Whether you are looking to eat healthier or want a multi-use appliance, you can rely on to whip up staples like oatmeal, beans, and lentils. A pressure cooker is a must-have kitchen appliance that can get the job.
A pressure cooker is the best hands-off ways to get a meal on the table fast. It is designed to ensure you get faster cook times and consistent results. Moreover, it can shorten your cooking time by up to 60%, making it a lot easier for busy people to get a tasty meal quickly.
Just add the ingredients to the pot and cover it with the locking lid. When heated, it raises the boiling point of water and traps steam inside, which is how it decreases cook time by up to 60%. When cooking is finished, you can release the steam via manual pressure release valve or let it drop its own.
Gone are the days when pressure cookers could explode, leading to property damage or injuries. Latest pressure cookers provide various safety measures such as automatic steam venting. Therefore they are perfectly safe to use.
There are different types of models made from different materials with a wide range of features. Here is our complete buying guide for the Best Pressure Cookers in India that can simplify your task of choosing the best one.
Top 10 Pressure Cookers In India 2020
| Pressure Cookers | Capacity (Litres) | Locking Type | Warranty (Years) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Hawkins Contura | 3 | Inner | 5 |
 | Borosil Pronto | 5 | Inner | 5 |
 | Prestige Deluxe | 3.3 | Outer | 5 |
 | Hawkins H56 Hevibase | 5 | Inner | 5 |
 | Prestige Nakshatra | 2 | Inner | 5 |
 | Hawkins CL11 Classic | 10 | Inner | 5 |
 | Butterfly Blue Line | 3 | Outer | 5 |
 | Stovekraft Deluxe | 12 | Outer | 5 |
 | Prestige Deluxe Alpha | 3 | Outer | 10 |
 | Stovekraft Inox | 3 | Outer | 5 |
Which Are The Top 10 Best Pressure Cookers In India 2020?
1. Hawkins Contura Hard Anodised Aluminium Pressure Cooker
Product Description
| Capacity: 3 L | Colour: Black (Exterior Mirror Polish) |
| Lid Type: Inner | Shape: Curved |
| Body Material: Aluminium | Base Thickness: 3.25 mm |
| Base Flat Diameter: 130mm | Height: 177mm |
| Weight: 1.9 kg | Warranty: 5 Years |
| Ideal For: 3 to 4 Persons | Dimensions: 34.29 x 20.32 x 17.27 cm |
Made of durable anodized aluminium and food-grade stainless steel with an attractive easy to clean satin finish, this well-built pressure cooker makes a cool replacement for your grandmother’s traditional pressure cooker.
Hawkins is a leading manufacturer of pressure cookers and other cookware. They market their products with series names of Futura, Hawkins, Contura, Big Boy, Ventura, and Hevibase. Its black finish given by 60 microns makes it absorb heat faster by making it energy-efficient.
The cooker has a curved body design with a broad opening that helps in easy stirring and clean-up. For difficult recipes which need a lot of stirring, this Contura pressure cooker is a perfect choice. Moreover, it comes with cool-to-touch handles that are easy and comfortable to hold while cooking.
It meets high safety standards and comes with an automatic safety valve that deflected steam and food safely downward. With this anodized pressure cooker use less water for cooking a meal and thus preserving the nutritive value of your food.
Pros
- This Contura pressure cooker is safe and energy-efficient.
- New improved pressure regulator - Regulates pressure better and cooks faster.
- Doesn't corrode or react with food.
- Cookbook consists of a variety of recipes.
- Curved body for better visibility and easy cleaning.
Cons
- It isn't compatible with an induction cooktop.
2. Borosil Pronto Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker
Product Description
| Capacity: 5 L | Base Thickness: 7mm |
| Dimensions: 44 x 21.3 x 14 cm | Weight: 2.12 kg |
| Handle Material: Bakelite | Inner Layer: SS304 Food Grade |
| Middle Core: Aluminium | Outer Core: Induction Compatible Stainless Steel |
| Suitable For: 5-6 members | Warranty: 5 Years |
The Borosil Pronto delivers on its promises for a reasonable price tag. This curved body shape cooker helps in cooking and cleaning easy. Its body is made of SS 304 food-grade material. Thus you can cook dal/rice or vegetables on the induction or gas stove.
In terms of safety, the cooker’s safety lid doesn’t open until pressure is released. Also, there is a safety valve under the handle for steam deflection. It features anti-bulge base layers – SS304 Food Grade inner body, middle aluminium core, and outer induction friendly bottom.
