Best Pressure Cooker featured

Pressure cookers have become a staple in many UK kitchens due to their efficiency and versatility. Cooking with a pressure cooker not only saves time, but it also helps to retain the nutrients and flavours in your food. The high-pressure environment inside the cooker increases the boiling point of water, allowing food to cook faster, while using less energy in the process. Pressure cookers are perfect for those seeking a convenient, energy-efficient and healthier cooking method.

Choosing the right pressure cooker for your needs can be challenging, with various options available in the market. Some factors to consider when purchasing a pressure cooker are its size, material, safety features, and ease of use. It is especially important to select a pressure cooker suited to your specific needs, as they come in various capacities and are made with different materials, such as stainless steel or aluminium. Safety features are also crucial, as you’ll want a model equipped with multiple safety mechanisms to help prevent accidents and ensure the device operates as intended.

various pressure cookers

Pressure cookers in the UK offer a wide range of cooking options, including slow cooking, steaming, and even sautéing. This diverse functionality means that you can use a pressure cooker for a variety of dishes, from perfect stews to tender meats and flavourful rice dishes. This versatility makes it a valuable addition to any kitchen.

Deciding on the best pressure cooker for you can be daunting because of the sheer number of options available. That’s why I’ve dedicated my time to researching and testing the top pressure cookers on the market in the UK, ensuring that you find the perfect one to complement your cooking preferences and kitchen requirements.

Best Pressure Cookers in the UK

Pressure CookerSize and CapacitySafety FeaturesDurability and QualityEase of UseAccessories and Additional Features
Instant Pot DUO 605.7 litresSecure locking mechanism, pressure release valveStainless steelClear instructions and intuitive controlsProgrammable, 13 one-touch smart programs
Instant Pot Pro Crisp7.6 litresUpgraded inner pots and lid with advanced heat protectionStainless steelOne-touch cooking, convenient switch of lid11-in-1 air fryer, sous vide, roaster, mini oven, grill, and dehydrator
Tefal P2530738 Secure 56 litresAuto-lock system, 5 safety devicesStainless steelHand control, ergonomic handlesSteaming basket included, triple-layer base
Ninja Foodi 11-in-1 SmartLid6 litresSmartLid sliderStainless steel and plasticEasy to clean, all removable parts non-stick11 cooking functions under 1 SmartLid, Combi-steam mode, pressure cook mode, air fry mode

I’ve gathered the top pressure cookers available in the UK for your convenience. Check out the list below to find the perfect one for your kitchen needs.

Instant Pot DUO 60 7-in-1 Smart Cooker (Editor’s Choice)

Instant Pot DUO 60

The Instant Pot DUO 60 is a versatile and efficient choice for those looking to upgrade their cooking experience with a multi-functional appliance.

Pros

  • Cooks food up to 70% faster with consistent results
  • Customisable settings and 13 one-touch smart programs
  • Spacious 5.7L capacity suitable for multiple dishes

Cons

  • Slightly heavy at 11.02 pounds
  • No auto shutoff feature
  • Small learning curve for pressure cooking beginners

I recently used the Instant Pot DUO 60 and found it to be incredibly convenient for preparing a variety of dishes, making my cooking experience enjoyable and efficient. The 13 one-touch smart programs made it easy to cook dishes like soup, rice, and even yoghurt with just a single button press.

Cooking with the Instant Pot DUO 60 saved me valuable time, as it cooks up to 70% faster than traditional methods. The spacious 5.7L capacity allowed me to prepare multiple dishes at once, which is perfect for my family gatherings or meal prep for the week.

One downside I noticed was the weight of the appliance at 11.02 pounds, making it a bit cumbersome to move around in my kitchen. Additionally, the lack of an auto shutoff feature is something to keep in mind. However, the benefits of the Instant Pot DUO 60 far outweigh these minor cons. With a small learning curve for those new to pressure cooking, it didn’t take long for me to get comfortable with all the features this appliance has to offer.

