Release Steam From Your Pressure Cooker: Easy, Quick Methods

There are two main ways to release steam from a pressure cooker: natural release and quick release. Natural release is a slow release method that involves allowing the pressure to decrease on its own as the temperature inside the cooker drops. Quick release, on the other hand, is a manual process that forces the steam out through the pressure release valve. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between them depends on the type of food being cooked and the desired level of control over the cooking process.

Let the pressure cooker cool down

Letting your pressure cooker cool down is the most common method of depressurisation, also known as a natural release. This is when you leave the pressure release switch in the sealed position and let the pressure release slowly without you doing anything. The time it takes for the pressure to release naturally will vary depending on the ingredients and amount of liquid in the pressure cooker. A natural release can take anywhere from 5 to 40 minutes.

During a natural release, the food inside the cooking pot continues to cook as the pressure decreases. This makes it ideal for foods with longer cook times, like braises, stews, and broths. It is also best for foods with skin, like potatoes and beans, as the natural release method allows the skin to stay intact instead of bursting. A natural release is also good for meats, as it allows the juices to settle into the meat, making it tender and flavourful.

To perform a natural release, simply let the pressure cooker sit until the pressure naturally releases and goes back to normal. You'll know that the pressure has released once the float valve pops down into the lid, making a clicking sound. The pot will then unlock and you can open the lid.

Open the steam release valve

Opening the steam release valve is the method for a quick pressure release. This is performed by manually opening the valve to depressurise the pot more quickly. This is the opposite of a natural release, where the pressure inside the pot is allowed to come down gradually on its own.

To use the quick release function, you must first ensure that the pressure cooking is complete. The instant pot will chime and begin counting the minutes if in Keep Warm mode. Then, turn the steam release valve from the Seal to Vent position. A jet of steam will begin to escape from the valve. It is important to keep your hands and face away from the path of the steam to avoid burns.

Once all the steam is released, the float valve will drop down. You can then press Cancel and open the lid by turning it counterclockwise. You will hear a chime.

It is worth noting that the release valve is designed differently depending on the instant pot model. Some have a valve and switch combo with a marking to show when the valve is sealing or open. Other models have a separate steam release button that you press, while high-end models allow you to program the type of release and the pot does it automatically at the end of cooking.

Use oven mitts or something similar to protect your hands

It is very important to protect your hands when releasing steam from a pressure cooker. The steam is extremely hot and can cause burns if you're not careful. Oven mitts are an ideal way to do this, as they cover your hands and wrists, providing a barrier between your skin and the hot steam. Make sure the oven mitts are thick enough to protect you from the heat. If you don't have oven mitts, you can use other heat-resistant gloves or pads, such as those used for grilling or handling hot pots and pans. Just ensure that whatever you use is designed to withstand high temperatures and will provide adequate protection.

When you're ready to release the steam, stand to the side of the pressure cooker, not directly in front of it, as the steam will rush out in a thin, controlled stream. Keep your face and body away from the path of the steam, as it can cause burns. Using long-handled utensils, carefully press down on the popup valve or turn the steam release knob to the venting position. The steam will begin to escape, so be cautious and keep your hands protected with the oven mitts or similar heat-resistant gear. If you need to switch the valve back to the sealed position, use the utensils to avoid direct contact with the steam.

The amount of steam and time required for the release will depend on the quantity and type of food inside the cooker. Be prepared for a strong jet of steam, especially if you're using the quick-release method. This method results in a rapid release of pressure and a more pronounced escape of steam. Always be cautious and keep your hands and body clear of the direct path of the steam to avoid any accidents. It's also a good idea to position the valve away from kitchen cabinets, as repeated steam exposure can strip paint or warp wood.

Once all the steam has escaped, you'll know the pressure has been fully released when you hear the float valve drop and the lid unlocks. At this point, it is safe to remove your oven mitts and open the lid. Remember to exercise caution throughout the entire process to ensure a safe and pleasant cooking experience.

Press down on the pop-up valve

Pressing down on the pop-up valve is one of the ways to release the pressure from your pressure cooker. This method is known as the "quick release" method.

To perform a quick release, carefully press down on the pop-up valve, also known as the float valve, to let the pressure out. It is recommended to wear oven mitts or use a long-handled utensil, such as a wooden spoon, to protect your hands from the escaping steam. Keep your face and hands away from the path of the steam, as it can cause burns.

The quick release method is ideal for quick-cooking foods that you want to prevent from overcooking, such as seafood, tender vegetables, chicken breasts, lean cuts of pork or beef, and eggs. It is also suitable for recipes with multiple pressure cook cycles, as it allows you to add ingredients mid-cooking without overcooking them.

Additionally, a quick release is generally better for foods where you want to maintain a firmer texture or stop the cooking process immediately. However, for foods with longer cook times, such as braises, stews, and broths, and meats, a natural release method is recommended.

By following these instructions and choosing the appropriate release method, you can safely release the steam from your pressure cooker and avoid any mishaps.

Turn the lid counterclockwise

To get the steam out of a pressure cooker, you must first release the pressure. There are two ways to do this: natural release and quick release.

Quick Release

Quick release is when you manually release the pressure by forcing the steam out of the pressure release valve. This results in a strong jet of steam coming from the pressure release valve. This method is used to stop the cooking process for fast-cooking foods.

Natural Release

Natural release is when you leave the pressure release switch in the sealed position. This lets the pressure release slowly without you doing anything. The food inside continues to cook as the pressure decreases. This method is ideal for foods with longer cook times, such as braises, stews, and broths.

Turning the Lid Counterclockwise

Once you have released the pressure, you can open the lid by turning it counterclockwise. You will hear a chime when it is safe to do so. Be careful to keep your hands and face away from the path of the steam.

It is important to note that you should not try to force the lid open before the pressure has been released, as this could result in an explosion of the contents and serious burns.

Frequently asked questions