The handles are made of Bakelite for convenience and comfort to hold while cooking. Also, ergonomic designing of handles make it easy to grip. It is energy efficient and preserves nutrients due to its shorter cooking times.
This Borosil cooker is made in India and certified by ISI that implies that it conforms to all quality parameters ensuring safety.
Pros
- Unique 7mm thick base.
- Saves fuel with efficient cooking.
- Long-lasting gasket.
- Sturdy build quality.
- Ideal pressure cooker.
- Easy to clean - wider opening.
- Supports induction base.
3. Prestige Deluxe Plus Mini Induction Base Pressure Handis
Product Description
| Capacity: 3.3 L | Model Name: Deluxe Plus |
| Lid Type: Outter | Base Thickness: 3.5mm |
| Lid Lock: Knob Lock | Colour: Black |
| Weight: 1.4 kg | Height: 4.92 kg |
| Warranty: 5 Years | Body Material: Aluminium |
| Dimensions: 39.21 x 20 x 17.44 cm | |
The right curvature of the Prestige Deluxe Plus Mini Hard Anodised cooker is quite beneficial. You can stir the food easily before pressure cooking. Also, it prevents food from burning or sticking. The induction base of the cooker is designed to distribute heat without heat spots.
Its outer lid is built from virgin aluminium that is hard anodized for aesthetic looks and durability. With precision weight valve, it releases pressure above 1 kg/cm2, that makes cooking safe.
The Controlled Gasket Release System (CGRS) is the second level of safety. In case of any blockage of the vent tube, the CGRS releases the steam from cooktop. And the third level of safety sports a safety plug that is top fitted to the lid for releasing excess pressure when it rises above safety level.
For ensuring extra safety, it sports unique pressure indicator that gives a visual indication of pressure level. The handi design adds little to the price, but considering the ease of cleaning and design, it is worth it.
Pros
- The hard anodized body makes it long-lasting.
- Suitable with induction stoves.
- Double screw solid handles.
- Healthy appliance because food acids don't react with the material.
- It is good enough to make 1.5-2 kg chicken/mutton.
Cons
- Some users complaint that pressure valve came off after use.
4. Hawkins - H56 Hevibase Aluminum Induction Model Pressure Cooker
Product Description
| Capacity: 5 L | Model Name: Hevibase |
| Lid Type: Inner | Body Material: Aluminium |
| Dishwasher Safe: Yes | Colour: Sliver |
| Base Thickness: 6.35 mm | Base Flat Diameter: 163.5mm |
| Weight: 3.08 kg | Finish: Exterior Mirror Polished |
| Warranty: 5 Years | |
Being durable cookware, the Hawkins H56 Hevibase pressure cooker delivers long-lasting cooking performance. Its double-thick, heavy-gauge base allows it to stay flat thus ensures even spreading of heat. It is ideal for light frying before pressure cooking.
The cooker is made of aluminium and has a capacity of 5 litres. It can handle heavy-duty tasks that make it durable model. The best thing is that it can be used on any cooktop – gas, electric, ceramic and halogen cooktops.
Also, it comes with an improved pressure regulator through which it saves more fuel.
Pros
- Made from pure virgin aluminium.
- Suitable for gas stove and electric cooktops.
- Super-fast cooking.
- Inside fitting safety lid.
- Flat base for better efficiency.
Cons
- Made from aluminium thus chances of reacting with food ingredients.
5. Prestige Nakshatra Aluminum Pressure Cooker
Product Description
| Capacity: 2 L | Colour: Red |
| Lid Type: Inner | Body Material: Aluminium |
| Base Thickness: 3mm | Height: 1.9 inch |
| Warranty: 1.02 kg | Dimensions: 36 x 22 x 16 cm |
Prestige is the evergreen name in the Indian market as the quality of their products and service are known to be consistent and everlast. This Nakshatra Cute pressure cooker not only helps you dish out great food as well as looks great. Its unique design with wide base assures less spillage when food is transferred from the cooker and makes stirring easy.
Its base is stainless steel perforated plate, machined pressed to cooker base. Thus suitable for induction cooktops and gas stoves. With the first level of safety feature, precision weight valve releases pressure above 1 kg/cm2 that makes cooking safe. And the second safety level feature metallic safety lid fitted on the top lid to release excess pressure.
Pros
- Comfortable handles.
- Wider opening helps in easy stirring.
- Lightweight and stylish design.
- Ideal for bachelors and couples.
- Prime safety features.
Cons
- Some users find it difficult to stir as it is small.
