Nowadays, no kitchen is complete without a pressure cooker, whether it is a commercial or a home kitchen. However, getting the right pressure cooker is not always easy. Buyers need to do a little research to ensure that they end up with the best option in their kitchens.
This article is a guide on how to shop for a pressure cooker. It includes information on things to consider when evaluating pressure cookers, the best pressure cooker brands in the market at the moment, different pressure cooker types and their upsides and downsides, and even the best place to look for someone seeking to purchase one of these popular kitchen appliances.
3 Things to Look for in a Pressure Cooker
1. Size
Since pressure cookers come in different sizes, it is important to consider how big of a pressure cooker you need. Some have a 4 qt capacity, while others can have up to twice as much capacity. One important thing to consider is that the cooker will often be two-thirds full during regular use. Therefore, you should expect that it will eventually cook less food than the listed capacity.
Otherwise, the other factor to consider as far as size goes is how many food portions you need to prepare with your pressure cooker. Price might also dictate how big of a pressure cooker you can purchase, which means there will be little need to get a big pressure cooker when a smaller one will do just fine and help you save some money in the process.
2. Manufacturer
Some manufacturers clearly stand out when it comes to making premium pressure cookers. What that says is that a manufacturer can be one of the main factors to consider when buying these popular cooking appliances. For instance, there are companies that make products that offer better safety, while others will have pressure cookers with a larger selection of cooking features.
More importantly, using a pressure cooker provided by a company with a long history of making pressure cookers means you will have an easier time getting spare parts in case the pressure cooker needs repairs. All these factors make the name behind the pressure cooker you are thinking of purchasing very important.
3. Non Stick Coating
Pressure cookers with a non-stick surface will often be advertised as being more advantageous, mainly because they are easier to clean. Don’t buy into the hype – non-stick pressure cookers are not better than their alternatives, they are worse.
The problem is that the non-stick surface peels off over time, and that leaves a surface that is a lot more dangerous than what a pressure cooker without the non-stick surface has. Therefore, food contamination becomes a big deal for a pressure cooker with a non-stick surface.
Different Types of Pressure Cookers you Can Buy
1. First Generation
These are older pressure cooker variants. They are still available in the market, although modern versions might have some modern features. They have the following features.
Features
They rely on weight-modified pressure-release valves that make a whistling sound when the cooker is releasing pressure.
Another notable aspect of this pressure cooker type is that it has a single pressure setting.
Newer models based on this design have valve modification options that allow for different pressure settings.
Pros
These pressure cookers feature a basic design are therefore easy to use.
Cons
First generation pressure cookers often have a single pressure setting, which makes them inappropriate for preparing some meals. Finally, these pressure cookers are also noisy.
2. Second Generation
These pressure cookers are considered modern.Many people prefer these pressure cookers because they are safe and filled with many great features.
Features
Their pressure valves are hidden. However, they let users select various pressure settings.
With some of these pressure cookers, pressure is never released during the cooking process – you have to open the lid for this to happen.
Usually have an indicator is used to show how far the pressure has risen. An alternative design allows the user to adjust the pressure level using a dial. In such cases, the pressure is released through the valve as soon as the dial is moved to reflect the selected pressure setting.
Pros
Pressure is adjustable on these pressure cookers, as opposed to first generation pressure cooker.
They are much safer to use than even third generation pressure cookers because no pressure is usually released as the food cooks through valves as is the case with electric and first generation pressure cookers.
Cons
Since the pan has to be opened for the pressure to be released, these cookers are not great at keeping the ideal pressure levels for the food being prepared.
3. Third Generation (Electric Cookers)
These pressure cookers reflect the latest of their to hit the market. Unlike the first and second generation pressure cookers which have to be placed on a stove, these have to be connected to a power source.
Features
These pressure cookers rely on an electricity.
Because they have more advanced technology, they can handle temperature and pressure variations.
With their spring-loaded valves and dual pressure settings, these pressure cookers are pretty versatile.
They also have options such as keeping food warm.
