Ambiano Pressure Cooker: Letting Off Steam Safely

The Ambiano pressure cooker is a versatile appliance that can be used for various cooking tasks, including pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, steaming, and rice cooking. It offers multiple safety features, such as a lid locking system and a pressure release valve, which ensure safe usage. While the appliance is user-friendly, spending time understanding its ins and outs before the first use is recommended, especially since some steps are crucial for safety. To let off steam, the pressure release valve must be turned to the Venting position, ensuring that your hands and face are away from the escaping steam.

Check the sealing valve and sealing ring

To let your Ambiano pressure cooker release steam, it's important to first check the sealing valve and sealing ring. This is because the sealing ring is one of the most essential components of a modern pressure cooker. Without it, the cooker won't work effectively or quickly.

The sealing ring, also known as the gasket ring, is usually nestled around the interior of the lid. It is designed to expand at high temperatures to seal the gap between the lid and the inner pot, allowing pressure to build.

If your pressure cooker is releasing too much steam, it may be due to a faulty sealing ring. Over time, the sealing ring may become damaged due to heat, moisture, and pressure. Inspect the ring carefully for any wear and tear, thinning, or tearing, and replace it if necessary. Sealing rings are cheap and easy to replace.

In addition to checking the sealing ring, ensure that the screws and fasteners on your pressure cooker are tight. Loose screws and fasteners can cause the pressure cooker to release excess steam.

Before replacing the sealing ring, also check the various valves in the lid, as they may be damaged, missing, or dirty, preventing a proper seal. The float valve, for example, is part of the lid and is essential for the pressure cooker to function. It inserts into the lid from the outside to the inside, and the sealing ring locks it in place. If the sealing ring is washed off or loose, the float valve can become loose, causing steam leaks.

Ensure the screws and fasteners are tight

Ensuring that the screws and fasteners on your Ambiano pressure cooker are tight is an important step in maintaining the appliance. Over time and with frequent use, screws can become loose, which can compromise the functionality and safety of your pressure cooker.

To ensure the screws and fasteners are tight, follow these steps:

• Turn off the pressure cooker and unplug it from the power source if it is an electric model.
• Allow the cooker to cool down completely. Pressure cookers can get extremely hot, and it is important to avoid burns when working on any part of the appliance.
• Using the appropriate screwdriver, inspect each screw and fastener. Ensure that they are tightened securely but be careful not to overtighten them, as this could strip the threads or damage the screw head.
• Pay particular attention to the screws and fasteners around the lid, as this is a critical area for maintaining pressure. The lid screws should be tight to ensure a proper seal.
• If any screws are missing or damaged, replace them with the correct type and size as specified by the manufacturer. Do not substitute with a different type of screw, as this could affect the performance and safety of the cooker.
• Once you have checked and tightened all the screws and fasteners, test the pressure cooker according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure it is functioning correctly.

By regularly inspecting and tightening the screws and fasteners on your Ambiano pressure cooker, you can help ensure safe and efficient operation, preventing accidents and extending the lifespan of your appliance.

Check the steam releasing part is installed correctly

To ensure that the steam releasing part of your Ambiano pressure cooker is installed correctly, you should first check the sealing valve and sealing ring. If there is too much steam escaping, this could be a sign that the sealing ring is damaged or missing. The sealing ring is essential to maintaining pressure inside the cooker, so it is important to ensure it is in good condition and properly installed.

Next, check that the screws and fasteners are tight, as they can become loose over time. Also, inspect the various valves in the lid, as these may also have gaskets that are damaged, missing, or dirty, preventing a proper seal.

If your cooker is new, it is especially important to check that the steam releasing part is installed correctly. Even if your cooker is used, it is worth inspecting this component to ensure it is functioning as intended.

Finally, if your cooker is electric, make sure that the heat is not set too high. If it is a stovetop model, ensure the burner is not on too high a setting. Adjusting the heat can help regulate the amount of steam released.

Turn down the heat

Once your Ambiano pressure cooker has reached a steady stream of steam, it's time to turn down the heat. This is a crucial step in pressure cooking, as it allows the pressure inside the cooker to stabilise and prevents the temperature from rising too high. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

• Monitor the Steam: Keep a close eye on the steam being released from the cooker. You'll know it's time to turn down the heat when you see a steady stream of steam escaping. This usually happens a few minutes after turning on the cooker.
• Adjust the Heat Source: If you're using a stovetop, turn down the heat to a lower setting. For electric stoves, this might mean turning the knob to a lower number, while for gas stoves, you'll need to adjust the flame accordingly. If you're using an electric pressure cooker, simply adjust the temperature setting to a lower level.
• Maintain a Gentle Steam: After turning down the heat, you should still see a gentle stream of steam escaping from the cooker. This indicates that the pressure inside is stable, and your cooker is now maintaining the desired pressure level.
• Keep an Eye on the Pressure Valve: The pressure valve, also known as the float valve, is an important safety feature. It should rise as the pressure builds up and then drop back down when the pressure is released. Make sure it's functioning properly and not clogged or stuck in one position.
• Avoid Overheating: Turning down the heat ensures that your pressure cooker doesn't get too hot. Overheating can not only affect the quality of your food but also damage the cooker itself. By maintaining the correct temperature, you'll get the best results from your Ambiano pressure cooker.
• Follow Recipe Instructions: Different recipes may require specific pressure levels and cooking times. Always refer to your recipe or the Ambiano user manual to determine the appropriate heat setting and cooking duration for your dish.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Using a pressure cooker can be intimidating at first, but with practice, you'll become more comfortable with the process. Don't be afraid to experiment and find the sweet spot that works best for your cooking needs.
• Safety First: Always exercise caution when working with high temperatures and pressure. Make sure to follow the safety instructions provided by the manufacturer, including the use of oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves when handling the cooker.
• Regular Maintenance: To ensure optimal performance, regularly clean and maintain your Ambiano pressure cooker. This includes cleaning the inner pot, sealing rings, and valves according to the user manual.
• Seek Support: If you're ever unsure about how to use your Ambiano pressure cooker, don't hesitate to reach out to the manufacturer's customer support or consult the user manual for detailed instructions.

Remember, turning down the heat is an essential step in pressure cooking, and it ensures that your Ambiano pressure cooker functions safely and effectively. By following these steps, you'll be able to create delicious meals while taking advantage of the time-saving benefits of pressure cooking.

Clean the valve

To clean the valve of your Ambiano pressure cooker, you must first remove it from the lid. It is important to clean the removable components separately so that you can get them thoroughly clean. The valve is a small part that may require a small brush, such as a soft toothbrush, pipe cleaner, or Q-tip, to clean the interior. Wash the valve with warm soapy water to remove any food residue. This will ensure that your pressure cooker performs at its best.

In addition to cleaning the valve, it is also important to clean the silicone gasket. The gasket should be washed with warm water and mild dish soap each time the pressure cooker is used. After washing and drying the gasket, it is recommended to coat it with a thin layer of vegetable oil before placing it back on the lid. The silicone gasket should be replaced approximately every 12-18 months, or when it shows signs of wear and tear.

By regularly cleaning the valve and gasket of your Ambiano pressure cooker, you can ensure that your appliance functions optimally and that your food is cooked safely and effectively.

Frequently asked questions