Having a pressure cooker in a housewife’s arsenal allows her to devote much less time to cooking. The capabilities of this device are based on maintaining a temperature in the container above 100°. Thanks to the hermetically sealed lid, the amount of oxygen getting inside is minimal. This factor has a beneficial effect on the preservation of the beneficial qualities of prepared dishes. The unit has a number of important advantages when processing various products.
Externally, this device looks like a saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. During operation of the unit, steam from boiling water remains inside, creating a pressure of 0.7-1 bar. The temperature in the container can reach 121°. For ordinary pans, this figure cannot exceed the boiling point of water at 100°. This is why cooking in a pressure cooker is much faster.
There are 2 valves in the lid of the device. One of them is the main one, the second is an emergency one. They are needed to release excess pressure. The emergency valve is activated if the main valve fails. If overpressure Do not lower the device, the device may crack or explode.
The unit is widely used for processing products that require prolonged temperature exposure. These include porridges made from natural grains, meat dishes, soups, borscht. It is convenient to use a pressure cooker for cooking pilaf. This makes the rice very crumbly. useful qualities additional ingredients are saved.
Kinds
Currently, you can find both electric and mechanical models of pressure cookers. Each type of device has its own advantages. Before purchasing a unit for your home, you should familiarize yourself with the basic operational characteristics and capabilities of the equipment.
Electric
This category household appliances considered more modern. Network-operated devices are equipped additional options and successfully combine the functionality of a multicooker and a pressure cooker. Manufacturers of electrical household appliances try to automate all work processes as much as possible. Quite often you can find models that are successfully programmed for a specific technological cycle. Cooking food in such a pressure cooker involves pressing a few buttons. At the end of work, the device turns off automatically. At the same time, many models accompany the completion of cooking with a sound signal.
Electric pressure cookers are also called self-contained. The term is appropriate because such units are heated by connecting to the network, and a stove is needed to operate mechanical devices. Electric pressure cookers can be made from different materials. You can find aluminum, steel and ceramic containers.
Mechanical
This type of pressure cooker consists of pans with airtight lids. To prepare dishes, they are placed on an electric or gas stove. Such devices must have sufficiently thick walls and bottom. Mechanical models are made exclusively of metal. Cheaper pressure cookers are made from aluminum. U of this material many disadvantages, including the inability to operate the pressure cooker on induction cooker. Steel containers They have more advantages, but they also cost an order of magnitude more.
What characteristics should you use to choose a pressure cooker?
When purchasing any household appliance, you need to know what its features are. crucial and what is secondary. When purchasing a pressure cooker, it is important to pay attention to the following characteristics:
- material of manufacture;
- bowl volume;
- device power;
- the presence or absence of auxiliary options.
Also an important factor is the price of the unit. Before purchasing, you should analyze your own needs and financial capabilities. The right approach will allow you to purchase a model that will combine functional and cost qualities as much as possible.
Material
Most often you can find pressure cookers made of aluminum and of stainless steel. There are products with ceramic containers, but this category is not in high demand. Aluminum pressure cookers are very popular. Housewives like such devices because of their light weight and affordable price. But they also have significant disadvantages:
- for sealing, such models are equipped rubber gaskets. Such layers are extremely short-lived. Over time, they begin to leak pressure, as a result of which the speed of food processing decreases;
- aluminum can react chemically with various substances. At the same time they suffer taste qualities prepared dishes. Also, this feature negatively affects human health;
- Due to the chemical activity of the material, the pressure cooker quickly loses its attractive appearance. An unsightly coating forms on the walls of the device inside and outside.
Steel pressure cookers are more expensive than aluminum ones. There are good reasons for this. Such devices even look more respectable. They are durable, reliable and safe for the health of consumers. Steel pressure cookers are equipped with a glass lid, and the valves on it often have several positions for adjusting the pressure. Also, such a device usually includes a bowl for steaming.
