Presto Pressure Cooker User Manual
8-Quart Stainless Steel
Pressure Cooker
and Canner
Instructions
and Recipes
2003 by National Presto Industries, Inc.
Visit us on the web at www.GoPresto.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Important Safeguards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Getting Acquainted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
How to Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Important Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Care and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Helpful Hints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Questions and Answers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Soups and Stocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Seafood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Poultry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Meats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Vegetables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Dry Beans and Peas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Rice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Desserts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Pressure Canning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Recipe Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Service and Parts Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
1
This is a Listed appliance. The following Important Safeguards are recommended by most portable appliance
manufacturers.
IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
To reduce the risk of personal injury or property damage, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including the
following:
1. Read all instructions. Improper use may result in bodily injury or property damage.
2. Always check the vent pipe before use. Hold cover up to light and look through vent pipe to be certain it is clear.
3. Always check the air vent/cover lock to be sure it moves freely before use.
4. Do not fill pressure cooker over
5. Do not pressure cook applesauce, cranberries, rhubarb, pearl barley, cereals, pastas, grains, dried soup mixes, or any dry beans
6. This appliance cooks under pressure. Improper use may result in scalding injury. Make certain pressure cooker is properly
7. Do not place the pressure cooker or attempt to pressure cook in a heated oven.
8. Extreme caution must be used when moving a pressure cooker containing hot liquids. Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles
9. Do not open cooker until internal pressure has been completely reduced, air vent/cover lock has dropped, and no steam escapes
10. Caution: To ensure safe operation and satisfactory performance, replace the overpressure plug every time you replace the sealing
11. Close supervision is necessary when the pressure cooker is used near children. It is not recommended that children use the
12. When normal operating pressure is reached you will hear and/or see a steady flow of steam releasing from the pressure regula-
13. Do not use this pressure cooker for other than intended use.
14. Do not use this pressure cooker for pressure frying with oil.
1
⁄2 full. Overfilling may cause a risk of clogging the vent pipe and developing excess pressure. See food preparation in-
over
structions.
and peas which are not listed on the chart on page 32. These foods tend to foam, froth, and sputter and may block the vent pipe
and air vent/cover lock.
closed before operating; cover handles must be directly above the body handles. See “How To Use” instructions.
or knobs.
when the pressure regulator is removed. See “How To Use” instructions.
ring or sooner if it becomes hard, deformed, cracked, worn or pitted. It is recommended that the sealing ring and overpressure
plug be replaced at least every two years.
pressure cooker.
tor. Lower the heat as necessary to maintain a very slow, steady flow of steam from the pressure regulator. If the heat is not
lowered, excess steam will escape, liquid will be evaporated and food may scorch.
2
⁄3 full. For soup, rice, and dried vegetables which expand during cooking, do not fill cooker
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
THIS PRODUCT IS FOR HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY.
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the world of pressure cooking. With your new Presto Pressure Cooker, you’ll discover how fast and easy it is to
prepare a wide variety of delicious foods— especially foods that emphasize good health and nutrition along with good taste.
The pressure cooker is perfect for the way we live and eat today. It’s ideal for preparing many of the lighter foods that help keep
us healthy and fit. It preserves flavors and nutrients, tenderizes leaner cuts of meat, and, best of all, it cooks foods three to ten
times faster than ordinary cooking methods. And, it’s even possible to cook several foods in the pressure cooker at the same time
without the flavors intermingling.
To make it easier for you to plan healthy and nutritious meals, many of the recipes in this book have been specifically selected to
be low in calories, fat, and cholesterol. We have also included some traditional family favorites that are especially well suited to
the many advantages of pressure cooking. For quick identification of these recipes, simply look for the following symbols:
Low Calorie Recipe
Lower Cholesterol Recipe
Family Favorite Recipe
Recipes with the low calorie symbol have 300 calories or less per serving.
Recipes with the low cholesterol symbol have less than 80 milligrams of cholesterol per serving and less than 30% of the calories
are from fat.
To help get started with your new pressure cooker, be sure to read the “GETTING ACQUAINTED” section beginning on the next
page.
2
GETTING ACQUAINTED
Your pressure cooker is like a saucepan with a very special cover that locks in place. Air is automatically exhausted and steam is
sealed inside creating pressure within the unit. Under pressure, internal temperatures in the cooker are raised above the normal
boiling point of water, causing foods to cook faster. At 15 pounds pressure, a temperature of 250° F. (or 121° C.) is reached inside
the pressure cooker. This higher temperature speeds cooking and the moist steam atmosphere tenderizes meats naturally.
