Pressure Cooker: Overview and Buying Guide

Cooking in a pressure cooker is a cooking technique much appreciated by cooking enthusiasts. It stands out for its speed and efficiency, while preserving food flavors and nutrients. In this presentation, we’ll explore the history of this cooking method, the traditions surrounding it and the typical dishes that result.

The history of pressure cooker cooking

The pressure cooker, also known as the autocuiseur, was invented in the 19th century by French physicist Denis Papin. Originally, the pressure cooker was used mainly in scientific laboratories to carry out experiments.

However, over time, its use evolved to become an essential kitchen utensil. In the early 20th century, the pressure cooker began to gain popularity and notoriety among households.

Its ability to drastically reduce food cooking times made it a valuable tool for people in a hurry or keen to preserve the taste qualities of food. Since then, the pressure cooker has become a symbol of practicality and efficiency in the kitchen.

Kitchen applications

Cooking in the pressure cooker is associated with different culinary traditions around the world. In France, for example, the pressure cooker is widely used to prepare dishes such as pot-au-feu, bourguignon, cassoulet and soup. It enables meat and vegetables to be cooked quickly while preserving their tenderness and flavor.

In other countries, the pressure cooker is used to cook iconic dishes. In India, for example, it’s popular for preparing the famous “biryani”, a spicy rice dish accompanied by meat or vegetables.

In the Maghreb, the pressure cooker is often used to prepare “couscous”, a traditional dish based on wheat semolina and vegetables cooked with meat or fish. Thanks to its ability to preserve the flavors and nutrients of food, pressure-cooker cooking makes it possible to prepare a wide variety of delicious and healthy dishes.

Typical dishes include meat stews, curries, soups, simmered vegetables, vegetable stews and many more.

The pressure cooker is also recommended for cooking legumes such as lentils, beans or chickpeas, which usually require a lot of cooking time. Thanks to this cooking method, legumes become tender and soft in record time.

Buying Guide for a Pressure Cooker

Before making your choice from among the many models available, let’s take a close look at the various aspects to ensure you find the pressure cooker that suits your needs.

Models and Capacities

Press cookers come in a variety of models and capacities to suit different needs. Choose a capacity based on the size of your household and the amount of food you plan to cook. Larger models may be useful for larger families, while smaller ones may be suitable for singles or couples.

Building Materials

Press cookers are generally made of stainless steel, aluminum or enamelled cast iron. Stainless steel is durable, corrosion-resistant and easy to maintain. Aluminum offers excellent thermal conductivity, enabling rapid cooking. Enamelled cast iron, though heavier, retains heat effectively and guarantees even distribution.

Features and Options

Some pressure cookers come with advanced features such as variable pressure settings, multiple cooking modes and sophisticated safety systems. Assess your specific needs and opt for a model with features that match your cooking style.

Compatibility with your plate

Check the compatibility of the pressure cooker with your usual heat sources. Some models are suitable for use on induction hobs, while others are better suited to gas or electric stoves.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Ease of maintenance is an important criterion. Choose a pressure cooker with removable elements for easy cleaning. Some models may also be dishwasher-safe, offering added convenience.

Price and Budget

Press cookers are available at a variety of prices depending on brand, capacity, features and materials. Set a budget taking these factors into account, and look for models that offer the best value for money.

Our selection

Lance yourself!

Cooking in a pressure cooker combines rapidity, practicalityand vitamin preservationand flavor.

So, make your life easier in the kitchen and let yourself be surprised by the delicious dishes you can prepare with your pressure cooker!

Pour aller plus loin, venez découvrir toutes les recettes à la cocotte-minute de nos gourmets !