What it is
A pressure cooker is a lidded vessel that cooks under pressure. The lid is an essential part of the system, and the closure and pressure-release devices must function properly.
When to use it
It cooks food under pressure. In the Fissler models described, a steaming basket can be used for steaming; Vitavit Premium also has a pressure-free steam-cooking stage.
How to use it
Close the cooker properly and check that its pressure-release devices are clear before cooking. Observe the maximum filling quantity. For Vitavit Premium and Vitaquick, the specified cooking time starts when the cooking level for that model is reached.
How to choose it
When comparing specific models, look at their closures and safety features. Duromatic Inox has a safety pin that prevents pressure building if the lid is not fully closed, and a bayonet lock that prevents the lid from turning or opening under pressure.
Cleaning and storage
For the documented Hawkins cookers: wash and dry all surfaces soon after use, and remove the sealing ring carefully without stretching it. For the Fissler cooker described in the cleaning instructions, the pot body and lid without the specified attachments are dishwasher-safe; those attachments are cleaned by hand. Refit seals in their intended grooves.
Common mistakes
For the documented Hawkins cookers, do not strike the cooker rim or dent the lid edge: damage can disturb the seal. Do not stretch the sealing ring when washing it, and check that pressure-release devices are clear before closing the cooker.
Safe use
Never force the lid open or open it while internal pressure remains. Follow your model’s depressurisation method. For the documented Hawkins cookers, do not lift the vent weight to release pressure with liquids or frothing foods, or pressure-fry with oil.
Frequently asked questions
When does the cooking time start?
For Vitavit Premium, it starts when the green ring is visible; for Vitaquick, when the first white ring is visible.
Can a pressure cooker go in the dishwasher?
For the Fissler cooker described in the cleaning instructions, the pot body and lid without the specified attachments are dishwasher-safe. The gasket, cooking crown, and lid stem are cleaned by hand.
Can I open the lid while the cooker is still under pressure?
No. Never force the lid or open it while pressure remains. On the Duromatic Inox, the bayonet lock prevents turning and opening under pressure. Follow the depressurisation method for your model.
Sources and review
Sources consulted for this utensil’s documented uses, care and characteristics.
- Hawkins Important Safeguards www.hawkinscookers.com/1.3.pc_safeguards.html
- Hawkins Pressure Cooker Care & Cleaning www.hawkinscookers.com/1.4.6.pc_care_cleaning.html
- Fissler Cleaning a pressure cooker global.fissler.com/en/blogs/product-knowledge/cleaning-a-pressure-cooker
- Fissler Australia Pressure Cooking Guide fissler.com.au/pages/pressure-cooking-guide
- Kuhn Rikon Duromatic Inox kuhnrikon.com/uk/blog/post/duromatic-inox
