Whether a pressure cooker has a slow cooker setting is a common question for those considering purchasing one of these multifunctional appliances. The quick answer is that some models do come with a slow cooking function, but not all. Pressure cookers work by building up steam inside a sealed pot to cook food fast at high temperatures. Slow cookers work differently, using lower heat over longer periods of time to tenderize tougher cuts of meat. While they seem contradictory, some pressure cookers are designed to offer the option to slow cook as well. Let’s explore this topic in more detail.
How do pressure cookers work?
Pressure cookers are pots with tight fitting lids that seal in moisture and heat. As ingredients cook, the liquid inside starts to boil and steam builds up pressure within the pot. This pressurized environment allows the contents to cook at temperatures around 250°F, significantly higher than normal boiling point of 212°F. The combination of intense heat and steam under pressure dramatically speeds up cooking times. Foods that normally take hours to simmer or braise can be ready in minutes using a pressure cooker.
Key features of pressure cookers
There are a few key features that allow pressure cookers to quickly pressure cook foods:
- Airtight sealing lid – The lid locks on tightly to seal in pressurized steam.
- Regulator valve – This release valve controls the internal pressure level.
- Pressure indicator – Shows when target pressure is reached.
- Cook timer – Allows setting desired cook times.
Electric models may also have digital displays and buttons to select functions.
How do slow cookers work?
Slow cookers work in the complete opposite way to pressure cookers. These countertop appliances cook foods slowly over low heat for long periods of time. Here’s an overview of how they work:
- A ceramic or metal pot sits inside a heated base.
- Food is added to the pot and the lid is put on.
- The pot heats to around 200°F and gently simmers the contents.
- As food cooks, juices and flavors mix together in the moist heat.
- After several hours of slow cooking, dishes become very tender and flavorful.
This low and slow cooking method breaks down connective tissues in tougher cuts of meat, while also allowing flavors to fully develop over time.
Key features of slow cookers
Standard slow cookers have simple but important design features:
- Low wattage heating element in the base.
- Removable ceramic or metal cooking pot.
- Glass or plastic lid.
- Manual cook time and temperature controls.
What are the pros and cons of pressure cookers versus slow cookers?
Pressure cookers and slow cookers have very different cooking methods. Here is a comparison of some of their key pros and cons:
| Appliance | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure Cooker |
|
|
| Slow Cooker |
|
|
Do pressure cookers have a slow cooker function?
After learning how a pressure cooker and slow cooker work, it may seem counterintuitive to combine both functions in one appliance. However, some modern electric pressure cookers are designed to also slow cook.
How the slow cooker function works
On models with a slow cooking setting, once the cooker is sealed and reaches the desired pressure level, it begins to release pressure. This lowers the internal temperature to around 200°F, suitable for slow cooking. The heating element cycles on and off to maintain this steady low simmer. Just like a standalone slow cooker, the food cooks gradually over 2-8 hours until fork tender.
Benefits of the slow cooker function
There are several advantages to having both pressure and slow cooker modes in one appliance:
- Saves counter space over two separate appliances.
- Can brown or sear meat before pressure or slow cooking.
- Lets you prepare dishes that benefit from both functions.
- More versatile for different recipes.
Considerations when slow cooking in a pressure cooker
While the slow cooker function offers more options, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Must monitor the pot more closely as you can’t remove the lid during slow cooking.
- May have smaller capacity than typical slow cookers.
- The pot may not retain heat as evenly as a traditional slow cooker.
- May be more expensive than stand-alone appliances.
Popular pressure cooker models with slow cooker function
Many popular electric pressure cooker brands now offer slow cooker settings. Some top models include:
Instant Pot
Instant Pot is one of the most popular brands of electric multi-cookers. Most models include slow cooker functionality through their “Slow Cook” program setting. Temperature and time can be adjusted to low or high.
Ninja Foodi
The Ninja Foodi OP301 Pressure Cooker has a “Slow Cook” function that operates like a traditional slow cooker. There are options for low, medium, and high temperature presets.
Crock-Pot Express Crock Multi-Cooker
The Crock-Pot brand offers the Express Crock line that can pressure cook at high heat or slow cook at low temperatures in one pot. There are manual time and temperature controls.
COSORI Pressure Cooker
Several of COSORI’s pressure cookers have presets for slow cooking on both high and low temperatures. The pots are stainless steel with dishwasher safe lids.
Mueller Electric Pressure Cooker
Mueller’s electric pressure cooker has 12 smart programs including slow cook low and high. The removable nonstick inner pot makes cleanup easy.
Tips for using the slow cooker function
To get the most out of the slow cooker setting on a pressure cooker, keep these tips in mind:
- Use the sauté or browning function first to sear meat for more flavor.
- Cut vegetables into similar sized pieces for even cooking.
- Adjust liquid to account for minimal evaporation during pressure cooking.
- Add dairy ingredients like cream or cheese at the end.
- Let the pressure fully release when cooking time is up before removing lid.
- Use a thermometer for foods like meat to check doneness.
Conclusion
While not ubiquitous, many modern electric pressure cookers do offer a slow cooker function. This combines fast, high pressure cooking with the ability to also cook low and slow when desired. When shopping, look for models specifically advertised to have this mode. While not exactly the same as a traditional slow cooker, it provides more versatility within one appliance. Following cook times and tips from the manufacturer will help you successfully make the most of the slow cooking setting.