Definition:

A pressure cooker is a cooking implement that is used for cooking foods under pressure. They are sold in either a stove-top or electric models and have a tight-fitting locking lid and a pressure relief valve. Stovetop models have been in use for decades, while electric pressure cookers or multifunction appliances with a pressure cooking function have been gaining popularity with today's busy homemakers.

When a certain amount of pressure is confined to the pot, foods tend to cook very quickly, in a fraction of the time it takes to cook with a regular pot, oven roaster or cooker. These handy cookers have been around for generations and though the main design has not changed that much, there has been a stronger emphasis on safety features. However, I cannot stress enough the importance of following product manual instructions when using a pressure cooker. And there is usually an order of doing things to the pressure cooking process.

Pressure cookers vary in size from 3 quarts and up with the 10 quart size being the most versatile for large batch cooking. Electric models tend to be in the 6 to 8 qt size capacities.

While time is a big benefit of pressure cooker use, the advantage of this cooking equipment is being able to tenderize and cook a more flavorful entree from a cheap cut of meat. This in itself is a budget saver.

While some prefer the stove-top pressure cookers which are lower priced, digital electric models are considered safer by many, require less monitoring and are more convenient.

They generally also remove a lot of the guesswork and fear usually associated with pressure cooking.

Note that a pressure cooker fitted only with a pressure relief valve should not be used for home canning. There is a different between a pressure cooker and a pressure canner. Learn about pressure canners which are used for canning and preserving.



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Also Known As: pressure cooking pot

Examples: Pressure cooking results in extremely tender meats, meals and vegetables. It's an excellent way to cook cheap cuts of meat or make a quick large batch of soup or pasta sauce.