The best pressure cookers for quick and healthy meals. The best pressure cooker for the kitchen: choosing the right one Rating of non-electric steel pressure cookers by price

The world is changing rapidly every day, and with it the progress of technical innovation, which does not stand still, constantly providing humanity with a lot of convenient inventions. All these devices and devices are becoming incredibly useful assistants in everyday life, so that many people simply cannot imagine how they used to do without them.

One of these universal units, which is loved by almost all housewives, is a multi-cooker-pressure cooker. We will figure out how to choose it correctly according to reviews and reviews of the best.

Multicooker or pressure cooker: which is better

Multicooker or pressure cooker which is better? And what's the difference?

A modern woman has almost no time left for housekeeping, which is not at all surprising, because there are many interesting things in this life and besides it: it is necessary to make a successful career, raise children correctly, and look like a queen, and there are only twenty-four days hours. Why sacrifice your appearance or health, standing idle at the stove for half a day preparing pickles for the whole family? Today, thanks to "smart" household appliances, a woman can afford to save a lot of time, while remaining a good housewife, caring wife and mother.

So, there is no doubt that a universal appliance in the kitchen is simply necessary. There is only one point left: which device to choose.

Please note that there are several types of "smart" kitchen helpers. Each appliance has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you need to choose based on your own preferences and the needs of your family.

Pressure cookers are appliances that appeared earlier than the rest. Due to the high pressure under which food is cooked in a pressure cooker (the boiling point of water reaches over 100 ° C), you can save a decent amount of time on the cooking process itself. The pressure cooker is a kind of metal pan, the lid of which is hermetically sealed with a special valve. These devices are electrical and mechanical. Almost all pressure cookers are equipped with a timer and can operate in several operating modes, even.
Multicookers are also pots, but with electronic control. On the body of the device, as a rule, there is a display that will help you control the multicooker, a temperature sensor, and a heating element is located under the bowl. This appliance can do much more than a pressure cooker, because a multicooker is multifunctional. Important .

There are also steamers that allow you to cook healthy and wholesome steamed food. As you can see, the choice is quite diverse, and every housewife will be able to find the most suitable assistant in the kitchen.

The main advantages and disadvantages of a multicooker-pressure cooker

The main advantages of a pressure cooker include the following:

very high cooking speed (for example, meat soup will be cooked in half an hour, and potatoes will be cooked no more than 8-10 minutes);
of the functions in the device are present: the option of cooking, steaming and stewing (all dishes are cooked under high pressure);
since the heat treatment of products in a pressure cooker is very short, they retain their beautiful natural color (as a plus - the absence of oxygen).

As disadvantages of the device, it is worth noting some points:

all products for cooking are put into the pressure cooker at once, so if you forgot to put something, the valve will simply not let you open the device until the end of the process, so you won’t be able to check the degree of readiness or add any additional ingredients ( however, in some modern models there is a special viewing window through which you can look at the dish);
pressure cookers are quite bulky and not very convenient;
the device is considered unsafe and requires periodic supervision during operation, you must be very careful with the hot steam of the pressure cooker;
as a rule, there is only one container in the device kit, so you will have to lay only one dish and wait for it to be cooked.

Working principle of pressure cooker

A multicooker is a more advanced device. It also makes it possible to cook quickly, although, of course, it is in the cooking time that the slow cooker is inferior to the pressure cooker. This is perhaps the main drawback of the device (if you do not take into account its cost).

However, pay attention to the fact that there are multicookers with a pressure cooker function, that is, dishes will also be cooked much faster and under high pressure. This is done by simply closing the valve. But there is a separate point here: look under the lid and salt or pepper / add something - it will no longer work. In addition, the device will still need additional time to warm up.

Delicious stuffed cabbage recipes in infographics:

Click to enlarge

Among the main advantages of the multicooker can be noted:

multifunctionality and versatility of the device - a multicooker can stew, boil, simmer, cook deep-fried and steamed foods, fry, bake, make yogurt and jam, etc. Thus replacing and;
rave reviews from customers confirm that she is preparing a miracle device without the intervention and supervision of the hostess: you just need to put the necessary ingredients and turn on the device. However, multicookers of any manufacturer, including the top Redmond (Redmond), Philips, Scarlett, Moulinex or Panasonic, require the same amount of time to cook (the same meat soup will cook for about two hours). The only way out is the additional function of the pressure cooker;
many users really like the delayed start function that is present in multicookers, as it allows you to program the preparation of a dish for a certain time (you just put in the ingredients and set the time, which is very convenient for breakfasts and dinners);
since food languishes in a slow cooker for a long time, dishes often resemble the technology of cooking in a conventional oven in their consistency. This allows you to save all the useful substances - vitamins and minerals, in addition, due to the minimum fat, the dishes are low-calorie and dietary;
the multicooker is safe (its body does not heat up), it is very convenient and compact.

