To prevent your electric pressure cooker from burning food on high heat settings, consider following these tips:
Add sufficient liquid: Ensure that you have enough liquid in the pressure cooker before starting the cooking process. The liquid helps create steam, which is crucial for building pressure and preventing the food from burning. Check the manufacturer's instructions for the minimum required liquid amount for your specific pressure cooker model.
Avoid thick or dense foods at the bottom: Foods that are thick or dense, such as large chunks of meat or starchy ingredients, tend to have a higher chance of burning on high heat settings. To prevent this, place these items on a trivet or rack, elevating them slightly from the bottom of the pressure cooker. This allows steam to circulate underneath and helps distribute heat more evenly.
Stir well and deglaze: Before starting the pressure cooking process, make sure to stir the ingredients well. This helps distribute heat and prevents food from sticking to the bottom. Additionally, if you notice any bits of food stuck to the bottom after sautéing or browning, deglaze the pot by adding a small amount of liquid and scraping the bottom to loosen any stuck-on bits. This helps prevent burning during pressure cooking.
Adjust cooking time and temperature: If you frequently experience burning with high heat settings, consider adjusting the cooking time and temperature. Reduce the cooking time slightly or select a lower heat setting if your pressure cooker allows customization. This can help prevent the food from overcooking and burning.
Monitor and release pressure promptly: Once the pressure cooking time is complete, release the pressure promptly according to the recipe instructions. This prevents the food from continuing to cook under high heat and reduces the chances of burning.
Clean the cooker thoroughly: Regularly clean your pressure cooker, especially the sealing ring and the pressure release valve, to ensure they are free from debris or residue. A clean pressure cooker functions optimally and minimizes the risk of burning.
Remember to always consult the user manual for your specific pressure cooker model, as instructions and features may vary.