How do you choose the best electric pressure cooker for your home? What features and functions should the best pressure cooker have to suit your needs? Read our guide an make an informed choice.
This kitchen appliance has revolutionised how we cook at home, providing a one-pot solution to prepare various dishes ranging from soups, stews, risottos, to even desserts.
However, with an array of choices on the market, finding the perfect electric pressure cooker can be daunting.
Fear not, for we’ve crafted this comprehensive guide that will make your decision-making process as easy as pie.
Let’s delve into how to choose the best electric pressure cooker for your culinary adventures.
Top 3 Recommended Best Electric Pressure Cookers
Understanding Electric Pressure Cookers
Electric pressure cookers have seen a dramatic rise in popularity in recent years, and for good reason. They’re multifunctional, efficient, and a real game-changer for those leading busy lifestyles, looking to reduce time spent in the kitchen.
But what exactly is an electric pressure cooker, and how does it work? Let’s delve deeper.
Anatomy of an Electric Pressure Cooker
To understand an electric pressure cooker, it’s essential to become familiar with its main components:
- The Outer Body: This part houses the heating element. It’s typically made of stainless steel or durable plastic. Some models have a digital control panel here for easy programming.
- The Inner Pot: This is where the food is placed for cooking. It’s a removable container, often made from stainless steel or non-stick material. It’s crucial because it comes into direct contact with your food.
- The Lid: Equipped with a sealing ring, it ensures the pot becomes a sealed environment, trapping steam and pressure inside.
- Pressure Release Valve: This critical safety feature allows the controlled release of pressure once cooking is complete.
- Sealing Ring: It’s a silicone gasket that forms an airtight seal between the lid and the pot.
The Magic Behind the Pressure
Electric pressure cookers work on a simple principle: the pressure inside an enclosed vessel increases as you heat it. This increased pressure raises the boiling point of water, allowing food to cook at higher temperatures without becoming dry or losing nutrients. The high-pressure environment also forces liquid into the food, helping it cook faster and allowing flavours to develop more deeply.
The Electric Advantage
Electric pressure cookers stand out from their stovetop counterparts because they are self-regulating and offer advanced features.
Most models come with a digital interface that allows you to adjust settings and select different cooking modes. This means you can set your cooker with a press of a button and let it do its magic while you go about your day, no supervision required.
Versatility at Its Best
Besides pressure cooking, these ingenious appliances often come with multiple cooking functions, which can include slow cooking, steaming, sautéing, and even baking. They can replace several kitchen appliances, saving you counter space and money.
To sum it up, understanding an electric pressure cooker is the first step towards mastering its use. It’s a versatile and convenient kitchen tool that makes cooking quicker, easier, and more enjoyable. Now that you have a more in-depth understanding of these devices, you’re well on your way to choosing the best electric pressure cooker to meet your culinary needs.
Factors to Consider When Buying an Electric Pressure Cooker
Size Matters
Size is more than just about the physical space the cooker occupies on your counter. It fundamentally influences the amount of food you can prepare at one time. But how do you determine the right size for your needs?
Electric pressure cookers are generally measured by their total liquid capacity, usually ranging from 3 litres (quarts) to 8 litres or more. However, you never fill a pressure cooker to its maximum capacity, so consider that a 6-litre pressure cooker gives you about 4.5 litres of cooking capacity.
- Small-sized Cookers (3-4 litres): These compact cookers are perfect for individuals or couples who don’t need to cook large quantities of food. They’re also a good choice for those with limited kitchen space.
- Medium-sized Cookers (5-6 litres): This size is the most common and fits the needs of most families (3-5 people). It allows you to cook a reasonable amount of food without taking up too much counter space.
- Large-sized Cookers (7-8 litres and above): If you have a large family, frequently host gatherings, or enjoy meal prepping for the week, a large cooker is a wise choice. It lets you cook in bulk, saving you time and energy in the long run.
When considering size, think about your daily cooking habits and needs. Remember, it’s better to have a bit of extra capacity rather than not enough.
Exploring Functions
The versatility of electric pressure cookers lies in the range of functions they offer.
- Pressure Cooking: This is the main feature. It cooks food quickly by raising the temperature above the boiling point of water under sealed conditions.
- Slow Cooking: This feature allows your electric pressure cooker to work as a slow cooker, great for stews, braised dishes, and tenderising tough cuts of meat.
