Pressure Cookers

  • Learn More About Pressure Cookers

    Pressure cookers are sealed, airtight pots with a control valve that regulates the amount of steam inside. The build-up of steam creates high pressure which helps cook food quickly. Etsy shops sell a variety of pressure cookers including electric versions, stovetop pressure cookers, and vintage pressure cookers, all designed to make meal time easy and pressure-free.

    Pressure cookers work by using the power of steam created by boiling water at extremely high temperatures. Unlike regular pots and pans, pressure cookers have a specialized lid that latches over a rubber gasket, ensuring a tight seal. The trapped steam raises the pressure and increases the water’s boiling point, cooking food fast. Once the pot reaches maximum pressure, the lid’s release valve opens, allowing a controlled flow of steam to escape.

    You can cook all sorts of foods and meals in a pressure cooker, often in less time than many conventional cooking methods. Use a stovetop or electric pressure cooker to make hearty soups, chilis, and stews; prepare rice, dry beans, grits, polenta, risotto, and whole grains; or cook vegetables like potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and beets. You can also cook meat. Make a tender pot roast, yummy short ribs, flaky fish, or even a whole chicken. You can also use canning pressure cookers to seal jars of jams and preserves. Want more delicious meal ideas? Etsy shops sell all kinds of pressure cooker recipe books.

    Whether you’re a beginner or pressure cooking pro, there are a few things to keep in mind:


    • Check your equipment: Make sure your pressure cooker is in good working order. Check the cover gasket for a proper seal.
    • Use enough liquid: Ensure you have enough water or other liquid in your pressure cooker before you start using it—remember, liquid is needed to produce the right amount of steam. Many pressure cookers have a minimum and maximum liquid mark inside the pot. Too little liquid will result in burned food; too much will lead to a leaky mess from the steam valve.
    • Keep an eye on cooking times: Be mindful that some foods will take longer to cook than others. Large pieces of meat, whole grains, and dry beans require more cooking time than white rice, vegetables, and fish.
    • Release pressure safely: Release the pressure either by removing the cooker from the heat and letting it sit until the pressure goes down or by using the pot’s steam release valve. Keep your face, hands, and body away from the steam release valve and use pot holders to handle the cooker.
    • Clean your cooker: After using your pressure cooker, remove the lid gasket and wash it separately, along with the pot and lid. Clean the valve with a toothpick and make sure it moves freely.