It is important to become familiar with the various parts
and features of the pressure cooker (Fig. A) and to read the
“HOW TO USE” section beginning on page 4 before using
the unit for the first time. Here are some of the key parts of
the pressure cooker:
The PRESSURE REGULATOR/STEAM RELEASE
VALVE (1) fits onto the VENT PIPE (2) located on the
PRIMARY COVER HANDLE (3). The pressure regulator
indicates when 15 pounds pressure is reached and controls
pressure inside the unit. A steady flow of steam escaping
from the pressure regulator and the sound of the steam venting indicates that proper cooking pressure (15 pounds) is
being maintained. After cooking is completed, the pressure
regulator can be turned counterclockwise to the steam release position to quickly release pressure from the cooker.
The AIR VENT/COVER LOCK (4) automatically exhausts
air from the pressure cooker as you begin heating the unit.
When pressure begins to build, it slides up, causing the lock
pin to lock the cover on. The top of the air vent/cover lock
can be seen through a hole in the SECONDARY COVER
HANDLE (5), so you can tell at a glance if there is pressure
inside the unit. If there is pressure in the cooker, the air vent/
cover lock will be in the up position. (It will be flush with
the cover handle.) If there is no pressure in the unit, the air
vent/cover lock will be in the down position (Fig. B).
The SEALING RING (6) fits
Fig. C
around the inside rim of the
cover (see figure below) and
forms a pressure tight seal be-
Lock
Pin
tween the COVER (7) and the
STAINLESS STEEL BODY
(8) of the pressure cooker. Steam
is automatically
released by the OVERPRESSURE PLUG (9) if the vent pipe becomes clogged and
excess pressure cannot be released normally. The top of the overpressure plug can be seen
through a hole in the secondary cover handle. The overpressure plug is a safety device
and you should check its condition periodically (see page 7, step 10).
Secondary
Cover
5
Handle
7
Cover
Air Vent/Cover Lock in
UP Position. Pressure in Unit.
Air Vent/
4
Cover Lock
Stainless
8
Steel Body
Overpressure
9
Plug
Fig. B
Pressure Regulator/
1
Steam Release Valve
Vent Pipe
2
Primary Cover
3
Handle
Sealing Ring
6
Steamer
10
Basket
Trivet
11
Air Vent/Cover Lock in DOWN
Position. No Pressure in Unit.
Fig. A
Sealing Ring in
Sealing Ring
Groove
Fig. D
Stop Tab
For steaming foods, the STEAMER BASKET (10) can be placed on the TRIVET
(11) in the bottom of the pressure cooker. The steamer basket when used with the trivet
will hold foods, such as vegetables, out of the cooking liquid. Because flavors will not
intermingle when foods are pressure cooked out of the cooking liquid, it allows several
different foods to be cooked at the same time.
Before using your pressure cooker for the first time, remove the seaing ring by simply
pulling it out of the inside rim of the cover. Wash ring, cover, body, trivet, and steamer
basket in hot, sudsy water to remove any packaging material and white manufacturing
lubricant. Rinse all parts with warm water and dry. Then, replace the sealing ring, being
careful to fit it under the lock pin (Fig. C) and the stop tabs (Fig. D) which are located
on the inside rim of the cover.
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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.
4
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
“”
Mark
Fig. G
Pressure
Arrow
Fig. E
Air Vent/
Cover Lock
Fig. H
Pressure
Regulator
Lever
Fig. I
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8. Cook for the length of time indicated in the recipe or cooking chart. If excess steam is allowed to escape, too much liquid will
evaporate and food may scorch. Never leave your pressure cooker unattended at high heat settings. It could boil dry, overheat,
and cause damage to the pressure cooker and stovetop. When cooking time is complete, turn off burner. If using an electric
stove, remove pressure cooker from burner. Caution: Lift pressure cooker to remove it from burner. Sliding cookware
can leave scratches on stovetops.
9. Reduce pressure according to the recipe or cooking chart instructions. If the instructions say “Let the pressure drop of its own
accord,” set the pressure cooker aside to cool until pressure is completely reduced. If the instructions state, “Release pressure
quickly,” you can release pressure safely using either of the following quick cool methods:
A) Turn the pressure regulator/steam release valve counter-clockwise until the lever on
the regulator is aligned with the steam release arrow (Fig. J). Steam will be rapidly
Pressure Regulator/Steam
Release Valve
released.
Caution: Misuse of the cooker (such as overfilling, failing to follow procedures for
soaking dry beans and peas, failure to use a covered bowl when preparing rice, or
quick cooling when the recipe calls for letting the pressure drop of its own accord) can
result in liquid and/or food particles being simultaneously released with the steam.