6. Hawkins CL11 Classic 10 Lts Pressure Cooker With Separators
Product Description
| Capacity: 10 L | Colour: Silver |
| Lid Type: Inner | Body Material: Aluminium |
| Base Thickness: 3.25mm | Model Name: Classic CL11 |
| Warranty: 3.86 kg | Dimensions: 45.72 x 27.94 x 27.94 cm |
This multi-cooker allows you to cook two or more dishes at the same time. The Hawkins Classic with separator is available in three different capacities 5, 6.5 and 10 litres. You can save time and fuel by using separator to cook multiple recipes at a time. It is the top-choice cookware due to unbeatable toughness and style.
It comes with a goof-proof lid that seals from the inside and ensures greater safety. Also, there is a safety valve under the lid handlebar so that steam deflected downward safely. Its pressure regulating system reduces the sprouting of frothy foods.
The rubber gasket has minimum exposure to steam inside and doesn’t rub whenever opened or closed. Its stay-cool handles are comfortable to hold during cooking. During the cooking process protection from excessive heat is offered by these handles. The metal rivets and screw are recessed safely for limiting the chances of the hit metal coming into contact with your hand. This cooker will seem to be new even after years of use.
Pros
- Shielded Safety valve.
- Suitable for gas, electric, halogen and ceramic cooktops.
- Quick and easy way to cook food.
- Inside fitting safety lid will not open till the pressure falls.
- Cooks 3 dishes at a time.
Cons
- Bulky in weight but premium in quality.
7. Butterfly Blue Line Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker
Product Description
| Capacity: 3 L | Colour: Silver |
| Lid Type: Inner | Body Material: Stainless Steel |
| Weight: 2.24 kg | Warranty: 5 Years |
| Lid Lock: Unidirectional | Gasket Material: Food Grade Rubber |
The butterfly is one of the famous brand names among the Indian homemakers. Going through various improvements through time, these pressure cookers are popular for their design and performance. It is suitable to work on both induction stoves, and regular stoves, the build of the cooker is unparalleled.
The base of the pressure cooker is like a thick capsule that helps resist high heat to avoids burning of food. With a capacity of 5 litres, you can cook food for 4 to 6 people, so ideal for large families as well.
Its stay-cool handles feature a lock arrangement for unidirectional rotation. Therefore you don’t have to worry about the opening of cooker by mistake or due to excessive pressure. If the pressure valve fails to work due to blockage, the gasket vent comes with a safety valve for removing excess pressure.
Pros
- Gasket release system serves as an additional safety feature.
- Easy to clean and handle.
- ISO certified to assure safety and quality.
- Fast in operation due to thick and bold base.
Cons
- Sometimes whistle may fail to give buzzing sound.
8. Pigeon by Stovekraft Deluxe Aluminium Pressure Cooker
Product Description
| Capacity: 12 L | Model Name: Deluxe |
| Base Type: Non-Induction Base | Lid Type: Outer Lid |
| Height: 435mm | Warranty: 5 Years |
| Colour: Silver | Dimensions: 28.8 x 44 x 33.2 cm |
This large quantity of cooker is specially designed to cook large quantities of food quickly. It is suitable for large families and hosting dinner parties. The body material of the cooker is the best food grade alloy. It helps retains the nutritional value of the cooked food. Moreover, its robust quality makes it unique among its rivals. It is an ideal companion for healthy and safe cooking.
It features an ergonomic handle for better grip and lets you cook in ease from the heat. The cooker is made with virgin aluminium that is light in weight and long-lasting. Its wide round shape proves to be suitable for cooking various Indian recipes.
Its anti-deflecting bottom enhances thermal efficiency and cuts fuel costs. Apart from that, the handles are ergonomically designed for better grip, comfort and convenience. The cooker is designed in such a way to release pressure safely while cooking to save energy and time.
Pros
- Metallic safe plug to ensure cooking experience safe and easy.
- Stain-resistant - easy to clean.
- Sturdy handles provide extra grip and comfort.
Cons
- It isn't compatible for induction stoves.
9. Prestige Deluxe Alpha Outer Lid Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker
Product Description
| Capacity: 3 L | Model Name: Deluxe Alpha |
| Body Material: Stainless Steel | Lid Lock: Knob Lock |
| Lid Type: Outter | Height: 1.9 inch |
| Warranty: 10 Years | Dimensions: 38.1 x 20.32 x 20.32 cm |
| Weight: 2.09 kg | |
This sturdy, durable Prestige Alpha Deluxe is traditionally designed to be safe and stylish. It has a heavyweight, high-quality stainless steel body that helps in faster cooking. From preparing rice to steaming vegetables, this multipurpose cooker is the perfect cooking companion.
