FROM a cow cooker is a convenient and functional kitchen tool that can greatly reduce the cooking time of many products. The principle of their operation is quite simple. As you know, under normal conditions, the maximum temperature to which water can be heated is about 100 degrees Celsius. After that, the water boils and the temperature of the water no longer rises. Due to their tightness, pressure cookers increase the pressure inside the pan and the temperature, in accordance with the laws of physics, increases by several tens of degrees. The increased temperature in a pressure cooker makes it possible to spend much less time cooking than in a conventional saucepan. The increased pressure and high temperature of the pressure cooker steam makes it potentially dangerous to use, so the choice of such a pan must be considered carefully. You should be even more careful when using pressure cookers.

Most often, with the help of pressure cookers, meat dishes are prepared - jelly, aspic, homemade stew. High cooking temperatures not only shorten cooking time and save energy, but also help soften hard tissues and even bones. You can also cook many other dishes in pressure cookers - cereals, soups, pilaf, etc. There is a theory that due to a tightly closed lid and a short cooking time, more vitamin remains in the food, but this is hardly the case. Vitamins, as you know, do not like heat and the best way to preserve them is to eat vegetables and fruits that have undergone minimal heat treatment.

The quality of pressure cookers is determined by two main factors - the materials used and the design feature, the design is also important, because it is much more pleasant to cook in a beautiful pan.

Old Soviet mechanical pressure cookers (which many people probably still remember, and some even use) were made of aluminum. Today, manufacturers of pressure cookers also do not refuse this metal. Aluminum has sufficient strength to ensure the safety of the product, but its main advantage is low cost. Aluminum pressure cookers still have disadvantages - they quickly lose their appearance, a gray coating forms on the inner walls, when cooking foods with a high acid content, aluminum can be released into food, which is not at all useful and can change the taste of cooked dishes. Otherwise, aluminum pressure cookers are not much inferior to similar stainless steel products and are several times cheaper.

Commercially available aluminum pressure cookers are mainly made in China. In Russia, in Chelyabinsk, they are produced by the "Ural Household Products Plant" (pressure cooker "Miracle" types Chudo-40, Miracle-55, Miracle-60, Miracle-60D, Miracle-70, Miracle-80D).

The most common pressure cooker material today is stainless steel. As a rule, most manufacturers use traditional steel 18/10 (AISI grade 304 with a chromium content of at least 18% and nickel - 8%), although cheaper steel grades can be used to save money. Almost all manufacturers indicate 18/10, but, as practice shows, not everyone can be trusted. An important element of stainless steel pressure cookers is the presence of a bottom with a heat-distributing layer. As you know, corrosion-resistant steel does not conduct heat well and in a pressure cooker without HRS of the required thickness, food can burn. In addition, the preparation of some dishes requires preliminary frying of products, and this is very convenient to do right in the pressure cooker. And in this case, the presence of a quality bottom is very important.

When buying a pressure cooker, you should also pay attention to the material from which the sealing rings are made. They are rubber and silicone. The latter are more practical, durable and do not have any foreign smell.

The safety of its use largely depends on the design of the pressure cooker. As a rule, all modern pressure cookers are sufficiently protected from overheating, excess pressure and are not explosive. But often a pressure cooker with an ill-conceived design can cause inconveniences like minor burns. An important structural part of the pressure cooker is the steam release valve (it is used during cooking and before opening the pressure cooker). Its poor design is a source of potential risk, so when choosing a pressure cooker, you should pay attention to how the valve works and where the jet of hot steam will go (it is better if it is directed to the sides, not up - there will be less risk of burns).

An important detail is the mechanism for closing and opening the pressure cooker. Ideally, it should be simple and convenient. The most modern models allow you to do this in one or two movements. Many well-known pressure cooker companies have their own patented pressure cooker lock-unlock systems for maximum safety and ease of use.

It is good when pressure cookers have additional protection that will not allow them to be opened while the pressure remains high. Also facilitates the use of a pressure cooker, the presence of a mechanism with which you can set the cooking temperature or set the cooking mode.

