Using cooking oil in a pressure cooker is generally considered safe, as long as some basic precautions are taken. The key factors to consider are the type of oil used, the amount, and proper pressure cooker operation and maintenance.
Can You Use Oil in a Pressure Cooker?
Yes, it is perfectly fine to use small amounts of cooking oil in a pressure cooker. The oil helps prevent food from sticking to the pot, enhances flavor, and aids in browning and caramelization. Most pressure cooker manuals recommend using 1-2 tablespoons of oil per recipe. The key is to use just enough to coat the bottom of the pot and food, not so much that there is a deep pool of oil.
Best Oils for Pressure Cooking
The best oils for pressure cooking are those with high smoke points that resist oxidation at high temperatures. Recommended oils include:
- Grapeseed oil
- Avocado oil
- Refined coconut oil
- Peanut oil
- Canola oil
- Vegetable oil
- Safflower oil
Avoid oils that have low smoke points like extra virgin olive oil, sesame oil, and flaxseed oil. The intense pressure cooking heat can cause these oils to smoke or oxidize, resulting in an off flavor.
Is Deep Frying in a Pressure Cooker Dangerous?
Deep frying involves submerging food in a large amount of very hot oil. Most pressure cooker manuals warn against using more than 2 cups of oil, as it can pose safety risks:
- The oil may bubble up aggressively and clog the pressure release valves.
- It can be difficult to maintain the correct temperature for frying.
- The stove burner may not be able to supply enough heat.
- The pot may boil over when the lid is opened after pressure cooking.
For these reasons, deep frying enough food to be fully submerged in oil is not recommended in a stove-top pressure cooker. However, shallow “pan frying” just to brown meat is fine. An electric pressure cooker may be better suited for deep frying with oil, but always consult the manual.
Tips for Cooking with Oil in a Pressure Cooker
Here are some tips for safely using oil in your pressure cooker recipes:
- Use the recommended amount of oil – usually 1-2 tbsp is plenty for most recipes.
- Choose a high smoke point oil like avocado or grapeseed.
- Ensure the lid gasket is in good condition and the valves/vents are clean – oil residue can prevent them from working properly.
- Allow the oil to heat before adding other ingredients for better browning.
- Use natural release rather than quick release to avoid splatter when venting steam.
- Remove the lid carefully, tilting it away from you to prevent burns.
Maintaining a Pressure Cooker Used With Oil
To keep your pressure cooker in good working order:
- Wash the lid gasket, valves, and other parts after each use to prevent sticking.
- Check the gasket regularly for cracks or drying out, and replace when worn.
- Remove metal inserts and wash with hot soapy water after cooking oily foods.
- Use a silicone or wooden utensil to avoid scratching the pot’s coating.
- Run heat-only cooking cycles with water and a drop of dish soap to clean interior.
Conclusion
Using a small amount of oil to sauté or brown foods in a pressure cooker is perfectly safe when basic guidelines are followed. Avoid deep frying large batches of foods submerged in oil. Stick to oils with high smoke points, maintain the cooker according to manufacturer instructions, use oil sparingly, and pressure cook safely. Following these tips will allow you to reap all the benefits of pressure cooking without any undue risks from oil.