Keeping safety in mind, the cooker features a precision weight valve. It helps in releasing the excess steam whenever it increases above 1 kg/cm2. Apart from that, it has a metallic safety plug to keep things checked along with a pressure indicator that tells about the correct time to open the pressure cooker.
Also, it comes with a controlled gasket release system that releases the pressure in case of vent blockage. It is the best pressure cooker for Indian dishes. You can cook everything from dal to delicious chicken dishes.
Pros
- Double screw handle to ensure durability.
- Alpha base for even heat distribution.
- Available in various sizes.
- Compatible with induction top and a gas top.
- Pressure regulator and safety plug.
- Multipurpose use.
Cons
- It is a bit heavy with a weight of 2.09 kg.
10. Pigeon by Stovekraft Inox Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker
Product Description
| Capacity: 3 L | Model Name: Inox |
| Body Material: Stainless Steel | Colour: Silver |
| Lid Type: Outter | Base Thickness: 3mm |
| Base Material: 3 Layer | Warranty: 5 Years |
Stove Kraft Limited is a reputed manufacturer of cookware and kitchen appliances under the flagship of Pigeon brand. This Inox pressure cooker brings to the elegance and dazzle of stainless steel. With stainless steel sandwich base, it offers efficient heat distribution. Moreover, it cooks food faster on all type of heat sources ad gives maximum utility.
The cooker is made with a three-layer system – high-grade SS layer assures food to remain safe, the second layer of aluminium ensures even heating, and the third layer gives induction compatibility. Also, the cooker has a lead free valve and sturdy handles that got the length of distance.
Pros
- Faster cooking.
- Five years warranty.
- Suitable for all types of heat sources.
- Food grade nitrile gasket.
- Ideal pressure cooker for a nuclear family.
- Durable handles.
Cons
- Bulky size.
Types Of Pressure Cooker
Stove Top Pressure Cooker
A traditional gas stove pressure cooker uses heat and high temperatures to boil the water and trap the steam inside to increase the pressure. It is a slow process, but with high pressure, the cooking time can be reduced by a vast extent. These pressure cookers usually have lesser customizability with just a knob to controlling internal pressure.
These are cheaper and don’t require a hefty power bill to function. However, the gas bill may rise, but this will happen with any stovetop cooker.
Electric Pressure Cooker
It uses electricity to produce low or high pressure within a cooker. They usually have a lot more options as compared to stovetop cookers. These cookers cost more but durable.
The best about it is that it comes with various preset menus. However, they may take a bit longer to heat up and constant attention.
How To Choose The Best Pressure Cooker In India?
A pressure cooker is indeed the most important kitchen appliance that cannot be denied by any homemaker.
There are several factors to be checked out to get the best pressure cooker in India that ensures quality and safety.
1. Material
The pressure cookers are mainly three types based on the material used.
Stainless steel Pressure Cooker – As the name suggests, these cookers are built from stainless steel – more durable and stronger than aluminium. They are a bit expensive due to their durability and strength. Its finishing touch lasts long and will seem like new even after years. Moreover, it doesn’t react with acidic ingredients of the food and safe to use. You can pick Prestige Popular or Hawkins Stainless Steel Cooker.
The downside is that it takes more time and energy to cook food as stainless steel is not good at conducting heat.
Aluminium Pressure Cooker – These aluminium cookers are affordable and a great conductor of heat. However, aluminium is a lightweight metal, so these pressure cookers don’t have long-lasting durability. Being reactive, it may react to acidic ingredients present in the food.
Hard-Anodized Aluminium Pressure Cooker – These anodized pressure cookers are made reliable and tougher by anodization. It is a scientific process where aluminium cookware goes through the process of electrolysis at high-intensity electric current and sub-zero temperature to form a layer of aluminium oxide.
The Hard Anodized layer has some amazing aspects. It is energy-efficient, less-stick, scratch-resistant, durable, easy to clean, and non-toxic. Moreover, it does not react with acidic foods.
- Not good conductor of heat.
- Induction cooking top friendly.
- Does not react to acidic foods.
- Does not alter the test of food .
- Expensive compared to aluminium.
- Great conductor of heat.
- Not Induction cooktop friendly.
- React with acidic ingredients of the food.
- May alter the test of food.
- Less expensive as compared to others.
- Bad conductor of heat.
- Some of them are induction stove friendly.
- Non-reactive to acidic ingredients of foods.
- Non-toxic, safe to use.
- Comparatively a bit costly.
- Less sticky, easy to clean.