Overall, I highly recommend the Instant Pot DUO 60 7-in-1 Smart Cooker for anyone looking to upgrade their cooking experience and enjoy a versatile, efficient, and spacious pressure cooker.

While all four pressure cookers have their own unique features and advantages, the Instant Pot DUO 60 stands out as the best choice for several reasons. Firstly, it has a spacious 5.7L capacity, making it perfect for cooking multiple dishes and replacing multiple kitchen appliances. Secondly, it offers 13 one-touch smart programs that can cook a variety of different meals with ease, making it convenient and customisable. Thirdly, the Instant Pot DUO 60 has a secure locking mechanism and pressure release valve, providing peace of mind when it comes to safety.

Finally, its durable stainless steel construction ensures it will last for a long time. Overall, the Instant Pot DUO 60 offers a great balance of capacity, convenience, safety, and quality, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable pressure cooker.

The user reviews of the Instant Pot DUO 60 provide some valuable insights into the product that are not mentioned by the manufacturer. Many users praise the versatility and flexibility of the Instant Pot, with one user noting that it offers more heat settings for the sauté/browning function than its competitor, the Pressure King Pro. The durability and quality of the Instant Pot are also commended, with users stating that the stainless steel inner pot and plastic handle are superior to non-stick coatings and other plastic components used by other pressure cookers.

However, there are also some negative comments, such as one user finding the sauté function not hot enough and another noting that the pot retains cooking smells even after cleaning. Overall, the reviews indicate that the Instant Pot DUO 60 is a highly recommended purchase that offers a variety of cooking options and makes cooking faster and more convenient.

Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1 Electric Multi Cooker (Luxury Choice)

Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1 Electric Multi Cooker

I highly recommend this Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1 Electric Multi Cooker for its versatile cooking features and time-saving performance.

Pros

  • Energy and time-efficient pressure cooking
  • 11-in-1 functionality: air fryer, pressure cooker, slow cooker and more
  • Large capacity of 7.6 litres for family meals and batch cooking

Cons

  • Takes up a good amount of counter space
  • Two separate lids required for different functions
  • Lack of written guidance for first-time users

The Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1 Electric Multi Cooker has truly revolutionised my experience in the kitchen. Its 11-in-1 functionality, including an air fryer, pressure cooker, slow cooker, steamer and more, allows me to cook a variety of dishes with just one appliance. The pressure cooking feature, in particular, has saved me a significant amount of time and energy, cooking up to 70% faster than traditional methods.

I recently prepared a feast for my family with the 7.6-litre capacity pressure cooker, and I couldn’t believe how efficient it was in cooking large batches of food. The elegant black finish and sleek design also fit beautifully on my kitchen countertop, making it a great addition to my home.

However, there are a few drawbacks to this multi-cooker. Firstly, the appliance does take up a considerable amount of counter space. Additionally, swapping between the lids for different functions can be a bit cumbersome. Lastly, I wish it came with written guidance or basic recipe ideas to help first-time users navigate the multiple functionalities.

Overall, the Instant Pot Pro Crisp 11-in-1 Electric Multi Cooker is a fantastic investment for both amateur cooks and culinary enthusiasts alike. Not only does it save time and energy, but it also offers versatility in preparing a vast array of dishes for the whole family.

Compared with the Instant Pot DUO 60, the Instant Pot Pro Crisp offers even more versatility and cooking options. With its upgraded inner pots and lid with advanced heat protection, it can be used as an air fryer, pressure cooker, slow cooker, steamer, sauté pan, food warmer, sous vide, roaster, mini oven, grill, and dehydrator, making it a truly multifunctional appliance. It also has a larger 7.6L capacity, making it ideal for families or batch cooking.

Additionally, the Pro Crisp has a convenient switch of lid that allows for quick and easy cooking transitions. However, with its additional features and larger size, the Instant Pot Pro Crisp is also more expensive than the Instant Pot DUO 60. Therefore, while the Pro Crisp is a great choice for those looking for more cooking options and a larger capacity, the DUO 60 may be a better choice for those on a tighter budget or with more basic cooking needs.

