Introduction
Pressure cookers are a total game-changer in the kitchen! They save time, energy, and effort while locking in flavors and nutrients—perfect for making soups, curries, rice, and more. But here’s the catch: if you don’t use them correctly, they can become a safety hazard.
The pressure cookers we’re discussing in this blog are gas and induction stove-compatible cookers. They have a safety valve that bursts before 3 kgf/cm², a weight valve (whistle) that lifts at 1 kgf/cm², and in outer lid cookers, the gasket release system activates around 2.5 kgf/cm² to prevent excessive pressure buildup. Unlike electric pressure cookers, these do not have heat or pressure settings, making proper usage even more important!
Many people unknowingly make mistakes that lead to pressure buildup issues, food spills, and, in extreme cases, even explosions! But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. In this blog, we’ll break down the top 5 pressure cooker mistakesyou might be making and how to avoid them. Let’s dive in!
1. Overfilling the Pressure Cooker
How Much Should You Fill a Pressure Cooker?
One of the most common mistakes is overfilling. Every pressure cooker comes with max fill guidelines, and ignoring them can lead to accidents. Here’s a quick rule of thumb:
✅ Liquid-based foods (soups, curries): Fill up to half of the cooker’s capacity.
✅ Foamy foods (rice, pasta, lentils): Don’t fill more than one-third of the cooker.
Why Overfilling Is a Big No-No
- Clogged steam valve: When food particles block the vent pipe, the pressure builds up dangerously.
- Uneven cooking: Some parts of your food may overcook while others stay raw.
- Explosion risk: Excessive pressure can cause the safety valve to burst or the gasket to release, leading to sudden steam release.
Pro Tip: Stick to the recommended fill levels and never tightly pack the cooker.
2. Not Adding Enough Liquid
Why Water Matters in Pressure Cooking
A pressure cooker works by using steam to build pressure. Without enough liquid, you’ll run into problems like:
- Delayed cooking (since there’s not enough steam for pressure buildup)
- Burnt food (the bottom layer can scorch)
How Much Water Do You Need?
At minimum, always add 1 cup (240ml) of liquid. The amount may vary depending on the dish.
What Happens If There’s Too Little Water?
- Food sticks to the bottom and burns.
- Pressure buildup is insufficient, causing undercooked food.
- The safety valve may activate due to overheating.
Fix: Always check the liquid level before sealing the lid!
3. Releasing Pressure Incorrectly
Natural Release vs. Quick Release – What’s the Difference?
Properly releasing pressure is key to avoiding burns and food splatters. Here are the two main methods:
🔹 Natural Release (NR): The pressure reduces gradually after turning off the heat. Best for stews, broths, and meatsthat need to keep cooking as the pressure drops.
🔹 Quick Release (QR): The pressure releases instantly by lifting the weight valve (whistle). Ideal for delicate foods like veggies that can overcook with slow release.
Dangers of Opening the Lid Too Soon
- Hot steam burns (the pressure can blast out unexpectedly)
- Food splatters (if the liquid inside is still bubbling)
- Lid damage (forcing it open before the gasket releases can cause warping)
Safety Tip: Always use the correct release method for your dish. Never open the lid before the pressure is fully released!
4. Ignoring Safety Features
Understanding Your Cooker’s Safety Mechanisms
Unlike electric cookers, gas and induction stove pressure cookers rely on mechanical safety features. Here’s what they do:Safety Valve: Bursts before 3 kgf/cm² to prevent excessive pressure buildup.
Weight Valve (Whistle): Lifts at 1 kgf/cm² to regulate normal cooking pressure.
Gasket Release System (Outer Lid Cookers Only): The gasket pushes out at 2.5 kgf/cm² if pressure gets too high.
Why It Matters
- Ignoring steam leakage can mean your safety valve is failing.
- Cooking with a blocked vent pipe can cause dangerous pressure buildup.
- Not replacing a worn-out gasket can lead to improper sealing.
Solution: Always inspect your pressure cooker before use and follow the safety guidelines.
5. Skipping Maintenance and Safety Checks
Why Regular Cleaning Matters
A well-maintained pressure cooker lasts longer and stays safe. After every use:
Clean the lid, rubber gasket, and inner pot
Check the vent pipe and weight valve for food buildup
Wipe the outer surface to prevent grease buildup
How to Check If Your Rubber Gasket Needs Replacement?
🔹 Signs of a worn-out gasket:
- Cracks, drying, or stretching
- Difficulty closing the lid
- Steam leaks from the sides
Regular Replacement for Safety
Gaskets, safety valves, and weight valve assemblies should be checked regularly and replaced every 6 months or at least once a year using original or genuine spare parts. This ensures the longevity of your pressure cooker and prevents potential safety hazards.
Pro Tip: Regular maintenance and using only genuine spare parts will keep your cooker functioning safely for years to come.
Bonus Tips for Safe & Efficient Pressure Cooking
What NOT to Cook in a Pressure Cooker
Some foods just don’t belong in a pressure cooker! Avoid:
- Dairy-based dishes (milk can curdle and create a mess)
- Pasta without enough liquid (it sticks together and burns)
- Deep-fried foods (they turn soggy, not crispy)
Energy-Saving Hacks
Use the right-sized burner to prevent heat loss.
Cook multiple dishes at once with a steamer basket.
Preheat liquids before sealing the cooker to reduce cooking time.
Conclusion
A pressure cooker is an amazing tool—if used correctly! Avoiding these common mistakes will keep your cooking safe, efficient, and stress-free. Just remember:
✔️ Don’t overfill the cooker
✔️ Always add enough liquid
✔️ Release pressure safely
✔️ Use the built-in safety mechanisms correctly
✔️ Keep up with regular maintenance
If you’re looking for a high-quality, safe, and durable pressure cooker, check out Summit Home Appliances—trusted for their premium kitchen appliances. Happy cooking!
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