General advice when choosing pressure cookers - it is better to buy pots with a margin in volume. The peculiarity of cooking in pressure cookers suggests that they cannot be completely filled with water - there must be a necessary gap for the formation of steam.

It is quite convenient when various additional accessories are attached to the pressure cooker for cooking individual dishes (for example, nets for cooking rice, baskets for steaming food, etc.). It is also welcome that the pressure cooker has an internal scale that allows you to measure the amount of liquid.

On the shelves of stores and on the Internet, you can find pressure cookers in a wide range of prices - from 1,000 to more than 10,000 rubles. Factors affecting their cost are the following: material (aluminum is cheaper than stainless steel), volume, design complexity, brand awareness, design. The most expensive are the products of such European brands as Silit and Cristel, combining the latest engineering technologies and unique design. In the middle segment, one of the best offers in terms of price and quality are Tefal pressure cookers.

Before using a pressure cooker (and even better before buying it), it is very important to carefully read the instructions and follow them strictly in the future - this will allow you to cook really tasty dishes without the risk of burns.

Stainless steel pressure cookers are one of the most well-known and long-invented kitchen utensils. They appeared in the late 70s of the XX century and are still popular. Pots do not have as many functions as conventional multicookers and multicookers-pressure cookers.

But they are reliable, simple, cheap. Russian-made pressure cookers produce a wide range of pots with airtight lids and pressure valves. Some well-known Russian brands are produced in China, European trade brands have a country of origin in Russia. But what are the multicookers with the pressure cooker function and what are the reviews about such a device, it is indicated in detail

Rating of manufacturers of stainless steel pressure cookers: models, prices

Production of the Russian company BerHoff

Bergner stainless steel pans - China

The kit includes:

• metal cover with 2 valves;
• seal;
• black bakelite handles.

The three-layer bottom allows the pressure cooker to be used on all types of hobs.

"Wonderful" from Russia

Pressure cookers "Wonderful" from the Russian Federation are in good demand due to high-quality sealing, despite the fact that they are made from food-grade aluminum in China.

You may also be interested in information about how it looks and what kind of multicooker pressure cooker is, as well as what kind of

Model line of pressure cookers "Wonderful":

• for 5 liters for 1920 rubles;
• for 7 liters for 2300 rubles;
• for 9 liters for 2520 rubles;
• for 11 liters for 2720 rubles.

Hermetic pots "Chudesnitsa" are confused with pressure cookers of the Ural plant of household products, produced under the brand name "Miracle". Of the 8 models, 2 are made of stainless steel: Chudo 50N, Miracle 70N. Pot capacity: 5 and 7 liters. Thermocooking ware has two valves: safety and emergency. Reliability of sealing is provided by a double latch. Disadvantage - can not be used in induction cookers. Price from 3100 rubles. for 5 liters and 3400 rubles. for 7 l.

The volume can be customized according to your needs.

"Umnitsa" - production of the Russian Federation

Pressure cookers of the Umnitsa trademark are produced with aluminum and stainless steel bodies.

Stainless steel model for 9 liters: SA-26cm-9l-K-N. Price from 2400 rubles.

"Oka"

Trademark "Oka". The pressure cooker is produced from stainless steel: model "Oka" SV-050. The volume of the sealed pot is 5 liters. Price from 2000 rubles. Disadvantages: poor compatibility of the material for attaching the handles to the body (aluminum rivets) and the fragile clamping mechanism of the lid.

Although the product has minor flaws, but the cost will be able to please

PETERGOFF

pressure cookerPETERGOFF PH-15779 has a volume of 8 liters, the cost is from 2700 rubles. The cooker can be used with a stainless steel lid with valves and as a regular saucepan with a tempered glass lid. The model is suitable for all types of stoves and dishwashers. But how it looks and how it is used and how good it is, this information will help to understand.

The lid is transparent and made of very durable glass.

Frico

ModelFrico FRU-564 can be 3L to 4L capacity. Price from 1100 rubles.

