Steaming Veggies: Nuwave Pressure Cooker Tips And Tricks

The NuWave NutriPot Pressure Cooker is a beginner-friendly kitchen appliance with some high-end features, such as a push-button steam release and an easy-carry handle. It comes in multiple sizes, with a cool-to-the-touch lid, a pressure release valve, and a removable non-stick cooking pot. The pressure cooker is ideal for preparing vegetables as it saves time, preserves colour, and locks in nutrients and flavour.

How to lock the lid of the pressure cooker

To lock the lid of the NuWave pressure cooker, first, place the lid on top of the pot. Then, slide the locking mechanism to the left so that the pot and lid handles are aligned and locked into place. You'll know the lid is locked when you see a red light underneath the Sure Lock indicator on the digital display.

The NuWave pressure cooker features the Sure-Lock safety system, which is designed to prevent the lid from being removed while the contents are still pressurized. This system includes a food-blocking cap, a lid lock function, and a bottom pressure switch to ensure that the cooker can only pressurize if the lid is securely fastened.

Once the lid is locked, it won't move or loosen during cooking. To unlock the lid, simply slide the handle to the right.

The amount of water needed to steam vegetables

The amount of water you need to steam vegetables in a pressure cooker depends on the quantity of vegetables and the size of your cooker. For every 350 to 500 grams of vegetables, you will need to add 3 to 4 tablespoons of water. This is the amount required to steam all the vegetables in the pressure cooker.

If you are using a 3-quart pressure cooker, you need to add at least 1 cup of water or another liquid such as broth. For a 6-quart cooker, you will need to add at least 1 cup of liquid, and for an 8-quart cooker, you will need a minimum of 2 cups.

It is important not to fill your pressure cooker with liquid beyond the halfway mark, and never fill it more than two-thirds full of food. Pressure cannot build if there is no room for the steam to create it. As a general rule, always add at least 1 cup of water or another liquid.

How to set the cooking time

Setting the cooking time on your NuWave pressure cooker is simple. First, press the "Time" button. Then, adjust the time by using the (+) and (-) buttons to increase or decrease the cooking time as needed. Finally, press the top right "Start/Stop" button to begin the cooking cycle.

The amount of time required to steam vegetables in a pressure cooker will depend on the type and quantity of vegetables you are cooking. Generally, softer vegetables like spinach or kale will only need 2-3 minutes, while harder vegetables like carrots or potatoes may need up to 5 minutes. Root vegetables, in particular, may need a bit more time, ranging from 4 to 7 minutes.

It's important to note that the cooking time does not include the time it takes for the cooker to build up pressure. After setting the desired cooking time and pressure level, you will need to wait for the cooker to build pressure, which usually takes a few minutes. Once the desired pressure level has been reached, the cooking time will begin to countdown.

If you are steaming multiple types of vegetables with varying cooking times, you can steam them separately or together in batches. When steaming together, cut the vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Additionally, leave some space between the vegetables to allow for proper steam circulation.

For delicate vegetables that you want to keep crisp and vibrant, use the quick-release method to release the pressure as soon as the cooking time is complete. For tougher vegetables that benefit from additional cooking time, you can use the natural release method, allowing the pressure to decrease gradually.

How to release pressure from the cooker

To release pressure from the NuWave pressure cooker, follow these steps:

Firstly, it is important to note that the NuWave pressure cooker has an easy safety release valve to relieve pressure and prevent hot food from splashing on you. The cooker also has a push-button steam release, which is useful for recipes that require an intermittent steam release, such as pastas and potatoes.

To release the pressure, simply press the push-button steam release. This will unlock the valve and allow steam to escape. Be sure to point the valve away from your body and avoid any upper cabinets. You can also hold the cooker under running water to help release the pressure. This is a useful method to retain the colour and nutrition of vegetables.

Once the pressure has been completely released, the lid should open with ease, and your food will be ready to serve.

How to clean the NuWave pressure cooker

To clean your NuWave pressure cooker, follow these steps:

• Unplug the pressure cooker.
• Wipe the base of the cooker and the inside of the base with a damp cloth. Do not immerse the base in water or spray water on it, as this could damage the electrical components.
• Remove the water collection box and clean it with a wet cloth before inserting it back.
• Detach the lid from the base and wash it in warm, soapy water. Rinse and leave it to dry.
• Clean the inner pot with a soapy sponge and then wipe it with a cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaning tools to protect the non-stick surface.
• Refer to the user manual if you are unsure about how to detach and reattach the cooker's components.

Frequently asked questions