Stovetop Vs Electric Pressure Cooker is something that has baffled both the beginner cook and the chef. Both are important kitchen appliances that function with the quick-cooking option. However, the manner and mechanism of both these appliances are different from one another, and that greatly affects the preference of one appliance over the other. So, how does a regular user make the right choice between the two? Let us find out and more on which is better Stovetop or Electric Pressure Cooker?
The Stovetop pressure cooker, as the name suggests, utilizes the heat source from the stovetop to function. This comprises a Stainless Steel vessel with a lid that fits tight on top and a valve on the lid. This valve is responsible for releasing the pressure as the cooking process progresses. The appliance requires water or liquid-based ingredients to develop steam at high pressures. The temperature achieved is almost 100 C or 212 F for the steam to be created and released at high pressures. The excess heat is caused to vaporize into steam that escapes, thus, ensuring the constant temperature within the appliance remains at 100 C. Thus, high pressure and temperature are used to superheat the liquid within and cook the food within. This ensures rapid and uniforms Cooking of the food inside the pressure cooker. But is Electric Pressure Cooker better than a stovetop? We will find out in a while, but first, let us examine the advantages and disadvantages of the Stovetop pressure cooker.
The Advantages of the Stovetop Pressure Cooker
- Is comparatively stronger.
- Comprises of handle for easy handling options.
- Ensures more control over Cooking.
- Can be turned off at any point.
- Cooks quicker.
- Can brown meat as well.
- Longer lasting in comparison.
- Is selected by the fancy chef who needs to try out new recipes.
- Is easy to be taken care of.
The Disadvantages of the Stovetop Pressure Cooker
- Requires the user’s attention throughout.
- Is noisy.
- Also needs the user to monitor the cooking process.
The Electric Pressure Cooker
Before we dwell on the difference between Stovetop Vs Electric Pressure cookers, let us take a look at the working of the electric pressure cooker. The Electric Pressure Cooker is also known as the ‘third Generation’ Pressure cooker. The appliance is a boon to the modern-day armature cooks, who want to have the very least to do with the process of Cooking. The electric pressure cooker comprises an automatic heat source that regulates and maintains the process of Cooking. This appliance features a spring-loaded valve and a Timer as well. The more advanced models also comprise ‘pre-set’ cook options and ‘Settings’ that comprise temperature, pressure, and heat Intensity. Some models are also ‘multi-cookers’ that can perform various cooking functions like rice cooking, steaming, browning, and more.
The Advantages of the Electric Pressure Cooker
- Is comparatively easier to use.
- Does not require much attention when in use.
- All it takes is a single press button for Cooking.
- Features various modes and functions for Cooking.
- Is perfect for a beginner in Cooking.
- Perfect for single living/college students.
- Can try out various recipes.
- Perfect additive to large-scale Cooking where multiple dishes have to be taken care of.
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Disadvantages of the Electric Pressure Cooker
- Is expensive in comparison.
- Takes up much space.
Difference Between Stovetop and Electric Pressure Cooker
Let us take a look at some of the prime differences between the two pressure-cooker types and what sets them apart:
FEATURES | Regular Chimney | Auto-clean Chimney |
Oil Collector | This is the non-stick Aluminum Turbine blower that works by sucking out the smoke and oils | No oil collector featured |
Maintenance | Low on maintenance | High maintenance |
Suction Power | Is quite high | Less in comparison |
Price | The auto clean chimney price is much high in comparison. | On a budget in comparison |
Lifespan | Quite long | Needs repairs, maintenance, and subsequent repairs. |
Is stovetop Better Than Electric Pressure Cooker? Let Us Find Out:
To know what sets one apart from the other, it is necessary to know the factors that govern the main preference ideas:
The Maximum Pressure Achieved
The maximum pressure achieved is one of the major factors that can matter to a seasoned cook. While the low pressure achieved is common, i.e., 6 psi, the highest pressure differs for both the appliances. The stovetop has the highest pressure of 15 psi in 11 to 12 minutes, and the Electric Pressure cooker has the highest pressure of 13 psi. Therefore, in the case of requirements where higher pressure is required, it is recommended that one makes use of the Stovetop pressure cooker.
The Heat Regulation Factor
This is one of the most important aspects of precise and fine Cooking. In this case, the electric pressure cooker is a winner as it includes a completely automated system of Cooking. However, in the case of the stovetop pressure cooker, one needs to keep checking on the cooking process time and again. Also, one needs to adjust the pressure manually in the stovetop pressure cooker, something not all users are experts at.
Time Taken
Of course, we all love something or someone to help us with our Cooking or better still do it completely do it for us. However, it is never a great idea to simply spend too much time getting a meal done. In this case, the stovetop pressure cooker is the perfect option, as it acquires high pressure quicker in comparison, hence completing the cooking process in record time.
Timer and the Cooking Programs
As mentioned earlier, the electric pressure cookers feature a Timer and multiple cooking programs. With the help of the integrated timer, automotive cooking options, and programs, the process of Cooking is a breeze for any beginner. Meanwhile, the Stovetop Pressure requires a lot of supervision and regular attention, and it also requires a good amount of manual intervention.
Durability
When it comes to an appliance surviving for a generation, it has to be a Stovetop Pressure cooker with its durability. As the Pressure cooker needs to take care of a large quantity of food at high pressures and temperature directly on top of the heat flame, it needs to be sturdy. Hence, a Stovetop is perfect in this case as it is strongly built and long-lasting.
Multi-functional
An electric stovetop cooker can be used for various cooking options like browning, slow Cooking, cake maker, sterilizer, egg boiler, stew cooker, curry cooker, and more. On the other hand, the Stovetop Pressure Cooker is not multi-functional and is quite specific when it comes to its function.
Stovetop Vs Electric Pressure Cooker : Conclusion
So, there you have it, my dear chefs and ‘wannabe chefs.’ Both the Stovetop Pressure cooker and the Electric Pressure Cooker are important in their functions.
Quick Cooking: if you do not have all the time in the world to cook up a meal and need to do the Cooking in record time, it is the stovetop for you. It is durable and economical, along with a quick-cooking option in no time.
For the Beginner: If you are new to Cooking and exactly do not wish to burn the dinner every time you try a recipe, it has to be the Electric Pressure cooker for you.