- Sautéing/Browning: This feature lets you brown meat or vegetables before pressure or slow cooking, adding depth to the flavours in your dish.
- Rice Cooking: Some models offer settings specifically for cooking rice or risotto, automatically adjusting time and pressure for optimal results.
- Steaming: A quick and healthy way to prepare vegetables, fish, and more. Some models come with a steam rack for this purpose.
- Yogurt Making: A handy feature for those who enjoy homemade yoghurt. It maintains the perfect temperature for fermenting, ensuring great results every time.
- Keeping Warm: This function keeps your food at a safe and palatable temperature after cooking, perfect for those occasions when you can’t serve the meal immediately.
- Delay Start: A function that allows you to set the cooker to start at a later time. It’s an excellent feature for having a meal ready when you come home after a long day.
Remember, more functions mean greater versatility but also a higher price. Choose a model with the features that match your cooking style and needs to ensure you’re not paying for functions you’ll rarely use.
Material
The material of the inner pot can influence not just the durability and maintenance of the appliance, but also the quality of the food cooked. There are two common types of materials used:
Stainless Steel: This material is favoured for its durability and robustness. Stainless steel pots don’t chip or peel, and they are typically dishwasher safe, making them easy to clean. However, food might stick to the bottom if the pot is not properly greased, which could require a bit more effort to clean. Stainless steel also provides even heat distribution, ensuring all your food is uniformly cooked.
Non-stick: Non-stick pots are popular because of their ease of use and clean-up. Food rarely sticks to the bottom, making them easy to clean, often with just a wipe. However, they are generally not dishwasher safe and require more careful handling to prevent the non-stick coating from peeling or scratching. Over time, the coating may wear off, requiring replacement.
Each material has its pros and cons, and the choice between them depends on your personal preferences and cooking habits.
Controls and Ease of Use
The usability of an electric pressure cooker largely depends on its controls and interface. Modern electric pressure cookers come with digital interfaces that give you control over cooking times, pressure levels, and cooking modes. Here’s what to look for:
- Intuitive Controls: Look for a model with an intuitive control panel that is easy to navigate. The buttons should be clearly labelled, and the display should be easy to read. Complicated controls can be frustrating and may deter you from using the appliance.
- Pre-set Programs: Many electric pressure cookers come with pre-set programs for common recipes like soups, beans, poultry, or rice. These settings automatically adjust the temperature and pressure for optimal results, which is a great help for beginners or those who prefer hassle-free cooking.
- Adjustable Settings: More advanced cookers offer the ability to manually adjust cooking time, pressure levels, and temperature. This feature is great for more experienced cooks who want more control over their cooking.
- Delayed Start and Keep Warm: A delayed start feature allows you to program the cooker to start at a later time. The keep warm function keeps your food at the right temperature until you’re ready to serve. Both of these features add to the convenience of using an electric pressure cooker.
Remember, simplicity is often the key when it comes to controls and ease of use. A pressure cooker with complicated controls might offer more versatility, but if it’s too complicated to use, it might end up gathering dust in a corner.
Safety Features
An electric pressure cooker is a robust kitchen appliance that operates under high pressure, making safety features an absolute necessity.
- Locking Lid: This is a critical safety feature that ensures the lid locks in place when the pressure is high, preventing accidental opening under pressure.
- Pressure Release Valve: This valve is used to manually release pressure before opening the lid. Some models offer an automatic release feature for extra convenience.
- Pressure Indicator: This feature visually shows whether there is pressure inside the pot. It’s a handy way to know when it’s safe to open the lid.
- Overpressure Protection: In case the pressure exceeds the safe limit, this feature triggers the release of excess pressure to prevent accidents.
- Automatic Shut-off: In the event of a malfunction or overheating, this feature automatically turns off the cooker, offering an added layer of protection.
- Cool-touch Handles: These ensure that the cooker’s handles remain cool to the touch, preventing burns when moving the appliance.
While most modern electric pressure cookers come standard with these safety features, it’s important to check them before making your purchase.
Brand and Reviews
The brand of the electric pressure cooker can give you insight into its quality, durability, and customer support. More established brands generally have a track record that can provide assurance of the product’s quality.
Furthermore, user reviews can be incredibly helpful in understanding the real-world performance of a product. They give you a glimpse into the experiences of individuals who’ve used the pressure cooker in various settings. When considering reviews, look out for comments on:
Performance: Does the cooker cook food evenly and quickly? Are there any issues with maintaining pressure?