To seal the lid, two types of materials are used - rubber and silicone. The second option is preferable, since such an o-ring will not absorb food odors. In addition, silicone is much more durable than rubber. This material is used in mid-price and premium models. When purchasing, you should choose units with a non-stick coating. Cleaning and washing such devices is much easier than less advanced models.
Volume
When buying a pressure cooker, you must take into account the number of people for whom the dishes will be prepared. For the average family, a device with a capacity of 5-6 liters is sufficient. For those who like to cook in reserve or often receive guests, 7-9-liter containers are suitable.
Manufacturers of household appliances offer a large number of various devices. In stores you can find pressure cookers with bowl volumes from 0.5 to 40 liters. When choosing one model or another, you need to remember that when cooking, the pan should not be completely filled. For correct operation of the device, it is necessary to leave enough space for steam. The maximum filling of the pressure cooker bowl is 2/3 of the total volume. If you plan to cook swelling ingredients (cereals), you should not fill more than half the container with food.
Power
This factor applies only to autonomous electric pressure cookers. Power is directly related to the size of the device. Mostly there are models with parameters from 1 to 1.5 kW. Devices with large capacity require large amounts of electricity, but the water boils faster in them. Low-power appliances are good in cramped conditions - you can cook a dish in small apartment or at the dacha.
Functionality
Modern household appliances are equipped with various options that greatly simplify their operation. This trend also applies to pressure cookers, especially the electronic varieties. The devices are improved with the following auxiliary elements:
- temperature and pressure regulator in the container;
- a timer with which you can also use the delayed start function;
- viewing window allowing you to monitor the heat treatment process;
- steam plates for cooking dietary dishes without using animal or vegetable oil;
- protective mechanisms that do not allow the lid to be opened until the pressure inside the bowl decreases.
There are devices that have a narrow specialization. If desired, you can purchase models adapted exclusively for preparing cereals, pasta or vegetable dishes. However in great demand They use universal devices in which any product can be processed. It is also worth choosing equipment that has the functions of a multicooker.
To successfully use pressure cookers at home, you should listen to some tips. The main recommendation is to strictly follow the instructions for the device. In this case, equipment manufacturers can guarantee uninterrupted operation over a long period. Sufficient attention should be paid to cleaning and washing equipment. Otherwise, the equipment quickly loses its attractive appearance.
It is not advisable to use a mechanical aluminum model if the house has a glass-ceramic stove. This metal contributes to the formation of unsightly stains on the surface of the stove. If there are frequent voltage fluctuations in the network in the house, the device should be connected through a stabilizer. This is especially important for devices with touch controls.
Rating of the best pressure cookers with prices
When buying household appliances, it would be useful to first familiarize yourself with the list of the most popular models. It’s good if such a rating is accompanied detailed explanation popularity. The list below was compiled based on sales figures and real customer reviews:
- In 5th place is the pressure cooker Moulinex CE 503132. The volume of the device bowl is 5 liters. Power – 1 kW. This unit has a high degree of automation. There are 33 programs for preparing various dishes. Stylish design, good performance and brand reliability are the main advantages of Moulinex CE 503132. The disadvantage of the device is the rather short power cord. The model belongs to the middle price segment. You can buy such a pressure cooker for 6,000 rubles.
- The unit is in 4th position Marta MT-4321. This product from Chinese manufacturers attracts attention original design in high-tech style. A compact pressure cooker will look good in a small kitchen. The power of the device is only 900 W. This parameter makes the operation of Marta MT-4321 economical. The capacity of the device is 5 liters. Manufacturers have equipped the device with 16 built-in programs. The electronic control unit allows you to automate the cooking process as much as possible. The delayed start function allows you to delay the start by 24 hours. The cost of a pressure cooker is up to 5,000 rubles.