Although the volume is not very large, but the cost and quality can surprise

Pressure cooker features:

• the presence of a steamer function;
• additional glass cover;
• teflon inner and outer coating;
• thickened bottom.

Frico modifications:

1. FRU-654, from 1200 rubles. 4 l;
2. FRU-651, from 1930 rubles, 4-5 l;
3. FRU-656, from 1400 rubles, 8 l;
4. FRU-652, from 2280 rubles, 7 liters.

“Laboratory of moonshine”

The maximum volume of pressure cookers for home use is 14 liters. The Moonshine Laboratory company offers the model " Home perfect» such capacity for 3450 rubles. It is also worth learning more about a slow cooker with a 5 liter ceramic bowl.

An attribute of modern cuisine is increasingly becoming a pressure cooker - an apparatus that can quickly cook a variety of dishes. The prototype of this device was created back in the 17th century by Denis Papin, who worked on steam boilers. Modern devices work on a similar principle. The bottom line is that the food is cooked in an almost airtight container. As a result, after boiling water, steam appears, which creates excess pressure in the tank. As a result, the temperature rises above boiling and cooking is much faster. Cooking time is reduced by up to 40%. In addition, due to the minimum amount of oxygen in the tank, the products do not oxidize, which preserves their useful properties. Therefore, it is important for every housewife to purchase this device. But how to choose a pressure cooker so that it is as useful as possible? Let's try to figure it out.

Types of pressure cookers

Note that there are two main types of these devices:

• Installed on a gas or electric stove;
• Autonomous, with electric heating.

The first are made only of metal. Moreover, the simplest models are made of aluminum. They are distinguished from ordinary pans by a thick bottom and walls, as well as a tightly fastened lid.

The bottom can also be multi-layered. Two valves are installed in the cover: one is working, and the second is emergency. They serve to relieve excess pressure from the device so that it does not burst. If for some reason the working valve does not work, then the emergency valve comes into action.

There is a gasket between the lid and the pan for sealing. In aluminum models, it is usually rubber. Such a pressure cooker is cheap, but has some "cons":

• Firstly, aluminum is able to react with products, which not only leaves marks on the walls, but is also unsafe for health.
• Secondly, rubber gaskets are short-lived and eventually begin to leak pressure.
• Thirdly, such a pressure cooker is suitable only for gas or electric stoves. It can leave stains on glass ceramics, but does not work at all on induction cookers.

Steel pressure cookers of the first type are more perfect. Their bottom is thermally accumulating multilayer. In addition, such models already have the simplest control functions. They have a lid lock that prevents opening in case of pressure in the device. This greatly improves the safety of the device.

In addition, the valve of such pressure cookers is on-off, which allows you to adjust the pressure inside for cooking various types of products. Naturally, this subspecies of devices also has an emergency valve.

The handles of such devices are heat-resistant, and the design is quite modern. The cover gasket of most steel models is made of silicone, which significantly increases its durability.

Some steel models have the option of a steam cooking bowl, which can be useful.

In addition, some models come with a glass cover. The advantage of such pressure cookers is that they can be used both on gas stoves, and on induction and glass-ceramic ones. In general, you can choose a steel pressure cooker for those who want a fairly high-quality and functional device at a low price.

Electric pressure cookers: features of choice

If you decide to choose an electric pressure cooker, then you need to consider such a factor as price. After all, such a device will cost more than its counterparts. However, its functionality is much higher. Such a device has electronic control, so the hostess does not need to stand at the stove. You can simply set the automatic cooking program and the device will turn itself off after cooking is completed.

Electrical appliances also differ in the material of the pot. Like pressure cookers for stoves, they can be aluminum, steel or enamelled. The latter are rare. In addition, it is worth choosing a model that has a non-stick coating. In such pans, food will not burn to the bottom and walls, and cleaning will be much easier.

An important criterion when choosing a device is volume. There are devices with a volume of half a liter and up to 40 liters. Of course, it is necessary to choose the "golden mean".