Multicooker or pressure cooker what is the difference in our video:

Choosing a pressure cooker: what you need to pay attention to - quality and functions

Deciding on a choice can be not entirely simple, because manufacturers offer a huge number of different options. However, here you should be very careful and rely on the main criteria for choosing such devices. In addition, you need to take into account your lifestyle, taste preferences, habits, the needs of your family, etc. For example, if you are a big fan of a healthy diet and carefully monitor your diet, then it is better to opt for a double boiler or slow cooker.

What to look for when choosing a pressure cooker

It is also suitable for families with small children, people who are used to combining many things at the same time. A pressure cooker, on the other hand, will allow you to cook deliciously and quickly, but you will have to limit yourself to choosing one dish per bookmark and cooking.

Please note that there is no absolutely universal device that would combine all possible functions.

Decide on the necessary functions and parameters of the product in order to carry out the selection on them. Based on the technical features of the device, the most significant is the volume. The capacity can be very different (it depends on the specific model), for example, small appliances - one-three liters, standard ones - more spacious four- or five-liter ones (you can cook food for a large family), and very huge ones - six liters or even more.
Be sure to pay attention to the power of the device, because it is on this indicator that the speed with which your dishes will be cooked depends. The higher the power, the faster the food will be cooked, however, such a product will cost several times more (the highest power is 1400 W). The weakest models come with power from 490 watts, but choose a more average option in the range from 500 to 800 watts.
The next item will be the material from which the product is made and its coating. The bowl can be made of aluminum covered with a thin layer of food grade tin, but it is better to choose stronger bowls made of steel. As a rule, almost all multicookers are produced with a non-stick coating (ceramic, teflon or marble), but for more expensive models it has several protective layers, so it will not be so susceptible to mechanical damage and can last much longer. The five-layer coating and marble coating is the highest level of protection for the device. The case of the multicooker can be plastic and metal.
The multicooker control panel can be mechanical, electronic or touch. A conventional mechanical rotary switch is very simple, although it is reliable, easy to use. The liquid crystal display of the touch control panel looks very beautiful, pleases with the signals of the indicator lights, but tends to break.
Select the main programs of the device and its additional functions or capabilities based on your needs and capabilities. Decide for yourself what exactly you really need: freshly baked bread, homemade yogurt, delicious soups and cereals, healthy steamed food? Then it will be much easier for you to decide on the model (some of them contain up to 100 different programs). Be sure to pay attention to the most useful and necessary functions: delayed start, keep warm (automatic heating), thermal protection against overheating, a signal about the end of cooking, a self-cleaning option, and others.
The safety of the device is also a very important criterion when choosing it. If you have small children at home, buy a device with the highest level of safety (with a built-in gentle steam release system, airtight valve, etc.). Also, an electrical cord that is not detachable from the case, but attached to it, is safer (the risk of a short circuit is reduced).
The multicooker itself can have a different design, be high or low, with or without handles, multi-level or not. Look at the complete set of the device: it’s good if, in addition to standard ladles / spoons (wooden or silicone) and measuring cups, it includes a replaceable rubber band for the lid, spoon holders, a sieve and other nice bonuses.

It is important to know that it is worth cooking in a slow cooker according to special recipes (usually a book with such recipes is included), because they may differ in some proportions of products or in a number of features of the cooking process.

How to choose a pressure cooker in our video:

Electrical or mechanical

A pressure cooker can be mechanical or electric. The mechanical device is made of steel and aluminum. You need to use it like a regular pan: put it on the stove and turn it on. It's just that your meals will be cooked faster than usual. Which ceramic pan is better to find out by.