- In 3rd place is the device Redmond RMC-PM380. The large bowl capacity (6 liters) is combined with fairly low energy consumption - 1 kW. This device has 14 cooking programs for various dishes. In this case, it is possible to adjust the temperature and pressure during an already running cycle. There is also a 24 hour delay start function. The end of the work is accompanied by a clearly audible sound signal. The disadvantage of the model is its size and heavy weight. You can buy Redmond RMC-PM380 for 6,500 rubles.
- 2nd place – for a domestically produced device. Dobrynya DO-1011 has an unusual stylized design. Device power – 1 kW, capacity – 6 liters. The undoubted advantage of a pressure cooker is additional function 3D heating. Housewives also have the opportunity to delay starting cooking for up to 24 hours. The disadvantage of the model is the short power cord. Due to the low popularity of the brand, you can purchase Dobrynya DO-1011 for only 3,400 rubles. At the same time, the quality and functionality of the product are not inferior to models from more popular manufacturers. household appliances.
- The leader in the rating was the pressure cooker Bosch MUC88B68. The device from a well-known German brand has a large list of additional features and a high degree of process automation. The end of the cycle, which requires the attention of the housewife, is accompanied by a sound signal. Any parameters, if necessary, can be adjusted directly during cooking. The settings allow you to use two pressure modes. Bowl capacity – 4 liters, power – 1200 W. This unit is a premium product. You can buy a Bosch MUC88B68 pressure cooker for 24,000 rubles.
Necessity instant cooking dishes forces many people to purchase a special multifunctional appliance. It is a small saucepan with a hermetically sealed lid. It allows you to prepare lunch or dinner very quickly and efficiently.
The operating principle of this device is based on cooking food without access to cold air, as a result of which the temperature inside it rises, pressure is created and the water boils faster. But how to choose a pressure cooker so as not to regret the purchase later? Today we will tell you about this in detail.
Universal device
The body of the pressure cooker is mostly made of aluminum and stainless steel. The alloy of these materials has good thermal conductivity, which speeds up the cooking process. The pan also has a special heat distribution layer on the bottom, which prevents food from burning.
Distinctive features of the design of this culinary utensil are sealed thick side walls and a functional lid, which is equipped with a special pressure release valve. One more important element are rubber or silicone gaskets that are designed for a tighter fit various elements to each other.
Today, many manufacturers of household appliances have begun to produce electric models that work when connected to a regular outlet. In appearance, they are similar to a multicooker, but the design is distinguished by a massive lid and a simpler display.
Which pressure cooker is better to buy - mechanical or electric? It is not easy to answer this question. Both of them can easily cope with preparing even the most complex dishes, so the purchase of a specific model depends on the requirements for it and the preferences of the housewife.
Which pressure cooker is the best: selection criteria
Choice kitchen appliances– this is a complex and responsible process. Today, the market offers a huge range of household appliances, so modern housewives can choose the best option for themselves.
When purchasing this device, you must be guided by the following criteria:
- Case material. Mechanical models are made of steel and aluminum, and electrical devices They have a plastic body and a metal inner container. Which model is the best? It depends on the preferences of the hostess;
- Quality of sealing elements (rings and gaskets), which do not provide opportunities warm air go out, and the cold one gets in;
- Device design to relieve pressure;
- Mechanism for opening and closing the device, which affects the smooth operation process. Ideally, it should be protected against accidental opening;
- Internal capacity volume. Devices should be selected based on this parameter based on the number of family members. Which one is better to buy? For a family of 3-4 people, a three-liter bowl is suitable, and for a large family - a 5-liter bowl;
- Options. High-quality models are equipped additional accessories– spatulas for mixing the contents, as well as spare parts.
Do you want to know which is the best pressure cooker? Electric models are more advanced and modernized, and the cooking process is fully automated. You can cook up to two or three dishes at the same time without mixing their flavor characteristics.
Mechanical pressure cookers are more traditional models. However, they are not suitable for use on ceramic and induction hobs as they may cause stains that may become impossible to clean over time. However modern models Thanks to their innovative design, they are practically no different from electrical household devices.
