Like most families, our household has a tight schedule. From work, after school activities and daily chores, free time during the week is greatly limited. Even with all the commitments, I want to have a healthy, real dinner. Of course, the microwave is always an option, but sometimes I don't want my food to start as a frozen puck.
It seems right now that many families are encouraged to try slow cookers. The concept of this device is simple. All ingredients go into one pot. Simply, turn on the appliance and in several hours you have a home cooked meal.
While this concept is simple and easy, I would prefer a different method. First, I don't like the idea of a slow cooker "on" all day long. I'm sure that some people would disagree, but an "on" device just worries me. Also, I feel that I'm wasting a lot of energy with a device "on" all day long.
To answer my quick, healthy dinner dilemma, I am considering purchasing a pressure cooker. If you watch television cooking shows, you may be aware of a pressure cooker. For example, the time constraints of Iron Chef America make the fast, efficient pressure cooker a must. While I don't profess to be an expert chef, I like the concept of cooking well and efficiently.
So, why would the home cook use a pressure cooker?
First, a pressure cooker is fast. The Fagor Pressure Cooker reduces cooking time up to 70%. For example, cook risotto in 7 minutes, meatballs in 4 minutes, chicken soup in 15 minutes. This reduced time translates into less energy used.
Second, a pressure cooking retains vitamins and nutrients that can be lost in traditional cooking methods. Also, low fat meals are easy to make. With a pressure cooker, you can use less fat and oil.
Lastly, a pressure cooker is versatile. Appetizers to entrees, and even desserts, can be made in this single device.
I am seriously considering purchasing a pressure cooker for our family. Right now I'm researching the types, sizes and colors available.
Do you have a pressure cooker? Tell me which one you have and why you like it.
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