With the help of a multicooker, you can diversify your menu, and with the help of a pressure cooker, it will take a little time

A device made of steel and alloys can be safely used for any type of plate. These pressure cookers have additional features that allow you to choose the degree of pressure, they have a lid lock system and other useful options. But aluminum pressure cookers will ruin your glass-ceramic or induction stove, leaving poorly washed stains on its cooking surface.

Electrical appliances can be either highly specialized units (these are pasta cookers, porridge cookers, rice cookers), or multifunctional devices, that is, electronically controlled pressure cookers in which you can cook any dish.

In such devices, you can control the temperature and time sensor, record your own programs or cook according to your own recipes (“multi-cook” function), etc. And you can find out about the Tefal deep fryer. Click to enlarge

Basic rules for the operation and care of the device

At the beginning of working with the device (especially for cheap models), run it through the "steam" mode: pour a glass of water into the bowl and add a few slices of lemon to it. This will help to get rid of the unpleasant smell of plastic of a new product.

In order for the device to function without failures and breakdowns, follow the rules for its operation:

Condensation often collects on the open lid of the multicooker. To prevent it from dripping onto your table or dish, make sure you have a moisture trap available (this special container must be manually emptied from time to time);
the sealing ring will be able to absorb all smells well - be sure to get a whole set so that each type of dish is prepared with its own ring;
the bowls in the devices are very delicate, so it is better to wash them only with soft cloths and sponges (do not knock on the surface and do not rub hard), otherwise your non-stick coating will quickly fail. It may be worth purchasing several additional bowls for the device from other materials: for example, if the main container is Teflon, then buy another ceramic bowl (they do not absorb odors and color, but they break easily) and stainless steel;
do not place the device in a place exposed to direct sunlight, it is also not recommended to leave spoons, ladles and other objects in containers;
do not turn on the device without installed capacity or with an empty capacity;
get silicone spatulas so as not to scratch the bowl;
do not immerse the entire device in water, and also wash the container of the device in a dishwasher (just wipe it with a damp sponge). And you can find out about the Gorenje microwave oven.

Video: rating of the best multicookers according to user reviews

Multicooker pressure cooker reviews from private users and their recommendations in our video:

Please note that electrical appliances are very sensitive to voltage fluctuations in the network, which often leads to program failures and even breakdowns. You can buy and install a special thermostat that will protect your appliances from burnout.

And finally, as always, recipes for delicious porridge and rich jellied meat.

A multi-cooker-pressure cooker is a wonderful universal device that will help you significantly save time on cooking and will become an indispensable assistant in the kitchen. We also recommend that you familiarize yourself with the rating of kitchen table scales.

Kirill Sysoev

Calloused hands do not know boredom!

Content

Anyone who has used a pressure cooker at least once appreciated its advantages over an ordinary pan. It speeds up the cooking process by 30%: potatoes are cooked for eight minutes instead of thirty, peas are ready a quarter of an hour after boiling. In the Russian market, a Russian-made stainless steel pressure cooker is represented by many manufacturers, which is why housewives often get lost and ask the question: how to choose the right inexpensive stainless steel utensils.

What is a pressure cooker

This is the name of a type of pot, the lid of which is hermetically sealed during cooking. This creates a tightness in the container and so high pressure during cooking that the boiling point of water becomes much higher than in an ordinary saucepan or slow cooker - 120 ° C, allowing you to reduce the duration of cooking. When cooking, air is unable to penetrate inside the pan from the outside, due to which the color of boiled vegetables is brighter, and they themselves are much tastier.

The lid is equipped with a locking device, so that it does not open during cooking. A working valve is also provided here, which is responsible for the release of steam after the internal pressure rises to a certain value. For added safety, the pan has at least one emergency valve that opens to release steam if the main one becomes clogged or is defective.

Kinds

It is customary to distinguish two categories of pressure cookers. The first includes mechanical models designed for installation on a gas or electric stove. They come in two options:

obsolete products, the pressure valves of which are installed on the exhaust pipe of the cover;
new generation models with closed system and spring valve.

Mechanical products are made of stainless steel or aluminum. How much a pressure cooker costs depends on its quality. An aluminum pan is cheaper: stainless steel products are more durable, less deformed, and food is cooked faster in them. The main disadvantage of aluminum cookware is that metal reacts with food under the influence of high temperature, which is dangerous for health. In addition, aluminum products leave stains on glass ceramics, and owners of induction cookers will not be able to cook food in it.