Based on the user reviews, there is some additional information that is not stated by the manufacturer. One user deducted half a star for the air fryer function, mentioning that it requires turning over the food midway through cooking time, unlike their previous air fryer. They also deducted half a star for ease of use and figuring out the timer, which is not as straightforward as their old pressure cooker. Another user mentioned that the seal holds in aromas, which is great for slow cooking, but they prefer using a normal lid for this function. They also noted that the air fryer function is effective for small batches of food but not suitable for larger amounts. However, they praised the pressure cooker and slow cooker functions.

One user even got rid of their oven and replaced it with the Instant Pot, along with a portable hob. Another user mentioned that it would be helpful to have paper information and basic recipe ideas included in the package. Finally, a user highly recommended the Instant Pot Pro Crisp, stating that it is well-built, has many functions, and is perfect for batch cooking and freezing. Overall, the users seem satisfied with their purchase and find the Instant Pot Pro Crisp to be a space and time saver with excellent results.

Tefal P2530738 Secure 5 Neo Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker, 6 L, Induction, Silver (Best Value)

Tefal Pressure Cooker

The Tefal P2530738 pressure cooker is an excellent choice for those who want to cook quickly and efficiently while enjoying delicious results.

Pros

  • 2 cooking programs for versatile use
  • Auto-lock system and 5 safety devices
  • Compatible with all hob types, including induction

Cons

  • Fiddly cook setting knob
  • Venting could be better
  • Instructions may lack detail

I recently had the pleasure of using the Tefal P2530738 Secure 5 Neo Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker, and I must say, it has greatly enhanced my cooking experience. The two cooking programs offered allowed me to select the appropriate method for different ingredients. What struck me most was how quickly the cooking process was; not only did it save me time, but I also found myself making savings on gas and electricity.

One of the things I appreciate about this pressure cooker is its focus on safety. The auto-lock system made me feel secure about the lid closing tightly and safely, accompanied by an audible noise which confirmed the proper locking. I also loved the fact that this cooker is compatible with all hob types, including induction hobs, making it versatile and accommodating to various cooking environments.

However, I did encounter a few setbacks with this product. The cook setting knob was a bit fiddly, and I struggled to navigate through the program options. Additionally, the venting system could use some improvements. Lastly, the instructions provided did not clearly explain the various settings and how to use them effectively.

Despite its cons, I still found the Tefal Secure 5 Neo Pressure Cooker to be a reliable and efficient addition to my kitchen. The speed and convenience it offers are worth the investment, and its safety features provide peace of mind while handling this powerful tool. If you’re looking to save time and energy in the kitchen and still get fantastic results, I would strongly recommend giving this pressure cooker a try!

Compared with the Instant Pot DUO 60, the Tefal P2530738 Secure 5 offers a slightly smaller capacity of 6 litres, but it still has a range of useful features that make it a great choice for pressure cooking. It has an auto-lock system and 5 safety devices, ensuring that it is safe to use and reducing the risk of accidents.

Additionally, the Secure 5 has ergonomic handles for added comfort and a triple-layer base for even heat distribution. However, it does not have as many cooking programs or additional features as the Instant Pot DUO 60, and it may not be as convenient for those who prefer a more automated cooking experience. Nevertheless, its durable stainless steel construction and safety features make it a reliable and safe choice for anyone looking for a simple and effective pressure cooker.

One user review mentions that the cook setting knob is a bit fiddly and that the venting is not as good as an older model, providing some specific feedback about the product’s design. Another user mentions that the red button indicating when the pressure is engaged is difficult to tell, which is not explicitly mentioned by the manufacturer. One positive review goes into detail about the user’s experience using the product, providing a step-by-step account of cooking a meal and the efficiency of the pressure cooker.

Another positive review mentions the quality of the product and its ease of use, while a negative review mentions poor instructions provided with the product. Finally, one user commented on the price of the product, stating that it is a bit expensive. Overall, the user reviews provide additional insights into the product’s performance and usability, as well as some specific design feedback that may be useful to potential buyers.

