01 September 2009

What To Demand In Your Next Pressure Cooker

By Jim Samposzi

Pressure cookers are sealed units that don't allow the escape of air while cooking. This style of cooking your food is very different than any other methods. Pressure cookers are usually constructed with stainless steel or another type of metal. Nowadays, these devices are much less dangerous to use than they used to be. In its earlier days, pressure cookers weren't manufactured with safety in mind. In this time, these pots were known for exploding and causing damage to people's skin. Although the older models were dangerous, the ones nowadays are built with the following features:

* Handles - A lengthier handle on one end of the pressure cooker where the lid is air-tight and a smaller one on the opposite end make it very to pick up the pressure cooker when you need to. Because of this feature, there is risk of burns while handling the pressure cooker. A longer handle will be a lot cooler than something that is not as long for the increased distance from the flame.

* Locking system - Typically, the cover of the cooker is pushed into the top and then locked tightly. This feature reduces the risk of the lid popping up in someone's face while cooking because of the pressure. The lid and the rim of the base pot keep the lid interlocked so the lid cannot open from pressure. Safety lid locks are another feature, where the unit will not start cooking if the lid is not shut tight; this mechanism is usually initiated by a button.

* Weights - Older model cookers used to jiggle when pressure built up. Today, weights are placed on the lids of pressure cookers to reduce the rattle. Also, a manual dial feature or rising valve stem is also included to the pressure cooker. These parts reduce the escape of water from the food. In case of unwanted pressure, the built up pressure is safely moved through a series of secondary valves.

* Metals - A stainless steel type cooker is perfect for cooking a variety of different meals as this material will not react with acid ingredients like tomatoes. Stainless steel cookers can be safely used on any surface. They can also be used on the grill or directly in a fire. Also, a metal spoon is good to use in a stainless steel pressure cooker as they will not scratch or discolor the unit. Moreover, stainless steel pressure cookers will live forever without rusting out or coming apart.

* Pop up pressure indicator - Pop up pressure indicators show when the wanted pressure setting has been reached. This feature eliminates guesswork and accurately depicts the pressure level that is inside the pot.

These cookers have come a long way since earlier models. Nowadays, most people are familiar with this style of cookers and sometimes use them for cooking meals. Many individuals use these pressure cookers during holidays and other celebrations. And, many people use them often to feed their family. Either way, pressure cookers provide an effective way to cook.

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