PRESSURE COOKING 101
So what is a pressure cooker? And why do I use one? I have one really good reason: It’s the most time and energy efficient tool I own! Essentially, a pressure cooker is much like most other conventional cooking pots and serves the same purpose. However, the lid and its components cause the pot to completely seal, not allowing any water or steam to evaporate. When the water reaches its boiling point, the steam pressurizes. What you end up with is higher cooking temperature and much, much shorter cooking times, usually about 70%. For example, black beans in a traditional pot (without overnight soaking) would take about 3-4 hours. In the pressure cooker, it has taken me no longer than an hour, at the absolute most. Steaks, meats, potatoes, and other foods take less than half the standard cooking time. I love that.