A pressure cooker should provide for your family. But in this case, it must be borne in mind that the pan of the apparatus should not be filled completely. The maximum is two-thirds. After all, space is needed for the formation of steam. If rice or other swelling products are being prepared, then it is forbidden to pour more than half of the pan. These factors must be considered before choosing a pressure cooker.

It is worth noting that a 5-6-liter appliance will be enough for an average family. These criteria are also important for those models that are designed for the stove.

Of course, such a factor as the power of the electrical apparatus also plays a role. Naturally, manufacturers calculate power in proportion to size. But it must be remembered that the more powerful the apparatus, the faster water boils in it and steam is formed. On average, conventional pressure cookers consume from 1 to 1.5 kW. Less power affects the efficiency of the device.

Not the last place is occupied by the functionality of the device. After all, there are separate cookers, rice cookers, pasta cookers, etc. But it is preferable to choose a multifunctional appliance, such as a universal pressure cooker. She "knows how" to cook all the above dishes correctly, and, in addition, meat, soup, potatoes, etc. Of course, such devices are somewhat more expensive, but they fully pay off the costs of their purchase.

Many manufacturers complete their products with additional accessories - a steam plate that allows you to cook under steam pressure. With its help, you can cook healthy and at the same time dietary dishes absolutely without fat and oil. Also, some models have a viewing window. It allows you to control the cooking process visually. For some housewives, this is important, because they should turn their attention to such models.

Naturally, the manufacturer is also an important factor in the choice. Preference should be given to established brands. Before buying a device, it will be right to familiarize yourself with the model line of each, and choose the option that best meets your needs, in addition, it is distinguished by its optimal cost.

As you can see, choosing such a seemingly simple device as a pressure cooker is not so easy. After all, there are many nuances that must be taken into account. But if you think over everything well and take into account your own wishes with the recommendations of specialists, then you can purchase a universal and very useful kitchen appliance that can please any, even the most demanding hostess.

The first pressure cooker was invented several centuries ago. Such a unit allows you to cook food much faster, which saves a lot of time. The choice of a pressure cooker must be approached deliberately, focusing on a number of criteria.

What is a pressure cooker? Purpose, functions, principle of operation

The pressure cooker is a device with a hermetically sealed lid. After boiling the contents, steam is formed, creating pressure inside the unit. As a result, the temperature exceeds the boiling point, and food is cooked almost 2 times faster.

The pressure in the device reaches 1 bar and the temperature rises to about 121°C. At the beginning of cooking, the valve on the lid of the unit is usually open. When heated, it closes under pressure. When the pressure rises even more, it pushes the valve out, opening it. This is necessary to release excess steam. Due to the presence of a valve, an optimal pressure of 0.7-1 bar is maintained inside the device. Such an indicator is called absolute.

The tightness inside the pressure cooker ensures a minimum amount of oxygen, therefore the oxidative process is excluded. This factor ensures maximum preservation of the taste, color and health benefits of the products.

A pressure cooker can be used to cook a variety of dishes. Such a device speeds up the cooking time, therefore it is especially valuable for products that require long processing. This applies mainly to cereal side dishes, pilaf, meat, soups.

When using a pressure cooker, it is important to observe safety precautions. Cooking in such an appliance means high temperature and hot steam, therefore neglecting the operation of the unit can lead to serious burns.

Types of pressure cookers

All pressure cookers can be divided into two large groups: mechanical and electric. Units of the first type are a kind of pots with a sealed lid. They can be used for both gas and electric stoves. Such devices differ from ordinary pans not only in a special lid, but also in thick walls and a bottom.

The modern version is electric pressure cookers, that is, powered by an electrical network. Outwardly, such devices resemble multicookers and can be a combination of these two representatives of household appliances.

Electric pressure cookers attract with various additional functions and maximum automation. It is enough to install the necessary program, and upon its completion, the equipment will turn itself off.

Most devices are made of metal, ceramic aggregates are less common. The pressure cooker can be made of stainless steel or aluminum. The first option is more expensive and weighs more, but is stronger and does not emit harmful substances when cooking. Aluminum appliances are attractive for their low weight and low cost, but they do not last long and are harmful to health.

