Why You Need an Electric Pressure Cooker: 7 Things It Does Best

1. Cooking Tough Cuts of Meat

Electric pressure cookers are excellent for tenderizing tough cuts of meat that normally require long cooking times. Dishes like beef stew, pot roast, and braised short ribs become tender in a fraction of the time.

The high pressure breaks down connective tissues quickly, resulting in juicy and flavorful meat.

2. Making Soups and Stews Quickly

Soups and stews that traditionally simmer for hours can be prepared much faster in an electric pressure cooker. Ingredients cook evenly and flavors blend well under pressure.

Popular options include:

• Chicken noodle soup
• Vegetable soup
• Beef stew
• Lentil soup

These meals can often be ready in under 30 minutes.

3. Cooking Beans and Legumes

Dry beans typically require soaking and long cooking times. An electric pressure cooker can cook beans much faster and sometimes without soaking.

It works well for foods like:

• Black beans
• Chickpeas
• Kidney beans
• Lentils

This makes it a great tool for preparing healthy, plant-based meals.

4. Preparing Rice and Grains

Electric pressure cookers can cook grains quickly and consistently. Many models even include dedicated rice or grain settings.

Common grains cooked in a pressure cooker include:

• White rice
• Brown rice
• Quinoa
• Barley
• Oats

The sealed environment helps prevent water loss, resulting in fluffy and evenly cooked grains.

5. One-Pot Meals

One of the biggest advantages of an electric pressure cooker is the ability to make complete meals in one pot. This reduces cooking time and minimizes cleanup.

Examples of one-pot meals include:

• Chicken and rice
• Pasta dishes
• Chili
• Casserole-style meals

Busy families often rely on this feature for quick weeknight dinners.

6. Making Broth and Stock

Electric pressure cookers are perfect for making homemade broth or stock. The high pressure extracts flavor and nutrients from bones, vegetables, and herbs much faster than traditional simmering.

Chicken stock or beef bone broth that normally takes hours can be ready in about an hour.

7. Steaming and Healthy Cooking

Many electric pressure cookers come with steaming racks or baskets. This allows you to steam vegetables, fish, and dumplings while preserving nutrients.

Steaming in a sealed environment helps food cook evenly without excessive oil or fat.