10 Best Electric Pressure Cookers In The UK

Our experts will assist you in selecting the best product for your needs. Find the perfect Electric Pressure Cookers with the help of our unbiased professional evaluations and data-driven buying suggestions. At Buyers Expert, we’re here to help you choose the best Electric Pressure Cookers that suit your preferences and budget.

What is an Electric Pressure Cooker?

An electric pressure cooker is a kitchen appliance that uses steam and high pressure to cook food quickly. Unlike traditional stovetop pressure cookers that require you to monitor heat manually, an electric pressure cooker is an all-in-one, automated appliance. It has a built-in heating element, an electric control panel, and a sealed lid to maintain pressure. These features allow you to cook food faster than conventional methods, while also enhancing the flavor and tenderness of your dishes.

Some well-known brands of electric pressure cookers include the Instant Pot, Ninja Foodi, and Crock-Pot Express. These models often come with additional features like slow cooking, sautéing, and yogurt-making functions, making them versatile appliances for a variety of recipes.

How Do Electric Pressure Cookers Work?

The basic principle behind electric pressure cookers is the use of steam and pressure. Here’s a simple breakdown of how they work:

1. Sealing and Pressure: Once the ingredients are placed inside the cooking pot, the lid is sealed. The cooker then heats up, creating steam inside the pot. As the steam builds up, it increases the pressure, raising the boiling point of water and allowing the food to cook faster.
2. Temperature Control: Unlike stovetop pressure cookers, electric pressure cookers have precise temperature and pressure controls. These allow for consistent cooking and eliminate the need for manual adjustments.
3. Cooking Program Settings: Most electric pressure cookers come with preset programs for different cooking functions, such as rice, soup, beans, meat, or poultry. Simply select the appropriate setting, and the cooker will automatically adjust the pressure and cooking time.
4. Pressure Release: After cooking, the pressure cooker will either automatically release the pressure or allow you to manually release it. Some models have a “natural” release mode, where pressure gradually decreases, while others offer a “quick” release option, where the pressure is released immediately.

Benefits of Electric Pressure Cookers

1. Time-Saving: One of the biggest advantages of electric pressure cookers is their ability to cook food in a fraction of the time it would take using conventional methods. For example, beans that would normally take hours on the stovetop can be ready in less than an hour in an electric pressure cooker.
2. Flavor Retention: Because the cooker is sealed, moisture and flavors are locked in. This results in more flavorful and tender meals, especially when cooking tougher cuts of meat, stews, or soups.
3. Ease of Use: Electric pressure cookers are highly user-friendly, often featuring one-touch buttons for specific dishes. With pre-programmed cooking options, even beginners can easily prepare a variety of dishes without complex instructions.
4. Energy-Efficient: Since the cooking time is reduced, electric pressure cookers use less energy than traditional cooking methods. The sealed lid also ensures that heat is contained within the pot, making it more energy-efficient.
5. Versatility: Modern electric pressure cookers come with multiple functions beyond pressure cooking. Many can sauté, steam, slow cook, make yogurt, or even bake, which means you can use one appliance for many different cooking methods.
6. Safety Features: Electric pressure cookers are designed with multiple safety mechanisms to prevent accidents, including pressure release valves, safety lids, and locking mechanisms to ensure that the lid cannot be removed while under pressure.

What Can You Cook in an Electric Pressure Cooker?

Electric pressure cookers are incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of recipes, from basic to gourmet. Some popular dishes that can be cooked in an electric pressure cooker include:

• Rice and Grains: Electric pressure cookers excel at cooking rice, quinoa, farro, and other grains in just a few minutes, with minimal supervision.
• Soups and Stews: The pressure cooker is perfect for making rich, hearty soups and stews. It helps to develop deep flavors in a fraction of the time.
• Beans and Legumes: Cooking dried beans is fast and easy in an electric pressure cooker, eliminating the need for pre-soaking and significantly reducing cooking time.
• Meat: Tough cuts of meat, such as brisket or pork shoulder, become tender and juicy when cooked under pressure. You can also cook chicken, beef, and lamb to perfection.
• Vegetables: Steaming or cooking vegetables in an electric pressure cooker can retain their nutrients while speeding up the cooking process.
• Desserts: Many electric pressure cookers come with settings for making cakes, cheesecakes, puddings, and other desserts, making them a great addition to your baking routine.
• Yogurt: Some electric pressure cookers, such as the Instant Pot, come with a yogurt-making function, which allows you to easily prepare homemade yogurt with just a few ingredients.

Things to Consider Before Buying an Electric Pressure Cooker

When shopping for an electric pressure cooker, there are several factors to consider to ensure you choose the right one for your needs:

1. Capacity: Electric pressure cookers come in various sizes, typically ranging from 3 to 10 quarts. The right size depends on the number of people you’re cooking for. A 6-quart model is ideal for most families, while a larger 8-quart model is suitable for larger households or batch cooking.
2. Functions: Consider the cooking functions that are important to you. Some models only offer pressure cooking, while others include additional functions such as slow cooking, rice cooking, sautéing, or yogurt making. Choose a model that suits your cooking preferences.
3. Safety Features: Look for an electric pressure cooker with multiple safety features, including a locking lid, pressure release valve, and automatic shut-off. These features provide peace of mind when cooking under pressure.
4. Ease of Cleaning: The inner cooking pot of most electric pressure cookers is non-stick or stainless steel, making cleaning easier. Some models also have dishwasher-safe components, which can save time.
5. Price: Electric pressure cookers vary in price depending on brand, features, and size. Set a budget and look for a model that offers the best value for your needs.
6. Brand Reputation: Popular and well-reviewed brands like Instant Pot, Ninja, and Crock-Pot are known for their quality, reliability, and customer service. Research user reviews and ratings to help you choose a brand with a good reputation.

Conclusion

Electric pressure cookers are a fantastic tool for simplifying and speeding up your cooking process, while also delivering delicious, tender, and flavorful meals. Whether you’re making a quick dinner after a long day or preparing a large family meal, an electric pressure cooker offers both convenience and versatility. By considering the features, capacity, and safety of the model, you can find an electric pressure cooker that fits your lifestyle and cooking needs, allowing you to enjoy more time with your loved ones and less time spent in the kitchen.

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