General rules for choosing a pressure cooker

When deciding to buy a pressure cooker, carefully consider the following factors that influence your final choice:

• Volume. This parameter must be focused on the number of people in the family. Most appliances have a volume of 5 liters, which is enough for a family of 3-4 people. It is important to note that the pressure cooker should be filled no more than 2/3 of its volume.
• Power. For most models of this technique, this parameter is 1-1.5 kW. When choosing the power of the unit, it is important to correlate it with its volume.
• Valve. This is one of the most important parts of the appliance, as it is necessary for the release of steam. It is important to pay attention to which direction steam will come out when you open the lid. It must be directed to the sides, otherwise there is a high risk of burns.
• Display and menu.
• Material. The best option is stainless steel pressure cookers. When buying a steel pressure cooker, you need to pay attention to the brand of metal. The best option is 18/10 without impurities.
• Bowl cover. It can be ceramic or teflon. The first option is attractive due to its high resistance to mechanical damage, but over time it may lose its non-stick properties.

• Non-stick coating. It is necessary to improve the quality of cooking.
• Gasket material for sealing. It can be made of rubber or silicone. The first option has a lower price, but also a short service life. Over time, the rubber gasket will leak air. Silicone gaskets are more reliable and durable.
• Viewing window or glass lid. This addition is very convenient, as it allows you to control the cooking process.
• Delayed start. This option means that you can pre-load the necessary products and set the time to turn on the device. This option is convenient when there is no time to cook breakfast or dinner. By the time you wake up in the morning or come home from work, everything will be ready.
• cooking modes. The amount you need depends on personal preference. For one consumer, it is enough that soups, cereals, meat and side dishes can be cooked in a pressure cooker. Others need an extended selection of modes: yogurt, popcorn, pastries.
• The presence of a bowl for steaming. Such a supplement is especially attractive to healthy dieters or users who are forced to follow a therapeutic diet. It is important to pay attention to the quality of the container for steaming - usually a basket or a special plate. It is problematic to purchase such a device separately, because it must be in the kit and of good quality (strength is important).
• Chef. This option allows you to set the cooking parameters of the dish yourself.
• Protection. This parameter is important for instrument safety. The pressure cooker should not open until the pressure inside has been relieved.
• Heat resistant handles. This moment is especially important for units of large volume. It is inconvenient to carry them, because you can get burned.

When choosing a pressure cooker, you should consider the combination of all the necessary functions. The right appliance will greatly simplify the chores in the kitchen and save a lot of time.

Which pressure cooker to choose? Top Models

Buying a pressure cooker will take your cooking to the next level. It is worth looking at the best models that effectively combine technical parameters, functionality and price.

This model is a combination of pressure cooker and multicooker. The power of the device is 1000 W, and the volume is 6 liters.

The body of the unit is made of steel with plastic inserts. The bowl of the appliance has a non-stick ceramic coating.

The pressure cooker has an LED display and a touch control panel. You can select the cooking mode or heating, set the time, pressure and temperature. There is a delayed start function.

One of the most important advantages of this model is the Master Chef Light option. The appliance has 14 built-in programs, but the user can independently change the cooking time or temperature without interrupting the cooking process.

The safety of the pressure cooker is ensured by valves (shut-off and steam release), a temperature fuse and an overpressure sensor. Handles of the unit heat-insulating.

This model has a wide range of features. The average cost of the device is 6000-7000 rubles.

This appliance is a pressure cooker. The volume of the bowl is 5 liters, the power of the unit is 1000 watts.

The body is made of plastic. There is a heat-insulating handle. The thicket is removable, has a ceramic coating (4 layers).

The pressure cooker has 33 automatic modes. 25 modes can be set manually. There is a Multichef function that allows you to independently set the temperature (40-160 ° C) and the cooking time (up to 4 hours).

The device provides for the possibility of heating food, maintaining the temperature. There is a delayed start function.

