What Is A Pressure Cooker and How Do You Use It?

While Pressure Cooker can look intimidating, many of today's greatest pressure cookers are surprisingly simple to operate. You can make delicious main courses like curries and stews, whether you're cooking for dinner at night or simmering at work. In this article, we take a look at the fundamentals of pressure cooking, including the basics of the equipment, and offer some cooking advice of our own.

What is a pressure cooker?

A pressure cooker is an airtight cooking device that cooks food quickly due to the steam pressure built up inside. The steam moistens food, which is why this appliance is perfect for stews, cheesecakes, and more. There are stove-top pressure cookers that use the heat of the stove, and countertop units that plug into a wall outlet. Many built-in pressure cooks tout other features and functions, such as the ability to slow cook and steam in addition to pressure cooking.
What is a pressure cooker?
A pressure cooker is an airtight cooking device that cooks food quickly due to the steam pressure built up inside. The steam moistens food, which is why this appliance is perfect for stews, cheesecakes, and more. There are stove-top pressure cookers that use the heat of the stove, and countertop units that plug into a wall outlet. Many built-in pressure cooks tout other features and functions, such as the ability to slow cook and steam in addition to pressure cooking.

How do I use a pressure cooker?

Getting to know your pressure cooker for the first time? Try pressure cooking with plain water – this is called a water test and it will help you get to know your machine better. All you have to do is add a cup or two of water (over 400ml) to the pot, lock the lid on tightly and adjust the valve so it is in the airtight position.
Next, all you have to do is watch the pressure cooker work its magic. After a few minutes or so as the water heats up and the steam pressure builds up, the pressure will start to drop and then slowly release. Then you can try it with real food.

How can I make sure the stress is released?

This is the biggest concern for people who have never used a pressure cooker before. The good news is that modern pressure cookers are very safe and easy to use. Most pressure cookers have a steam release valve that you can move to the vent position to start releasing the pressure.
However, the easiest way is to let the pressure cooker release the pressure slowly on its own. Keep an eye on the countdown to make sure it's done -- don't try to remove the lid before the countdown is over, or you could get burned (fortunately, many cookers have a locking lid that prevents you from opening it until the pressure is released). Some cooks even like to let the pressure cooker sit for a while after the countdown, just to make sure all the pressure is gone.