Durability: How well does the cooker hold up over time? Are there any common problems reported by multiple users?
Ease of Use: Is the cooker intuitive and straightforward to operate? Are the instructions clear and easy to follow?
Customer Service: If the product develops a problem, is the brand responsive and helpful in resolving the issue?
Bear in mind that no product will have 100% positive reviews, but a pattern of similar complaints may be a red flag. Look for products with a high average rating and a large number of reviews.
Conclusion
Choosing the right electric pressure cooker may initially seem like a daunting task, but armed with this information, you’re ready to make an informed decision.
Remember, the best electric pressure cooker for you will ultimately depend on your unique cooking needs, preferences, and budget.
Happy cooking!
Recommended Electric Pressure Cookers
Taking into account the advice above, analysing buyer opinions, and the available offerings, we recommend the following models of Electric Pressure Cookers that offer excellent value for money.
COSORI Pressure Cooker Electric and Wireless Meat Thermometer, 14 Functions(Slow&Rice Cooker, Sous Vide, Cake Maker, etc.), 70% Faster,…
- 𝟏𝟒 𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝟏:Slow cooker, rice cooker, sous vide, cake, yogurt, steamer, and more; Master the art of cooking and…
- 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐔𝐬𝐞:With 14 customizable smart programs, cooking becomes a breeze; The LED display keeps you informed about the cooking…
- 𝟕𝟎% 𝐟𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫: Pressure cook meals up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods or use as a slow cooker for…
- 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐋𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧：With a connection range of up to 165 FT/50 M，you can comfortably monitor cooking progress via…
- 𝐅𝐚𝐬𝐭 & 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠:The two precise temp sensors on thermometer measure food and ambient temp simultaneously. High accuracy of internal…
- 𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐀𝐩𝐩 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐞𝐬：The user-friendly VeSync app gives you options to select meat types and doneness, set alerts and…
Ninja Foodi 11-in-1 SmartLid Multi-Cooker, 6L, Electric Pressure Cooker & Air Fryer, Layer Mains & Sides with Reversible…
- ENERGY-SAVING: Save up to 65% on your energy bill* (*testing and calculations based on recommended cook time for sausages, using…
- 11 COOKING FUNCTIONS: Pressure Cook, Air Fry, Grill, Bake, Dehydrate, Sear/Sauté, Steam, Slow Cook, Yoghurt, Steam Air Fry, Steam Bake.
- PRESSURE COOK MODE: Up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods* (*Compared with slow cooking, simmering or braising).
- COOKS UP TO 4 PORTIONS: Fit a 2kg roast or 1.1kg of French fries. Layer ingredients with the Reversible Rack…
- INCLUDES: Ninja Foodi MultiCooker (UK Plug) with 6L Cooking Pot, 3.7L Cook & Crisp Basket, Reversible Rack, Chef-Created Recipe Guide.
- DIMENSIONS: H33xm x W35cm x D36cm. 2-year guarantee upon registration with Ninja (UK & ROI only).