If this occurs, turn the pressure regulator/steam release valve clockwise until the lever
on the regulator is aligned with the pressure arrow. Steam, liquid, and food will no
Lever
Quick Steam
Release Position
longer be released. Finish reducing pressure quickly by cooling the pressure cooker
under a running water faucet or pour cold water over it until pressure is completely
Fig. J
reduced. Pressure is completely reduced when the air vent/cover lock has dropped.
After removing cover, look through the vent pipe to make sure it is clear. If it is blocked or partially blocked, clean it with
a small brush or pipe cleaner.
B) Cool the pressure cooker under a running water faucet or pour cold water over it until pressure is completely reduced.
Pressure is completely reduced when the air vent/cover lock has dropped.
If the air vent/cover lock remains in its raised position, there is still pressure inside the pressure cooker. Continue to cool
until the air vent/cover lock drops.
10. After pressure has been completely reduced, remove the cover. To open the cover, turn it counterclockwise until the “” on the
cover aligns with the arrow on either of the body handles. Then, lift the cover toward you to keep any steam away from you.
If the cover turns hard, there still may be some pressure in the unit. Do not force the cover off. Continue to cool the pressure
cooker until the air vent/cover lock has dropped and the cover turns easily.
11. If you have used the steamer basket, use potholders to grab the two handles on the sides of the steamer basket and carefully
lift the basket out of the cooker. Food is ready to serve.
12. Your pressure cooker is now ready to clean. Remove pressure regulator and sealing ring and clean as described in the Care
and Maintenance section found on pages 7 and 8.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Cooking under pressure enables you to prepare food both quickly and deliciously. If used properly, your pressure cooker is one of the
safest appliances in your kitchen. To insure safe operation, make sure you always observe the following simple rules whenever you use
the pressure cooker:
1. Never overfill the pressure cooker.
2. Always add cooking liquid.
3. Always look through the vent pipe before closing the cooker to make sure it is clear.
4. Always fully close the pressure cooker.
5. Never open the cooker when it contains pressure (when the air vent/cover lock is in the up position, there is pressure in
the cooker).
6. Replace the overpressure plug when it becomes hard, deformed, cracked, worn or pitted, or when replacing the sealing
ring. Replace the sealing ring when it becomes hard, deformed, cracked, worn, pitted, or soft and sticky.
So that you understand the importance of these instructions, we would like to acquaint you with the reasons for them:
1. Never overfill the pressure cooker. The pressure regulator is designed to maintain cooking pressures at a safe level. It relieves excess
pressure through the vent pipe as a very, slow steady flow of steam escapes. The overpressure plug is a secondary pressure relief valve
5
which is designed to release excess pressure if something interferes with the pressure regulator’s operation. Neither can perform their
function if they are plugged or blocked. Plugging or blocking can occur if the cooker is overfilled. Many foods tend to expand when
cooked. If the cooker is overfilled, expansion of food may prevent the pressure relief devices from functioning. Therefore, never fill
2
the pressure cooker over
For most foods, it is safe to fill the pressure cooker up to
expand so much when cooking that the cooker should never be more than
⁄3 full.
2
⁄3 full. There are a few foods like rice, dry beans and peas, and soups which
1
⁄2 full. Also, dry beans and peas must be presoaked (see
page 31). And rice must be cooked in a bowl (see page 33). There are some foods that expand so much as a result of foaming, frothing, and sputtering that you should never pressure cook them.
Never pressure cook applesauce, cranberries, rhubarb,
Fig. K
pearl barley, cereals, pastas, grains, dried soup mixes,
or any dried beans and peas which are not listed in the
chart on page 32.
For your convenience, both the
2
⁄3 and 1⁄2 full levels are
RIGHT WRONG
marked by indentations on the side of the pressure cooker
2
body. The upper marking indicates the
1
the lower the
⁄2 full level. In addition, in each section of
the recipes you will find instructions on the maximum fill
⁄3 full level and
Follow specific recipe for the amount of liquid that should be
added to the pressure cooker. The liquid will not necessarily come
up to the fill line.
level for each type of food.
When cooking any food, do not let any portion extend above
Reminder: When cooking rice, dry beans and peas, and soups,
the cooker should never be more than
1
⁄2 full.
the maximum fill mark (see Fig. K).
2. Always add cooking liquid. If an empty pressure cooker is left on a hot burner or if a cooker boils dry and is left on a heated
burner, the cooker will overheat excessively causing discoloration or warping of the cooker, possible melting of the cooker
bottom, and damage to the stovetop. If melting occurs, do not remove cooker from the cooking surface until the cooker has
cooled completely.