2. Capacity
A pressure cooker is measured in terms of litres. Size is an important factor to consider while buying a pressure cooker for your home. Depending on the size of family or number of peoples cookers are divided into a public and domestic category. The pressure cooker that ranges from 1 to 11 litres capacity is perfect for home use.
- Families with 2 to 3 members can pick up 2 to 5 litres pressure cooker. Keeping in mind, usage frequency and requirement during the occasion, a 7-litre cooker do fine on every occasion.
- Families with 3 to 5 members can choose 3 to 6 litres cooker. And 8-litre cooker will be sufficient to keep up even during occasions and events.
- Families with 4 to 7 members can choose 4 to 8 litres cooker for daily purposes. A 10-litre cooker is suitable to make up for occasions.
3. Durability
A pressure cooker is a long term investment – you will not buy a pressure cooker every year. So durability is must to look while choosing. The Hard Anodized and stainless steel pressure cookers are sturdy and long-lasting. Prestige popular, Pigeon, Borosil and Hawkins Stainless Steel Pressure Cookers are great option.
4. Inner Lid Or Outer Lid
There are two types of model based on lid type – Inner Lid and Outer Lid. The inner lid units have lids that go inside the pressure cooker when it is closed. On the other side, the outer lids have lids that stay out of the cooker premises. The smaller capacity cookers usually come with inner lids whereas the larger ones have outer lids.
The inner lid pressure cooker is a better option because they add on the extra pressure of the cooker. Also safer since they are closed with a lock system.
5. Ergonomic Handles
A pressure cooker becomes heavy after the food is cooked and hot, that makes it difficult to hold with bare hands. Therefore, you need to check the handle material and length. Choose a cooker that has two handles at both the side of the cooker to hold it and shift places easily.
6. Health Factor
Indian food contains a lot of acidic content and salt. Choose a cooker that not react to the acids present in cooking ingredients. So must make sure that your cooker does not react to the ingredients. It is good to buy anodized and stainless steel pressure cooker since they are non-reactive.
7. Avoid Non-stick Coating
If you want to have the cooker for a long time, you need to check if they are free from any kind of non-stick coating since non-stick coating wears off pretty soon and doesn’t last.
8. Compatibility
Now, induction cooktops are very popular, and people have been adopting it in a great proportion. However, you can’t use a normal utensil for cooking on the induction stove. If you use induction stove for cooking, must check whether the cooker is compatible with it or not.
Dishwasher safe – Hard anodized utensils are not dishwasher safe. Aluminium and Stainless steel cookers are safe to use in dishwasher. Thus look for the words ‘Dishwasher Safe’ in the product description.
9. Safety Features
Safety is a crucial factor for every home and kitchen appliances, and so does it comes first when cooking. Latest pressure cookers provide many safety features.
- If overpressure occurs cookers vent excess steam from a valve stem.
- If the pressure extended to rise the sealing gasket on the lid would be pushed out through a safety aperture in the lid safely venting the pressure.
Also, check for ISI mark or other standard safety certification.
10. Warranty
Generally, in India, best kitchen appliances brands offer a good warranty period. Check for the warranty available for the pressure cooker. Another important factor to consider is the accessories and replacing parts that are not covered under by manufacturer in the warranty period. So make sure they do have accessories in stock if you need replacement.
Tips For Cooking Safely Using a Pressure Cooker
- Go through the instructions even if you don’t feel its need, still read manual as it’ll make you clear for cooker usage.
- Keep the pressure cooker clean before putting ingredients in it. Also, check the lids of cooker that they are in its place.
- Add ingredient only to two-third to avoid blocking of the vents – don’t overfill the cooker.
- Add sufficient amount of water as pressure cooker cooks on steam.
- Close the lid properly and assure that valve is closed in its proper position.
- While cooking is over, first release the pressure before you open the lid.
- Open the cover in the opposite direction to your face to avoid steam hitting your face.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Are The Common Pressure Cooker Problems?
Like other appliances, a pressure cooker also encounters several issues. Here is the list of pressure cooker problems:
- Steam leaking and preventing the pressure build-up
- Cooking takes longer – any damaged part or damaged mechanism can reduce the pressure cooker efficiency.
- Damage gasket or rusty valve
- Facing difficulty while opening the lid
- Vapours along with rim or oozing out water
2. Can I Cook Small Amount Of Food In High Capacity Pressure Cooker?
The duration of time consumed by both small and big sized cookers is the same. Therefore, it depends on your preference. However, small cooker cost lesser and convenient to use.
3. Does It Safe To Wash Pressure Cooker In Dishwasher?
Yes, stainless steel pressure cooker and hard anodized aluminium cookers are safe to wash in dishwasher.