The advantage of this model is the ability to choose the texture of the dish. There are 6 levels from soft to hard.

The cost of the device is an average of 7500 rubles.

This pressure cooker has a capacity of 6 liters. The power of the unit is 1000 watts.

The body is made of metal combined with plastic. The bowl has a Teflon non-stick coating. The lid is completely removable.

The pressure cooker has 8 automatic cooking modes, for the multicooker there are 6 separate modes. You can also set the temperature and time yourself. There is a delayed start up to 24 hours and a countdown function.

Touch control panel. There is a separate menu for the pressure cooker and multicooker. The appliance is designed to lock during cooking.

One of the advantages of this model is the presence of an energy-saving mode. Another plus is the indication of the cooking process. The device will indicate the stage of heating, creating pressure, working under pressure and heating the dish.

Safety is ensured by locking the lid during pressurized operation. The pressure is released automatically. There is an additional option for child protection.

The average cost of this model is 11-12 thousand rubles.

This model combines the functions of a double boiler and a multicooker. The bowl of the appliance has a Teflon non-stick coating and is designed for 5 liters. Unit power - 900 watts.

The pressure cooker has 10 automatic cooking modes and the “Own recipe” program, where you can independently set the temperature and time. The device provides for maintaining the temperature (up to 140 ° C) and heating. There is a delayed start function up to 24 hours.

The body of the device is made of metal combined with plastic. There is an electronic control panel and an LED display showing the cooking time.

This model attracts with a sufficient set of options and a low price. The average cost of the device is 3500-4000 rubles.

This multi-cooker is designed for 4 liters. The power of the device is 800 watts. The body is made of metal combined with plastic. The bowl is removable and non-stick coated. Lid and valve are removable.

This model provides 7 automatic programs. There is a delayed start up to 24 hours. The pressure cooker has electronic controls and an LED display. There is an indication of on and off, time and cooking mode. The model attracts with its minimalism, which makes it easy to understand its management.

The pressure cooker has all the necessary functions combined with an attractive price. The average cost of the device is 3000-3500 rubles.

Watch a video about the advantages of a pressure cooker and a test comparison of two popular models in the same price range: Philips HD2178 and Moulinex CE 701132

Pressure cookers have been in demand for decades. With the advent of electronic appliances, the possibilities of this technique have expanded significantly, which makes it a desirable appliance in the kitchen. When choosing a pressure cooker, it is important to consider the material of the unit, the number of its functions and the degree of safety.

In contact with

The pressure cooker features an airtight lid that creates high pressure inside the pot, raising the boiling point.

As a result, vegetables, legumes, meat are cooked 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 a long heat treatment, as well as for dishes that take a long time to cook, such as jelly and jam.

The device and principle of operation of the pressure cooker

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 pans for their speed, and the owners of electric stoves for their efficiency, since accelerated cooking consumed much less electricity. Today, the popularity of pots is lower, as electrical appliances with airtight lids have appeared.

How the quick pan works

The principle of operation of a pressure cooker is based on the fact that when higher pressure, higher boiling point than with normal and reduced. In a hermetically sealed pan, the pressure increases, so the temperature of liquids (and water is in all products) and steam are 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 delicate vegetables and fruits do not boil soft, retain their shape and color, since there is no oxidation - interaction with oxygen. There are facts that with such cooking, more vitamins and nutrients remain, because the heat treatment lasts less time. Hence the name - pressure cooker, that is, quick cooking.

Design features

The device of the pressure cooker does not cause difficulties in understanding. The pan is the most common, but always durable, able to withstand increased pressure. The working volume of the pan is about a third less than the total, since there must 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 hermetically closes the dishes, prevents steam from escaping and pressure build-up. For maximum tight fit, the lid is supplemented with rubber or silicone sealing ring. Good silicone is more practical and durable than rubber. For fixing, special locks or clips are provided, and for security - blocking.

During heating, high pressure is created inside, which must be regulated in order to avoid explosion and burns. 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 the pressure and adjust the heat treatment mode. For example, 60 kPa is enough for cooking vegetables, and 90 kPa is needed for quick meat cooking.

