Cooking is essential for everyone as we do need to eat and one of the most used kitchen appliances in India is the pressure cooker. It is a blessing for Indian cooking because it lets us cook faster especially when there is no time.
Hawkins Pressure Cooker is the best pressure cooker in India for its highly durable corrosion-free stainless steel material. It seals the nutrients of the food without losing flavors, vitamins, or nutrition. Alongside gas stoves, this pressure cooker is also compatible with induction cooktops which makes it multifunctional.
As people have different choices, we have also included other top-quality pressure cookers from brands like Prestige, Butterfly, Pigeon, and Amazonbasics in 2024. All of these stainless steel and aluminium pressure cookers are ideal for Indian cooking. To know the crucial decision-making factors for a pressure cooker, go through the buying guide and FAQ in this article.
Top 10 Best Pressure cooker in India (2024)
| PRODUCT | CAPACITY | MATERIAL | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hawkins Induction Compatible Pressure Cooker | 1.5 L to 10 L | Stainless Steel | Buy Now |
| Prestige Popular Pressure Cooker | 2L to 20 L | Aluminium | Buy Now |
| Hawkins Contura Pressure Cooker | 5 L | Hard Anodized | Buy Now |
| Prestige Svachh Deluxe Alpha | 1.5 L to 10 L | Stainless Steel | Buy Now |
| AmazonBasics Outer Lid Pressure Cooker | 4 L | Stainless Steel | Buy Now |
| Prestige Svachh Nakshatra Plus | 2, 3, 5 L | Hard Anodized | Buy Now |
| Butterfly Cordial Pressure Cooker | 3, 5 L | Aluminium | Buy Now |
| Prestige Deluxe Pressure Cooker | 3 L and 5.5 L | Stainless Steel | Buy Now |
| Prestige Deluxe Plus Pressure Cooker | 3 L | Hard Anodized | Buy Now |
| Pigeon Pressure Cooker | 3 L | Aluminium | Buy Now |
Review of the Best Pressure Cookers in India
Here we will learn about the most amazing pressure cookers in India that you can definitely buy for your family. We have kept the reviews short and crisp by focusing on highlighting factors that help you know more about them.
1. Hawkins Stainless Steel induction compatible Pressure Cooker
Key features
Built with Food Grade Stainless Steel
It has been proven that cooking in stainless steel is better compared to other materials. The company has utilized food grade and surgical grade stainless steel in this model to make it healthier for the people. If you are looking for a recommendation of the best pressure cooker for Indian cooking, it can be an ideal choice.
Other than that the stainless steel also has strength to it which makes this product durable. If you wonder which pressure cookers are the best for health, then this model can be regarded as one.
Extra thick sandwich bottom
The bottom of this model has been made thicker than usual and this helps in the diffusion of heat which cooks food evenly and also faster. This will also prevent the burning and sticking of food. The thickness also prevents it from bulging due to pressure.
Durable and Versatile
It is quite versatile as it can be used on different cooking surfaces. The company has made it in a way that it can handle heavy-duty tasks which also makes the model durable. The design is also curved for easy cooking and cleaning.
Safety Measures
Hawkins as a company has been always known for its safety measures. This model also has its pressure-locked safety lid which allows a person to only open the lid once the pressure is under safety level. The model also has an automatic safety valve to even out the pressure and there is also superior pressure regulation.
Merits
Demerits
WHY DO WE RECOMMEND THIS PRESSURE COOKER?
Hawkins Stainless Steel Tall Pressure Cooker can be a good choice if you want a balance between Price and Quality. This 3L pressure cooker is the best for a family of three to four members.
Also Read: Best Kadai for Indian Cooking
2. Prestige Popular Aluminium Pressure Cooker
Key features
Good Body and Base Design
The product has been constructed out of high-quality virgin aluminium which is lightweight yet durable. This aids in proper cooking and the base has a slight concave shape to retain the heat. The outer lid design makes it compatible with cooking using separators to make things faster.
The handles of the pressure cookers are quite important and this model has ergonomically designed handles that are easy to hold and it is perfect for regular use.
