Some Guide to a Pressure Cooker
Generally speaking, all pressure cookers operate using the same principle. Steam is produced by heat in a closed container, which in turn raises the pressure inside the cooker and raises the boiling point, this allows the food to be cooked faster.
The first step to using your pressure cooker is to add liquid to the pot, usually this is water though other liquids may be used depending upon the recipe. If the recipe takes longer to cook more water may need to be added, check with your cook book to ensure you add the correct amount.
The pressure cooker should not be filled more than two thirds from the top of the pot, to allow the unused space to create the pressure required. If making a broth or other liquid, ensure it is not more than half full. Some recipes require the use of a rack which is placed in the bottom of the pot to raise the food above the water level for steaming.
Remove the weighted pressure regulator before closing and ensure the lid is secure and place the pressure cooker on the right size hob on your oven, setting the heat to high to raise the pressure in the cooker. Once the required pressure is achieved you should lower the heat setting to maintain the pressure and ensure that the cooker is never left unattended.
Start timing once pressure is achieved and try not to over cook your recipe as this can turn your food to mush. Once the cooking is complete remove the cooker from the hob. Finally we need to release the pressure from the cooker, safely. The lid can not be removed until the pressure is released. There are 3 ways to achieve this.
The first method is the natural release, allowing the food to continue to cook as the pressure reduces on its own. The second method is the cold water release, this is done by running cold water over the lid of the cooker until the pressure inside drops, ensure that you do not run water over the vent or pressure regulator.
Finally we have the quick release method which involves using a valve found on the lid. Once the pressure has been released it is now safe to remove the lid.
Cleaning the pressure cooker is simple, most modern cookers are dishwasher friendly, just check with the manufacturers guide lines to ensure the pressure valves and regulators are safe to place in a dishwasher.
Hot soapy water is sufficient to clean the cooker manually as with any other house hold item just be sure not to use an abrasive surface or scowling pad on stainless steel variants to avoid scratches and rust building.