Pros
Because of the advanced technology, they can adjust their temperature and pressure settings as the food cooks for better results.
They make cooking more convenient because of their programmable nature.
Cons
They have to be used cautiously because the tiny pressure valves release steam in a more hazardous manner.
Best Brands to Look for When Buying Pressure Cookers
1. Instant Pot
The Instant Pot pressure cooker brand has become a huge favourite around the world. The Canadian brand is very popular in the US. That is because it makes pressure cookers that are reliable, safe, and very convenient to use. People also love pressure cookers from this company because they make food that is healthy and nutritious. The technology they put into their cookers has also endeared them to lots of people.
2. Presto
Presto is an American company founded over a century ago. Today, it is known for its affordable and high quality pressure cookers. The company takes a lot of pride in creating high quality and highly innovative products. Therefore, with this company’s pressure cookers, buyers can rest assured that they will be getting true value for their money.
3. Cuisinart
Cuisinart is a name that needs no introductions to the kitchen appliances industry. One of its most famous products is its respected line of pressure cookers. The company has been around for decades; and it leverages its innovative culture and culinary expertise to create highly popular products. The pressure cookers this company produces are safe, reliable, and able to deliver great quality results.
4. All American
All American is a pressure cooker brand that is well-known as the supplier of heavy duty and high quality pressure cookers. The signature feature on this pressure cooker brand is the presence of a metal-to-metal seal. However, the brand is more popular for its high quality products.
Where to Buy Your Pressure Cooker
The best place to buy a pressure cooker is on Amazon. At this online retail site, all the popular pressure cooker brands are available for purchase. In addition to stocking all the best brands and models, the site will also provide other great services to the customers.
They include free shipping, discounts, and the option to pay for extra protection. Amazon also often provides one and two-day shipping on many of its pressure cooker orders as well as model variants most other online retail sites don’t stock.
A very good pressure cooker which is really worth taking a look at is the Instant-Pot-Duo-Plus-9-in-1-Multi-Functional-Pressure-Cooker-6-Qt, which is available at Amazon.com at the moment with a 9% discount on the regular price, you can pick it up for $108.67 with free shipping included.
Top 10 Pressure Cookers For 2017 – A Full Overview And Which One You Should Buy!
We are now going to look at the top 10 pressure cookers for 2017. We will include our choices and explain exactly what you get for your money.
We will also include information from people who have purchased these pressure cookers so you can see exactly what people are saying about them before you even buy.
Check out our top 10 pressure cookers for 2017:
If you’re looking for the best straightaway than we highly recommend checking out the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker. The main thing that you will be able to see straightaway is that he gives you 7 in 1 features. So, if you are looking for a pressure cooker that does it all in 2017 this is well worth a look.
You can also check out our full review of the Instant Pot DUO80 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker where we will have a close look at this pressure cooker.
If you are in a hurry and you just want to know the top choice this is the one to go for.
You will get all the features that you need including a pressure cooker, slow cooker, Rice cooker, steamer, sauté, yogurt maker and a warmer.
You will also be able to purchase this in either an 8-quart size or a 6 quart.
This is also the best-selling on Amazon.com – so we highly recommend starting here.
Check out the Instant Pot DUO80 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker at Amazon.com…
- Instant Pot LUX60 6-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker
this is our second choice and you will find that it gives you another fantastic choice for 2017 when you are shopping for a pressure cooker. This one will give you all the features that you need and it gives you a programmable pressure cooker with six different features. You will be able to use this as a slow cooker, Rice cooker, steamer and a warmer and you will also be able to sauté as well.
If you didn’t like our top choice or if you are just looking for something a little bit different check out the Instant Pot LUX60 6-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker Review – or check this out direct to Amazon.com:
click here to check out the Instant Pot LUX60 6-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker at Amazon.com…
- Instant Pot Smart Bluetooth Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker
This one gives you a very popular pressure cooker and if you’re looking for more fancy features such as more programming features and you will also be able to connect this via Bluetooth this may be the one for you. You can also check out our full Instant Pot Smart Bluetooth Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker review that will explore everything that you get with this pressure cooker.