Plyushkin 
For kitchen
A pressure cooker is a thick-walled pan with a hermetically sealed lid. The tight fit of the lid to the body of the pan is achieved using special gaskets.
The cover has operating and emergency valves.
The first is designed to release steam during cooking, the second is triggered when the operating pressure level is exceeded.
All the variety of pressure cookers is united by the cooking method - cooking at high blood pressure And high temperature, which can significantly reduce the cooking time of many dishes. In addition, the products retain their natural taste, color and microelements as much as possible.
Types of pressure cookers
Pressure cookers come with single-layer and multi-layer bottoms; with an oval lid that is pressed from the inside, and a round one that is pressed from the outside; from small (half-liter) to large (forty-liter).
Based on the material of manufacture, they are distinguished between aluminum, stainless steel and enameled (rare).
The budget option is aluminum.
Aluminum bowls are lighter and heat up faster. But when interacting with sour and salty dishes, they release harmful substances that go into food. In addition, aluminum models are very short-lived. Stainless steel bowls are more expensive, heavier, but stronger and safer for health.
According to the method of preparation, there are mechanical and electrical. In turn, electric pressure cookers can be divided into cookers, rice cookers, pasta cookers and multifunctional models.
: advantages and disadvantages
A modern electric pressure cooker is a modernized and multifunctional device.
The cooking process is as simple as possible: placing the necessary products in a container and pressing the desired button.
In addition, most models have delay and reheat modes.
This is especially true when you need to prepare or heat up lunch, say, before your child arrives from school. Some electric pressure cookers can cook two dishes at once.
An electric pressure cooker has one drawback: the lid of most appliances cannot be washed in a dishwasher. However, such a trifle is hardly worth paying attention to. And if you are suddenly going to go into nature, then take it with you.
Superficial and hidden nuances of choosing the right electric pressure cooker
You can get lost in the huge variety of modern electric pressure cookers. The devices differ not only in appearance, but also in their functionality. ? What should you consider when choosing?
It is necessary to pay attention to two leading factors: the material and the design of the device. This comes first. And only then on the design: in beautiful dishes and it’s more pleasant to cook.
Bowl material. Modern manufacturers have not yet abandoned the use of aluminum in the manufacture of cookware. The main advantage of this material is its low cost.
But electric pressure cooker made of aluminum quickly loses its appearance, a gray coating appears on the bowls over time, and harmful substances can be released into the food.
Aluminum appliances are usually made in China. In Russia, aluminum pressure cookers are produced in Chelyabinsk.
Stainless steel models are safer and more durable. When buying such devices, pay attention to the bottom. The thicker it is, the better. Sometimes, to prepare a dish, some foods need to be fried, and it is more convenient to do this directly in a pressure cooker. In addition, in appliances with a single-layer bottom, food may burn.
O-ring material. Silicone or rubber can be used. The first one is more practical: it lasts a long time and does not produce foreign odors. There are models without a sealing gasket between the body and the lid. In practice, such devices are untenable. All it takes is one small notch to appear and the seal will be broken.
Pressure cooker design. Not only convenience, but also safety of use depends on this. The standard configuration includes two valves for steam release: working and emergency. IN more emergency is not necessary. When choosing, you need to pay attention to the direction of the hot steam exit. If the jet goes upward, there is a high probability of getting a burn. It is desirable that the steam diverges to the sides.
Mechanism for closing and opening the lid. The selection criterion is simplicity and ease of use. Please note availability additional system protection that will not allow the pressure cooker to be opened if the pressure inside is high.
The versatility of the device will allow you to diversify the menu and make the life of the housewife much easier. Therefore, pay attention to the cooking modes and the ability to set the temperature.
The package may additionally include rice nets, baskets for steaming dishes, etc. An electric pressure cooker cannot be completely filled with water, so the presence of an internal scale is welcome.