3. Always look through the vent pipe before using the cooker to make sure it is clear. If the vent pipe is plugged, the pressure
regulator cannot release steam and thus cannot relieve excess pressure. Pressure may then build to unsafe levels. To clean the
vent pipe, see page 7.
4. Always fully close the pressure cooker. The cover handles must be directly above the body handles. Your pressure cooker
has specially designed lugs on the cover and body which lock the cover in place when the cooker is fully closed. However, if
the cooker is not fully closed, the lugs cannot lock the cover onto the body. It’s possible that pressure could build inside the
cooker and cause the cover to come off and result in bodily injury or property damage. Always be sure the cover handles are
directly above the body handles (see page 4, Fig. H). Do not turn past handle alignment.
5. Never open the cooker when it contains pressure. The air vent /cover lock provides a visual indication of pressure inside the
unit. When it is up, there is pressure. When it is down, there is no pressure in the cooker, and it can be opened. If the pressure
cooker is opened before all of the pressure is released, the contents of the cooker will erupt and could cause bodily injury or
property damage.
6. Replace the overpressure plug if it becomes hard, deformed, cracked, worn or pitted, and when replacing the sealing
ring. Failure to replace the overpressure plug could result in bodily injury or property damage. The overpressure plug is a
secondary pressure relief valve which is designed to relieve excess pressure by releasing from the cooker cover in the event that
the vent pipe should become blocked. The overpressure plug is made of rubber, and when new, is soft and pliable. Over time,
depending on the frequency and type of use, rubber becomes hard and inflexible. When hard and inflexible, the overpressure
plug loses its ability to act as a secondary pressure relief valve. It should be replaced immediately.
Should the overpressure plug ever be forced out of the cover due to excess pressure while cooking, it is important to call the
Test Kitchen at 1-800-368-2194. Do not attempt to replace the overpressure plug.
6
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
1. All parts of your pressure cooker, including the sealing ring and pressure regulator, are fully immersible for easy cleaning.
When washing the unit, however, the sealing ring should always be removed to allow easy cleaning of the inside rim of the
cover. The sealing ring should be washed in hot, sudsy water after each use.
2. To be sure the vent pipe is clear, hold the cover up to the light and look through
the vent pipe. Clean it with a small brush or pipe cleaner if it is blocked or
partially blocked (Fig. L). Also clean the vent pipe nut as shown.
3. Take care not to overheat your stainless steel pressure cooker. Very high heat
can sometimes cause vari-colored stains, called heat tints, in stainless steel. Heat
tints can usually be removed by scouring with Kleen King
and stainless steel or any other fine, non-abrasive kitchen cleanser.
To bring out its luster, the outside surface of stainless steel pressure cookers can
be cleaned occasionally with a silver polish or any other fine, non-abrasive polish. The repeated use of metal pot scours may
dull the brightness of stainless steel. If food residue adheres to the pressure cooker body, clean with a vegetable brush, a fine
steel wool pad, or a fine kitchen cleanser.
cleaner for copper
Fig. L
4. Occasionally remove the air vent/cover lock in the pressure cooker cover handle for clean-
ing. To remove the air vent/cover lock, place your finger over the hole in the cover handle
and remove the rubber gasket from the air vent/cover lock on the underside of the cover
(Fig. M). Push the air vent /cover lock through the top of the cover and wash it and the
gasket in hot sudsy water. The metal shaft of the air vent /cover lock may be cleaned with
a nylon mesh pad. Clean the hole in the cover handle with a small brush. After cleaning,
reinsert the metal shaft of the air vent /cover lock from the top side of the cover down
through the cover handle hole (Fig. N). Place a finger over the handle hole (to keep the
cover lock from falling out) and turn the cover over. Wet the rubber gasket and push onto
the end of the metal shaft until it snaps into the groove on the shaft. The gasket should
fit loosely in the groove.
The overpressure plug can also be removed for cleaning by pushing it out of its opening
from the top of the cover handle. After cleaning, reinsert it by pushing the domed side of
the plug into the opening from the underside of the cover, until the bottom edge is fully and
evenly seated against the underside of the cover (Fig. O). When the overpressure plug is
properly installed, the word (TOP) will be visible on the overpressure plug when viewing
the outside of the cover.
5. When not in use, store your pressure cooker in a dry place with the cover inverted
on the body. If the cover is locked on, unpleasant odors may form inside the unit
and the sealing ring could be damaged.
6. Do not strike the rim of the pressure cooker with any cooking utensil because this
could cause nicks in the rim which may allow steam to escape and prevent the
pressure cooker from sealing. As is the case with all cookware, avoid chopping
or cutting food inside the cooker with a knife or other sharp utensil.