This one has got some fantastic reviews, it also gives you the extra Bluetooth connectivity feature and you will also be able to buy this with the glass lid which is well worth a look if you want to be able to see your food cooking.
Click here to check out the Instant Pot Smart Bluetooth Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker at Amazon.com…
- Cuisinart CPC-600 6 Quart 1000 Watt Electric Pressure Cooker
This is our first choice from another brand and is a very good one. If you were not looking for an Instant Pot or you are just looking for other choices this is where we suggest starting. It gives you a fantastic 6 quart 1000 Watt electric pressure cooker. This one will also give you some very easy to use options if you’re looking for something a little bit simpler.
Check out our full review of the Cuisinart CPC-600 6 Quart 1000 Watt Electric Pressure Cooker for more in depth details or go straight through and check this one out at Amazon.com:
click here to check out the Cuisinart CPC-600 6 Quart 1000 Watt Electric Pressure Cooker at Amazon.com…
- Power Pressure Cooker XL 6 Quart
This one may be the choice for you if you’re looking for an extra-large pressure cooker. The way this is constructed will give you slightly more room than a standard pressure cooker and it also comes with all the features that you need to make some fantastic food.
You can also check out our Power Pressure Cooker XL review or go straight through to Amazon below to check out this pressure cooker:
click here to check out the Power Pressure Cooker XL at Amazon.com…
- Tayama TMC-60XL 6 quart 8-in-1 Multi-Function Pressure Cooker
if you’re looking to try out a different manufacturer this is where we recommend you start. This pressure cooker will give you a great 6-quart 8 in 1 multifunction pressure cooker.
The functions that this gives you is very like our top choice however, you can read a full review of the Tayama TMC-60XL 6 quart 8-in-1 Multi-Function Pressure Cooker or check this out directly Amazon.com below:
click here to check out the Tayama TMC-60XL 6 quart 8-in-1 Multi-Function Pressure Cooker at Amazon.com…
- COSORI Electric Pressure Cooker 2 Quart Mini Rice Cookware
This choice will give you a great pressure cooker if you’re looking for something that gives you additional tools. For instance, glass lid pressure cooker is a popular because you can see your soups or stews cooking.
This pressure cooker will give you a glass lid, a steamer, a rack, and it also gives you a Rice spoon and a ladle. So, if you’re looking to get the most of your money in terms of accessories this is well worth a look. You can check out our full review of the COSORI Electric Pressure Cooker 2 Quart Mini Rice Cookware or you can head over to Amazon.com below and pick this up.
Click below to check out the COSORI Electric Pressure Cooker 2 Quart Mini Rice Cookware at Amazon.com…
8. NuWave Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker Review (6.5-Quart)
if you’re looking for more traditional pressure cooker in both usage and also the way this pressure cooker works then you might want to look at this one. This is the 6.5 quart option and it will give you a great pressure cooker with all of the features that you need and has got some fantastic reviews.
This one does not boast the 7 in 1 features but if you are just looking for a great pressure cooker it may well be worth a look.
Click here to check out the NuWave Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker Review (6.5-Quart) at Amazon.com…
9. Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multi-Functional Pressure Cooker, 6 Qt
if you’re shopping for the most features from the pressure cooker you might want to check this one out as although it is not one of the best sellers it will give you nine different features and it also gives you a multifunction pressure cooker. This pressure cooker is best suited if you need a small pressure cooker which will do everything.
Click here to check out the Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Multi-Functional Pressure Cooker, 6 Qt at Amazon.com…
10.Presto 01264 6-Quart Aluminum Pressure Cooker
if you’re shopping for a pressure cooker which will give you a very traditional pressure cooker which is aluminium based and will work in a more traditional method you might want to check this one out.
It will give you a fantastic pressure cooker for the money and we think you’ll be very impressed with what you get here.
Click here to check out the Presto 01264 6-Quart Aluminium Pressure Cooker at Amazon.com….