Review of popular models
Brand 6050
Power: 900W
Functions: stewing, boiling, baking, steaming
Control: electronic, lid locking during cooking.
Features: touch control, the ability to adjust time and mode during the cooking process, the presence of a delay timer and food heating functions, non-stick coating bowls, in case of a power outage, the program is saved for up to 2 hours.
The consumer rating of this model is very high. Among the shortcomings, the only noteworthy thing is that silicone seal absorbs the odors of dishes that are no longer washed out.
Pressure cooker Cuckoo CRP-A1010F
Power: 1100W
Functions: "porridge", "mixed rice", "brown rice", " chicken soup", "stew", "potatoes", multi-cook, turbo, clock, timer, reheating, reheating.
Control: touch, multi-position, lid locking during cooking.
Features: non-stick coating with marble coating, display of emerging problems, cooking at high and low pressure, the ability to steam, function of continuous heating of food, automatic pressure release when a critical level is reached,
The consumer rating of this model is very high. Disadvantages include bulkiness and high energy consumption.
Thus, a pressure cooker - useful thing in the kitchen sector. Right choice– a guarantee of safety and ease of use. When purchasing, pay attention to the material, design and functions of a particular model. We hope we answered the question How to choose a pressure cooker.
Main (and desirable) characteristics: material - stainless steel, silicone sealing rings, release of hot steam to the sides, lid locking function during cooking, delay and heating modes.
In this article we will talk about pressure cookers - cookware that was invented at the end of the 17th century in France. Since then, a lot has changed in her appearance, but the principle of operation remains unchanged.
A pressure cooker is a heat-resistant metal pan with a sealed lid, designed for use on a stove.
The difference between a pressure cooker and any other pan is that the food in it is cooked under pressure, at a temperature of approximately 121°C (when we cook in the usual way, Maximum temperature in a saucepan or frying pan reaches only 100 °C).
Increased pressure and temperature inside are achieved thanks to the tightly pressed lid of the dish. Such conditions created inside the pan significantly reduce the cooking time for porridge, meat, vegetable, fish and other dishes.
Main advantages of a pressure cooker:
- Food cooks in it 3-4 times faster compared to in the usual way preparations;
- Due to the fact that the products are steamed, the dish retains its O most of the vitamins;
- Products do not lose their original color, since at all stages of cooking there is no contact of food with oxygen;
- When using this cookware, energy costs are reduced.
Stainless steel pressure cooker
Pressure cookers for gas and electric kitchen stoves Traditionally made from aluminum and stainless steel. Stainless steel pans in this case are significantly more expensive, but also performance characteristics This type of cookware is much better.
Stainless steel is durable, resistant to mechanical damage, corrosion, and bacteria do not spread on its smooth surface.
Stainless steel cookware can withstand temperatures up to 1300°C (for comparison, the melting point of aluminum is several times lower). At the same time, when heated, stainless steel does not emit substances harmful to health.
Prepared food can be stored; In aluminum cookware, food acquires an off-flavor the very next day.
Thus, if you decide to buy a pressure cooker, opt for stainless steel models.
Induction pressure cooker
High-quality pressure cookers for induction and any other stoves are made of stainless steel.
The cookware on the surface of the induction hob is heated by magnetic field(and not a heating element, as on other electric stoves). In order for a stainless steel pressure cooker to absorb the electromagnetic energy of an induction cooker as much as possible, the bottom of such a pan is made thicker.
Between two layers of stainless steel, in the bottom of pressure cookers, manufacturers install metal with high thermal conductivity and good magnetic properties: for example copper or aluminum. Cookware with such a “layered” bottom heats up on an induction hob in a matter of seconds.
If you are buying, ask the seller what material this pan is made of. And be sure to inquire about the presence of a special metal layer in the bottom of the dish.
Remember that the diameter of the bottom of the pan must exactly match the size of the burner on hob Your induction cooker.
