Call it quick pot, pressure cooker, steam pot, express pot… in the end, it is this pan that minimizes the cooking time as if it were magic, and allows you to enjoy all those dishes that you would otherwise eat only in restaurants, or when you go on vacation to the village.
We all make mouth watering thinking about those slow-cooking meals: spoon dishes, grandma’s stews, stews that are spent for hours on fire… and yes, all that is great, but at the moment of truth there is no one who can sit all morning watching lentils or prepare a stew of those before. No need to do this. For what, if you can achieve the same effect with an express pot?
In addition, using an express cooker is very simple. Since the time of our grandparents, technology has evolved, and safety and efficiency are much better. That’s why it’s the right time to rediscover the menus of a lifetime and put a state-of-the-art express pot in our kitchen.
The 10 best express pots in 2021
1. WMF Perfect Plus
If you use the fast pot a lot a good option is to buy a set that allows you to use the pressure cap with different container sizes.
This is the case with the WMF Perfect Plus, which includes a 6.5 L body and a 3 l body (there is also a 4.5 + 3 liter version). That is, a high pot and a low pot to choose depending on what you are going to cook.
They are made of 18/10 stainless steel with Cromargan polishing. With thermally conductive base (TransTherm universal patent) suitable for all types of cookers, including induction cookers.
The pressing mechanism is on the handle, made of synthetic material. The safety valve and cooking indicator are protected by seals, preventing steam from damaging and fouling them. The handle is disassembled from the lid for easy cleaning.
The indicators show the two possible cooking levels: 110° on a first orange ring for vegetables, fish or chicken and 119° on the second ring for meat and harder foods. And there is also a yellow indicator to warn of residual pressure. On both sides of the button, there is a tab to open and close, allowing steam to come out.
If you are not interested in combining two pots, the WMF Perfect model has the same features as this one, with slight design variations.
2. WMF Perfect
The German brand WMF is famous for two things: its knives and kitchen utensils. So it’s no wonder that their fast cookers are comfortable, easy to use and sturdy. The WMF Perfect model is the classic of the brand: the typical pot “for life”.
The model we offer is 6.5 liters, more than enough to make the typical dishes of the pressure cooker: legumes, cooked, broths, etc.consist of consistent recipes that are normally cooked in large quantities. But you can also buy different versions between 2.5 and 8.5 liters. Here the capacity of the container varies, but the lid remains the same (except for the smaller model, with a smaller diameter)
The pot is made of 18/10 stainless steel, and has a base suitable for all types of cookers, including induction. In addition, it has a mark inside so that you never overfill the container to interfere with the proper operation of the system.
The lid has a removable handle for easy cleaning, and you can choose between two levels of cooking. Of course, it has a safety system and a progressive steam output system.
The pot can be tucked into the dishwasher, although the manufacturer recommends removing the handle and cooking gasket from the lid, which are the most delicate parts and require some maintenance.
The WMF Perfect is basically the same as the WMF Perfect Plus, but with a slightly more classic design. The best thing is that both models are interchangeable, so you can combine the lid from one container to another with complete freedom.
In addition to the 6.5 L pot, this WMF Perfect has a separate 3 L body that allows cooking for 2 or 3 people.
3. Monix Presto Duo
In the catalog of pressure cookers of the Monix brand, the Monix Selecta is presented as a super fast cooker.
The explanation is that, while most modern express pots have two pressure levels, the Selecta model includes a progressive selector that allows you to regulate the pressure and type of cooking to your liking.
This is what they called the Select & Cook system, which is essentially a thread that you twist until you find the desired level. The system is the simplest in the world, but make no mistake: it is efficient and offers more customization possibilities than most express jars. Something that the most “kitchens” will appreciate for sure.
If on the other hand your thing is not complicated, you can always opt for models such as Monix Veloce or Monix Quick.
This time the selected jar is presented with two container sizes, four and six liters of capacity, at a very attractive price. Both made of stainless steel and suitable for any type of kitchen, even induction. If you are looking for only one pot instead of two, the available sizes vary between 4 and 9 liters.
The design of the Monix Selecta is original and plays with colors, especially thanks to the yarn that stands out visually. It also includes small designs or icons on the lid that not only help better functioning of the jar, but adds an informal note in the design.
4. Kuhn Rikon Duromatic
Aesthetically, the Kuhn Rikon Duromatic recalls the express jars of a lifetime, the ones that grandmothers handled by adjusting them to the wire.
But this is where the similarities end, because the truth is that this pot allows for gentle cooking at low pressure or fast cooking at high pressure. That is, it works like a normal express pot.