Ninja Foodi 11-in-1 SmartLid Multi-Cooker 6L

Ninja Foodi Multi Cooker

This versatile multi-cooker is perfect for anyone seeking a single gadget for many cooking functions, with outstanding results.

Pros

  • Energy-saving and speedy cooking
  • 11 versatile functions in one device
  • Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts

Cons

  • May be bulky for small kitchens
  • Learning curve for first-time users
  • Higher price point

Ever since I got my hands on the Ninja Foodi 11-in-1 SmartLid Multi-Cooker, cooking various meals has become so much easier and more enjoyable. As a food enthusiast who appreciates efficiency, I absolutely love the fact that this cooker has 11 different cooking modes, allowing me to pressure cook, air fry, grill, and even make yoghurt – all under one SmartLid.

The energy-saving feature comes in handy, as I’ve noticed a substantial decrease in my energy bill since I started using this cooker. It’s remarkable how I can enjoy crispy and juicy meals simultaneously, all thanks to the Combi-Steam mode. In addition, cleaning up after cooking is a breeze, as the removable parts are non-stick and dishwasher-safe.

Although the versatile functionality is fantastic, the Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker can be quite bulky for smaller kitchens. It took me some time to familiarise myself with all the different functions, but once I got the hang of it, I couldn’t imagine my kitchen without this fantastic device. The price might be on the higher side, but considering the multitude of options and the quality results it delivers, I find it to be genuinely worth the investment.

In conclusion, the Ninja Foodi 11-in-1 SmartLid Multi-Cooker is an excellent investment for those looking for a versatile and efficient cooking device that delivers delicious results with ease. Although it may require some time to learn and comes at a higher price, its fantastic features and energy-saving capabilities make it an indispensable addition to any kitchen.

Compared with the Instant Pot DUO 60, the Ninja Foodi 11-in-1 SmartLid offers more cooking options and functions. It has 11 versatile functions, including pressure cook, air fry, grill, bake, dehydrate, sear/sauté, steam, slow cook, yoghurt, steam air fry, and steam bake, all under one SmartLid. Additionally, the Foodi 11-in-1 SmartLid has a combi-steam mode that allows for steaming and crisping at the same time, and its pressure cook mode is up to 70% faster than traditional cooking methods.

However, it does not have as many safety features as the Instant Pot DUO 60, and its plastic components may not be as durable over time. Additionally, the Foodi 11-in-1 SmartLid is slightly larger and heavier than the Instant Pot DUO 60, and it may take up more counter space. Nevertheless, for those who want a pressure cooker that can also air fry and grill, the Foodi 11-in-1 SmartLid is a great choice with its wide range of cooking options.

The user reviews of the Ninja Foodi 11-in-1 SmartLid generally highlight the versatility and ease of use of the product. One user mentions that it takes some getting used to and recommends experimenting with different dishes to fully utilise the product’s capabilities. Another user praises the Ninja Foodi for its ability to replace multiple appliances and the ability to cook meals quickly and efficiently.

However, there are some negative comments about the product’s durability, with one user noting that the coating in the main pot started to come off after use. Overall, the reviews provide additional insights into the product’s performance and potential drawbacks beyond what is stated by the manufacturer.

Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker 9-in-1

Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker

The Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker is an all-in-one kitchen essential that delivers excellent cooking results, making it a prime purchase for any home cook.

Pros

  • Energy-saving with up to 45% less energy consumption
  • 9 versatile functions for various cooking methods
  • TenderCrisp technology for perfectly cooked meals with a crisp finish

Cons

  • Bulky and takes up counter space
  • Accessories can be expensive
  • Difficulty in finding a replacement inner pot

I recently tried the Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker and was genuinely impressed with its performance. The energy-saving feature helps keep my energy bills under control, while offering the convenience of cooking multiple dishes using one appliance.

