Pressure Cookers: Reviews

The solidly built Fagor Duo is considerably less expensive than other highly rated pressure cookers and in tests the Fagor Duo pressure cookers perform just as well. Owners say this pressure cooker's lid is easy to attach… and lock in place; owners also like the cooker's yellow indicator, which reveals when correct cooking pressure has been reached. The Fagor Duo 8 Quart pressure cooker has a wide, stainless-steel base that's ideal for browning ingredients before cooking, and its aluminum core distributes heat evenly to reduce the risk of scorching. The Fagor Duo has two pressure settings, an easy-to-read pressure indicator and an instant pressure-release valve. It comes with a stainless-steel steamer basket and a well-written manual. Fagor also makes the Duo in a 4-quart, 6-quart and 10-quart sizes, and backs all its pressure cookers with a 10-year warranty.

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Like the Fagor Duo, the Presto pressure cooker has pressure indicators, quick pressure release and a stainless-steel steamer basket; however, it has only one pressure setting. One professional review says the short… handles get too hot and ingredients are prone to scorching while sauteing in the pot, but owners say that they are surprised by the quality of this no-frills cooker, given its low price. Presto also makes stainless-steel pressure cookers in 4-quart and 8-quart sizes. Larger cookers intended for canning, as well as less expensive, lightweight aluminum models are also available. Presto offers an impressive 12-year limited warranty on all its pressure cookers.

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Overall, expert reviewers say stovetop pressure cookers are a better bet since they allow you to check on a dish's progress along the way. The Cuisinart CPC-600 seals during cooking, however, so you cannot check on a dish… or add additional ingredients. Electric models do have other perks, though, such as digital controls that allow you to set cooking time and pressure settings. The 6-quart Cuisinart Electric Pressure Cooker comes with a digital thermostat and timer that stovetop pressure cookers don't have. It has two pressure settings and an automatic pressure release. In one professional review, the Cuisinart CPC-600 rivaled the best stovetop pressure cooker they tested. One downside is price; the 6-quart Cuisinart pressure cooker costs twice as much as some larger stovetop cookers.

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