And all this without having to handle practically any button, since the pot itself does almost on its own: the safety lock is automatic and it is simply necessary to know that the central indicator rises to choose the type of cooking. It also includes a triple lock to control overpressure.
Designed for any type of kitchen, the superthermal base distributes heat evenly and preserves the taste and qualities of food.
This model incorporates short handles on both sides of the pan, but you can also opt for a model with a handle and even attach to a pan-of the same brand, obviously – for pressure cooking. Available sizes range from 2.5 liters to 8 liters.
In short: an express pot made in Switzerland that works, of course, like a clock.
5. Magefesa Practika Plus
The Magefesa brand is one of those of all life, almost synonymous with olla express, which has been able to recycle over time in the market of fast and super fast pots. This is the case of the Magefesa Practica plus trio, a very complete set that will solve all our needs for fast and healthy cooking in one fell swoop.
Although the word “trio ” appears in its name, we are actually dealing with a set of two jars that share the same lid. So we can play with two different sizes to chain prepared or store the pot directly in the refrigerator without giving up the pressure cooker. If two pots seem too much to us, then pots of 3, 2, 6 and 7.5 liters can also be purchased separately.
As usual, it is made of stainless steel and has two levels of cooking depending on the pressure, the haste we have and the type of food we are going to cook.
To make us safe, it has five safety mechanisms: automatic closing system, pressure sensor, safety valve, pressure regulating valve and window on the lid.
Its lower thermodifuser responds well in any type of kitchen: gas, electric, vitro and induction.
6. Monix Quick
The Monix brand appears several times in our list of recommended by its own merits: reliable, safe and very durable express jars. This is normal in an express jar, which is usually almost the subject of an inheritance, but in the case of Monix we know without a doubt that we are buying something of recognized quality.
This model from the Monix quick range adds the advantage of being a set of pots, one of 4 and one of 6 liters, so that we cook with the size that interests us the most at all times.
For the rest: stainless steel in the container body, diffuser bottom, dishwasher, two pressure levels for cooking and four safety systems, including the lid opening lock.
The lid opens in the form of a bayonet, that is, horizontally with a click system located on the handle. The handles and knobs are replaceable and the Monix brand itself has spare parts available from everything, insisting again on this idea that it is a pot to last for many years, as long as proper maintenance is carried out.
7. Elo Praktika XS
The pot of the Elo Praktica XS is only 2.7 l, a size far removed from the usual 5/6 liters that are usually seen in express pots.
These large sizes respond to the idea that an express pot is for cooking “fat”, but the truth is that the new models are so simple to use that there is no reason not to use it every day, Cook smaller portions and eat fresh every day.
Inside the container we find a level mark that warns us not to overfill the jar. This is fundamental in any express pot, but more in a small one in which you need to optimize all the available space: if we fill the pot to excess, it will not cook properly.
The cylindrical base uses energy better than a flat model and responds well to induction or any other system.
As usual in this type of pots, it allows you to choose between two pressure levels. It has a quick steam outlet valve for easy opening.
Although the German brand Elo is not particularly known in Spain, it is worth noting that it has almost a century of history and has won several Innovation Awards for its products.
8. Amazon Basics pressure cooker
Amazon has long entered the home appliance market with the AmazonBasics line: simple, economical and well-functioning products.
In this case, we are dealing with a stainless steel express pot, with basic operation, more than enough to prepare your most usual meals.
The size is ideal for a medium-sized family (3/4 people). However, you already know that express jars can not be filled up, so beware: although the manufacturer specifies that the capacity is 6 liters, in practice you can not fill the container more than 5. There is a level indicator that makes it clear to you.
The pressure indicator tells us what level of cooking we are at (there are two possibilities, depending on the hardness of the food and the time we have).
An interesting feature is that the output steam is made vertically, so it can go directly to the hood.
The handle is ergonomic and has a scissor opening, very comfortable to handle. And, when it comes to picking up the kitchen, you can put the pot in the dishwasher. The lid is best washed by hand, in the event that the device is damaged (remember that when working with steam under pressure, safety is fundamental in this type of pots)
Finally, it has a little extra that you will appreciate. It includes a steamer to be able to cook vegetables in a healthy way and with intense flavors. For this price, a little more can be ordered.
9. Monix Veloce
Hand in hand with one of the most traditional brands, Monix, the Veloce pressure cooker is the typical kitchen tool that becomes essential from the first moment.
This particular model has a capacity of 6 liters, more than enough to make soups or legumes for the whole family… or fill the freezer with tupers that solve the food of the week. But there are more sizes to choose from, between 4 and 9 liters.
