Myths and truths about using a pressure cooker

The pressure cooker rewards anyone who enjoys cooking with something valuable: time savings. As it prepares food three times faster, it also reduces gas costs. But care must be taken when handling it. “Many accidents would be avoided if their accessories and safety valves were exchanged for original parts when they wear out”, says Arcangelo Nigro Neto, vice-president of the Metal Artifacts Industry Union. “Following the instructions in the manual also increases safety.”

Check below some myths and truths about using the pressure cooker at home:

1. Pressure cooker explodes: TRUE

If not used correctly, it can indeed cause a serious explosion, destroy the kitchen and seriously injure anyone nearby. To enhance security,
the ingredient must go into the pan accompanied by water or another liquid in sufficient quantity.

2. Pressure cooker only cooks beans and meat: MYTH

Cooking time in pressure cooker is faster. Just adapt this time and make different types of recipes. Just avoid cooking pearl barley, oatmeal and dried peas. These foods form foam, obstructing the steam outlet through the valve.

3. Cooking time starts when the pan sizzles: TRUE

Cooking begins as soon as the valve starts to let steam escape, producing a puff, and not as soon as the pan is put on the fire. Reduce the heat and mark the cooking time indicated in the recipe.

The right way to use

1. Pay attention to cleaning

Detach the lid sealing rubber and wash it separately.

2. Check if there is pressure

If the cooker does not produce pressure and steam escapes through the lid, check that the rubber is correctly placed.

3. Do daily maintenance

Check that the edge of the pan is in good condition and that it has not become deformed with use. If there is any problem, take it to technical assistance. And change the sealing rubber when it cracks.

4. Don’t fill to the top

So that the valve does not clog, when cooking something more liquid, such as beans, leave the water level at least three fingers below the lid. If it’s meat, the water should reach half the pan.

5. Notice the whistle

Food cooking starts when the pan starts beeping. Then, it’s time to lower the heat and count the time indicated in the recipe to be prepared.

6. Look at the valve.

While the pan is on the fire, see if the valve is working normally. If it is not releasing steam, it may be clogged. To solve, just lift it.

7. Be careful when opening

Never open the pan as soon as you turn off the fire. The ideal is to wait for it to cool down naturally. If you’re in a hurry, run it under the cold water tap until the hiss stops, without lifting the valve. Then just open it carefully. Always turn your face away at this time.