The second category of pressure cookers is electric. They work autonomously, from the electrical network. They are steel, aluminum or enameled (the latter option is rare). Using the product is simple: you need to select a program, press the desired button - and the device will turn itself off after work is completed. The product has various additional functions. For example, it is possible to delay the preparation of a dish, the ability to set the time.

How to use

Before use, the device must be cleaned of food debris. Pay special attention to the junction of the pot and the lid, where the rubber gasket is located: if there are third-party objects between them, the tightness will be broken and after boiling, the water will begin to escape through the empty space, splashing with boiling water. If this happens, immediately turn off the pan, making sure not to burn yourself.

Water must be present during cooking. The minimum amount of liquid is two glasses. Its level should not exceed 2/3 of the height of a stainless steel pressure cooker, since space is needed for the steam to function inside. To make it easier for users, manufacturers often put a special mark on the walls of the pan.

If meat or vegetables need to be pan-fried first, this must be done before being placed in the pressure cooker: during cooking, it will not be possible to open the lid and add. When the products are in the container, fill them with water, close the lid, as indicated in the instructions.

The brewing process begins when the water boils and a whistling sound is heard. After that, you need to reduce the fire and note the time. The whistling will remain, but it will become quieter. The steam must exit the pot through the valve. If this does not happen, the situation is dangerous, you must urgently turn off the stove: the pressure cooker may explode, causing serious burns. When the steam comes out, in no case should you put your hands or face under it: you can scald.

Cooking products can not be longer than indicated in the instructions. Otherwise, they will boil and turn into mashed potatoes. When the time is up, turn off the fire. As long as the pressure inside the Russian-made pot is high, the locking system will not allow the lid to be removed. If the pressure is not reduced to the end, although the lid will open, the liquid released from there will splash in all directions.

You can reduce the pressure in the following ways:

Natural reset is the longest way, it takes from 10 to 20 minutes. The bottom line is that after removing from the heat, wait until the food cools down a bit, the pressure decreases, after which the product opens easily.
Quick Release - Most pressure cookers are designed with pressure relief mechanisms on the lid. For example, it may be a special button, after lowering which it begins to decline and the lid opens, which can be determined by the cessation of the whistle. Care must be taken here, as quickly escaping steam can cause burns.
Application of cold water. The fastest and safest way for a mechanical product. Put the pan in the sink, substituting the lid under a cold stream and making sure that water does not get on the pressure control valve. After a few minutes, the lid will open without problems.

The best Russian-made stainless steel pressure cookers

You should be careful when buying a Russian-made pressure cooker: not all products that are said to have been produced in Russia are really like that. When choosing a product, you should ask the manufacturers and carefully read the instructions, which indicate all the output characteristics, including whether the product meets quality standards, whether it is made of stainless steel.

Pressure cooker Varya

The budget option are models known under the brand name Varya. Although the product is advertised as Russian, it is produced in China specifically for Russia, the Great Rivers company is responsible for the supplies. The product received good reviews, but has recently disappeared from the catalogs of Russian online stores.

Varya pressure cookers are made of aluminum, thanks to which the water heats up quickly, and the product itself is cheaper than stainless steel pots. Among the minuses - salty and sour food can corrode the protective film on the walls. They produce pots with a capacity of 4 to 10 liters, which can be determined by the name of the model: Varya-4 is designed for four liters of water, Varya-10 - for ten. Regardless of the volume, working pressure: 80 kPa, critical level - 480 kPa.

All models are characterized by the presence of a lid lock, an additional sealing ring, safety and auxiliary valves, comfortable heat-resistant handles. Each product is equipped with a steam basket for steam cooking. The most popular option is a five-liter pot:

Model name: Varya-5.
Price: 1000-1400 rubles.
Characteristics: weight - 2.4 kg.
Pros: compact, designed for a family of three to four people.
Cons: Not suitable for preparing for the holidays or a large family. The capacity may not be enough to prepare the required number of servings.

miraculous

The Chudesnitsa pressure cooker is also made in China. In Russian online stores, you can find a mention that the Ural Plant of Household Products is responsible for its production. This is not true: UZBI, although it produces pressure cookers, but under a different name - Miracle. The similarity of these names gave rise to the myth that the pressure cooker is manufactured at a Russian enterprise.