It is made of stainless steel, glossy outside and matte inside. In addition, the triple bottom diffuser evenly distributes heat over the entire surface, with excellent performance in all types of kitchens, even by induction.
The scissor handle is very simple to use and allows you to open and close the jar without any effort. It also has a safety system that blocks the lid and prevents you from opening it if the pressure inside is too high. It also has a safety valve and a control valve,which tells us at which of the two available pressure levels we cook.
10. BRA Isogona Vitesse
In the world of fast pots, there are usually no big differences between models, so the brand can be a determining factor in deciding on the purchase. In the case of the bra Vitesse, the brand itself is an argument in favor, because it has the experience and guarantee of having remained on the market for more than fifty years.
Without being high-end, the bra Vitesse is a fast and functional pot, which allows cooking with two levels of pressure, depending on the type of food you are going to prepare.
The triple bottom diffuser allows you to quickly reach the optimum temperature, consuming less energy. It also effectively distributes heat and can be used in any type of kitchen.
The bucket – with different sizes, between 3 and 9 liters-and the lid are made of stainless steel and are equipped with a sliding closure, coupling the two pieces.
To prevent accidents, it has three safety systems that control the pressure, plus the opening lock that prevents the lid from opening when there is still steam inside.
The best cheap pressure cooker: Tower pressure cooker
Buying guide to choose the best pressure cooker
It is a classic of kitchens that, although it has improved in its most recent versions, basically follows the same principle as that of the pot that your grandmother surely had: cooking with pressure to shorten times while preserving the taste of the food.
It is very rediscovery this type of pots, if you have not already done so. This is a simple way to prepare tasty and quality dishes, devoting as little time to them as possible. Those who have a quick pot do not conceive of life without it, because will you really spend an hour waiting for the kitchen if you can finish in fifteen minutes?
It is true that some people have some respect for pressure cookers, because they think they are a danger. We have all heard stories of domestic accidents with a bad ending.
But the truth is that the safety standards are very high and there is no risk as long as you follow the user manual, which is a valid advice applicable to this device and everything you buy.
Later we will remember what you need to know to cook with peace of mind. But first, let’s try to answer one question: What is the difference between the quick pot that you want to buy yourself and the one that was in your grandmother’s house?
Express pots, pressure cookers and fast cookers-are they the same?
The principle on which they base their operation is the same: they are pots that, when heated, accumulate steam and generate pressure that accelerates the cooking of food and further concentrates its flavor.
The first to be put on the market were those known as ollas express. They had a handle on each side, and after the lid was mounted, the knob had to be turned until it was completely closed. Soon they became fashionable, and many families got one. They work at high temperatures and carry a valve, which, when the pressure is sufficient, begins to rotate to release steam, with the whistle of a small domestic locomotive.
The next stage of evolution was fast pots, capable of cooking at a higher pressure. They have a handle and a long handle at the other end on which the other part of the handle, which is on the lid, fit. As soon as they overlap and the “click” is heard, the pot is ready to go to the fire.
Fast cookers do not have a swivel valve, but a piston that jumps when the pressure inside is enough to cook food. It usually has markings indicating two levels of pressure, the lowest for more delicate foods, such as fish, and the next for more resistant foods, such as meat or some legumes. By being faster than the express, foods retain nutrients better and need less water to cook.
You will see that there are also superfast pots on the market. Some manufacturers thus indicate that their model is able to achieve more pressure, and therefore cook faster.
Unfortunately, these are not very reliable BOMs because they can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer; houses try to give a differentiating name to the pots according to the pressure at which they can work. In addition, they all have a body that is usually made of stainless steel, with insulating plastic handles and a safety system to regulate the pressure.
What is relevant for you is the quality of the brand and the ratio of cooking times, which is directly related to the pressure that the pot supports. This is what will give you the reference of the device you are buying.
How to use a pressure cooker
The truth is that you can use it practically for everything, so it’s almost faster to start with what you can’t do with it: use it for foods that require cooking times so short that it’s not really worth using the quick pot. For example, pasta. It takes so little that it is easy to pass and not reach the “al dente ” texture.
From there, the list of foods and combinations is huge and open to your own experimentation. In addition, today all fast cookers are prepared for any type of cooking (although it is not painful to check it in the manufacturer’s instructions), so you can use it in gas, ceramic and induction cookers. Total versatility.
Advantages of pressure cooking
Save you time
This is its fundamental feature and whether you are going to buy it. Although the percentages are variable, what’s good about being able to reduce cooking times by 75%?
