7 Advantages and Disadvantages of Pressure Cooking

With a pressure cooker, it becomes possible to cook foods within an airtight environment. The cooker raises the temperature inside by boiling liquids, allowing for rapid steaming or raising. It takes about 2 cups of fluids, such as chicken stock, to create a pressure cooking effect.

Here ae the advantages and disadvantages which come when this method of cooking is used.

List of the Advantages of Pressure Cooking

1. It cooks food much faster.
A pressure cooker can complete the cooking process about 30% faster than conventional cooking methods.

2. It saves energy.
Because of the shortened cooking times, pressure cooking takes less energy to complete a meal as well. Compared to some cooking methods, using a pressure cooker could save up to 75% off normal energy use.

3. It retains more nutrients.
Foods that are cooked within a pressure cooker maintain more of their vitamins and minerals compared to foods that are boiled. For that reason, many foods that come out of a pressure cooker are said to taste better.

4. It can be used at any altitude.
Water boils at lower temperatures at higher elevations. A pressure cooker can create a stable atmosphere with its unique design, allowing for constant and precise pressures to be used for cooking. That creates faster and more consistent results.

List of the Disadvantages of Pressure Cooking

1. It takes time to learn how to use one.
Recipes must be altered when using a pressure cooker. There is less evaporation through this cooking process, so more liquid is retained within the pot.

2. It requires timing.
The pressure within a pressure cooker locks the unit in place. That pressure must be released to open the lid safely. That means users can’t check on the condition of their food because if they lose pressure, they must start over. Cooking, therefore, relies on timing more than anything else.

3. It is easy to overcook items.
It only takes a couple of minutes for foods to overcook when using a pressure cooker. That is why it is usually better for beginners to use a cookbook specifically for pressure cooking until they get used to this kitchen tool.

These pressure cooking advantages and disadvantages are an introduction to this method of cooking. It can be an enjoyable experience, but one must take the disadvantages into account for the advantages to come forth.

Author Bio
Natalie Regoli is a child of God, devoted wife, and mother of two boys. She has a Master's Degree in Law from The University of Texas. Natalie has been published in several national journals and has been practicing law for 18 years.