Kuhn Rikon Pressure Cooker
Choosing a Kuhn Rikon Pressure Cooker
Kuhn Rikon is probably the most unique pressure cooker manufacturer. They are distributed out of Pleasant Hill Grain, a company right here in the USA, in the fine state of Nebraska.
What makes this brand of pressure cooker unique is the fact they have many smaller models that are designed to braise and brown meats, risotto, and even fried chicken. These smaller models come in a fry pan, as well as a sauce pan, both under three quarts. For example, the 2.5 liter pressure fry pan is ideal for browning and cooking a variety of different dishes, has a waffled bottom to help keep food from sticking, as well as a dimpled surface to separate fat. It is just under 10" in diameter, which is ideal for cooking a dinner for up to four people. It is priced at $189, but there is free shipping for any order over a hundred dollars.
The 2.5 quart pressure sauce pan is great for braising larger amounts, and can be used to cook soup, stews, as well as many kinds of rice and beans. It can stew a 3.5 pound chicken, and has the same kind of features as the frying pan. You can also get this one for the exact same price as the fry pan. For larger applications, they also offer their 5 liter braiser with an extra large 11" base for families up to 8 people.
There are many people who don't have a large family, and even a four quart pressure cooker is just too much. Luckily, Kuhn Rikon has two models that are only 3.5 liters, or just under 4 quarts. Celebrating their 50th anniversary, they are happy to offer their 3.5 Anniversary Cooker, with a plastic steam diffuser and a handy cooking guide printed right on it. It has a stainless-steel trivet and it only has one handle instead of two like its sister model of the same size. Both of these models are ideal for smaller families of up to five people. The anniversary edition is also specially priced, and is only $139, $40 less than the regular 3.5 liter model. For your convenience, they do offer larger ranges, both in the 5 and 7 liter size, priced at $199 and $219.
They also have a new line of pressure cookers, available in all the same sizes and features, but instead of holding the stem at the top of the lid to release steam, these newer models have turning tops which are twisted and let go to relieve pressure until they are turned off. These models are far easier to use, but come with a slightly higher price tag although they are still quite reasonable. Kuhn Rikon pressure cookers are quite a bargain.