My mom’s old pressure cooker finally gave out after years of use. I was tasked with finding a replacement and she said that if we can find something at a decent price online, then it would be good. With so many options: steel, aluminum, induction-friendly; it felt overwhelming. Prestige, Hawkins, and Butterfly seem popular, but which one’s the most reliable? Pressure cooker is not just about making cooking faster; it’s about making it more convenient, energy-efficient, and versatile. After a lot of research, I decided to go for a 5-liter Hawkins pressure cooker, and my mother been using it for a while now. I want to share what I learned about selecting the best pressure cookers, whether you’re a newbie or looking for an upgrade.
Things to Consider When Buying a Pressure Cooker
Before diving into the options, here’s what I learned are the key factors you should think about when buying a pressure cooker for an Indian kitchen:
Material of the Cooker: Pressure cookers are typically made of aluminum or stainless steel. Stainless steel cookers are more durable, resistant to stains, and are safer, especially when cooking acidic foods. Aluminum cookers are lighter but may not last as long and can react with some foods. I personally prefer stainless steel, as it tends to be more durable and safe for long-term use.
Capacity: Capacity is one of the most important factors. For a family of four, a 5-liter cooker is usually a good choice. If you cook in larger batches or have a bigger family, you might want to consider a 7-liter or 8-liter cooker. Smaller 3-liter cookers are great for singles or small families.
Pressure Settings: Some cookers come with multiple pressure settings, which allow you to cook different dishes at varying pressures. While this feature is great, for most people, a standard pressure cooker with just one or two pressure settings will suffice.
Induction Compatibility: If you have an induction cooktop, make sure the cooker is induction-compatible. Not all pressure cookers are, especially those with aluminum bases. Stainless steel cookers are more likely to work with induction stoves.
Safety Features: A good pressure cooker should have features like safety valves, gasket release systems, and a sturdy handle. These features help ensure safe cooking and prevent accidents. It’s always better to invest in a high-quality brand that prioritizes safety.
Ease of Cleaning: Cooking in a pressure cooker can get messy, so ease of cleaning is essential. Stainless steel cookers are generally easier to clean, while aluminum ones may discolor over time.
Best Pressure Cookers for Indian Kitchens in Different Price Ranges
Now, let’s dive into the best pressure cookers that are available in India in 2024. Based on my research and feedback from users, here are some of the best options across different price ranges:
Hawkins Futura 5-Liter Pressure Cooker (Premium Range)
- Price: ₹4,500 approx.
- Why It’s Great: This one is ideal for those who want a premium cooker. It’s made of high-quality aluminum with a hard anodized finish, which makes it durable and resistant to scratches. It also works on both gas and induction cooktops. If you’re willing to spend a bit more, this is a great investment for your kitchen.
Prestige Deluxe Plus 5-Liter
- Price: ₹2,200 approx.
- Why It’s Great: This is a fantastic cooker if you’re looking for a high-quality stainless steel cooker at a reasonable price. It’s durable, safe, and comes with a 3-layer induction base, which makes it compatible with all cooktops, including induction. The ergonomic handle and pressure release system are a bonus.
Butterfly 5-Liter Pressure Cooker
- Price: ₹2,400 approx.
- Why It’s Great: If you’re on a budget but still want a reliable pressure cooker, this is a great option. The aluminum body is lightweight, and it’s perfect for smaller families. It doesn’t have as many fancy features as the higher-end models, but it does the job well.
Pigeon by Stovekraft 5-Liter Pressure Cooker
- Price: ₹1,200 approx.
- Why It’s Great: Pigeon is known for affordable yet reliable kitchenware. This 5-liter cooker is made of aluminum, has a hard anodized body, and is very easy to handle. It’s a great option for those looking for an affordable cooker with good performance. While it’s not induction compatible, it’s perfect for traditional gas stoves.
Tefal Clipso 6-Liter Pressure Cooker
- Price: ₹5,000 approx.
- Why It’s Great: For those who want a top-of-the-line pressure cooker, the Tefal Clipso is an excellent choice. It’s made of stainless steel, features a unique clip-on lid system, and has a built-in safety valve. It’s highly durable, easy to clean, and can withstand heavy use.
Choosing the right pressure cooker depends on your needs, cooking style, and budget. Based on my experience, the 5-liter Hawkins Pressure Cooker works perfectly for my family, but depending on your preferences, brands like Prestige and Tefal offer amazing alternatives as well. For those on a budget, Butterfly and Pigeon are solid options that deliver good value for the price.
No matter which model you choose, make sure it fits your kitchen needs and cooking style. A good pressure cooker can last you years, making it a wise investment for your daily cooking routine!
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So I forgot to share the personal Review of the 5-Liter Hawkins Futura Pressure Cooker. I recently purchased the 5-liter Hawkins Futura Pressure Cooker for our family kitchen, and after using it for a few months, I can confidently say it was a great choice. One of the first things that stood out when I unboxed the Hawkins Futura was its build quality. Unlike most other cookers I’ve used, this one has a hard anodized aluminum body, which gives it a sleek, black finish. It’s not only visually appealing but also really durable. I was a bit skeptical about how long the non-stick surface would last, but it’s holding up really well with regular use.
It’s a bit heavier compared to some other cookers I’ve used, but it gives me the confidence that it’s built to last. Cooking has been a breeze. I’ve used it for everything from rice and dal to stews and curries. The cooker’s base is designed for even heat distribution, which means that the food cooks consistently and evenly. This is especially important when making dishes like dal, where even heat prevents uneven cooking. Another feature I love is how quickly it builds pressure, which significantly reduces cooking time, saving me both time and gas. What I found really convenient is how well it handles multiple dishes at once. The 5-liter size is just the right amount for a small family, and I’ve never felt the need to upgrade to a larger size. I also appreciate the longer handle, which makes it comfortable to use and gives a good grip.
It also comes with safety features that are a huge relief. It has a pressure release valve and an over-pressure plug, which automatically releases excess pressure if needed. These features really give me peace of mind, especially when cooking under pressure, as I never have to worry about accidents. The locking mechanism on the lid also feels secure, and I’ve never had issues with it not closing properly. One of the things I looked for when buying a new cooker was induction compatibility, as I use an induction cooktop. The Hawkins Futura works perfectly on induction as well as traditional gas stoves. The flat base ensures that the cooker heats up quickly on induction, and I don’t need to wait long for the cooking process to begin.
Overall, I’m really happy with the 5-liter Hawkins Futura Pressure Cooker. It checks all the boxes I was looking for durability, safety, even heat distribution, and induction compatibility. It’s a solid cooker that performs well in everyday cooking and saves a lot of time. If you’re looking for a reliable, long-lasting pressure cooker, I’d definitely recommend this one.
Thanks for sharing the Hawkins review, it is definitely the best in cookers. I have used the steel version, Futura was a bit expensive for my budget, but they definitely have done a great job with the build quality. I have been using mine for almost 6 years now, and it still feels like new.