How to Choose the Right Electric Pressure Cooker for You

Your Guide to buying the best Electric pressure cookers

Overview

An electric pressure cooker is a great kitchen appliance that can help you get dinner on the table quickly without sacrificing flavor. It cooks food faster than traditional methods, and with very little effort. This buying guide will help you understand the features to consider when purchasing an electric pressure cooker, as well as providing tips and advice on how to use it once you have it. We'll discuss the different sizes, styles, and functions available, as well as the safety features that come with electric pressure cookers. Once you understand the basics, you'll be able to make an informed decision about the best electric pressure cooker for your needs.

Key features

  1. Design - Consider the shape, size, and overall design of the electric pressure cooker. Does it fit in the space you have available? Does it fit in with the décor of your kitchen?
  2. Capacity - Determine how much food you plan to cook at one time, and how often you will use it. A larger capacity cooker may be better for large families or frequent cooking.
  3. Controls - Does the electric pressure cooker have a digital display or digital buttons that allow for easier programming? Is it easy to use, and does it have all the features you need?
  4. Timer - Many electric pressure cookers have a timer that can be set to begin cooking at a predetermined time, allowing you to start dinner while you are away.
  5. Safety - Look for safety features like pressure release valves, locking lids, and safety valves that prevent the cooker from operating if it is not properly sealed.
  6. Cleaning - Check to see if the electric pressure cooker is dishwasher-safe or if it must be washed by hand. Also consider the non-stick coating, if any, and how easy it is to clean.
  7. Accessories - Look for a pressure cooker that comes with accessories, such as a steamer basket or a removable rack for easy cooking.
  8. Warranty - Check the length of the warranty and what it covers before you buy an electric pressure cooker.

See the most popular Electric pressure cookers on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Speed: Electric pressure cookers can cook food up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods.
  • Nutrition: Pressure cooking preserves more of the food's natural vitamins and minerals because it cooks food quickly in its own juices.
  • Ease of Use: With electric pressure cookers, you can just set the timer and forget about it, as the pot will automatically release pressure when the time is up.
  • Safety: The tight seal of the electric pressure cooker prevents steam from escaping, ensuring that the cooking process is safe and efficient.
  • Multi-Functional: Electric pressure cookers offer multiple cooking functions including stewing, steaming, sautéing, and even warming food.
  • Versatility: Electric pressure cookers are great for preparing a wide variety of food including stews, soups, grains, legumes, and even desserts.

Cons

  • Price: Electric pressure cookers can be expensive compared to other cooking appliances.
  • Noise: Electric pressure cookers can be noisy when in use.
  • Size: Electric pressure cookers can be bulky and difficult to store.
  • Time: Although electric pressure cookers cook food faster than other methods, they still require some wait time for the food to come to pressure.
  • Safety: Electric pressure cookers require specific instructions to ensure safe operation.
  • Learning curve: Electric pressure cookers can be difficult to learn how to use.
  • Maintenance: Electric pressure cookers require regular cleaning and maintenance.

Best alternatives

  1. Rice Cookers - An appliance that cooks and steams rice with an automated process.
  2. Slow Cookers - A device that cooks food at a low temperature over an extended period of time.
  3. Multi-Cookers - A device that can be used to pressure cook, steam, slow cook, sauté, and more.
  4. Instant Pot - A multi-functioning pressure cooker that can also be used as a slow cooker, yogurt maker, steamer, and more.
  5. Stovetop Cookers - A device used for pressure cooking that is heated on the stovetop.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Electric Pressure Cooker - an appliance that cooks food quickly using pressure and steam.
  • Multi-Functional Insert - an insert that allows the cooker to perform multiple functions such as steaming, boiling, and sautéing.
  • Timer - a device used to set a cooking time for the pressure cooker.
  • Safety Valve - a valve designed to release pressure in case the pressure cooker is overfilled or there is an issue with the seal.
  • Lid - a lid that seals in the steam and pressure while the food is cooking.
  • Steam Rack - a metal or plastic rack that holds food above the water in the pressure cooker.
  • Gasket - a rubber ring that creates a tight seal between the lid and the pressure cooker.
  • Trivet - a metal stand that holds food away from the bottom of the pressure cooker.
  • Manual - a booklet or document that provides instructions on how to use the pressure cooker.

Common questions

  1. What features are available in Electric pressure cookers? Electric pressure cookers come with a variety of features, including one-touch buttons for selecting specific cooking modes, adjustable pressure settings, automatic shut-off, timer settings, and keep warm functions.
  2. How long do Electric pressure cookers take to cook food? The exact cooking time will vary depending on the food and cooking mode selected, but Electric pressure cookers typically cook food in significantly less time than traditional cooking methods.
  3. Are Electric pressure cookers safe to use? Electric pressure cookers are designed to be safe and easy to use, with safety features like pressure release valves and locking lids to protect against accidental burns.
  4. What size would be the best for me? The best size for you will depend on the size of your family and how often you plan to use it. Generally, a 6-quart or 8-quart model will be suitable for most households.
  5. What materials are Electric pressure cookers made of? Electric pressure cookers can be made of stainless steel, aluminum, or non-stick coated metal. Stainless steel models are the most durable and are usually dishwasher-safe.
  6. What accessories come with Electric pressure cookers? Most Electric pressure cookers come with steam racks, measuring cups, and other accessories, such as a recipe book and a steamer basket.

Trivia

In an attempt to make electric pressure cookers more consumer-friendly, manufacturers have come up with some hilarious names for the products. The 'Fagor LUX Multicooker' is one example, which was likely meant to evoke a sense of luxury but instead led to mischievous laughter. Another is the 'Instant Pot Max', a combination of 'instant' and 'maximum', which made a lot of people chuckle. These amusing names have made electric pressure cookers more memorable and have won the hearts of many shoppers. Source: https://www.pressurecookerchris.com/electric-pressure-cookers-names/

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.