Rubber
Gasket
Top
Fig. M
Fig. N
Cover
Handle
Hole
Fig. O
7. Each time you clean or use your pressure cooker, check to be sure the bottom has
not been damaged. Nicks and scratches may leave sharp edges that can damage
Overpressure Plug
stovetops or other smooth surfaces. Lift pressure cooker to remove it from burner.
Sliding cookware can leave scratches on stovetops.
8. If the body or cover handles become loose, tighten them with a screwdriver.
9. Should you experience any difficulties with the air vent /cover lock mechanism, located in the cover handle, send the cover
to the Presto Factory Service Department for servicing (see page 43).
10. The overpressure plug and rubber gasket of the air vent/cover lock may shrink, become hard, unusually soft, deformed,
cracked, worn or pitted with normal use. Exposure to high heat, such as a warm burner or oven top, will cause these parts
to deteriorate rapidly. When this happens, replace the overpressure plug and small rubber gasket of the air vent/cover lock.
Replace the sealing ring and overpressure plug at least every two years.
7
Leakage between the cover and body is usually caused by shrinkage of the sealing ring after prolonged use. Replace the seal-
ing ring. Whenever you replace the sealing ring, replace the overpressure plug also.
11. The formation of a small amount of moisture under the pressure regulator is normal when cooking first begins. It is the result
of the temperature of the regulator being lower than the rest of the unit.
A small amount of steam or moisture may also be visible around the overpressure plug and air vent/cover lock as cooking
begins. It should stop when pressure begins to build and the overpressure plug and air vent/cover lock seal. If leakage continues, clean or replace the overpressure plug and/or air vent/cover lock gasket. The pressure cooker will not seal if the gasket
for the air vent/cover lock is cracked.
Do not operate your pressure cooker with continual leakage. If the preceding steps do not correct the problem, return the
entire unit to the Presto Factory Service Department (see page 43).
12. If the pressure cooker becomes difficult to open or close, the sealing ring may have expanded and should be replaced.
If for any reason the pressure cooker cannot be opened, contact the Consumer Service Department in Eau Claire, WI at
1-800-877-0441.
Any maintenance required for this product, other than normal household care and cleaning, should be performed by the Presto
Factory Service Department (see page 43).
HELPFUL HINTS
Your favorite recipes may be adjusted for cooking in the pressure cooker by following the general directions in this book for
2
the particular type of food being cooked. Decrease the cooking time for your recipe by
⁄3 since pressure cooking is much faster
than ordinary cooking methods. For example, if your ordinary cooking method requires 45 minutes, in the pressure cooker
the cooking time will be 15 minutes. Because there is very little evaporation, the amount of liquid used should be decreased.
Use about 1 cup more liquid than you’ll desire in your finished dish. But, remember, there must always be water or some other
liquid in the pressure cooker to produce the necessary steam.
Use the trivet and steamer basket when it is desirable to cook foods out of the cooking liquid. When foods are pressure cooked
out of the liquid, flavors will not intermingle. Therefore, it is possible to cook several foods at once, as long as they have similar
cooking times.
Many different cooking liquids can be used in a pressure cooker. Wine, beer, bouillon, fruit juices, and of course water all make
excellent cooking liquids in the pressure cooker.
If a recipe says to cook 0 minutes, release pressure immediately after pressure cooker reaches cooking pressure.
Release pressure quickly after cooking delicate foods such as custards, fresh vegetables, and serving size pieces of meat. For
other foods, like roasts and stews, let the pressure drop of its own accord.
Beautiful desserts and side dishes can be prepared in the pressure cooker using individual or small metal molds or glass custard
2
cups, which are ovenproof. Fill molds
the steamer basket. Do not fill the pressure cooker over
⁄3 full to allow for expansion of food, and fit them loosely into the pressure cooker in
2
⁄3 full.
When pressure cooking at high altitudes, the cooking time needs to be increased 5% for every 1000 feet above the first 2000
feet. Following this rule, the times should be increased as follows:
3000 ft. . . . . . . . 5% 5000 ft. . . . . . . . . . . 15% 7000 ft. . . . . . . . . . . 25%
4000 ft. . . . . . . . 10% 6000 ft. . . . . . . . . . . 20% 8000 ft. . . . . . . . . . . 30%
Because pressure cooking times are increased at altitudes above 2000 feet, an additional 1 cup cooking liquid will be
needed.
If you have any questions on recipes, time charts, or the operation of your pressure cooker, call or write: Test
Kitchen, National Presto Industries, Inc., 3925 North Hastings Way, Eau Claire, Wisconsin 54703-3703, phone
1-800-368- 2194 (e-mail: contact@GoPresto.com). When writing, please include a phone number and a time when you can be
reached during weekdays, if possible. Written inquiries will be answered promptly by letter or telephone.