Types of pressure cookers

Cookware with a pressure cooker function is distinguished by the material of manufacture, volume, bottom diameter, compatibility with different types of stoves. How to choose a pressure cooker for a gas stove, and which one is suitable for an induction one? What pan is needed for porridge, and in what can you cook jelly?

Pot and lid material

Pressure cookers for cooking on the stove are made of stainless steel and aluminum. These metals have good thermal conductivity, which also helps to accelerate the heating of water and food. Rarely there are models made of steel with an enamel coating. Pressure cookers are not made of cast iron and ceramics.

Stainless steel pressure cookers are considered the most practical. Stainless steel is resistant to acids, withstands high temperatures, does not absorb fats and juices from products, and does not retain odors. Almost everything can be cooked in stainless steel dishes: jellied meat, jam, roasts, cereals.

Die-cast aluminum pressure cookers are rare on the market. Cast aluminium, as a rule, make small saucepans with a non-stick coating. They are suitable for stewing meat, poultry, fish, cooking cereals and legumes.

Lids Pressure cookers come in all-metal or with tempered glass inserts. 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 recognize blind cooking.

Buckets for small portions

Small ladle-shaped pressure cookers for gas and electric stoves are suitable for cooking cereals, side dishes, instant vegetables. Small saucepans are convenient for small families, as well as for young parents with preschoolers. Quickly cooked but well-sterilized vegetables, meat or fish are easy to puree for baby food.

In pressureless cooking mode, the ladle can be used like a regular cookware. For example, cook milk porridge or a quick soup. For convenience, a simple cover is added to the kit. The most practical option is stainless steel.

Pots for quick cooking for every day

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, poultry.

Please note that adding 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: lay the products, turn on the stove and turn it off after a while.

For jelly, jam, whole poultry carcasses, pieces of meat of complex dishes and cooking dinner for the family, you need a pressure cooker pan with a volume 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.

Steamers and pressure cookers for quick cooking

Pressure cookers with the function of steamers are designed for cooking healthy steamed dishes on gas and electric stoves. with a pressure valve allow you to process vegetables or cook manti and dumplings in a matter of minutes.

Pressure cookers come in different sizes. There are low pans with perforated inserts. They can be used for small portions. For manti and cooking a large number of vegetables, it is better to choose a pressure cooker with a multi-tiered insert or several inserts that are stacked on top of each other like a pyramid.

Features of pressure cookers for different stoves

If you are planning to buy a pressure cooker for a gas stove, then you can consider all the pots available for sale. Even if the bottom diameter turns out to be smaller than the burner, the problem can be easily solved with the help of or lining. Both steel and aluminum cookware is suitable for gas, but the bottom must be resistant to fire.

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. Gap gaps will lead to excessive power consumption. Please note that low-quality metal can be deformed from high temperatures, which also slows down the heat treatment time.

Induction cookers work on a different principle - they do not heat up themselves, but heat the dishes. But the work of the plate is possible only if the circuit closes. The dishes must be made of a material that absorbs the energy of the magnetic field. Stainless steel is the leader in this segment.

The usual one will not work - the stove simply will not turn on. But there are pressure cookers made of aluminum with an induction bottom. In this case, on the bottom or inside the bottom there is an additional plate made of ferromagnetic metal - steel or copper.

To speed up heating and reduce the risk of burning, an encapsulated bottom was invented. The peculiarity of such a bottom is in a multilayer structure - inside, between aluminum and steel plates, there is a thicker disk made of cast aluminum or copper.

The best pressure cooker for an induction cooker - steel with encapsulated bottom. Such a duet minimizes energy consumption and speeds up cooking.

