Pressure cookers have been in use in kitchens for many years. They are still popular in most kitchens because of the method they use to cook food. You can choose from different pressure cooker types available in the market. The different types of pressure cookers are popular because they cook food faster than other cooking methods, which means reducing the cooking time by around 70%. The main idea is to put a liquid together with the ingredients inside the pot, which is then sealed so that pressure can build up.
The fluid that is sealed inside will then create some hot steam that will cook the meal faster while maintaining the nutrients at the same time. The pressure laws of physics help to remove the factors that would reduce the cooking speed.
Continuous use of pressure cookers, coupled with the advancement of technology has led to the development of more types of pressure cookers. The modern versions ensure that functionality and safety are heightened.
Therefore, we can group the pressure cookers by generations as they change and improve. In this post, we will talk about the types of pressure cookers and provide a comparison of the features, pros, and cons. Read on!
Comparing the Pressure Cookers by Generation
This section gives the types of pressure cookers according to the generation.
The First Generation
First-generation pressure cookers are the oldest versions. They have the basic features and have a limitation in regards to safety. The cooking process is mainly based on a valve modified by weight. This valve will regulate the pressure inside the cooker. To make it worse, it is loud.
This generation of pressure cookers had a single level of pressure, which is extremely difficult to control. The valve is the reason why the cooker is loud. It is like a whistle when you are cooking.
The Second Generation
This is an improvement on the first-generation pressure cooker. That means that it has more features and the safety is improved compared to the older versions. Instead of the valve being regulated by weight, this pressure cooker uses a spring valve. This valve is easier to use. To make things better, it is even quieter.
These pressure cookers have indicators that help to determine the level of pressure that has built up inside the pot. They will also not release the steam if you do not open the lid.
A pressure selector dial eliminates noisy behavior. It also makes it easy for you to control the pressure. You should know that most stovetop cookers are this type of cooker. It is a combination of the modern style and the traditional style.
The Third Generation
They are electric cookers. They are pressure cookers with some advanced features. Electricity is the source of energy unlike the first two, which rely on stovetops.
Electric pressure cookers are continuing to gain popularity. Different brands offer amazing pressure cookers with top technology integrated.
They are similar to second-generation pressure cookers because they use the same spring valve. Some features include a microchip that has different pre-programmed settings to make cooking different meals easier. With the help of these settings and microchips, you will have an easier time cooking. Imagine hands-off cooking with a pressure cooker. Sounds astonishing, right?
With the automated features integrated into this type of pressure cooker, the need for supervision is eliminated. They are extremely easy to operate and modify settings when cooking. The additional features you will enjoy with these pressure cookers include dual pressure settings, timer settings, automatic pressure release, as well as a keep-warm feature when you are done cooking.
The different brands have different features to allow you to steam, sauté, and slow-cook like a professional. It is right to conclude that these pressure cookers are not only easy to use but also convenient. They will eradicate the need for separate rice, skillet, or a slow cooker.
Microwave Pressure Cooker
This pressure cooker is similar to a normal stovetop pot, except that it has a higher cooking speed, and is easier to clean since most of the models are dishwasher safe.
If you are a busy cook or if you have a small kitchen, this is the cooker for you. For more info have a peek at this article.
Comparing Pressure Cookers by Features and Functionality
Here, we will look at the single function and multiple functions pressure cookers. They give you a variety of options from which you can choose.
The Single Purpose Cookers
Single-purpose pressure cookers, as the name suggests, can handle a single pressure setting. They are made in a way that they can only give a single level of pressure without any additional settings to alter that level.
The Multiple Purpose Cookers
Unlike the single purpose, these pressure cookers have different features and pressure settings. That means that you can use these cookers to cook a variety of foods. Some common features include the control of pressure and temperature.
These features and settings are only available in the new electric cookers.
A multiple-purpose cooker will work as a slow cooker, a steamer, a rice cooker, a warmer, and so on.
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Advantages of a Pressure Cooker
- + A pressure cooker will add more moisture to the food you are cooking. The airtight container will prevent any loss of moisture. The result? You will get food that has amazing juices even when the food is cooked at high levels of temperature. Instead of the higher temperature levels messing up the food, it becomes tastier.
- + The modern, multi-functional pressure cookers will cook frozen foods. You can simply remove the food from the freezer and put it in the cooker. No need for meal prep.
- + Simply toss in the ingredients, push some buttons, and come back to find the dinner ready. A dream come true.
- + Reduced cooking time, coupled with the prevention of moisture loss will help preserve the food’s nutrients.
Disadvantages of a Pressure Cooker
- – Since there are high moisture levels, you cannot get crisp results.
- – It might be harder to clean a pressure cooker. However, it will depend on the brand you have.
- – You might need some time to learn how to use a pressure cooker properly.
Conclusion
Pressure cookers are a very great addition to your kitchen. Which type of pressure cooker is best? The type of cooker that would work best for you will depend on what you want to do. Regardless, a third-generation and multi-purpose cooker would give you more service with more security and less effort when cooking.
Also: Best Pressure Cookers For Microwave Oven
Feel free to share your observations with me in the comments section!
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