Save energy
For the above reason. If instead of having the pot on fire (and who says fire, says vitro or induction) for an hour, you can have it fifteen minutes, it is obvious that you reduce energy expenditure a lot. If you use it every day, you will eventually notice it on the bills.
You do not sacrifice taste or properties. Because by cooking faster and with less water, you sacrifice fewer nutrients in the process, so you make sure you maintain the quality of your family’s food.
Because although the first thing that comes to mind are the spoon dishes, with their good chickpeas, the truth is that in the quick pot you can cook everything: meat, fish, vegetables… you need to get a good cookbook and start trying.
Perhaps the biggest discovery is desserts. All types of flan are good in a quick jar, as well as cheesecakes, bacon and rice pudding.
It will be a pot “for life”. If you treat him well and give him the maintenance he needs is an almost eternal pot, so our recommendation is that you choose a brand and model that convinces you, because you will not buy another one in a long time.
Security
This is the most important thing to value. The truth is that although there may be small variations between the models and others, the quick pots that you will find on the EU market are homologated and have safety levels that make them suitable for sale. Another thing is that you buy a device online, the origin of which you do not know exactly.
Some models have additional security systems. For example, they tell you when you can open the pot or warn you if the temperature is too high and causes excessive pressure. Some models have a thread, which, depending on the temperature, turns and changes color. When it reaches red, it usually indicates an excess of pressure that will soon begin to be released by the safety valve.
It is convenient that when you cook-always, but especially if you handle such a pot-you are very aware of the process of achieving significant changes. The cooking time is very short and it is advisable to devote special attention to it. You should never forget a pot on the fire.
If it is a well-known brand, it is normal not to have problems finding spare parts if for example you want to change the valve or, in the unlikely event that it breaks, the handle or handle. In any case, this possibility will significantly extend the life of your fast pot.
If you meet the manufacturer’s standards, you will not have any problems, and your fast cooker will spend many years serving in your kitchen.
Price
This is a good indication of the quality of the fast pot. Think that if the mechanism is basically the same in all, why do some cost more than twice as much as others?
Well exactly what you think: adjustment of the pressure mechanism, quality of materials, duration of parts…
Logic says that if you see an offer ” too ” cheap, there is definitely a reason. Unless you know the model or trust the manufacturer a lot, escape the bargains.
Capacity
More than anything so that it matches the use you are going to give it. That is, maybe it does not compensate you for having an XL model, occupying a beautiful place in the kitchen, if you are usually two people at home.
Unless your custom is to cook once for several, that is, directly freeze half of what you cooked and have a reserve of portions in the freezer. Then you can compensate for the larger size.
If this is not your case, it is advisable to choose a capacity according to your needs. The best-selling models are between 4 and 6 liters, although for large families can be sold domestic models up to 10 liters. Do not make the mistake of overloading it-it will not cook well and you will literally waste your time. In addition, the pot can ooze and make you a mess in the kitchen.
Additional
Some pots incorporate a basket or rack so you can steam. It is usually removed and put on, so as long as you do not use it, it will be separated and will not bother you from day to day.
You can also get models that complement the pot, small in capacity, but the same diameter as the main pot, so that it fits perfectly into the same lid. It is very convenient to use the small container on days when you need to cook less quantity.
Safety tips for using a quick pot
As we have already told you, pressure cookers, whatever they are, are guaranteed safety if you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. So read the instructions well and do not improvise ” because I have seen him do it all his life””
Always keep the valve clean. This is the main safety system, because if the pot exceeds the recommended pressure, it begins to release in this way. So it’s common sense: if you want the valve to do its job, you need to clean it after each use so that it does not accumulate traces of fat or food.
Never fill the pot more than three-quarters of its total capacity. If you switched to filling it once, you will not do it again, because you have found that the food is not cooked evenly. But this is important for an even more important reason: in case of overload, the food inside could clog the valve.
Do not subject it to sudden temperature changes. Yes, this refers to this custom of removing the pot from the fire and immediately putting it under the stream of cold water so that the temperature drops at full speed: it is not a good idea to depressurize it so quickly. It is advisable that, once the pan has lost all pressure, rest a minimum of 15 minutes to lose heat. Then we will open little by little.
Change the seals. Do this as soon as you check that it loses elasticity or detects a crack. Rubber provides pressure, if it has defects, the food may not be cooked properly.
With these indications, you already know everything that is essential about fast pots. Cheer up and buy the best criteria. It is a kitchen companion that, well treated and with proper maintenance, will last you a lifetime, even using it practically daily.