Safety measures
To make cooking safe Prestige has added safety measures such as the precision weight valve which releases the excess steam after a while and the gasket release system also adds a layer of protection.
The metallic plug of this outer-lid pressure cooker is the third layer of safety which releases steam when it goes above the safety levels to prevent the cooker from bursting. All of the features are very useful and this is why we highly recommend it as the 2nd best pressure cooker in India.
Pros
Cons
WHY IS THIS PRESSURE COOKER WORTHY?
If you are a constraint on the budget, this product might do you a favor as it is one of the cheapest pressure cookers in the market. But that does not make the quality cheap. Though it has some certain limitations, it is worth the money spent.
3. Hawkins Contura Hard Anodised Aluminium Pressure Cooker
Key features
Hard Anodised Body
A hard-anodized body is known to be the mark of durability in a pressure cooker. On top of that, the food doesn’t react with the material of the product. So the cooker is absolutely safe. The black color of the body also helps in taking in the heat easily to cook the food faster and evenly. This product will also last for a long time.
This model also has a curved body that helps the users to stir the food easily and it also helps in cleaning the cookware. Another specialty of this design is that the food doesn’t stick easily on curved surfaces.
Thus, if you are looking for the best quality pressure cooker for your home, it can be a great choice.
Safety Measures
The Pressure-Locked Safety Lid is unique to Hawkins pressure cookers and it doesn’t allow a person to open the lid when the pressure inside is above safety level. The lid handlebar is also attached to the lid which seals it to the body of the cooker.
Other safety measures included in this model are the superior pressure regulation for easier and faster cooking along with the automatic safety valve which releases the steam whenever needed.
The inner-lid pressure cooker also comes with stay-cool handles which makes it easier to hold even when it has been on gas for a longer span of time.
Merits
Demerits
WHY DO WE RECOMMEND THIS PRESSURE COOKER?
Being built with hard anodized material, it is very durable and food-safe. Hawkins has taken good care while designing and manufacturing this product. Apart from that, it looks stunning and you might love using it.
4. Prestige Svachh Deluxe Alpha Pressure Cooker
Key features
Easy to use pressure cooker
Many of you prefer to avoid cooking in a pressure cooker as it makes your kitchen messy. It spills a lot, and froth comes out, which is very difficult to clean. No more such nuances if you choose this pressure cooker for regular use.
It comes with a uniquely designed deep lid that fixes well with the mouth of the pressure cooker. It makes sure no water or froth comes out. As it prevents any spillage, this is the best pressure cooker to buy in India with an outer lid design.
Also, when there is no spillage, cleaning and maintaining the appliance is simple. You can use regular dishwashing detergent and scrub to clean it. Always keep the inside dry to ensure longevity.
A Safe Appliance for Everyone
Additional steam build-up inside the pressure cooker can cause accidents. With this product, you can be 100% sure about your safety. It comes with a controlled gasket-release system.
It helps to release the additional steam that builds up inside while cooking. Thus, cooking becomes a safe and enjoyable experience for the ones who are beginners.
Also, the handles provide extra safety to the users. Those are strong, durable, and easy to hold. As those are added to the body with two screws, you get more strength while holding it.
advantages
disadvantages
Why is this pressure cooker worthy?
A pressure cooker compatible with a gas stove and induction and takes less time and energy to cook food will be a great choice to buy. This pressure cooker fits in all these categories and can serve you for years and years. So, choosing it will be a great option.
5. AmazonBasics Stainless Steel Outer Lid Pressure Cooker
Key features
Supports Cooking in Lesser Time
It is one of the significant benefits of using this product. In general, cooking non-veg foods takes much time as you have to cook them well from the inside. This pressure cooker takes 10% time to cook such foods.
It happens because the pressure cooker comes with two pressure levels. The 50 kPa pressure level is for general cooking, while the 90 kPa is for faster cooking. Choose the setting of your pressure cooker and enjoy cooking.
An Energy-efficient Pressure Cooker
Cooking in this pressure cooker is an excellent choice as it saves a lot of energy. As you need to provide high heat to this pressure cooker, it can cook faster. Thus, it saves energy.