One of my favourite features is the TenderCrisp technology. It allowed me to pressure cook a chicken and then switch to the crisping lid for a crispy, golden finish. The 9 versatile functions give me the flexibility to air fry, steam, slow cook, and even make yoghurt, which has been a real game changer in my kitchen.

However, the appliance is quite large and takes up a fair amount of space on my countertop, so it might not be the best option for those with limited space. Additionally, the cost of accessories and the difficulty in finding a replacement inner pot can be frustrating.

Overall, the Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker is a fantastic addition to any kitchen if you have the space for it. Its energy-saving feature and versatile cooking options more than justify its slightly higher price tag. If you’re in the market for an all-in-one cooking solution, the Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker is definitely worth considering.

Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus 10-in-1

Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus 10-in-1

I highly recommend the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus 10-in-1 for its versatility, customisability, and efficiency in cooking various meals.

Pros

  • Highly versatile with 10-in-1 capabilities
  • Customisable cooking with 48 preset options
  • Quick cool technology for faster pressure release

Cons

  • Slightly heavy at 5.9 kg
  • More suited for bigger families due to 5.7L capacity
  • Takes time to master all functionalities

I recently tried the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus 10-in-1, and I must say this electric pressure cooker has exceeded my expectations. It has made my cooking journey faster, easier, and more enjoyable. The variety of functions such as slow cook, steam, sous vide and bake have truly brought “out of home” dining into my kitchen.

One thing worth mentioning is the innovative quick cool technology featured in this Instant Pot, allowing me to release pressure more rapidly than before. The customisable settings have also made my cooking much more consistent, ensuring my favourite dishes turn out perfect every time.

The free Instant Brands Connect App, loaded with hundreds of recipes, and the supportive Instant Pot UK Facebook Community have been invaluable resources for inspiration and guidance throughout my cooking experience. However, I should note that this cooker might be less suitable for smaller households due to its generous 5.7L capacity. It may also take some time to get used to all the features and options available.

Overall, the Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus 10-in-1 has significantly improved my cooking experience and allowed me to spend more time on other activities. Give it a try, and you’ll surely appreciate its numerous benefits!

Tower T80244 Pressure Cooker with Steamer Basket

Tower T80244 Pressure Cooker

The Tower T80244 Pressure Cooker is an excellent choice for quick, healthy, and energy-efficient meals without compromising on taste and quality.

Pros

  • Extremely efficient, reduces cooking time by up to 70%
  • Locks in nutrients and flavours
  • Comes with steaming accessories and is suitable for all hob types

Cons

  • The included recipe book is lacking in content
  • Takes some getting used to for new users
  • Not dishwasher safe

The Tower T80244 Pressure Cooker is a fantastic addition to my kitchen. I was really impressed with how it managed to cook my meals up to 70% faster than traditional methods, and the fact that it retains so many nutrients and flavours only adds to its appeal.

This pressure cooker is quite versatile as well, as it comes with a steam basket and supporting stand, which makes it perfect for steaming veggies and straining broths and stocks. Moreover, it’s suitable for all hob types, including induction, making it incredibly convenient for anyone to use.

However, there are a couple of downsides to this pressure cooker. The included recipe book could be more extensive, especially for those who are just starting to use a pressure cooker – I had to refer to other sources for recipes and guidance. On top of that, it’s essential to mention that the product is not dishwasher safe, which means you’ll have to hand wash it after you use it.

But overall, the Tower T80244 Pressure Cooker is an excellent choice for those looking for a versatile and efficient pressure cooker that retains the taste and quality of their meals. I’d definitely recommend this product to anyone looking to enhance their cooking experience and speed up the process without sacrificing taste and nutrition.

Tower T80245 Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker with Steamer Basket

Tower T80245 Pressure Cooker

This pressure cooker is excellent for busy households looking to cook healthy meals quickly and effectively.

