When purchasing appliances and utensils for a new home, it frequently happens that a decision over purchasing a pressure cooker or not arises. To further complicate things, there are aluminum and stainless steel pressure cookers to choose from. Modern pressure cookers are very similar to each other, in design and function. Some differences do exist, however, that should be looked into.
The history of the pressure cooker begins with the English scientist, Denis Papin. Papin created a cast iron device, with its own small furnace in the 1670′s that allowed him to cook food in a surprisingly short time. He impressed the Royal Society of England, a hallowed place for renowned inventors and thinkers of all sorts, by preparing a meal that included the jellied bones of many different animals. As the years have gone on, many improvements have been made and innovations that have made a much smaller, home version to be available. Despite the years and the changes, it’s still bought for the same reason: preparing a hearty meal in a short amount of time.
But how does one decide between stainless steel and aluminum? Is one superior to the other? Depending on how the pressure cooker will be used, each may have its advantages. The decision will depend entirely on the style and needs of the person cooking.
Resistance to stain, rust or pitting, can be attractive assets for a stainless steel model. Following the directions and care instructions carefully can insure the long life of a good one. Often, a quality cooker will have a heavier bottom that includes a copper layer to ensure the even distribution of thermal energy. These qualities, and the usually higher cost of steel, can make them cost more than a nearly identical one made from aluminum.
Commonly, cooks who favor stainless steel are sure that they cook the food better. Some attribute this to the lower thermal conductivity of the stainless steel, as compared to aluminum. Others point at the stainless nature of the cooker that keeps the food from sticking to the bottom and possibly scorching. This is often added to the general quality and sturdiness of the cookers.
A few cooks point out what others seem to miss. These cookers can be used to prepare some of the ingredients before actually sealing them. Sauteing vegetables or browning some of the ingredients before starting the actual cooking with pressure is often necessary for a recipe. To be able to do this without the need to change pans or pots can be seen as an advantage offered by stainless steel.
Pressure cookers made from aluminum generally have less mass than the others. Also, aluminum cookers do not need a copper layer, since their thermal conductivity is quite high. Being a cheaper element to get, aluminum affords a manufacturer with a way to cut cost while making a quality pressure cooker. Making a good quality aluminum pressure cooker may have other costs that can shrink this advantage, however.
Some women prefer aluminum pots because they do not get as heavy as the large stainless steel models. The lighter weight allows them to better handle the cookers, especially when they have to lower their pressure quickly. This usually entails carrying the hot cooker over to a sink full of cold water.
Despite differences, modern pressure cookers have several safety features. Stainless steel and aluminum versions can be found with three independent safety valves which allow excess steam to bleed off and relieve the pressure in the pot. Many also come with a device that keeps one from being able to remove the lid while it’s still under pressure. Maintaining the cooker clean and free of debris, whether around the valves or even the gasket, will help keep the cooker safe for a long time.
One must chose their own way when it comes to deciding on a pressure cooker. The consumer must do a little researching and balance his or her needs with what the pressure cooker, stainless steel or aluminum, has to offer. Despite the years of change and innovation, the pressure cooker is still considered a cheap and effective way to cook healthy food quickly.
Lots of people choose to buy a Presto pressure cooker since it is well known brand, but don’t limit yourself. The best aluminum or stainless steel pressure cooker is the one that can handle your individual preferences, so make sure you’re buying what you truly need and not just what’s popular.
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