Cookaholics Bulletin Board

All,

Given that we just finished a dinner with beans which took an extra hour to cook, I've decided to get a pressure cooker. I don't want to spend too much, and would generally prefer stovetop to electric, but could be persuaded. I don't need it for canning, so just like a 3 or 4 quart. Recommendations?

Living at altitude a pressure cooker is a necessity. I used to have an electric Faberware that Sunny gave me. It died once, Andy fixed it, then it permanently died last year due to me filling it too full while trying to make a quick stock. I loved that thing, so when I looked to replace it, I didn't hesitate and looked for another electric one. Like you, normally I would look at stovetop models, but the electric is just so dang convenient. Set it and walk away.

I did my research and bought a Cuisinart. I will eventually buy a stovetop model for canning, but for beans and legumes (my main use) you can't beat electric.

Amy

If you want simple, since you don't need width for roasts, I would recommend an old fashioned Presto. I recently gave away a 40 year old still working one. This is the one I bought to use at my daughter's. I have the same one in SS which was my mom's. Since I wanted bigger and wider because I do roasts in it, the last one I bought was this one. I wanted the basket since I make Cuban flan in the PC.

Because I use it several time a week I wanted a PC that is well-made and will last me forever.
I got http://www.amazon.com/Fissler-Vitaquick-Pressure-Pan-Set/dp/B007X5BD0G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1380372838&sr=8-1&keywords=vitaquick+pressure+pan%20this%20one.
I can't say enough about how much I love it. It's not only gorgeous but it keeps its looks and performs perfectly. Small enough at 4.2 litres for a couple.
It's more expensive than most but it will last.

Ooooh, nice Linda...me want.

Me not buying...just bought a new one-of-a-kind rug...credit card cut off for a while...at least until we're back in season and I'm making money again.

Amy

Personally, I'd take a new rug over a pressure cooker any day.

fitzie

It's a really pretty rug. A friend of mine owns an interior design gallery, and she sold it to me for just over cost. Still expensive, but perfect for the room.

Yah, me too.

Amy

A good rug will really tie a room together.

Paul is the dude.

Speaking of which, we need a new rug for the dining room.

I've been pretty shocked at how much rag rugs cost these days. Time was, my parents bought a bunch of them for the house in Cleveland because they were practically free. Now they cost almost as much as wool.