Presto 8-Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker warranty How to Use, Fig. E Loop Ends

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How to Use

Now that you are familiar with the various parts of the pressure cooker, it is important to read the following general information about pressure cooking and the specific step-by-step instructions before you begin to cook.

Because pressure cooking is a moist heat cooking method, it always requires a cooking liquid. Some of this liquid is changed into steam to create pressure within the unit. This liquid is usually water. However, some recipes will call for other liquids, such as wine, which will contribute a unique flavor to the finished dish. Very little moisture is lost during the pressure cooking process. Therefore, only about 1 cup more liquid than is desired in the finished dish is needed.

To assure the very best results every time, carefully follow these step-by-step instructions for pressure cooking:

1.Prepare food according to the directions in the recipe you have selected. If a larger quantity is desired, you may double ingredients. Be sure not to overfill the pressure cooker (see page 6).

2.For vegetables, soups, rice, seafood, and desserts, skip to step 4. Recipes for most meats and poultry will call for browning before you begin to pressure cook. Do not preheat the pressure cooker. Pour cooking oil into pressure cooker. Turn heat selector to medium and brown food prior to pressure cooking. Caution: If cookware is overheated excessively when empty, the bottom may warp or melt. If melting occurs, do not remove cookware from the cooking surface until the cookware has cooled completely.

3.Sear thoroughly on all sides until food is deep brown and crisp. Lower heat, if necessary, to prevent burning. Season to taste. Remove pressure cooker from heat and allow to cool slightly before adding liquid to pressure cooker.

4.Pour liquid into the pressure cooker, as specified in the recipe or cooking chart. Pressure cooking always requires a cooking liquid. Failure to put liquid in the pressure cooker may cause scorching of food and possible damage to the pressure cooker and stovetop.

For foods that have been browned, place the cover on quickly to prevent the loss of liquid through evaporation. For all foods, follow recipe instructions. Place the trivet and steamer basket, if needed, into the cooker. If using the trivet, position it in the cooker so the loop ends are towards the bottom of the cooker (Fig. E). Cook foods together that require the same amount of cooking time. Seasoning may be added before or after cooking. You may find that you add less seasonings to pressure cooked foods since they retain their natural flavors.

IMPORTANT: Always look through the vent pipe to make certain that it is clear before closing the cover (Fig. F).

5.To close the cover, place the cover over the body (Fig. G), aligning the “” mark on the cover with the arrow on either of the body handles. Move the cover slightly until it drops into position.

Rotate the cover clockwise until the cover handles are directly above the body handles.

The pressure cooker is completely closed when the cover handles are directly above the body handles (Fig. H). Do not try to rotate it beyond this point.

6.Place the pressure regulator on the vent pipe and rotate clockwise until the lever on the regulator is aligned with the pressure arrow (Fig. I). Note: It may be necessary to apply slight pressure when positioning the regulator on the vent pipe to seat it properly.

7.Using a high heat setting, heat the pressure cooker. As pressure is building, a small amount of steam will be released from the pressure regulator. You will know your cooker has reached 15 pounds pressure when you hear and/or see a steady flow of steam releasing from the pressure regulator. Begin cooking time when this occurs and lower the heat as necessary to maintain a very slow, steady flow of steam from the pressure regulator.

NOTE: The air vent/cover lock may move up and down a few times when cooking first begins. Steam will be noticeable. This is normal. Air is being vented out of the cooker. Once the cooker has sealed, the air vent/cover lock will remain in the up position until pressure is released. The overpressure plug will rise slightly and seal as well.

Fig. E

Loop Ends

Position the trivet in the cooker so the loop ends are towards the bottom of the cooker.

Fig. F

Vent Pipe

Vent Pipe

Air Vent/

Cover Lock

 

“”

 

Mark

Fig. G

 

 

 

Fig. H

Pressure

Regulator

 

 

 

 

 

 

E

 

 

 

 

 

A

S

 

 

 

E

L

E

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

M

R

 

 

 

 

 

EA

 

 

 

 

 

 

T

 

 

 

 

 

 

/S

 

 

 

 

 

 

E

 

 

 

 

 

 

R

 

 

 

 

 

U

 

 

 

 

SS

 

 

 

 

 