Although the Chinese-made Miracle has collected good reviews about itself: it is convenient, practical, and easy to clean. All models are made of thick aluminum with an oxidized coating that provides protection against rust, increases the strength of the pan, easy cleaning of food residues. They are not suitable for induction cookers, microwaves. There is no non-stick coating inside the cookware, there is no internal volume scale. Pressure cookers are designed for a capacity of 5 to 9 liters. The working pressure inside the dish does not depend on its capacity and is 80 kPa, the critical pressure is 480 kPa.

Especially popular is a product designed for 5 liters:

Model name: Miraculous (Helper) 5.
Price: 1700 r.
Characteristics: weight - 2.2 kg, diameter - 22 s, height: 14 cm, wall thickness - 3 mm.
Pros: compact, double locking mechanism.
Cons: capacity may not be enough if you need to cook a large number of servings.

For a family of 5-6 people, a more capacious pressure cooker is suitable. This is a model designed for 9 liters:

Model Name: Miraculous (Helper) 9.
Price: 2300 r.
Characteristics: weight -3.165 kg, diameter - 24 s, height: 30 cm, wall thickness - 3 mm.
Pros: double locking mechanism, designed for a large family.
Cons: large dimensions.

There is no data on the network about who produces the Oka SV-5050 pressure cooker. Some online stores indicate China, others - that it is Russian-made. No one indicates the name of the manufacturer, only the representative - the Votkinsk Trading House, which is sometimes passed off as the manufacturer. Oka SV-5050 is made of stainless steel, designed for 5 liters:

Model name: Oka SV-5050.
Price: 2000 r.
Characteristics: material - stainless steel, weight - 2.5 kg, working valve is activated at a pressure of 60 kPa, safety valve - from 84 kPa, plastic handles.
Pros: easy to use, compact, designed for a family of 3-4 people.
Cons: The handles are attached to the sides of the pan with aluminum rivets. Due to the incompatibility of these metals, rivets under the action of high steam can undergo intense corrosion. The pressure bar handle can crumble after a few years under the influence of high temperatures.

Comfort

In Russian online stores, Comfort pressure cookers are represented by models CA-26cm-9l and CA-28cm-11l. The first is designed for nine liters, the other - for eleven. The first pan corresponds to the following characteristics:

Model name: Comfort SA-26cm-9l.
Price: without an additional cover 3 thousand rubles, with it - 3300 rubles.
Characteristics: material - aluminum, diameter - 26 cm, working pressure 60 kPa, maximum pressure - 180 kPa.
Pros: Designed for a large family.
Cons: oxidation is possible during cooking.

good girl

Pressure cookers sold under the Umnitsa trademark are designed for 9 and 11 liters. Pots are made from both aluminum and stainless steel. For a nine-liter stainless steel product, the following indicators are characteristic:

Model name: SA-26cm-9l-K-N.
Price: 2430-3300 r.
Characteristics: material - stainless steel, diameter - 26 cm, working pressure 65 kPa, maximum pressure 150 kPa, additional glass lid, thanks to which you can use the product as an ordinary pan.
Pros: Good for a large family.
Cons: large size.

Miracle

A truly Russian-made pressure cooker is the Chudo device. It is manufactured by the Ural Plant of Household Products (Chelyabinsk). At the moment, the company produces eight models, and only two of them are made of stainless steel - Chudo-50 N and Chudo 70N. The rest of the products of the Russian factory are made of aluminum. The difference between aluminum utensils and made of stainless steel is 1000 rubles.

The following parameters are typical for a five-liter Russian-made pressure cooker:

Model name: Miracle 50.
Price: 2900 (manufacturer's price, the price in online stores is higher).
Characteristics: material - stainless steel, weight - 2.8 kg, depth - 22 cm, diameter - 21.5 cm, two additional valves (safety and emergency), cool handles.
Pros: dishwasher safe, double lid locking system.
Cons: cannot be used on induction cookers, it is possible that after buying the handles you will have to screw them on yourself.

