure cooker has energy-saving properties. Also, there are no comments on the design of the collections, this is WMF: smooth steel, shining glossy surface, all models are ergonomic, the details are impeccable.
WMF Perfect Pro
Series pressure cookers Perfect Pro from WMF never ceases to amaze with its dynamic design and strikingly laconic black handle. Modern production technologies convince with ease and practicality of use. The multifunctional fireproof “All-In-One” handle is equipped with a special regulator, with the help of which you independently select the necessary program for cooking. Also in pressure cookers high level safety thanks to the fire-resistant handle and a well-thought-out system for the release of hot steam - preventing gross mistakes in operation, you will never get burned. The handle is completely removable and can be washed under running water, and the container itself and the lid are suitable for washing in dishwasher. Among the functions of this collection, it is worth noting a special measuring scale located on inner surface pressure cookers It is convenient when you need to measure an exact amount of liquid.
Popular WMF Perfect Pro pressure cookers
WMF Perfect Plus
The Perfect Plus series of pressure cookers from WMF is a great combination modern technologies And current design. The operating process is extremely simple. The red rings on the hob indicator indicate two levels of readiness. All technology is located in the handle, where you can easily select the desired program and cooking time. A special reliable system for releasing excess steam will ensure safe opening of the lid, protecting you from burns. A measuring scale printed on the inner coating allows for more precise filling and dosing of the pan. Easy to clean, the handle is completely removable and washable under running water, and the container itself and the lid can be washed in the dishwasher
Popular pressure cookers WMF Perfect Plus
WMF Perfect
A timeless classic that has been part of WMF's wide range for many years. The Perfect series is an excellent combination of modern technology and classic design, proven over many years of presence on the market. Here it is harmoniously intertwined classic design and high technology of the German brand. All functions are defined in the knob, where you can select the desired cooking mode. Pressure cookers also have a high level of safety thanks to a fire-resistant handle and a well-thought-out system for releasing hot steam - without making gross mistakes in operation, you will never get burned. Among the functions of this collection, it is worth noting a special measuring scale located on the inner surface of the pressure cooker. It is convenient when you need to measure an exact amount of liquid. Easy to clean, the handle is completely removable and washable under running water, and the container itself and the lid can be washed in the dishwasher
Popular WMF Perfect pressure cookers
WMF Perfect Ultra
All the functionality of the WMF Perfect Ultra pressure cookers is built into the handle of the removable lid. The timer built into the handle monitors the duration of cooking and notifies you with a signal about the end of the process. The multifunctional “All-In-One” handle is equipped with a special regulator, with the help of which you independently select the necessary program for cooking. The multifunctional fireproof “All-In-One” handle is equipped with a special regulator, with the help of which you independently select the necessary program for cooking. Special automatic system release of excess steam - absolutely reliable and safe. A measuring scale printed on the inner coating allows for more precise filling and dosing of the pan. Easy to clean, the handle is completely removable and washable under running water, and the container itself and the lid can be washed in the dishwasher
Popular WMF Perfect Ultra pressure cookers
Functionality. The German company Silit uses steel base and special material: Silargan. This is a heavy but durable and practically “indestructible” alloy, resistant to most mechanical damage. All functions of the pressure cooker can be adjusted on one side on a convenient panel. The pressure cooker also contains a removable handle, easy to store and clean; has several cooking modes (depending on the model) and is suitable for all types of hobs.
Design. As with WMF, no comments on appearance products: modern, neat, ergonomic. There are several colors of pressure cookers available, so it’s easy to choose one that suits your kitchen.
Pressure cookers are a new generation of eco-style equipment that will take its place on every modern kitchen. If you do decide to get this useful device, you will significantly save time and make your diet more healthy.
- This is a very convenient, multifunctional kitchen appliance. It is an ordinary saucepan with a hermetically sealed lid. If you have already decided to purchase this miracle of human thought, you should understand:
Convenience of a pressure cooker is that food cooks faster in it due to the fact that access to cold air is closed. Thus, the water boils faster and the temperature is several degrees higher due to the pressure that is created in it.
Taking them into account, you will choose a pressure cooker that will delight you with its work. A good one from Tefal, costing from 1,000 to 10,000 rubles. From domestic pressure cookers enjoys good popularity.
Before buying, be sure to read the instructions and strictly follow them, find out. Don’t really trust the persuasion of managers; study them very carefully. specifications this miracle pan. And don't forget to tell your friends how to choose a pressure cooker!