8
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Occasionally the cover is hard to open or close. What causes this? What should I do?
In order for pressure to build inside your pressure cooker, the unit has a special cover which provides an airtight fit. Because of this,
you may find that on occasion the cover may be difficult to open or close. The following suggestions will help if this happens:
If the cover seems hard to close, be sure you have aligned the “” mark on the cover with the arrow on either of the body handles.
Move the cover until it drops into position. Then, press down firmly on the cover handles and rotate the cover clockwise until
the cover handles are directly above the body handles.
If, after browning meat or poultry, the cover is difficult to close, it may be due to
expansion of the pressure cooker body from heating. Remove the cover and allow the
pressure cooker body to cool slightly and try again. Do not place the pressure cooker
back on the burner until it is fully closed.
If necessary, to help make the cover easier to open and close, a very light coating
of cooking oil may be applied to the underside of the lugs on the pressure cooker
body (Fig. P) and/or on the sealing ring. Use a pastry brush, a piece of cloth, or your
fingertips and be sure to wipe off any excess oil.
What can be done if the food prepared in the pressure cooker has more liquid than
desired?
Simmer to evaporate the excess liquid. Next time you prepare the same recipe, you may want to use a tablespoon or two less
liquid.
Apply Cooking
Oil Here
Fig. P
How does one prevent overcooking?
Remember to begin timing as soon as you hear and/or see a steady flow of steam escaping from the pressure regulator. Reduce heat
to maintain a very slow, steady flow of steam. It is very important to accurately time the cooking period. A Presto
kitchen timer
is very helpful for this purpose. Also be sure to follow the recipe instructions for cooling the pressure cooker.
What if the food is not completely done after the recommended cooking time?
Simply bring the cooker back up to pressure and cook the food a minute or two longer.
How do I know my pressure cooker is operating properly?
When a steady flow of steam escapes from the pressure regulator, you will know your cooker is functioning correctly.
When cooking first begins, is it normal for steam to escape and moisture to form on the cover and between the handles?
It is normal for steam to escape and a slight amount of moisture leakage to form on the cover and between the handles when cooking first begins. If leakage continues, the cover handles may not be fully aligned with the body handles and, therefore, the cover
lock cannot engage.
Is it normal for the air vent/cover lock to rise up partially and drop back down when cooking first begins?
It is possible that the air vent /cover lock will move up and down slightly when cooking first begins. Do not be concerned. The air
vent/cover lock will remain in the up position once the cooker has sealed. However, if the air vent/cover lock continues to move
up and down or rises partially, tap it lightly with the tip of a knife. If it does not rise once you have tapped it, the following may
be occurring:
1. The burner is not hot enough.
2. The cooker is not fully closed (see page 4).
3. There is insufficient liquid to form steam.
4. The gasket for the air vent/cover lock needs to be replaced (see page 7).
9
SOUPS AND STOCKS
The pressure cooker is perfect for preparing delicious, nourishing soups and stocks in minutes instead of the hours taken by ordinary methods.
Stocks form the base for most great soups and sauces and you can even substitute a stock for water in many recipes to add extra
flavor. Traditionally, stocks are made by simmering bones and scraps for hours to extract all their flavor. With the pressure cooker,
you can do the same thing in just minutes by following the simple directions on the following pages.
We’ve also included a few favorite soup recipes and, if you have a favorite recipe of your own, try it in the pressure cooker using
one of the recipes in this book as your guide. If adding dried vegetables, they must first be soaked according to directions on page
31. Do not pressure cook soups containing barley, rice, pasta, grains, dry beans and peas which are not listed in the chart
on page 32, and dried soup mixes because they have a tendency to foam, froth, and sputter and could clog the vent pipe.
1
The recipes in this section may be doubled. Be sure not to fill the pressure cooker over
increased, the cooking time remains the same.
⁄2 full (see page 6). When the recipe is
FOR SOUPS AND STOCKS,
1
DO NOT FILL PRESSURE COOKER OVER
⁄2 FULL!
OPERATING THE COOKER WITHOUT COOKING LIQUID OR
ALLOWING THE COOKER TO BOIL DRY WILL DAMAGE THE COOKER.
CHICKEN SOUP
1
1
⁄2 pounds chicken, cut into 1 carrot, diced
serving pieces 1 small onion, diced
1 teaspoon salt 4 cups water
1 stalk celery, chopped
Place all ingredients in cooker. Close cover securely. Place pressure regulator on vent pipe and COOK
15 MINUTES WITH A VERY SLOW, STEADY FLOW OF STEAM ESCAPING FROM THE
PRESSURE REGULATOR. Let pressure drop of its own accord. Remove pieces of chicken from
cooker and let cool. Skim off fat. Remove meat from bones and return meat to cooker. Heat through.
