What Can You Do with a Standard Pressure Cooker That You Can't With an Electric One?

As I have discovered, a standard pressure cooker has its unique charm and versatility that an electric pressure cooker often can’t match. There are several tasks and scenarios where a manual pressure cooker shines, offering features that are simply not available in electric models. Let's explore these differences and the advantages of using a standard pressure cooker.

Features and Limitations of Standard Pressure Cookers

1. Outdoor Cooking: With a standard pressure cooker, you can cook without electricity, making it an ideal choice for outdoor camping, barbecues, or during power outages. This versatility means that you can enjoy your favorite meals in any situation, as long as you have a source of fire or an open flame. Electric pressure cookers, while convenient, require a power source, which might not be readily available in these settings.

2. Dishwasher Compatibility: Another advantage of standard pressure cookers is their ability to go in the dishwasher. This feature makes it easier to clean up after a meal, as all you need to do is pop the lid and accessories in with the dishes. Electric pressure cookers, on the other hand, often have components that are not dishwasher safe, requiring manual cleaning.

3. Rainproof Operation: Unlike electric pressure cookers, standard models can be used even if they get wet. While it’s generally not advisable to take an electric pressure cooker in the rain, a standard cooker can withstand some water exposure. This feature is particularly useful in outdoor scenarios.

4. Global Adaptability: The great thing about standard pressure cookers is that they can be used in any country, as they are not affected by different electrical standards. Electric pressure cookers, however, may come with specific regional voltage requirements, which could be troublesome when traveling abroad.

5. Outdoor Water Collection: A lesser-known but quite interesting feature of standard pressure cookers is their ability to scoop water from a stream, lake, or river. While this might not be a common task, it’s a useful option in survival or emergency situations where you need to purify water for cooking.

6. Sound and Enjoyment: Using a standard pressure cooker can be an entertaining experience for the kids. Letting them bang on it like a drum can be a fun addition to the cooking process, while also keeping them engaged and entertained. This might not be the case with electric models, which are more serious and less playful.

Features and Limitations of Electric Pressure Cookers

1. Lack of High Heat: Electric pressure cookers, while incredibly convenient, often do not reach the high temperatures that a standard model can. For example, a typical electric pressure cooker maxes out at around 230°F (110°C), while a standard one can reach much higher temperatures, making it suitable for tasks like searing and pressure frying. Chicken outlets like KFC use the latter for pressure frying to achieve the perfect texture and crispiness.

2. Limited Functions: Electric pressure cookers usually have a pre-programmed set of functions, which limit the range of dishes you can make. A standard pressure cooker can be used as a regular pan on a regular stove, allowing you to sear at high heat over gas. This flexibility adds an extra layer of versatility to the cooking experience.

3. Difficulty in Searing: Another limitation of electric pressure cookers is their inability to get hot enough for searing. When making stock, the resulting fond (the browned bits on the bottom of the pan) can be a crucial ingredient, but it can only be properly developed with a standard pressure cooker due to the higher temperatures it can achieve.

Price and Availability

Speaking of electric pressure cookers, the price has dropped significantly. At $60, a high-quality one can be a great investment. For those considering a larger model, the Ninja Power Pressure Cooker XL is worth a look. Although manual pressure cookers are still available, they offer a unique set of benefits that electric models cannot match.

Conclusion

While electric pressure cookers are undoubtedly convenient, a standard model offers a range of advantages that make it worth considering, especially in specific scenarios. Whether it's outdoor cooking, ease of cleaning, or the ability to sear and pressure fry, a standard pressure cooker provides a level of versatility that is simply not available in its electric counterpart.