Stovetop Pressure CookersStovetop Pressure Cookers

Stovetops and pressure cookers offer all-round convenience when it comes to mealtime preparation. Not only do they save time and energy, but they can help retain those healthy nutrients within the food as it cooks. They also require less cleaning, and can run much cooler, even in the summertime. Knowing what to look for in a stovetop or pressure cooker is a great way to take the heat off, so here are a few quick tips to make it a bit easier!

The No-Pressure Guide to Buying a Stovetop or Pressure Cooker

1. Your pressure cooker should suit your lifestyle. Opt for a standard six-litre capacity cooker for smaller households, while a 10-12 litre cooker is great for cooking in batches.
2. Keep safety in mind – find a pressure cooker with a steam release valve, so you can take off the lid without the cooker overheating.
3. Which kind of cooker do you prefer? While a stove pressure cooker is long-lasting and can provide shorter cook times, an electric pressure cooker offers simplicity and convenience, with built-in timers and digital controls doing all the work.
4. Other features to look out for when choosing the right pressure cooker include programmable temperatures, overheat protection, delayed start time and Keep Warm settings, so your food is ready when you are.
5. Your pressure cooker’s build and its insert are also important. Most electric pressure cookers will have a stainless steel or non-stick coating insert, while a pressure cooker on a stovetop usually has an insert made from aluminium or stainless steel. Aluminium is also a great conductor of heat and can cook more evenly, while stainless steel pressure cookers are non-porous and scratch-resistant.
6. A tight seal and locking mechanism will also guarantee safer cooking, locking in juices while preventing pressure from lifting the lid.
7. Find a pressure cooker suitable for all cooktops, including induction. Strong handles are also a must, especially when it comes to larger-sized pressure cookers.
8. Can stovetops and pressure cookers also look stylish? You bet! Go for bright colours in a glossy finish for a contemporary touch or classic stainless steel for sleek and minimalist design. Looking for pressure-free cooking? Head to your nearest Myer store to check out the latest stovetops, pressure cookers and other accessories from all your favourite brands.