The pressure cooker is a vital part of just about every kitchen. Cooking chunky soups and stews are all too easy when using one and they tenderize meat perfectly. Because higher temperatures are reached inside the pressure cooker while cooking, the food is finished being cooked much quicker.

But, not all pressure cookers are created equal. Are you using your mother's old rundown pot? Isn't it time for you to get a new one? I'm sure there are some good memories of some of the delicious dishes you've prepared with it. But new pressure cookers have so many more conveniences and are much safer and easier to use.

So what do you look for when buying a new pressure cooker? Well first, it is best to search for one with a timer. A timer is important so that you don't overcook or undercook your food. You don't want mushy vegetables, do you? A quick release mechanism is also something important to look for. Older pressure cookers without them must be run under cold water to lower the temperature and consequently the pressure. A quick release mechanism will allow you to release the pressure quickly in a safe manner. Some pressure cookers even have a pressure regulator so you can keep the pressure at a specific PSI during the cooking process.

Once you've purchased your new pressure cooker, it is important to maintain it properly so that you can keep it in working order for many years. Be sure to read the user manual so you are sure of the safety precautions to take. Every pressure cooker has its own safety measures and nuances. Keep it washed and clean and store it with the lid off so that odors are not trapped inside.

When using your pressure cooker, be sure to cook cuts of meat of uniform sizes. Everything cooks inside for the same amount of time, pressure, and temperature. So if some cuts are thicker than the others, then you will end up with some meat that is either over or under cooked. Take the type of meats into consideration as well. Some types of meat cook faster than others.

Having a good quality pressure cooker is something that every cook and kitchen should have. Choose a good quality one when buying one and keep it in good condition and you will have many delicious meals ahead.