Nutrition Information Per Serving 4 servings
236 Calories, 9 g Fat, 104 mg Cholesterol
Delicious Soups From Chicken Soup...
CHICKEN SOUP STOCK — Strain Chicken Soup to make stock.
CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP — Add finely chopped carrot, celery, and onion to Chicken Soup. Salt
and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, add noodles and simmer, uncovered, 20 minutes.
4 servings
3
CHICKEN DUMPLING SOUP—Mix together 1 beaten egg, or 2 egg whites,
1
⁄2 cup skim milk. Stir in 11⁄8 cups flour. Drop mixture from teaspoon into bubbling Chicken Soup in
⁄4 teaspoon salt, and
cooker. Simmer dumplings uncovered 6 minutes.
4 servings
CHICKEN RICE SOUP — Add 2 cups cooked rice and 2 cups cooked diced vegetables of your choice
to Chicken Soup. Salt and pepper to taste. Heat through.
4 servings
10
BROWN BEEF SOUP
1
1
⁄2 pounds lean beef, cut into
1
⁄4 cup diced carrots
1 inch cubes 1 small bay leaf
1
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
6 cups water
1
1
⁄2 tablespoons salt 1 teaspoon parsley flakes
1
⁄2 cup diced onion
⁄8 teaspoon pepper
1
⁄4 cup chopped celery
Pour vegetable oil into cooker. Turn heat selector to medium and brown beef. Add water and bring to
a boil. Skim off fat. Add remaining ingredients. Close cover securely. Place pressure regulator on vent
pipe and COOK 15 MINUTES WITH A VERY SLOW, STEADY FLOW OF STEAM ESCAPING
FROM THE PRESSURE REGULATOR. Let pressure drop of its own accord.
Nutrition Information Per Serving 6 servings
122 Calories, 10 g Fat, 20 mg Cholesterol
Delicious Soups From Brown Beef Soup...
BROWN BEEF SOUP STOCK — Strain Brown Beef Soup to make stock.
ONION SOUP — Pour 3 tablespoons vegetable oil into cooker and sauté 1
ly sliced onions. Stir onions into 6 cups Brown Beef Soup Stock in cooker. Season with
1
⁄4 teaspoon pepper. Close cover securely. Place pressure regulator on vent pipe and COOK 2 MINUTES
WITH A VERY SLOW, STEADY FLOW OF STEAM ESCAPING FROM THE PRESSURE
REGULATOR. Let pressure drop of its own accord. Ladle into soup bowls. Top with Parmesan cheese.
If desired, garnish with croutons or toasted French bread.
6 servings
1
⁄2 cups thin-
VEGETABLE SOUP — Add 4 cups cooked diced veg tables of your choice to Brown Beef Soup. Salt
and pepper to taste and heat through.
8 servings
BEEF TOMATO SOUP — Add 2 cups tomato juice, 1 cucooked rice, and 1 teaspoon salt to Brown
Beef Soup. Heat through.
8 servings
BLACK BEAN SOUP
1
2 cups dried black beans 1
1
⁄4 cup vegetable oil
1 tablespoon salt 2 cups sliced carrots,
⁄2 teaspoons dried oregano
1
⁄2 teaspoon allspice
3
⁄4-inch thick
Water 4 cups chicken stock or broth
1 tablespoon olive or vegetable oil 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
1 cup chopped onion 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
3 clovesgarlic,minced •••••••
1-2 jalapeño chiles, seeded, 1 cup loosely packed fresh cilantro,
deveined, minced chopped
1 tablespoon chili powder Salt
1
Soak beans overnight in
⁄4 cup oil, 1 tablespoon salt, and water to well cover beans; drain. This is
necessary to prevent foaming and frothing, see page 31. Pour olive oil in pressure cooker. Sauté onion,
garlic, chiles, chili powder, oregano, and allspice for 2 minutes. Stir in carrots, beans, chicken stock,
brown sugar, and vinegar. Close cover securely. Place pressure regulator on vent pipe and COOK 15
MINUTES WITH A VERY SLOW, STEADY FLOW OF STEAM ESCAPING FROM THE
PRESSURE REGULATOR. Let pressure drop of its own accord. Remove 1 cup of bean mixture,
place in blender and purée until smooth. Return to pressure cooker and stir in fresh cilantro. Season
to taste with salt.
