If you go on a frenzied Google search for a cooker, you’ll usually come up with the most common types like pressure cookers, multi-cookers, and instant cookers. These aren’t the same appliances. They each have different functions, which is why they have different names. Here’s a more detailed guide.
What Is a Multi-Cooker?
A multi-cooker is basically a kitchen appliance that can handle multiple cooking tasks in one device. It can slow cook, pressure cook, steam, sauté, and sometimes even bake or air fry, depending on the model.
Most multi-cookers come with preset cooking programs, so you don’t have to guess times and temperatures. You just press a button, and it does the work for you. It’s great for making stews, soups, rice, yogurt, and roasting meats. It’s convenient if you have limited space.
What Is a Pressure Cooker?
A pressure cooker cooks food by trapping steam inside a sealed pot. The steam builds pressure, which raises the boiling point of water and forces moisture into the food. This speeds up cooking times significantly. What normally takes hours can be done in minutes.
Pressure cookers are great for tough cuts of meat, beans, stews, soups, and even rice. There are two types:
- Stovetop pressure cookers – These require an external heat source, such as a gas or electric stove. They typically cook food faster than electric models.
- Electric pressure cookers or instant pot – These have built-in heating elements and digital controls. They’re easier to use and more versatile.
Key Differences Between a Multi-Cooker and a Pressure Cooker
Feature | Multi-Cooker | Pressure Cooker |
Primary Function | Multiple cooking methods | Fast cooking with steam pressure |
Pressure Cooking | Yes (in models with this feature) | Yes (main function) |
Slow Cooking | Yes | No |
Other Cooking Modes | Rice cooking, yogurt making, sous vide, etc. | None |
Speed | Slower cooking times | Faster cooking times |
Can a Multi-Cooker Replace a Pressure Cooker?
In many cases, yes. Most modern multi-cookers come with a pressure cooking function, meaning you can use them just like a standalone pressure cooker. However, the pressure cooking capability of a multi-cooker may not be as powerful or fast as a dedicated stovetop pressure cooker.
Final Thoughts
A multi-cooker and a pressure cooker are not the same. A multi-cooker has more functions, which makes it a great all-in-one appliance. A pressure cooker is great for quick, high-pressure cooking.
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