PRE

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pressure

ArrowLever

Fig. I

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Contents Quart Stainless Steel Table of ContentsCanner Important Safeguards IntroductionSealing Ring 6 fits Getting AcquaintedStainless steel Body How to Use Fig. E Loop EndsImportant Safety Information Fig. JRight Care and Maintenance Fig. MHelpful Hints Questions and Answers How does one prevent overcooking?Soups and Stocks Chicken Soup Pounds chicken, cut into Carrot, diced Serving pieces Teaspoon salt Cups water Stalk celery, choppedBrown Beef Soup  Cup diced onionBlack Bean Soup  Deveined, minced Chopped Tablespoon chili powder SaltSeafood Gumbo  Nutrition Information Per ServingCalories, 4 g Fat, 127 mg Cholesterol Minestrone Potato Soup   Zesty Homemade Chili Seafood Tablespoons olive oil Cup waterNutrition Information Per Serving Servings Lemon ’N Dill COD, NEW POTATOES, and Broccoli Shrimp Jambalaya  SCAMPI-STYLE Shrimp Haddock in Cheese Sauce  Pepper Cups water Cup skim milkPoached Halibut with Vegetables  Variation Substitute halibut for salmon steaksPoultry SOY Chicken  Cup sliced carrot Cup water Chicken Breasts Tarragon California Chicken  Calories, 11 g Fat, 104 mg Cholesterol Sweet ’N Sour Chicken Turkey Breast  Teaspoon crushed saffron Warm see Threads Arroz Con Pollo Herbed Chicken  Chicken Cacciatore  Cornish HEN Pimiento Meats Beef POT Roast Calories, 20 g Fat, 183 mg Cholesterol Porcupine Meatballs Swiss Steak  Tablespoons vegetable oil Cups tomato juiceBeef Stew  Spaghetti Meat Sauce Apricot Barbecue Pork Roast  Pound boneless rolled pork Cup teriyaki sauce RoastCalories, 13 g Fat, 77 mg Cholesterol Spareribs with Barbecue Sauce Stuffed Pork Chops  Calories, 23 g Fat, 95 mg CholesterolPork Loin Roast  Calories, 27 g Fat, 171 mg CholesterolHAM Veal Beef PorkLamb Vegetables Casserole of Vegetables Garlic Mashed Potatoes   Broccoli ’N Rice Pounds russet potatoes, peeled Diced Tablespoon margarine Artichokes ’N Sauce   Cauliflower CeleryKohlrabi OnionsBaked Beans  Dry Beans and PeasCups navy beans Cup catsup Teaspoon dry mustard Orange Baked Beans  Cups navy beansSteamed Rice  RiceCup long grain white rice Cups water Wild Rice   Seasoned Rice Pilaf  Variation Grecian Rice Pilaf Brown Rice with Veggies  Wild Rice with Raisins and Pecans   Desserts Tapioca Pudding  Egg whites, slightly beaten Cups water Rice Pudding  Vanilla Custard   Variation Chocolate CustardVariation Coconut Custard Cheesecake WHY Pressure CANNING? Pressure CanningOatmeal Apple Crisp  Cup flour Cups water Cup brown sugarCLAMS, Whole Littleneck CrabFish General Method LobsterSalmon ShrimpHow to pressure can foods Processing Time ChartMeats Soups and StocksVegetables National Presto INDUSTRIES, INC Service And Parts InformationEau Claire, Wisconsin

8-Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker specifications

The Presto 8-Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker is a versatile and efficient kitchen appliance designed to make cooking faster and more convenient. This pressure cooker is a staple for both amateur and professional chefs, combining practicality with advanced features.

One of the standout features of the Presto 8-Quart model is its durable stainless steel construction. This material not only ensures longevity but also provides a polished look that enhances any kitchen aesthetic. The stainless steel design is resistant to scratches and stains, making it easy to maintain and clean.

The 8-quart capacity is ideal for preparing large meals, making it perfect for families or gatherings. Whether you're pressure cooking, simmering, or even canning, this cooker can handle sizeable portions effortlessly. The generous size also allows for flexibility in creating various dishes, from hearty stews to tender meats and even desserts.

This pressure cooker incorporates an advanced pressure gauge, which ensures the right pressure level is achieved for optimal cooking. It regulates steam and allows users to cook food to perfection while retaining nutrients. The pressure cooker also features an easy-to-read pressure indicator, so users can conveniently monitor the cooking process.

Safety is paramount in any kitchen appliance, and the Presto 8-Quart doesn't disappoint. It comes equipped with multiple safety features, including a safety lock lid that prevents opening while under pressure, a steam release valve to control steam during cooking, and an overpressure plug for added security. These features give users peace of mind while they experiment with new recipes.

In terms of versatility, this pressure cooker is compatible with all types of stovetops, including gas, electric, and induction. Its multi-functionality makes it suitable for a wide variety of cooking methods, from sautéing to stewing, braising, and more.

Furthermore, the Presto 8-Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker is designed for energy efficiency. It cooks food significantly faster than conventional methods, which not only saves time but also conserves energy. This means that not only are meals prepared in a fraction of the time, but users can also reduce their energy consumption, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

Overall, the Presto 8-Quart Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker stands out for its combination of durability, safety, and versatility. It simplifies meal preparation while enhancing flavors and textures, making it an essential tool for anyone looking to improve their cooking experience. With its attractive design and impressive features, this pressure cooker is a worthy addition to any kitchen.
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