Pressure cooker for glass ceramic hob
There are a number of requirements for cookware for glass-ceramic stoves; Be guided by them when buying a pressure cooker.
- Pressure cooker for glass ceramic hob should have a flat bottom, without concave or convex places. Otherwise, the process of heat transfer from the stove to the pan will be disrupted. This is fraught with the fact that the surface of the slab will soon become unusable.
- To prevent the surface of the stove from overheating, the diameter of the bottom of the pressure cooker must exactly match the diameter of the burner on which you are going to cook, or be smaller.
- For glass ceramic hobs, it is not recommended to use a pressure cooker with an aluminum or copper bottom. If inserts of these metals are present in the bottom of the pan, a layer of stainless steel should cover the outside of them.
- When choosing a pressure cooker for a glass-ceramic stove, give preference to models with a thick bottom to avoid its deformation when heated.
Pressure cooker functions
A pressure cooker is not just “another” pot in the kitchen; she will replace you O Most of the items are heat-resistant and will be used by you for preparing many dishes.
Here is a list of what you can cook in a pressure cooker:
- Omelettes
- Main courses (stew, roast, rice with seafood, meat or chicken; pilaf, bigus, etc.)
- Stewed dishes (dishes in own juice or with gravy)
- Baked goods and desserts (casserole, sponge cake, milk soufflé)
- Steamed dishes (including semi-finished products)
- Drinks (compotes, juices)
After reading the instructions, during the cooking process you will be able to control the valve located on the lid of the pressure cooker and regulate the pressure in it, releasing steam.
Popular manufacturers: Fissler and Silampos
Remember that food in a pressure cooker is cooked under high pressure and at high temperatures. Therefore, you need to handle this pan with extreme caution.
For the same reasons, you should carefully choose a pressure cooker in the store, giving preference to well-known brands. For example, Fissler (Germany) or Silampos (Portugal).
The pans of the indicated manufacturing factories are made of stainless steel and have high quality execution. They are suitable for all types of cookers, including induction cookers. The fittings are made of expensive plastic; it is harmless to health and does not heat up during cooking.
In the assortment of both companies you will find a pressure cooker of the required volume (from 2.5 to 12 liters).
Comes with branded pressure cookers detailed instructions instruction manual, quality certificate and warranty certificate. To avoid counterfeiting, check the availability of the specified documents and make a purchase in a specialized store.
– it is 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:
How to choose a pressure cooker?
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.
- Pressure cookers are produced mainly from food-grade aluminum and stainless steel. Best brand steel for a stainless steel pan 18/10 (18% chromium and 10% nickel). Most manufacturers install this particular brand, but you shouldn’t trust everyone. The main criterion for a stainless steel pressure cooker is: heat distribution layer at the bottom of the pan. Stainless steel does not conduct heat well, and food in a pressure cooker with thin layer will burn. And if you fry in this dish, then such a bottom is simply necessary.
- Pay special attention pan gasket, they come in rubber and silicone, the latter are more reliable and durable.
- When choosing a pressure cooker, pay attention to the valve. The stream of hot air should come out to the sides, not up. Then you will avoid burns.
- Another one important detail– the opening mechanism must be convenient and safe. Many large companies have their own patented quick opening and closing mechanisms. This can be done in a couple of movements. It is advisable to choose pressure cooker with protection so that it cannot be opened under pressure.
- Many modern pressure cookers have cooking and cooking modes- Same handy tool, which makes it easier to work with this kitchen utensil.
- When choosing a pan, you also need to consider pan volume reserve, since, unlike ordinary pans, it cannot be filled to the brim. It is necessary to install a place for steam, this will increase the safety of work.
- Availability of accessories(various meshes, baskets and grates) creates additional convenience for preparing dishes.
- Convenient pots with measuring scale filling with liquid.
Here are the main criteria for choosing a pressure cooker.
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!