Pros

  • Retains up to 90% nutrients and flavours
  • Fast cooking times and energy-efficient
  • Safety features and versatile cooking options

Cons

  • Could have a heavier base
  • Requires monitoring cooking time
  • Not dishwasher safe

I recently added the Tower T80245 Pressure Cooker to my kitchen and have been genuinely pleased with its performance. The healthy eating aspect is a significant benefit; when cooking with this pressure cooker, it locks in up to 90% more vitamins and nutrients than other methods, while also maintaining rich flavours and textures. This feature allows me to serve healthy and delicious meals to my family with ease.

Furthermore, the fast cooking times make my life more convenient. Thanks to the steam and pressure infusion, cooking times are reduced by up to 70% compared to conventional methods, allowing me to save precious time in the kitchen. In addition, the reduced cooking time translates to lower energy consumption, with the Tower pressure cooker costing just 18p to run per hour.

As for safety features, the pressure indicator valve alerts me when the cooker reaches the optimum pressure. Additionally, the easy-to-use pressure release settings enable adjusting the pressure for different foods. The Bakelite handle with a lock system also adds a sense of control during cooking.

However, the base of the cooker is lighter than I would prefer, and I have to monitor the cooking times closely. The fact that it is not dishwasher safe, which is manageable but worth considering for those who prefer dishwasher-friendly cookware.

Overall, the Tower T80245 Pressure Cooker with Steamer Basket is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. Its ability to cook fast, retain nutrients, and offer safety features make it an excellent choice for those looking to improve their cooking experience.

Yedi Houseware 9-in-1 Pressure Cooker

Yedi Houseware Pressure Cooker

The Yedi Houseware Pressure Cooker is a versatile and efficient addition to your kitchen, perfect for those seeking a multifunctional appliance with great value for money.

Pros

  • 9 appliances in 1, offering a wide range of cooking options
  • 15 pre-programmed cooking settings for convenience
  • Deluxe accessory kit included for added versatility

Cons

  • Misleading capacity (advertised as 6L but usable capacity is less)
  • Some users reported discolouration of the inner pot after use
  • Glass lid not always included despite being part of the accessory kit

After using the Yedi Houseware Pressure Cooker, I found it to be an incredibly convenient and time-saving appliance. The 9-in-1 functionality means that it can replace several bulky kitchen devices, freeing up valuable worktop and storage space. With 15 pre-set programmes, I was able to cook a variety of meals easily, whether I was pressure cooking, slow cooking, or even making yoghurt.

The included accessory kit was a bonus and enabled me to experiment with different recipes and cooking techniques. It comes with a useful tempered glass lid, ideal for slow cooking and sautéing, as well as two egg racks, a ladle, rice paddle, and a measuring cup. The stainless steel steaming basket is both durable and easy to clean.

However, there were some drawbacks. The cooker was advertised as having a 6L capacity, but in reality, the usable capacity was less which was slightly deceptive. Moreover, some users experienced discolouration in the stainless steel inner pot after use, raising concerns about its long-term durability. Lastly, despite the glass lid being mentioned as part of the accessory kit, it was not consistently included in the package.

Overall, the Yedi Houseware 9-in-1 Pressure Cooker is a worthwhile investment for those seeking a versatile cooking appliance. It packs a range of useful features into a single device, making it ideal for home cooks with limited kitchen space. However, it is important to be aware of the capacity limitations and potential issues with the inner pot’s durability.

Crockpot Express Pressure Cooker

Crockpot Express Pressure Cooker

I highly recommend this versatile and efficient pressure cooker for those seeking to create delicious meals with ease.

Pros

  • Multi-functional with pressure cook, slow cook, steam, and brown/sauté options
  • Convenient one-touch programmes and manual function
  • Large 5.6-litre capacity suitable for families

Cons

  • Non-stick bowl may require extra care
  • User manual could be improved
  • Bulky design may occupy significant space

I recently tried out the Crockpot Express Pressure Cooker, and I must say, I’m impressed with its performance. The multi-cooker function allowed me to cook a variety of meals, from tender meats to perfectly cooked vegetables, all within a short time. The 5.6-litre capacity proved to be ideal for family gatherings, and I loved the easy-to-use controls featuring eight one-touch programmes for my favourite recipes.