Instant Pot DUO MINI 3L Electric Pressure Cooker. 7-in-1: Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Sauté Pan, Yoghurt…
- 13 PROGRAMS: Soup, Broth, Meat, Stew, Bean, Chilli, Slow Cook, Saute, Rice, Porridge, Steam, Yogurt, Keep Warm, Multigrain, Poultry and…
- ENERGY-SAVING: Save up to 80% on your energy bill compared to traditional electric ovens—so you can put that extra cash…
- TIME-SAVING: Cut cooking time by up to 70% compared to traditional methods when pressure cooking —more time for the things…
- SET IT & FORGET IT – The Instant Pot Duo remembers your favorite cooking styles and go-to programs, so you…
- 2 PORTIONS – With its 3L capacity, it’s perfect for whipping up tasty weekday dinners or romantic meals in for…
Tefal Turbo Cuisine Electric Pressure Cooker – 10-in-1 Multi-Cooker, 4.8L Capacity, 1000W Power, 10 Automatic Programs (Stew, Steam,…
- Cook better: Tefal Turbo Cuisine combines high-speed pressure cooking for 3 times faster cooking with a spherical cooking bowl for…
- Do more: With 10 programs, this one-pot wonder can replace up to seven appliances. Stew, brown, steam, bake, or slow…
- Take it easy: With just one simple dial, Turbo Cuisine is incredibly easy to use. Turn to pick a program,…
- Be inspired: You’ll never be short of dinner ideas again with the free Tefal app. Download it toaccess 150+ recipes,…
- Save time: No pot-watching here! Simply pop your ingredients in the cooking bowl, close the lid and select your program.…
- Usable bowl capacity 3.2 litres
![Ninja Foodi MAX Multi-Cooker [OP450UK], 7-in-1, 7.5L, Electric Pressure Cooker and Air Fryer, Grey and Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71xJ0bzUrSL._AC_SL520_.jpg "Ninja Foodi MAX Multi-Cooker [OP450UK], 7-in-1, 7.5L, Electric Pressure Cooker and Air Fryer, Grey and Black")
Ninja Foodi MAX Multi-Cooker [OP450UK], 7-in-1, 7.5L, Electric Pressure Cooker and Air Fryer, Grey and Black
- Large 7.5L capacity – Ideal for up to 6 people
- The pressure cooker that crisps – Exclusive TenderCrisp Technology
- 7 ways to cook – Pressure Cook, Air Fry, Slow Cook, Grill, Steam, Sear/Sauté & Bake/Roast
- Pressure cook up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods* (*Compared with slow-cooking, simmering or braising.)
- Includes 7.5L Cooking Pot, 4.7L Cook & Crisp Basket, 2-Tier Reversible Rack, Recipe Guide ,Dishwasher safe parts
Instant Pot Duo Plus with WhisperQuiet Multi-Cooker 5.7L - Black, Electric Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Sauté…
- 9 FUNCTIONS: Enjoy versatile cooking with 9 functions like Slow Cook, Saute, Rice, Steam, Yoghurt, Sous Vide, and more —…
- ENERGY-SAVING: Save up to 80% on your energy bill compared to traditional electric ovens—so you can put that extra cash…
- TIME-SAVING: Cut cooking time by up to 70% compared to traditional methods when pressure cooking —more time for the things…
- HANDS-OFF COOKING – Simply choose a function, set the time, press start, and let the Instant Pot handle the rest.…
- 6 PORTIONS – With its 5.7L capacity, it’s perfect for whipping up tasty weekday meals, family dinners, or even batch…
Midea Pressure Cooker 6L, 70% Faster 14 Presets, Nourish Pro, 9-in-1 Multi Cooker(Yogurt Maker, Rice Cooker, Slow Cooker,…
- 【9 IN 1 MULTI PRESSURE COOKER】Work as pressure cooker, rice cooker, steamer, yogurt maker, slow cooker, Sauté, Sous Vide, food…
- 【14 PRESETS SATISFY ALL YOUR COOKING NEED】This versatile pressure cooker has 14 programmable preset functions, allows you to cook various…
- 【Midea's NOURISH PRO PROGRAM 】 Smart Fresh Valve automatically optimizes cooking pressure to extract 13.8% more umami while preserving nutrients.…
- 【PROFESSIONAL SAFETY FEATURES】 Equipped with 10 safety features to guarantee easier and securer cooking, including overheat protection, auto pressure release…
- 【INTELLIGENT DELAY TIMER】 24h delay timer function enables you to set your desired recipes in advance and enjoy gourmet dishes…
- 【ABUNDANT ACCESSORIES】Midea Pressure cooker comes with 6 helpful components: Spoon*1, Ladel*1, Condensation Cup*1, Measuring Cup*1, Steam Rack*1, Power cord*1.
CleverChef Pro- 6-in-1 Digital Pressure Cooker 5.7L - Multicooker, Slow Cooker, Soup Maker, Rice Cooker, Sous Vide -…
- IDEAL FOR BUSY LIFESTYLES: The CleverChef Pro is a kitchen essential for families and those with busy lifestyles. With up…
- ENERGY EFFICIENT: Because CleverChef Pro cooks super-fast with pressurised steam, it even saves money on your energy bills! In fact,…
- READY WHEN YOU ARE: With the CleverChef pro, cooking a home made meal has never been so simple. Not only…
- A HEALTHIER WAY TO COOK: Cook healthier with the CleverChef. This way of cooking leaves you with nutritious and vitamin…
- BUILT FOR FAMILIES: With an extra large 5.7 litre inner pot, this product is great for large families. The high…