Compared to cooking in other appliances, it uses only 1/3rd of the heating energy of your requirements for regular cooking. Buying such a product is, therefore, an intelligent choice.
Available with Catchy Features
Cooking delicious and nutritious meals is simple now with this pressure cooker! It comes with a water-level indicator that shows you the right amount of water you need to put in your pressure cooker—no more getting mushy potatoes or half-boiled mutton anymore!
There are also the Bakelite handles that help you to carry the pressure cooker easily. Those make sure you connect the lid safely while cooking. Handling the pressure cooker is easy as the handles never get hot.
Advantages
disadvantages
Why is this pressure cooker worthy?
If you are looking for a user-friendly and budget-friendly pressure cooker for everyday use, this is the best pressure cooker to match your needs. All of the features of this appliance are updated, and cooking will be enjoyable in it too.
6. Prestige Svachh Nakshatra Plus Hard Anodised Pressure Handi
Key features
A Handi-type Pressure Cooker for Easy Cooking
First of all, it is the look of the product that will woo you at once. The handi-type style is perfect for Indian cooking. The deep base is ideal for cook the meal properly from inside and outside.
The base is flat and 3mm thick. That’s why it is compatible with placing on the gas stove and induction cooktop. As it is a no-mess pressure cooker, cleaning and maintaining it is simple.
Superb Design and Offers Enough Longevity
Investing in an appliance that will run longer is always a wise choice. It is a hard-anodized pressure cooker that comes with enough longevity and serves you for years. You don’t need to make repeated investments when you have this pressure cooker home.
This pressure cooker is designed ergonomically. So, storing and maintaining it is easy. Keep it inside the cupboard or kitchen top, and it will fit perfectly.
Fantastic Pressure Cooker with Wonderful Features
Each of the features of this pressure cooker is super beneficial for the users. It comes with a unique deep lid that controls any spillage. Besides, the exclusive design of the lid stops any froth from coming out.
The cool touch technology keeps the handle of the cooker less affected by heat. You can touch it when the cooker is hot without worrying. The weight of the pressure cooker never gets heated.
Cooking in this cooker is also time-saving. It is because of the optimized broad base. It is flat enough so that the heat is distributed well. It takes 15% less time in cooking than other pressure cookers.
advantages
disadvantages
Why do we recommend this pressure cooker?
This pressure cooker comes from the house of Prestige. So, you can trust it entirely as they are serving the customers for several decades. This product is a hard-anodized product that helps you longer, and the unique features make cooking more effortless than ever.
7. Butterfly Cordial Aluminium Pressure Cooker
Key features
Durable Construction Assures Regular Use
A pressure cooker is one of such appliances that is used almost every day in your kitchen. So, it would help if you are very careful while investing in a product. It is one of the best pressure cookers in India you can check out.
This product is made of top-quality virgin aluminum. Therefore, it offers enough sturdiness and durability. You can use it for long hours without any disturbances.
Besides durability, this material also gets evenly heated. This feature is required for faster and even cooking meals. Whether you cook vegetables or meat, you don’t need to be worried about half-cooked items.
Safety Valve Assures Better Safety
Cooking in a pressure cooker for beginners can be troublesome. But, if you buy this product, you can be assured about your safety. It comes with a top-quality safety valve to make cooking easy.
The safety valve is efficient in releasing the excess steam when the vent pipe gets blocked. There is also a tiny hole on the lid that vents out the additional steam when the pressure goes above the safe level. Thus, the pressure cooker is so simple to use.
advantages
disadvantages
why do we recommend this pressure cooker?
Butterfly is a renowned brand in the world of pressure cookers and kitchen appliances. So, if you are buying a pressure cooker for the first time and want a cost-effective, easy-to-use appliance for your kitchen, this product will serve you the best.
8. Prestige Deluxe Alpha Pressure Cooker
Key features
Best Pressure Cooker with Durable Body
Rather than utilizing aluminium, the company has utilized high-quality stainless steel in making the pressure cooker. The heavyweight of the body helps in faster cooking which is also good for health.