Although the non-stick removable bowl made cleaning a breeze by preventing food from sticking, I needed to be careful not to scratch the surface. Using only wooden or silicone utensils and avoiding harsh detergents helped keep it in excellent condition. On another note, I found the user manual to be somewhat lacking in detail. Consequently, I had to refer to online resources to fully utilise all the cooker’s functions.

The Crockpot Express Pressure Cooker’s slightly bulky design can be a minor drawback for those with limited kitchen space. However, its convenience and multi-functionality more than make up for this. Additionally, I appreciate the cost-saving benefits provided by this energy-efficient appliance, significantly lowering my energy bill compared to using a conventional oven.

In conclusion, if you’re seeking a versatile, efficient, and user-friendly pressure cooker, the Crockpot Express Pressure Cooker is an excellent choice. Its multi-functional capabilities coupled with a large capacity make it ideal for the modern family kitchen, while the energy savings will benefit your wallet in the long run.

Buying Guide

a woman with glasses testing a pressure cooker in the kitchen

Alternatives to Pressure Cookers

An alternative to using a pressure cooker is to use a slow cooker or crockpot. Slow cookers cook food at a low temperature over a long period of time, usually several hours, allowing the flavours to develop and the food to become tender. This method is ideal for dishes that require longer cooking times, such as stews, roasts, and soups.

While slow cookers don’t cook as quickly as pressure cookers, they are a convenient alternative for those who prefer a “set it and forget it” approach to cooking. Additionally, slow cookers are often less expensive than pressure cookers, making them a more accessible option for those on a budget.

Capacity

When I’m choosing a pressure cooker, one of the first things I look at is its capacity. This is usually measured in litres. To decide on the size that’s right for me, I consider the number of people I usually cook for and the types of dishes I frequently prepare. Some popular sizes include:

  • 3-4 litres: Ideal for single or couples.
  • 5-6 litres: Suitable for small families or meal prepping.
  • 7-8 litres: Perfect for larger families or preparing meals in bulk.

Material

Pressure cookers are typically made of either stainless steel or aluminium. While aluminium models are often budget-friendly and lightweight, they are also prone to warping and staining. On the other hand, stainless steel cookers are more durable and retain heat better but can be heavier and more expensive.

Safety Features

Since I’ll be working with high-pressure steam, it’s essential to have built-in safety features. These might include:

  • Pressure release valves: To automatically releases steam when pressure is too high.
  • Locking lids: To prevent accidental opening when cooker is pressurised.
  • Overpressure plugs: To help protect against excessive pressure build-up.

Stovetop vs Electric

Stovetop pressure cookers heat up quickly, require manual temperature control and need to be closely monitored. In contrast, electric pressure cookers usually come with pre-set cooking programs and can function as slow cookers, rice cookers, or even yoghurt makers. Stovetop models tend to be more durable and offer higher pressure, but electric ones are more convenient and easier to use.

TypeProsCons
StovetopFaster heat up, higher pressureRequire manual temperature control
ElectricConvenient, multi-functionalSlower heat up, lower pressure

Now that I know what to look for, I’m ready to weigh my options and find the best pressure cooker that suits my needs and budget.

Conclusion

In my quest for the best pressure cooker in the UK, I have tried and tested numerous models available in the market. The experience of cooking with these appliances has been quite enlightening, and I learned a lot about the features that make a pressure cooker stand out.

Some factors that I considered while evaluating these pressure cookers were:

  • Safety features
  • Cooking capacity
  • Ease of use
  • Pressure settings
  • Price

One aspect that truly makes a pressure cooker indispensable is the time and energy-saving benefits it provides. In my experience, preparing meals becomes more efficient and convenient, making it a valuable addition to my kitchen setup.

In summary, finding the best pressure cooker in the UK may be a personal preference based on individual needs, but paying attention to safety features, capacity, and ease of use can go a long way in helping you make the right decision.

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