Pressure cooking 101
How to use a pressure cooker
In this “How To” video, Chef Cristian Feher gives you a Pressure Cooker 101 class that will show you what a pressure cooker is, how it works, and how to use one. In this video you will be shown how to use both, an electric pressure cooker, and a conventional pressure cooker.
Pressure cookers are invaluable tools in the kitchen. If you value your time, and would like to shorten cooking times, a pressure cooker is wise investment. Aside from the obvious time-saving advantage, a pressure cooker also yields amazing results! Tender meats, flavorful soups, quick-cooked vegetables, eggs, and beans are just a few of the foods that you can cook perfectly in a pressure cooker.
Always be sure to read and follow the instruction manual that came with your pressure cooker. This video does not supersede your instruction manual.
Many people use Crock-Pots or slow-cookers for results and convenience. And while they yield excellent meals, they can take a long time (some dishes up to 8 hours of cooking). Generally speaking, you can achieve the same or better results as a slow-cooker, in a pressure cooker, in under an hour! Imagine most of your favorite slow-cooker dishes ready in 60 minutes or less!
Chef Cristian recommends buying an electric pressure cooker, as they are easier and safer to use. Although anyone who considers themselves savvy around the kitchen, and has experience using regular cooking pots can easily learn how to use a conventional pressure cooker. They are both safe if you can follow the instructions!
Here are some tips on buying an electric pressure cooker:
- A stainless steel cooking bowl will last longer than a non-stick cooking bowl.
- Make sure that replacement parts for your particular model are available easily online before you buy it, as it is possible to misplace pieces like valves and gaskets.
- Make sure you can read and understand the buttons, text and symbols. We’ve seen some pressure cookers with buttons that are way too confusing to figure out.
- Make sure that it’s big enough. Buy a minimum of 6 quarts for everyday family cooking.
Here are some tips on buying a conventional pressure cooker:
- Stainless steel is the way to go! As aluminum can warp over time.
- A good pressure cooker should be heavy and feel sturdy. I would not buy a light weight pressure cooker.
- Be prepared to spend between $75 and $150 on a good pressure cooker, it can last you a lifetime!
- Make sure that replacement parts for your particular model are available easily online before you buy it, as it is possible to misplace pieces like valves and gaskets.
- Buy a pressure cooker that has, both, high pressure (generally 15 psi) and a low pressure (generally 8psi) options.
- If you are using your pressure cooker for canning, you should buy yourself a large one (20-23 quart)
Chef Cristian’s Favorite pressure cookers:
The Cuisinart Electric Pressure Cooker
The Cuisinart Electric Pressure Cooker CPC-600
The Magefesa Practika Plus Pressure Cooker
Magefesa Practika Plus pressure cooker