What to consider when buying

To buy a safe and durable pressure cooker, carefully study the characteristics 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 the following points:

• If you can afford to pay more, opt for stainless steel. The bottom and walls should be thick.
• The lid must contain at least two valves- main and emergency. It is better if the valves vent steam to the sides.
• A sealing ring made of good silicone is better, as it does not dry out and is not afraid of high temperatures. Good tires will also last a long time.
• Check the security and convenience of the lock. Availability required blocking from opening if there are children or elderly people in the house. The lock will not unlock until the pressure drops to a safe level.
• Cool handles are a useful addition and increased safety. Pay attention to the quality of the fasteners of the handles.
• Glass lids or a viewing window in a metal one are needed to control cooking.
• The built-in thermometer is an additional convenience for monitoring and regulating the culinary process.
• Different modes with pressure switching expand the possibilities of the hostess and allow more delicate products to be cooked in a gentle mode.
• The timer helps to control the time and not to forget that the kitchen is cooking.
• An additional simple lid turns the pan into a regular one.

Carefully study the instruction manual and certificates, make sure that everything indicated is included in the kit.

Review of worthy models

Russian-made stainless steel pressure cookers are more attractive than imported ones at a cost. Therefore, pay attention to domestic products if you want to save money and are ready to be content with standard features.

Some models of pressure cookers with Russian names (“Varya”, “Comfort”, “Magician”) are actually made in China, but for Russia. If you prefer domestic products, look for products from the Ural Household Products Plant called Chudo-50 N (5 liters) or Miracle-70 N (7 liters).

Cookware and accessories of the Czech brand Tescoma are trusted by Russian housewives. The Magnum pressure cooker is made of 18/10 stainless steel with a three-layer bottom suitable for gas and induction cookers. Inside there is a measuring scale for easy cooking. The handles do not get hot and can withstand a heavy pan. Volume 7 liters.

Pots made of aluminum should not be discounted either. Anodized aluminum is safe and durable. The aluminum pressure cooker of the Chelyabinsk manufacturer Miracle-55 with a volume of 5 liters is ideal for everyday tasks. There is an insert for steaming. Removable handles.

The ratings of pressure cookers are often topped by products from the German manufacturer Bekker BK. Mirror polished stainless steel BK-954 features a lid locking system and a durable silicone seal. The encapsulated bottom is compatible with all types of stoves. The total volume is 6 liters. Bakelite handles do not get hot. It is convenient to remove from the stove with one and two hands.

Cast aluminum pan from Norbert Woll GmbH with induction bottom is suitable for dishes of any consistency. Bottom diameter - 28 cm.

Chinese manufacturers are attracted by competitive prices. Appetite aluminum pressure cooker with a capacity of 9 liters is suitable for jelly and large pieces of meat. In a tall pot, you can boil, stew and steam.

The Chinese company has several models of pressure cookers of different sizes made of mirror-polished stainless chromium-nickel steel. Rubberized o-ring provides a secure seal. The tempered glass lid is equipped with a pressure regulating valve and a locking system.

Detailed operating instructions for the pressure cooker must be attached to the product. Some nuances may differ depending on the model and manufacturer. Here are only general recommendations for safety and use.

Forbidden:

1. Leave dishes unattended. Allow children or animals into the kitchen when the pressure cooker is on a gas or electric stove.
2. Put the pan in the oven or oven.
3. Touch the walls during cooking and the first time after turning off the stove.
4. Try to open the lid when the pressure has not yet dropped to a safe level.
5. Cook without adding liquid.
6. Fry food under pressure.

How to use the pressure cooker:

1. If the dishes are new, wash them well with a mild detergent.
2. Place the food and pour in the liquid, filling no more than two thirds, and preferably half of the total volume.
3. Close lid, adjust pressure and timer if possible.
4. If cooking on a gas stove, adjust the flame so that it does not go beyond the bottom.
5. Some models require forced cooling after cooking. Read the instructions.

It is important to ensure that the pressure control valves do not become clogged - they must be flushed as they become dirty. It is advisable to store the sealing ring separately, especially if the pressure cooker is rarely used. Keep dishes dry.

In a pressure cooker you can cook quickly and easily, saving time and effort for more enjoyable activities and recreation. Be sure to choose the right model for yourself in an online store or in a shopping center in your city.