Safety Measures
A pressure cooker needs to be safe and so, Prestige has provided a wholesome safety system in this model. The precision weight valve helps in releasing the excess steam whenever it rises above 1 kg/cm2. Apart from that, this outer lid pressure cooker is also built with a controlled gasket release system which releases the pressure in case of vent blockages.
There is also the Metallic Safety Plug to keep things checked along with the Pressure Indicator which tells about the correct time to open the product.
Multipurpose Use
Rather than having to buy different cookware, one can get this model if they cook on the stovetop as well as on an induction cooktop. The Alpha base bottom of this model helps in evenly distributing the heat to make cooking fast. It is apt for Indian dishes where it can help you to cook everything from dal to delicious mutton dishes.
Advantages
Disadvantages
WHY is THIS PRESSURE COOKER worthy?
This product from Prestige is built with high-quality stainless steel that is quite durable. Because of the multipurpose features with adequate safety, this model is the most amazing pressure cooker in the Indian market.
9. Prestige Deluxe Plus Hard Anodized Outer Lid Pressure Cooker
Key features
Hard Anodised Body
The hard-anodized cookware always makes sure that the cooking utensil remains in good shape for a long time. It also makes the body scratch and stain-resistant and also foods do not stick on the surface. The black color of the body also makes the product appear aesthetically pleasing.
Safety Measures
The Company has also included safety measures such as the precision weight valve, the Controlled Gasket Release System, and the pressure indicator to make the cooker safe for people. They might like this product without needing to think about it bursting.
Versatile design
This outer lid pressure cooker is a special type of cookware for both induction and gas stoves. On top of that, it can also be used to cook different foods, be it vegetables or meat. One can cook with this product for long durations of time without having any problem.
Merits
Demerits
WHY IS THIS PRESSURE COOKER WORTHY?
Being made of hard anodized materials, this pressure cooker is best known for its durability and sturdiness. This high-quality product from Prestige is also good-looking and popular among users.
10. Pigeon By Stovekraft Pressure Cooker
Key features
User-Friendly cooking
As a pressure cooker can generate great pressure, the company has added features such as the metal safety valve, gasket release system as well as precision weigh valve to release the extra steam from time to time. Pressure Locking of the cooker has never been so easy. It can easily be locked without much effort.
Compatibility of the cooker
This stainless steel pressure cooker from Pigeon is quite versatile and it lets you cook different types of food in it. The capacity of 3L is perfect for a small family. It is one of the cheapest utensils to have for cooking dishes. But this product is incompatible with induction cooktops.
Good Design and Durability
The design of the product was checked if it can cook food faster and in a safe way. On top of that, the handle is ergonomic to provide users with a better grip. The handle is so convenient that you can use it comfortably.
The aluminium body also makes sure that the inner-lid pressure cooker retains its shape and remains in the kitchen for a long time. The material also enables one to cook the food evenly and in a short span of time.
Pros
Cons
Why Do we recommend this Pressure cooker?
The product can be a good choice if your budget is limited and the family size is small. With all the basic features, it is popular among people for regular use. As you are looking for the best pressure cooker in India for 2024, this product can be a suitable choice.
Read: Prestige Vs. Hawkins Vs. Pigeon Pressure Cooker
How to choose the best Pressure Cooker?
Pressure cookers are one of the essential cookware that everyone should have at their home. It is not always possible to know everything about the good pressure cookers that one can get, but we can try to come up with some of the most suitable products according to our needs.
Also, when choosing a pressure cooker, we must select a BIS-certified brand that follows the Indian standard guidelines. It is vital to ensure the quality of the pressure cooker.
Here we will provide a short and crisp buying guide that will help people in purchasing the right product when they are looking for one. Here are some things that one should think about to get the best pressure cooker in India.
Size of Pressure Cookers
One of the most important points about a pressure cooker is its size. Generally, the size starts from 1.5L. For an Indian family, the pressure cookers are available with a capacity of 4L-5L. They work great for being used easily to make usual dishes such as dal or even mutton curry for 3-4 people.
Type and Durability
It can be commonly seen that companies market their pressure cookers in different ways. There are mainly three broad categories of cookers based on the materials- aluminium, stainless steel, and hard anodized. The type may also differ according to the design of the lid or body.
