Kuhn Rikon Duromatic 5.25-Quart Pressure Cooker

Bottom Line

The Kuhn Rikon Duromatic is the Rolls Royce of pressure cookers; it costs more than twice as much as some other models, but also offers high-quality construction, several safety features, a 10-year warranty and nearly flawless usability. Despite several glowing reviews, the high price prevents this model from ranking higher in some reviewers' ratings, and it also lacks user reviews at most online shopping sites.

Performance

High marks all-around. All reviewers point out that the Kuhn Rikon is a very high quality piece of equipment. They praise its sturdy stainless-steel construction and aluminum base, which contributes to even cooking. The Kuhn Rikon also comes with an almost unheard of 10-year warranty, and the only part that seems to break regularly is a decorative piece around the release valve (it is not required in order to use the cooker). One owner notes that Kuhn Rikon has replaced this piece for her twice over the 17 years she's had her Duromatic. In general, reviewers say it cooks very well.

Ease of Use

Intuitive operation. The Kuhn Rikon is exceptionally easy to use, according to reviewers, thanks to its easy-on, easy-off lid and simple pressure gauge. According to Laura Pazzaglia of HipPressureCooking.com, the owner's manual is easy to follow and offers many recommended cooking times. One downfall is that the user must hold down the pressure release valve continuously for a couple minutes after cooking. The cooker is hand-wash only, but reviewers say it comes apart easily for cleaning.

Appearance

Brings glamor to this otherwise boring appliance category. Compared to some other pressure cooker models -- generally a very staid category -- the Kuhn Rikon Duromatic is practically glitzy. The high-sheen exterior is simple and modern. Pazzaglia says, "The design is sleek and immediately recognizable. [It's] styled like a futuristic Moroccan Tajine."

Safety

Numerous safety precautions. The Kuhn Rikon Duromatic generally gets high marks for its safety features. They include two pressure-release safety valves, a nub that prevents the cooker from reaching pressure if the lid is not properly secured, a self-locking gasket and two cutouts in the lid that would release some of the pot's contents should all other safety measures fail. One reviewer does point out that it's difficult to position these two overflow cutouts away from the cook, as instructed. However, there are no user reports of these safety features becoming a necessity.