Yes, it is possible to bake bread in a traditional stovetop pressure cooker. Here's a general method you can follow:
Prepare the Dough: Prepare your bread dough as you would for regular baking. Follow your preferred recipe and allow the dough to rise according to the instructions.
Preheat the Pressure Cooker: Place the pressure cooker on the stovetop over medium heat without the pressure regulator weight or the rubber gasket. Allow the pressure cooker to preheat for about 5 minutes.
Shape the Dough: Once the dough has risen, shape it into the desired bread shape, such as a loaf or rolls. You may want to lightly oil the inside of the pressure cooker or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Place the Dough in the Pressure Cooker: Carefully place the shaped dough inside the preheated pressure cooker. You can place it directly on the bottom or use a trivet or heat-safe dish to elevate the bread slightly.
Cover and Bake: Put the lid on the pressure cooker, ensuring it is sealed tightly. Cook the bread over low to medium heat for the recommended baking time for your recipe. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and type of bread, but it usually ranges from 30 to 60 minutes.
Release Pressure and Remove Bread: Once the baking time is complete, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to naturally release. This can take some time, so be patient. Once the pressure has fully released, carefully open the pressure cooker and remove the bread.
Finish in the Oven (Optional): For a more golden and crispy crust, you can transfer the bread to a preheated oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes at a higher temperature. This step is optional but can help improve the texture of the bread.
It's important to note that baking bread in a stovetop pressure cooker may have slightly different results compared to a traditional oven. The cooking time and temperature may vary, so it may require some experimentation and adjustments based on your specific pressure cooker and recipe.
Always follow the safety guidelines and instructions provided with your pressure cooker, and make sure you are using a pressure cooker suitable for baking purposes.