Can You Help Me Get Over My Fear of the Pressure Cooker?

Anjali Prasertong
Anjali Prasertong
Anjali Prasertong is a writer and public health dietitian focused on food systems, racial equity, and nutrition. Originally from Los Angeles, she has taught English in rural Japan, worked as a private chef in Malibu, and led an innovative city-funded corner store program in New Orleans that increased fresh food access in low-income neighborhoods. She was previously a contributing editor for The Kitchn, and currently lives in Denver with her husband and two kids.
Follow
published Feb 4, 2014
pinterest
comments
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Post Image
(Image credit: Faith Durand)

Q: I am scared to death of my pressure cooker. My first use of my pressure cooker produced stiff, gummy, unchewable venison swimming in flavorless broth. My husband now grimaces at the memory of the Valentine’s Day Venison Turned Pizza Night. Can you help me get over my fears of the dreaded pressure cooker?

I am fearful of the pressure and accidentally blowing a hole through the ceiling of my kitchen with the lid. And secondly, I am fearful of a repeat performance of the inedible venison. I really think the pressure cooker would help me put a meal on the table in considerably less time after a long day at work, so I’d love any advice you or your readers might have!

Sent by Beth

Editor: Beth, I also felt apprehensive about using a pressure cooker before I started using one, but now I can’t imagine weeknight cooking without it! Reading a reliable pressure cooker cookbook will help you get over some of your safety fears, and give you some tasty recipes to try.

Here’s a cookbook that we recommend, as well The Kitchn’s introduction to using a pressure cooker:

→ Pressure Cooker Perfection by America’s Test Kitchen
→ An Introduction to Pressure Cooking

Readers, do you have any advice for great cooking in a pressure cooker?

Next question?

Filed in:
Instant Pot
Cooking Methods