Often aluminium-made models are the cost-effective ones whereas the anodized models are the most expensive variants. Also, while choosing a pressure cooker in India find out its compliance with different types of stoves. Anodised pressure cookers are the most durable and they are even scratch and corrosion-resistant.
Apart from the type of material, pressure cookers can be classified into two different types.
- Traditional pressure cookers can be used on an induction cooktop or gas stove with autoignition.
- Electric pressure cookers that directly use electricity for cooking with customized settings.
The latter is a modern kitchen appliance that empowers the user with more freedom for cooking with better safety and a variety of choices. Apart from that, Indian pressure cookers can be classified into two categories-
- Inner Lid pressure cooker
- Outer Lid pressure cooker
The inner lid pressure cookers are safer as they hold the steam pressure. (Also Read: Inner Lid vs Outer Lid Pressure Cooker)
Materials of Pressure Cooker
You may have got confused when you went to buy a pressure cooker. The shopkeeper must have shown you so many varieties and types that you were just baffled. For your benefit, we are presenting the most common types of pressure cookers with their features so that you can make an easy purchase, online or offline.
Stainless Steel Pressure Cooker
These are the most common types of pressure cookers that you can buy now. For healthy cooking, buying a stainless steel pressure cooker is a good option. Once you know the features making the decision will be easy.
Pros
- It is a time and energy-saving appliance.
- Maintaining and cleaning the cooker is easy.
- Comes with enough longevity and durability.
- The scratch-resistant body maintains the look.
Cons
- It can be a bit pricy.
- This appliance is a bit heavy.
- It is not a good heat conductor.
Hard-Anodized Pressure Cooker
Based on the latest technological advancement, hard-anodized cookers are pretty ahead of their contemporaries. It can bear high heat, be thermal-efficient, non-toxic, and non-reactive to foods. If you want a product to use for years, this is the pressure cooker you can buy.
Pros
- Maintains the new look for years after years.
- Never reacts to acidic ingredients of food and non-reactive to food.
- It is stain-free and corrosion-resistant.
- Lightweight pressure cooker for easy use.
Cons
- It is an expensive product.
- It can’t be cleaned with metal scrubs.
Aluminum Pressure Cooker
For healthy cooking, an aluminum cooker is the best choice to buy. While cooking in it, the aluminum is absorbed in your food in a light amount. It is suitable for your health.
Pros
- It conducts heat excellently.
- The appliance is relatively lightweight and easy to use.
- It is not too much expensive.
- Cleaning and maintaining the pressure cooker is easy.
Cons
- An aluminum pressure cooker is not durable enough.
- Using it is unhealthy; specifically, it reacts to the acidic content of the food.
Compare: Stainless Steel vs Aluminum Pressure Cooker
Compatibility to Induction Cooktop
While buying a pressure cooker, check out if the appliance is compatible with the induction stove. You will find the induction cooktop compatibility on the product description page. To be specific, the hard-anodized cookers are not induction compatible.
Heat-resistant handles
The handles of the pressure cooker should always be made of heat-resistant material. Plastic is not a good heat conductor, so you can easily carry it. Never buy a pressure cooker with a metal handle as it will get hot while cooking and is impossible to move.
Health and Hygiene
If you are someone who would like to know about which pressure cookers are good for health, then we would like to say that stainless steel and anodized pressure cookers are the most suitable models for such requirements. The reason behind this is that the materials do not react with the food which may otherwise cause variations. The use of aluminium in cooking utensils has been criticized a lot but they are the most cost-effective models.
Warranty
Pressure cookers always pose a threat to become defunct like any other product. So, it is important to know about the warranty of the product before you buy it. Always go for products that have extended periods of warranty that last for 5 to 10 years.
Dishwasher Compliant
Do you use a dishwasher at your home?
If yes, then you may need a model that can go into dishwashers. Definitely make sure of it before buying or else it may ruin your appliance. The product description will often list ‘dishwasher safe’ to denote this.