Nutrition Information Per Serving 8 servings
280 Calories, 10 g Fat, 0 mg Cholesterol
11
SEAFOOD GUMBO
1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 pound sole fillets, cut into
2 onions, coarsely chopped 2-inch pieces
3 tomatoes, skinned and 1 pound shrimp
coarsely chopped 3 stalks celery, sliced
1 clove garlic, minced 2 cups frozen, cut okra
2 sprigsparsley,chopped •••••••
1
1 teaspoon thyme
⁄4 cup tomato paste
2 cups chicken bouillon
Pour vegetable oil into cooker. Turn heat selector to medium and sauté onions. Stir in tomatoes, garlic,
parsley, thyme, and chicken bouillon. Close cover securely. Place pressure regulator on vent pipe and
COOK 3 MINUTES WITH A VERY SLOW, STEADY FLOW OF STEAM ESCAPING FROM
THE PRESSURE REGULATOR. Let pressure drop of its own accord. Place fish, shrimp, celery, and
okra in cooker. Close cover securely. Place pressure regulator on vent pipe and COOK 1 MINUTE
WITH A VERY SLOW, STEADY FLOW OF STEAM ESCAPING FROM THE PRESSURE
REGULATOR. Release pressure quickly. Gently stir in tomato paste and simmer, uncovered, to
thicken. Garnish with crab, if desired.
Nutrition Information Per Serving 8 servings
167 Calories, 4 g Fat, 127 mg Cholesterol
MINESTRONE
1
1
⁄2 pounds lean beef, cut into 1 clove garlic, minced
1-inchcubes •••••••
1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 16-ounce can cut green beans,
6 cups water drained
1 onion, diced 1 15-ounce jar Great Northern
2 carrots, sliced Beans
1
⁄4 cup chopped celery 1 8-ounce can tomatoes, cut
2 teaspoons salt into bite size pieces
1
⁄4 teaspoon pepper 4 ounces Polish sausage, thinly
2 tablespoons parsley flakes sliced
1 bay leaf 2 ounces fine noodles
1
1
⁄2 teaspoons sweet basil
Pour vegetable oil into cooker. Turn heat selector to medium and brown beef. Add water, onions, carrots, celery, salt, pepper, parsley flakes, bay leaf, sweet basil, and garlic. Close cover securely. Place
pressure regulator on vent pipe and COOK 15 MINUTES WITH A VERY SLOW, STEADY FLOW
OF STEAM ESCAPING FROM THE PRESSURE REGULATOR. Let pressure drop of its own
accord. Add green beans, great northern beans, tomatoes, Polish sausage, and noodles. SIMMER uncovered 10 MINUTES. Garnish with parmesan cheese, if desired.
Nutrition Information Per Serving 8 servings
319 Calories, 13 g Fat, 73 mg Cholesterol
12
POTATO SOUP
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1
⁄4 teaspoon dried basil
1 cupnelychoppedonions •••••••
1
⁄2 cup finely sliced celery 1 12-ounce can evaporated
4 cups peeled, diced potatoes skim milk
3 cups chicken broth Salt
1
⁄4 teaspoon white pepper
Heat vegetable oil in pressure cooker over medium heat. Sauté onion and celery until soft. Add all
remaining ingredients except evaporated skim milk to pressure cooker. Close cover securely. Place
pressure regulator on vent pipe and COOK 5 MINUTES WITH A VERY SLOW, STEADY FLOW
OF STEAM ESCAPING FROM THE PRESSURE REGULATOR. Let pressure drop of its own
accord. Remove 2 cups of potato mixture; place in blender or food processor and process until smooth.
Return to pressure cooker and stir in evaporated milk. Season to taste with salt.
Nutrition Information Per Serving 6 servings
160 Calories, 2 g Fat, 2 mg Cholesterol
ZESTY HOMEMADE CHILI
1
2 pounds ground beef
⁄2 teaspoon oregano
1 large onion, chopped 1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 green pepper, chopped 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 8-ounce can tomato sauce 1 teaspoon salt
1 cupwater •••••••
1 tablespoon chili powder 1 16-ounce can kidney beans,
1
⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper drained and rinsed
1
⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
Turn heat selector to medium and brown meat, onion, and green pepper. Add remaining ingredients except
kidney beans. Close cover securely. Place pressure regulator on vent pipe and COOK 5 MINUTES
WITH A VERY SLOW, STEADY FLOW OF STEAM ESCAPING FROM THE PRESSURE
REGULATOR. Let pressure drop of its own accord. Stir in kidney beans and heat through.
Nutrition Information Per Serving 8 servings
302 Calories, 15 g Fat, 76 mg Cholesterol
13
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