How to choose a Russian-made stainless steel pressure cooker

Obviously, not every Russian-made stainless steel pressure cooker (according to the seller) is actually made in Russia. This also applies to popular, widely advertised brands. For this reason, before buying a Russian-made stainless steel pressure cooker, you should definitely read the instruction manual, paying attention to:

The manufacturer of the goods (check personally, not trusting the words of the consultant).
Housing material (stainless steel, aluminium).
Examine the quality certificate, the level of safety.
How detailed is the instruction about the rules of use. Each model has its own unique characteristics (lid closing method, cooking speed) that you need to know.
What is included in the package (carrying bag, steam basket).
Capacity - it is necessary to determine in advance what size pan is needed.
Rubber quality between cover and stainless steel body. A poor-quality gasket quickly collapses and leads to depressurization.
If you decide to order a stainless steel product at a discount on sale, you need to ask the consultant about the reason for the low cost: marriage is possible.

A Russian-made stainless steel pressure cooker should be bought if the store provides a guarantee for at least a year during the sale, changes the product if there is a factory defect. For example, the seal between the lid and the stainless steel body may be compromised, causing vapor and liquid to escape to the outside. This problem is not always possible to detect when buying. It is very important that in such situations the buyer clearly knows where to go for repairs.

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 pots for their speed, and the owners of electric stoves for their efficiency, since accelerated cooking consumed much less electricity. Today, the popularity of pans 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 products. 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:

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

How to use the pressure cooker:

If the dishes are new, wash them well with a mild detergent.
Place the food and pour in the liquid, filling no more than two thirds, and preferably half of the total volume.
Close lid, adjust pressure and timer if possible.
If cooking on a gas stove, adjust the flame so that it does not go beyond the bottom.
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.

The need for quick cooking is forcing many people to purchase a special multifunctional appliance. It is a small pot with a hermetically sealed lid. It allows you to prepare lunch or dinner very quickly and efficiently.

The principle of operation of this device is based on cooking 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 it in detail.

Universal device

The body of the pressure cooker is in most cases made of aluminum and stainless steel. The alloy of these materials has good thermal conductivity, which allows you to speed up the cooking process. The pan also has a special heat-distributing layer on the bottom, which prevents food from burning.

Distinctive features of the design of this culinary utensil are hermetic thick side walls and a functional lid, which is equipped with a special pressure relief valve. Another important element is rubber or silicone gaskets, which are designed to fit various elements closer to each other.

Today, many manufacturers of household appliances began to produce electric models that work when connected to a conventional outlet. In appearance, they are similar to a slow cooker, but at the same time, 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 the preparation of even the most complex dishes, so the purchase of a particular model depends on the requirements and preferences of the hostess.

Which pressure cooker is the best: selection criteria

The choice of kitchen appliances is a complex and responsible process. Today, a huge range of household appliances is presented on the market, so modern housewives can choose the best option for themselves.

When purchasing this device, you must be guided by the following criteria:

Housing material. Mechanical models are made of steel and aluminum, while electrical devices have a plastic case 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 allow warm air to go outside, and cold air to get inside;
Fixture design to relieve pressure;
Device opening and closing mechanism, which affects the smooth operation process. Ideally, it should be protected from accidental opening;
Inner tank volume. Devices should be selected according to 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;
Complete set. High-quality models are equipped with additional devices - shovels for mixing the contents, as well as spare parts.

Do you want to know which pressure cooker is the best? Electric models are more advanced and modernized, and the cooking process is fully automated. In them, you can cook up to two or three dishes at the same time without mixing their taste characteristics.

Mechanical pressure cookers are more traditional models. However, they are not suitable for use on ceramic and induction hobs as they can cause stains that will become impossible to clean over time. However, modern models, due to their innovative design, are practically no different from electrical household appliances.

A pressure cooker for refers to devices that can provide indispensable assistance to any housewife. It greatly simplifies the cooking process. At the same time, the device makes it possible to cook many dishes and diversify your menu.

How to choose a pressure cooker for a gas stove?

A pressure cooker for an induction cooker has the following principle of operation. It speeds up the cooking process due to the fact that it is a sealed container in which the pressure and temperature are higher than in a conventional saucepan.

When choosing a pressure cooker, the following characteristics should be considered:

the material used to make it. It can be aluminum or stainless steel. The first option is durable, but has certain nuances. If foods contain acid, then aluminum will be released during the cooking process, which will directly affect the benefits of food. Therefore, it is recommended to opt for stainless steel appliances;
pressure cooker volume. In order to determine this parameter, you need to consider how many people you plan to cook food for. At the same time, one should not forget that the device can only be filled by two-thirds, so that there is room for steam. Therefore, the approximate size of a pressure cooker for a family of four should be 5 liters or more.