Safety Measures
One of the most important points to think about is the safety measures that are present in the pressure cookers. Is there a safety valve? Does it have an ISI certification? Does it have a mechanism to release the excess steam without causing any trouble? Research about the factors before purchasing a model.
Budget for Best Pressure Cooker
Another important thing is the price that you want to pay for the worthy pressure cooker.
Would you like to buy a premium model that looks good or will you be happy with a normal pressure cooker that works well and comes on a budget?
Think about the budget and never spend too much without comparing items. Rather than doubting and worrying, think about your requirements from the cooker.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Pressure Cookers
Let us have a look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of a pressure cooker which will help us to know if it is really important for us to get one or not.
The Benefits
The Limitations
Frequently Asked Questions about Pressure Cookers
Hawkins is one of the most reputed brands for pressure cookers. It manufactures products for all price ranges. Sustained quality and durability are the keys to the reputation of the brand. Apart from Hawkins, Prestige and Pigeon By Stovekraft have also some great products with high performance and durability. After thorough research we have selected these top 3 brands for pressure cookers:
1. Prestige
2. Hawkins
3. Pigeon by Stovekraft
The heating efficiency of Aluminium is more than Stainless Steel. While cooking, the aluminium pressure cooker uses much less energy to transfer more heat inside the cooking chamber. As a result, a lower amount of fuel or electricity is used. However, with more heat, the strength of aluminium weakens. It may result to burst if overheated for a prolonged time.
On the other hand, Stainless Steel products need more energy or fuel as the heat transferring capacity is lower than the aluminium-made products. But, it has more strength and does not weaken easily when exposed to overheat. The Stainless Steel made models also look attractive and shiny. These pressure cookers are more durable and scratch-resistant.
Therefore, we may conclude that stainless steel models are better than aluminium.
All types of cookers destroy or damage the nutrient content in the food to some extent. But pressures cookers preserve the nutrients up to 95% that no other type of cookers can. Compared to steaming, frying, roasting, or general boiling, cooking is better in terms of nutrient retention, digestion. With a pressure cooker, the anti-oxidant activity is increased destroying the antinutrients.
So, a pressure cooker does not destroy the nutrients. Instead, it retains and makes the food healthier for consumption.
When cooking in a pressure cooker, we add the raw food (dry rice, dal, vegetable, or meat) and water. Then we seal the cooker container with the lid and heat it on the stove. Slowly the temperature of the water increases. As the container is closed along with the steam stop valve, the inner volume cannot expand. For this reason, the pressure inside the cooker grows, increasing the boiling point of water. Thus, water does not convert into steam fast, but the temperature continuously increases, making the cooking faster. This is why a pressure cooker reduces cooking time
On an induction stove, you can only use pressure cookers that are made of ferromagnetic materials. For this reason, Aluminium pressure cookers cannot be used on induction cooktops. However, most of the recent pressure cooker models we have recommended can be used on induction cooktops. When choosing a pressure cooker, make sure that it is compatible with induction cooking.
The number of pressure cooker whistles depends on the quantity and type of rice. Usually, for daily cooking, you need 3-4 whistles to prepare rice. When you start cooking, use a medium flame before the 1st whistle occurs. Lower the flame afterward and allow the pressure cooker to whistle 2-3 times more.
You can wash the pressure cooker containers, seals easily in a dishwasher. But you should never attempt to wash the lid and steam valve inside a dishwasher. The reason behind it is that the valve and its port can be clogged with unwanted food particles resulting in blockage to the steam path.
For cooking any food in a pressure cooker, you need at least 1.5 times more water by volume than the food item. Usually, we need 1-2 cups of water for cooking in a pressure cooker. Do not put less amount of water as the food may get burnt. Adding excess water results in a loss in the flavor and texture of the cooked food.
India’s Best Pressure Cooker: Conclusion
In all, it can be said that pressure cookers work as a friend to us and most of us will definitely get one or more for our kitchen. We do hope that the points that we have mentioned will help you in your journey of purchasing a good pressure cooker in 2024.
Also, check out the products that we have mentioned as they are some of the best pressure cookers in India right now. Do your research and we are sure that your product will last in your kitchen for a long time.
Related Posts: