How to Use the Power Pressure Cooker XL
The Power Pressure Cooker XL is an entry-level electric pressure cooker. Here’s everything you need to know about using the Power Pressure Cooker XL.
Lately, I’ve been getting lots of questions about how to make recipes in the Power Pressure Cooker XL. So I decided it was time to buy one and do a How to Use the Power Pressure Cooker XL so I could better answer the questions. It’s been sold for several years on QVC, and Costco has started selling an 8 quart Power Pressure Cooker XL for about $89.
Using the Power Pressure Cooker XL Multi-Cooker
The first question is generally which button should I use?
All the pressure cooker buttons cook the same except the canning button. So it doesn’t matter which button you use, chose the button with the closest cook time to the time in the recipe.
The Power Pressure Cooker XL pressure buttons:
- Fish/Veg/Steam – 2 minute cook time, use the cook time selector to adjust to 4 or 10 minutes. This is the shortest cook time available on the Power Pressure Cooker XL
- Beans/Lentils – 5 minute cook time, use the cook time selector to adjust to 15 or 30 minutes.
- Rice/Risotto – 6 minute cook time, use the cook time selector to adjust to 18 or 25 minutes. The manual suggests using 6 minutes for white rice, 18 minutes for brown rice, and 25 minutes for wild rice.
- Soup/Stew – 10 minute cook time, use the cook time selector to adjust to 30 or 60 minutes.
- Meat/Chicken – 15 minute cook time, use the cook time selector to adjust to 40 or 60 minutes.
To adjust the preset times listed above, use the time adjust button to add time. You cannot reduce the time. If you need less time, use one of the buttons with less time – Fish is the shortest cook time. You have to press the time adjust button immediately after pressing the pressure cook button you want to use.
All of these pressure cooking buttons cook at 7.2 psi, which is considered the high end of low pressure on the Instant Pot. However, Power Pressure Cooker XL users report that they do not have to increase the cook time when cooking Pressure Cooking Today recipes that are cooked on high pressure.
My husband cooks a lot of pressure cooker hard boiled eggs and he agreed the time to cook the eggs was the same in the Power Pressure Cooker XL on the rice setting and in the Instant Pot using high pressure and the manual button – 6 minutes with a 6 minute natural release. The Power Pressure Cooker XL does take longer to come to pressure, which may be what’s compensating for the lower psi.
So when you’re cooking my electric pressure cooker recipes in the Power Pressure Cooker XL, don’t add additional cooking time because of the difference in psi. You can always add additional if necessary after the initial cooking time, but you don’t want to over cook foods.
Additional Power Pressure Cooker XL buttons:
- Canning – the canning button cooks at 12 psi, which is high pressure in the Instant Pot. If you prefer, you can do all your pressure cooking using the canning button if you’re pressure cooking longer than 10 minutes. You can adjust the time to 45 and 120 minutes. The Power Pressure Cooker manual does not recommend pressure canning if you are at an altitude above 2,000 ft. However, a division of the USDA warned consumers against pressure canning in digital (electric) pressure cookers. Hot water bath canning is safe.
- Slow Cook – 2 hour cook time, use the cook time selector to adjust to 6 hours or 12 hours. Slow cook cooks between 174-199° F which would be equivalent to low on a traditional slow cooker.
- Keep Warm/Cancel Button – Use this button to cancel a function or turn off your pressure cooker. When you pressure cooking time is up, it will automatically switch to Keep Warm.
- Delay Timer – allows you to set the pressure cooker to start cooking later in the day.
The second question is how do I saute or brown in the Power Pressure Cooker XL?
The Power Pressure Cooker doesn’t have a saute button instead they recommends using the pressure cooking buttons without the lid on. Since the meat/chicken button has the longest cook time, it’s a good choice for sauteing and browning. (It’s been reported that new models now have a saute button!)
Releasing the Pressure. The symbols on the pressure valve are really easy to understand on the Power Pressure Cooker XL. Line up the image of the steam coming out with the triangle to quickly release the pressure – the open position. Line up the circle and the two triangles to pressure cook – the locked position.
You can get more information about releasing the pressure in my Quick Release or Natural Pressure Release Post.
The Power Pressure Cooker XL lid has an outer lid and an inner liner with a gasket. When cleaning the lid, be sure and remove and clean the liner – use the pull tab to separate the liner and gasket from the lid. Also remove the gasket from the liner and wash it.
When you’re reattaching the liner and the gasket to the lid, be sure the pull tab is visible.
The 8 quart Power Pressure Cooker XL I bought at Costco came with a trivet, steamer tray, ladle and measuring cup.
You can view the Power Pressure Cooker XL manual for more information and order replacement parts on their website.
There are a few things I dislike about the Power Pressure Cooker XL.
– It doesn’t have a saute or browning button, and it doesn’t tell you when the pot is hot and ready to saute. Both the Instant Pot and Fagor signal you when it’s hot. Since I’m generally impatient, this is a feature I really appreciate so I don’t add food too soon. (Newer models do have a Saute button!)
– There isn’t a minus button to subtract time. You need to pick the button with the closest time and add time.
– I prefer a stainless steel pot because you can scrub it, and don’t have to worry about scratching the finish.
Despite the disadvantages, I do think the Power Pressure Cooker XL is a good value for an 8 quart pressure cooker for only $89.
My niece recently bought the Power Pressure Cooker XL at Costco and has fallen in love with it, and with pressure cooking. There’s also a Facebook Group, Pressure Cooking Fun, and many members of the group use and love the Power Pressure Cooker XL. It also gets good reviews on Amazon.
So if you’re looking for an 8 quart electric pressure cooker at a more affordable price, the Power Pressure Cooker may be right for you.
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I’m wondering if I can process my corn in pint jars using my power pressure xl?
Hi Genny – no electric pressure cooker has been approved for canning by the FDA. So to be on the safe side, I wouldn’t.
my lettering has worn off the pressure valve and don’t remember which position to have it in to build pressure. I am putting the notch that sticks out to the bottom, is this correct?
Hi Bonnie – when you turn the pressure release valve around in a circle, you can feel it rise up when it’s in the steam release position. You may want to put a dot of fingernail polish in that spot. As long as it’s not in the release position, it should build pressure, including when the notice is lined up with the arrow.
I recent replaced the gasket and ever since my power cooker xl is not working the steam keeps coming out. What I am doing wrong. Please help me I need this four times a week.
Hi Angela – was the new gasket specifically made for the XL, perhaps it’s just a little too big. Did you try your old gasket and see if it works?
Can you use quart jars in canning
I don’t think quart jars would fit. They’re too tall.
I bought a new gasket for my big XL and had the same problem took it off and flipped it over and now it works great
Do you have recipes for canning in the Pressure Cooker Xl that you can share or point me to please?
Thank you for any help you can give me.
Hi Kim – the USDA has not approved any electric pressure cookers for canning. Frieda has canning advice on her site https://www.friedalovesbread.com/2017/09/safe-steam-canning-with-your-instant.html
Why does the pressure cooker take so long to come to pressure? I have both a 6 qt and a 10 qt PPCXL . Often all of the liquid steams out and the food burns. I’m using the correct settings for what I’m making. The release control button is closed. At the moment, I’m using 6qt. It has been almost 35 minutes. And it doesn’t seem like its getting even close to being pressurized. Any thoughts appreciated. Thank you
Hi Steven – sorry you’re having trouble. That’s so frustrating. The most common cause of losing too much liquid when pressure cooking is a problem with the silicone gasket. Have you replaced it recently; is it fitting properly?
so dose anyone safely can in the ppclx. i have but just need to know keep are throw out. i am at 1050 feet
thanks wanda
Hi Wanda – you can do hot water bath canning like this https://www.friedalovesbread.com/2017/09/safe-steam-canning-with-your-instant.html
I can all kinds of vegetables in mine, easy peasy! I use it for canning more than anything else.
Excellent article… answers lots of questions…. very helpful.
It would be nice to be able to print the article; and, without all the pictures…
I can’t figure out how to program for over 1 hour for cooking with larger cuts of meat. Using chicken button can get to one hour but when putting additional time in it goes from 0 adding one minute etc. Couldn’t find anything in manual either. Help!! 😕
Hi Donna – unfortunately, you can’t set it for more than an hour. You’ll have to cook it for an hour and then start the remaining time without releasing the pressure.
This was my first pressure cooker around 2010/2011 ish I bought it from QVC or HSN
and it came with a cookbook I let someone borrow it and its now gone forever! I cant
remember the name or author. It was male though and had a lot of great beginner info.
He was not a presenter of the unit on the infomercial, it just was an extra add on.
My favorite was an asian wing recipe and a brunswick stew
Do you think you know what that cookbook might have been?
Hi Jamie – I’m sorry, but I’m not familiar with that cookbook. That’s so frustrating that it never got returned.
hello..I have the pressure cooker XL model – when I plug it in I have lights constantly flashing which.happens for approx 20 minutes then it shows 0000 but i can not hit the soup button or change to time it changes nothing and will only just sit doing nothing – how do I get it to cook. there is nothing in my book that tells me how to continue
Hi June – typically the lights don’t start flashing until after you’ve selected a cooking option and it is starting to pressurize. When I plug it in it shows zeros until I select an option. If it’s still under warranty, contact the company https://www.tristarcares.com/product/power-pressure-cooker-xl/
Bonjour, j’ai acheté le Power pressure cooker xl et je voudrais savoir comment faire pour la cuisson lente. Comment faire cuire à la mijoteuse à LOW et à HI comme sur les autres mijoteuses. Je ne sais pas quelle option choisir . Merci
Hi Denise – slow cook is not adjustable on the XL, it only cooks on LOW and you can adjust the length of time using the cook time selector.
I am using mine for the first time. I have a chuck roast and am in the 3rd round of 50 min cooking. It wasn’t tender like I expected. I haven’t opened the pot yet from this round. Still cooking.
Hi Leslie – timing depends on the size of the roast as well as how tender it is to begin with. If it’s frozen it will take even longer. We typically cut our roast into 1 lb pieces and cook it for 50 minutes https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/pressure-cooker-pot-roast/ But you did the right thing, just keep cooking it until it’s as tender as you’d like.
I have used my power pressure cooker for over a year now. Mine has the browning feature and I find that using it to start my roasts, fresh or thawed, makes the roast so much tastier and retains a nicer color. Also using it as a slow cooker works well for roasts as well. I have put frozen meat and used pressure to cook it. It turned out tender, but I did not care for the appearance or the flavor as much. I prefer to brown the stew meat too. The first time I bought mine, with the non stick inner pot, I have had to return the whole thing for a mal-function, and needed to have a new inner pot as the nonstick coating, especially around the sealing part, kept flaking off and it refused to seal for pressurizing. Once that was done (free of charge) I have had no issues with it. The only thing that might be an issue is when I take the rubber sealing gaskets off of the steam release valves, The top is so deep that I have had trouble finding anything that was small and round enough to keep the valve down until I have the gasket in place and secured. I found a wooden spoon handle, the smaller size ones, works beautifully and doesn’t get stuck like wooden skewers do. You should be able to have a new pressure cooker cook book from the original power cooker web site. The website’s hours and phone number is as follows.
CS Monday-Friday 9AM-8PM EST
Sat and Sun 9AM-5PM EST
973-287-5159
I am calling to buy an new inner pot, and to buy the new gaskets to keep my cooker working dependably
I bought mine 2 years ago and used it to make short ribs. They were wonderful. Never used it again, forgot about it. Recently. I made short ribs in the oven and they were very disappointing. Then I rembered my XL, drug it out then couldn’t find the manual. I got a recipe on food network and went to work, couldn’t remember how to use the thing but pushed a lot of buttons, couldn’t get the timer to work, timed it with my phone and was afraid to see the results. They were fabulous like I remembered. It seems you can’t go wrong with this thing. Now I’m going to download another manual. Many thanks and my XL is not going back into hiding.
I have a recipe that says ,
Set Instant Pot to yogurt function LESS (use adjust button to get it to less, it should say 24 hours). Cover Instant Pot with a glass lid or a plate and let it raise for 25-30 minutes.
What setting would I use on the Power Pressure Cooker XL ?
Hi Mary – you can try turning on the Keep Warm setting for just a couple of minutes to warm up the pot, then turning it off.
Power Pressure Cooker XL did the same thing as the other person who wrote in. Worked fine for a number of uses, then stopped. Is there a reset button or something? None of the buttons are working except keep warm/cancel.
No, sorry there is not a reset button. You’ll need to contact the manufacturer.
Steam just keeps pouring out of the cooker. It took 15 minutes for any time to show up on the front. Steam is still pouring out. Is this normal?
Hi Joyce – no it is not normal. Almost no steam should be escaping once the time starts to count down. You’ll want to cancel it and check and see what is wrong. Probably either the gasket isn’t in place properly or the steam release valve isn’t in the correct position.
Don’t waste your money! I have had two of these pressure cookers (both given to me) and they have both worked a handful of times and then malfunctioned. Right now it is stuck on rice and no other buttons will work. No matter how long I leave it unplugged for and then plug it back in. Not a single button is working.
Sorry you’ve had trouble Kelle. However, I don’t think your experiences is typical.
I am currently having the same issue. Stuck on the rice mode and even after unplugging for days, it will not change modes. I have only used it about 6 times!
Hi Chris – that is frustrating – there’s the manufacturer contact info https://www.tristarcares.com/product/power-pressure-cooker-xl/
Currently on the same problem stuck on rice please help me
Hey Barbara – do you know what temperature the XL maintains in “keep warm” mode?
Hi Laura – I assume it is similar to the Instant Pot – between 145–172°F.
i have to cook a piece of eye of round on “low setting” for 4 minutes. am i correct to use the fish/vegetable setting since it all cooks at the same pressure anyway? ugh! so irritating that all my friends have insta-pot so i can never figure out their recipes!!
That’s correct – use the Fish setting and adjust it to 4 minutes.
Can you process a single pint size jar in power pressure cooker XML?
Hi Kim – you can if you’re doing hot water bath/steam canning. Here’s more info https://www.friedalovesbread.com/2017/09/safe-steam-canning-with-your-instant.html
The link you posted to the manual doesn’t work. Is there somewhere else I can get it?
Hi Kay – here’s a link to the manual https://www.manualslib.com/manual/1357642/Power-Pressure-Cooker-Xl-Ppc772.html#manual – I can’t see to find it on Tristars website any longer.
Does anyone have a suggestion on how to safely remove the steamer tray after cooking. I’ve tried forks but it not safe.
Hi Chris. I’d try tongs.
Silicone Oven Mitts are inexpensive and what I use to remove hot items from the pressure cooking pot.
When pressure canning instructions on receipe says place jars in linner fill with water 1/4 way is that 1/4 way from bottom or 1/5 way over top of jars?
Hi Karen – I don’t have any experience canning. Frieda has a good post on canning https://www.friedalovesbread.com/2017/09/safe-steam-canning-with-your-instant.html
When slow cooking do I close the steam vent or leave it open?
Hi Joyce – leave it on venting not of sealing. You can also use a glass lid if you have one the fits from a pot and pan set.
To pressure can with the XL measure from the bottom. I think the instructions say to fill to the 1/5 cup line and no more than half way up the jars when the canner is loaded. The instructions are available online. I think the info you need is on or near page 22.
I have a 10 quart I just bought and I have used it 3 times and it never seals. Steam comes out all the time and never counts down the time.
Hi Sue – sorry you’re struggling with your new 10 quart XL. Where does the steam come out of?
I have a older XL & the seal has to be put in with a certain side facing the lid, my seal is marked with directions all though it is hard to see!
My carnitas recipe calls for 1 hour and 30 minutes on high and then release the pressure naturally. Time adjustment only lets me add 1 hour. How do I add the remaining 30 minutes?
Hi Mark – you cook it for one hour and when the hour is up – hit cancel and set it for 30 minutes and then do the npr.
Do buy this piece of crap. No manual settings. Once you select a setting you cannot change it. Stupid you cannot control your heat or settings.
Wow – that’s harsh. It’s not the top of the line PC for sure, and it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles like many other PCs, but lots of people use it and like it.
I have had mine for several years & I love it. The roasts I make are Soooooooo good my little family leaves very little leftovers, for sure not enough for another meal for all of us just 1 of us!
Please give it a few more trys. I’m sure you’ll change your mind.
I would like to can some beans from my garden in my Power Pressure Cooker XL. I have two recipe books that came with it, but can’t find my actual manual. I have the one called HOME CANNING made pure & simple. It does not give a recipe/instructions for vegetables. In a big pressure cooker I always packed the beans and covered with hot water before putting on lids and rings. Can you tell me if I cover them with water and how long to pressure cook them? Thanks.
Hi Linda – sorry, the XL has not been approved by the USDA for pressure canning, just hot water bath canning. Here’s more info https://www.friedalovesbread.com/2017/09/safe-steam-canning-with-your-instant.html
The markings came off my pressure release and also the arrow rubbed off. I haven’t used my cooker in a really long time so I can’t remember the position. I have seen the picture showing how to position it pointing to the arroww but I no longer have an arrow. Is there a someway I can figure out the proper position without the markings
Hi Elaine – I’ll email you some pictures to help you figure out where the arrows belong then you can put a little nail polish where the arrows belong.
My pressure cooker leakesd steam our of the sides of the lid. The lid is seated properly and the valve pops up but it still does it. It won’t count down, either
Hi Denise – is the inner lid on upside down?
Hello. My Salton 5-in-1 pressure cooker was working fine in pressure mode. I finished my cooker and pressed the OFF button. The next day I tried to turn it on and it had no power. I tried several different plugs in my house and still receives no power on the appliance
Sometimes if it has a removable cord, the cord needs to be pushed in tightly. Otherwise, you’ll need to contact the manufacturer. https://www.salton.com/en_US/warranty-support/
I’m cooking corned beef brisket. It requires 90 minute cook time, but “cook” setting only goes to 30 minutes. Do i have to release pressure at the end of 30-minute cooking period, or can i just cancel and add more time without releasing pressure?
No – don’t release the pressure, just cancel and add more time without releasing the pressure.
new to this type of pressure cooker. It appears that you select the time on product and the turning circles indicate it is working. So if I have it set to 10mins, it builds pressure then cooks for the 10mins?
if this is the case, then moving the valve to release the pressure sounds like a steam engine.
You’ve got the right idea! Have fun 🙂
My lid is stuck in the closed position. I have a delicious pot roast in there with no way to get it out. Can you help me?
Hi Brian – if you’re certain that all the pressure has been released, the float valve is probably stuck. The float valve is inside the hole in the handle. You can use a chopstick or skewer to push the float valve down and the lid should then open.
You can replace your inner pot w a stainless steel!
I purchased on amazon the GJS Gourmet Replacement Stainless Steel inner pot for $39.
It fits and works perfectly in my Power Pressure XL!
And then u can reuse your old inner pot for baking in the Pressure cooker so no sticking issues.
Do you put the weight on the lid when cooking as slow cooker?
Hi Wendy – you’ll leave the steam release valve in the open position. You can also use a glass lid from a pots and pans set if you have one that fits instead of the pressure cooking lid.
What do I use for yogurt?
Hi Joan – if your XL doesn’t have the yogurt button, you’ll want to use this no button yogurt recipe https://www.friedalovesbread.com/2017/06/easy-cold-start-yogurt-no-boil-method.html
Thank you for the great info! I’ve been extremely apprehensive to use the slow cooker feature on my power pressure cooker XL as I couldn’t find any clarification on what temperature it cooks at (low or high). I guess there’s only one temperature and it’s low, which is OK because most things that I slow cook is that low temperature. Of note, I even tried reaching out to the customer service people, but they had nothing for me. Thanks again!
Thanks Brian – glad it was helpful. I think your experience with their customer service is pretty typical.
What do u do when E3 comes up on the screen before it starts to cook
Hi Joyce – according to the manual https://www.tristarcares.com/pdf/PPC_771-773_6-10QT_IB_TP_ENG_V4_180504.pdf E3 means its overheated. Where you sauteing before pressure cooking?
My 10 quart power pressure xl is showing E4 when i try to set it. what’s the problem? I have had it for over 3 years and use it almost every day without any issues.
Hi Colleen – E4 could mean a problem with a sensor. I would contact the company 1-973-287-5159
Hi, should steam be coming out of the vent the whole time it is running? I have it set to the no vent option and it it still has some steam escaping the whole time it is on.
Hi Debbie – no, once the pressure cooker reaches pressure, the float valve in the handle rises up and closes, you shouldn’t see hardly any steam releasing from the steam release valve.
Pressure cooker not powering up
Does yours have a detachable cord that’s come loose? Have you tried a different outlet?
After l set the bean button, l go to adjust the time to 30 min, the time stays there for only a short time, then goes to circling around and around, it does not start cooking, how does it start cooking? Checked everything it says to check, still no results, l am ready to get rid of this machine. I need help.
Hi Lanie – it sounds like it’s functioning properly. The circling will stop once the XL comes to pressure, then the time will show up and start to count down.
I used the XL Pressure successfully many times………now it refuses to pressurize…..what is wrong……..I put a new ring on the inner lid……..help!
Often the problem is the inner lid is put on upside down.
I have the XL and when we try cooking pork chops the steam was coming out of the hole in the handle This is the first time using it not sure what we are doing wrong
Hi Zoe – perfectly normal. The float valve is located in the handle on the XL. The steam causes the float valve to rise and when the valve rises and shuts, the pressure can build.
I would like to use mine much more than I do but the inside pot was burnt after one or two uses and everything sticks to it. Always seems to be way too hot. Cannot cook anything without it being burnt to the bottom of the pan. Even rice comes out burnt. Afraid to try cooking pasta because everything seems to burn. Is there an inside pot with a different coating that may be more heat resistant or will not stick as easily? Thanks.
Hi Arthur – if everything is burning it makes me wonder if you’re not getting a good seal in addition to the problem with the pan. Have you done a water test to see how much water you’re losing while cooking? https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/instant-pot-water-test/
Unless I am standing near it when the timer ends (and I have to REALLY be listening), I cannot hear the tone when the cooking is finished. Is this only mine or does everyone else have this problem?
Robin I’m will beep, when there is 1 minute left of cooking. Then it goes to Keep Warm, when timer is done. I have 2 PPCXL’s, both over 16 years old.
Why is showing a PO along with the time. It has never don that before.
Hi Cheryl – that’s normal, you’ve just probably never noticed it before. PO – just means that it’s cooking using the pressure cooker function (operation)
I lost my books that came with my pressure cooker XL intructions cook book can I get new ones sent to me
Hi Alice – Hi Janet – here’s a link to the downloadable manual http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/downloads/PCXL-PRO6_IB_TP_ENG_V3_160615.pdf you can print yourself.
What does po mean on my power pressure cooker xl?
Hi Joann – PO – just means that it’s cooking using the pressure cooker function (operation) – it’s perfectly normal.
How do you steam vegetables, like broccoli in the power xl pressure cooker? I cannot find on how to steam on any of the pages in cookbook or even online. Please advise…….
Hi Vicky – I like to steam vegetables like broccoli in a steamer basket with 1 cup of water in the inner pot for zero minutes. Since the XL doesn’t have a zero minute setting, you would use the steam setting watch for the XL to come to pressure and then when the time pops up and the XL is at pressure, you press cancel and then quick release the pressure.
Cannot get the lid to turn conterclock wise to lock and start cooking
Hi Barb – make sure the inner lid is attached the right way, not upside down and that the gasket is seated properly.
Which function would you use to make yoghurt?
You’d make it using the instructions for the no yogurt button https://www.friedalovesbread.com/2017/06/easy-cold-start-yogurt-no-boil-method.html
I have used the power pressure cooker XL once. Then I let it sit for awhile as I couldn’t get the time to set to what I wanted. Today we brought it out and it says to clean it use the canning button, which we did and it worked. Now that we are going to cook a meal it won’t turn on. Nothing lights up.
Please if you can help.
Hi Anna – that’s frustrating. Does it have a detachable cord that has come lose?
How do I cook pasta in this? What setting do I use? There is no pasta button.
Hi Angela – here’s a link to my guide to cooking pasta in the pressure cooker. https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/how-to-cook-pasta-in-the-instant-pot/ Use the setting closest to the cook time you need – the bean/lentil setting for most pasta probably.
Where is the cancel button on the machine. I have unplugged it for a half hour and it still is in the wrong setting
Hi Valerie – the cancel button is with the Keep Warm button, but if you’ve unplugged it and you plug it back in and it doesn’t reset, then something is wrong with the unit.
Does the pressure cooker automatically turn off after a certain amount of time passes? Or does that have to be manually set?
Hi Erika – you set the cook time and once the XL is at pressure the cook time will appear and countdown. When the time ends the pressure cooker will stop pressure cooking. When your pressure cooking time is up, it will automatically switch to Keep Warm.
What’s the ratio for quinoa ?
How many minuets. The book gives me 18 minuets white rice Or 25 brown rice how much for quinoa?
Hi Carrie Ann – quinoa cooks quickly – it only needs 1 minute under pressure. I have several recipes on my site https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/?s=quinoa
Can the XL power pressure cooker be used without the inner pot? The jam recipes that are in the recipe book that came with it , say to put the ingredients in the pressure cooker and then once jam is in the jars, put the jars in the clean inner pot. It was kind of confusing as to whether the jam is cooked just in the pressure cooker itself or in the inner pot in the pressure cooker.
Hi Debbie – no, you cannot ever cook in your XL without using the inner pot. You’ll make the jam first in the inner pot, rinse it out and dry the outside, and then put the jars in.
Why does my Mac and Cheese burn? I have made the recipe a few times and it continuously burns?
Hi Mary – what mac and cheese recipe are you using? Here’s a link to mine https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/macaroni-and-cheese-in-the-pressure-cooker-and-a-giveaway/
has anyone ever tried cooking a meat loaf in the power cooker?
Hi Wanda – pressure cooker meatloaf is great. Here’s my recipe https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/bbq-bacon-meatloaf/
Is there a stainless replacement pot for the power pressure cooker xl 10 quart?
Sorry – I don’t think they do have one available.
Hello. I have my cooker but never used it. I will be cooking lentils for my first time. What do you mean by cooking time is 5 mins but adjust at 15 or 30 mins?
Hi Gracie – To adjust the preset times listed above, use the time adjust button to add time. So press the bean button will give you a cook time of 5 minutes, then immediately press the time adjust button and you’ll get a 15 minute cook, press it twice and you’ll get a 30 minute cook time.
How do you cancel a program or where is the cancel button the manual refers to?
Hi Fani – the Keep Warm button is also the cancel button. You can also unplug it to cancel a program.
Hi, on the XL, there is a “steamer tray” and the manual doesn’t tell you where it goes for what it’s for???
Hi Cal – it’s for layered cooking and it sits on the rim closer to the top of the inner pot.
My XL Power Pressure won’t let me cook any further than 60 min. I need 90 min but won’t go up that high and when I push it again it just goes back down to 15 min. How does this work?
Hi Shari – that is one of the downsides to the XL, it won’t cook more than 60 minutes. But it’s easy to just set the timer again for 30 minutes without releasing the pressure once the first 60 minutes is done cooking.
Use the canning button
Automatically 2 hrs
After using cooker several times it worked fine now when I plug it in no lights come on I have pushed every button still nothing is there any breakers or device I need to check or is it gone bad
Hi David – sorry, there isn’t any way to reset it. If the cord is detachable, make sure it’s plug into the unit.
How do I get a copy of the oowner’s manual?
Hi Jerry – here’s a link to download the XL manuals https://www.tristarcares.com/product-power-pressure-cooker-xl.php
Hi there,
I am also getting the E4 error code. The link for the company’s website doesn’t appear to work (I don’t have the manual) and have contacted customer support in the past with no resolution. Any advice? Thanks!
Hi Kaitlyn -Sorry I don’t think there’s any way to fix it. You can call 973-287-5159 or https://www.tristarcares.com/contact-us.php How long have you had it?
hello. This is the first time I’m using my Power pressure cooker XL. It was a gift a few years ago from my mother. I thought I would try it today since I wanted to know what does hype about Insta pot was. The lid lid popped while it was cooking and now the steam is coming out from the back. Why would it do that? And how much will that delay the ribs from being done if the lid popped while it was cooking and now the steam is coming out from the back? This is the first time using it.
If I don’t have any of the paperwork from moving a few times, how do I know if it’s considered a 6 quart or 5 quart Insta pot for the recipes? Thank you for any help you can provide.
Hi Paula – sounds like the gasket or the inner lid was not in place properly. You should not continue cooking if there is steam coming out of the lid. All the liquid will evaporate and when there’s no liquid left the ribs will burn on the bottom and you’ll get an error message. The label on the pressure cooker should tell you the size but the XL doesn’t come in a 6 quart size I don’t believe.
Paula, on the older versions of the PP Cooker XL, you need to look carefully to be sure your gasket is facing the correct way on the lid. I had to be very careful to be sure I was following the instructions which were on the gasket itself. The replacement gasket I bought doesn’t restrict which side you place it against the lid.
About the user manual, on the side of your pressure cooker there should be a product information label that will give you the manufacturer, the product, and the model. For example, Tristar is the manufacturer and my a model is a PPC770-1. I searched for “tristar power pressure cooker xl manual” then searched their site for my model PPC770-1 and found the specific user manual for my model of pressure cooker. =) P.S. Ribs come out fabulously in my pressure cooker. I finish the ribs on the BBQ grill to caramelize the glaze.
I received my cooker as a gift and have recently been contemplating biting the bullet and getting an Insta-pot because I was always trying to have to guess how to make recipes work with the limited amount of settings. Thank you for such a thorough explanation of how to do this. Now I can spend money on accessories for it instead!
Great! I’m so glad it was helping – thanks Andrea!
I have the power cooker plus, each time I try and use it I get an E3 code and then few minutes later I get E2, I thought it was counting down. But now see it’s an error code. How to solve. I see no information anywhere.
Sorry Lance – I’m unable to help solve this problem. You’ll want to contact the company – 1-973-287-5159
Hi..we have the power pressure cooker XL. The pressure cap is loose. It will not build up pressure.
Do we need to buy a whole new lid?
Please advise.
Thank you
Terrina
Hi Terrina – no, the pressure release valve is supposed to be lose, that probably isn’t the reason it won’t build pressure. Is the inner lid installed upside down perhaps?
My power pressure xl 6 qt popped and lost pressure twice now. Any idea of what I’m doing wrong? I have used this for several years now. Do I nee another silicone band? Thanks
Hi Pam – it does sound like you may need to get a new silicone band. Instant Pot recommends replacing your sealing ring every 12-18 months.
I have the Power Pressure Cooker XL. The steam will not remain in the cooker. I have adjusted the gasket steam still escapes. What do you suggest. I absolutely love my Pressure Cooker, please help me.
Is the inner lid on upside down?
I have a pot with warm/ saute/ cancel on panel. How and when do you know it’s on saute?
Hi Becky – you’ll use saute to brown meats, or saute onion before pressure cooking. You can also use it after pressure to thicken sauces.
the lid wont lock to build up steam
I purchased my Power pressure cooker xl for canning. I have used it many times and love it. The instructions say to use 4 pint jars or 1 quart jar. My question is this; is it possible to use smaller jars like 1/2 pint jars? Would i need to adjust the water level?
Hi Gail – I’m sorry, I don’t have any experience with canning. Frieda has a post and experience canning https://www.friedalovesbread.com/2017/09/safe-steam-canning-with-your-instant.html. Perhaps she can answer your question.
my power x goes p4 when i use it Why
Is it an E4 error code? Pressure switch malfunction http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/downloads/PPC-772_8QT_%20IB_TP_ENG_V8_170526.pdf
A lot of steam coming out of lid area even though the valve popped up. It’s been a long time since I’ve used it. Lots of condensation on the outside and LED area. I have the 10quart. LED has shut off also
Hi Angela – any time you see steam coming out around the sides of the lid it means you don’t have a good seal and you need to cancel the cooking cycle and determine the problem. Frequently with the XL the inner lid is installed upside down.
When we plug in the correctly assembled cooker, the digital display shows four zeros. Selecting any other menu button does nothing. The display continues to show four zeros. It does beep when plugged in. It did function well the last time we used it.
What could be the problem? Is there a fuse or breaker that needs resetting?
Hi Roger – unfortunately there is not a fuse or breaker you can reset. You’ll want to contact the company – 1-973-287-5159
Hello,
This is the first time using this and there is steam coming from a hole I the handle, is this normal? What should I do?
Hi Peggy – yes, that’s normal. That’s the float valve and the steam pushes the float valve closed and then it can come to pressure in another few minutes and the time will start counting down.
Barbara,
It’s just a hole. There isn’t anything in it. The lid never sealed shut.
Barbara,
Just to make sure, the hole is in the handle itself. Not the lid.
Hi Peggy – yes, the float valve is in the hole in the handle on the XL. If there is not a silver float valve with a gasket on the underside of the lid, then the pressure cooker will not work. You have to remove the inner lid to see the gasket.
Got it! Thank you so much!
I purchased this a while back and never used it. Just got it out and followed instructions for the first use. Put water in pot, closed lid, turned valve to closed and hit canning mode for ten minutes. Smelled like burning but thought it was just new and needed to burn off something. It never sealed and then shut off. Now won’t turn on. I think it burned up. What are my options?
Hi Janet – that doesn’t sound good. I would phone the company Phone Number: 1-973-287-5159 and ask about a replacement. Do you have your receipt?
I just got done potatoes for mashing, then after I emptied the pot E1 came on. What do I do to fix it? I have had my Power Cooker Pressure Cooker, for 4 years, and this is the first time any E came on. I hope I don’t have to get another one, cause this is the last thing my husband bought me, before he passed away.
Hi Louise – someone mentioned you should “Check for something under the lid around the gasket or something even as small as a piece of rice stuck to the bottom of the pot it will not work therefore it will give you the E1 error message.”
I put a pork roast in to cook the same as I have done numerous times before. I set it and left the room. Awhile later I came back in the kitchen and it is displaying E3. Does anyone know what that means?
Hi Diana – The E3 error code means that your unit has overheated. This is common and happens when the pressure cooker does not have enough liquid or the pan wasn’t deglazed or has something on the bottom of the pot preventing it from coming to pressure.
Which button do I use to make bone broth using chicken feed and how long do I cook it for
Hi Camille – generally for bone broth you want a really long cook time, so I would do two cycles on the chicken setting of 60 minutes each.
Is there a way to do manual mode on high on this newest model with the sauté bottom as I just got my first ever pressure cooker and one of the recipes says to cook on manual high for 8 mins
Hi Nikki – when pressure cookers don’t have a manual mode, you just use one of the other functions instead. So you could use the fish mode and adjust the time to 8 minutes.
Dianne,
Help please. I bought a what appears to be a gently used model PPC780 for $5 at a garage sale. Hey what can go wrong for $5, right. Well. the lid doesn’t fit! No matter how I twist it things just won’t line up. Are there different types of lids? The garage sale person said the cooker was her sisters and she knows nothing about it. Foe all I know there were 2 cookers and the lids got mixed.
Hi Jim – does the lid look like the lid pictured in the manual? http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/downloads/PPC_780_8QT%20IB_RTL_ENG_V6_160609.pdf Is the inner lid upside down?
Yes but… The float valve as shown on page seven is not on my lid. Coincidently, there was a float valve rattling around in the electronics compartment in the bottom of the unit. I am a retired manufacturing engineer, experienced in electronics assembly, and any time I hear something rattling in side I become suspicious. It appears that the float assembly has been updated by the adjustable knob on the top of the cover.
The reason I think this is the wrong lid is because even with out the pan or the lid gasket, one of the locks in the lid strikes something when I attempt to latch it. The mystery thickens…
Sounds like it is the wrong lid then sorry.
Has anyone out there in answer land ever done yogurt. I’ve got a recipe but calls for a hot pot ?
Hi Dianne – you can do the cold start method https://www.simplyhappyfoodie.com/instant-pot-no-boil-yogurt/
I’m going to make the bar b que chicken in the 8 qt cooker tomorrow and I need to increase the number of pieces of chicken. What is the suggested cooking time? I know I don’t increase cooking time because I’m increasing the recipe but I’m not sure how long to pressure cook it for. I believe the default setting is 15 minutes but would that be enough to thoroughly cook the chicken? Also… it says to put oil in cooker to brown the chicken. I’m assuming there will be a minimal amount remaining. Do I drain any oil that’s left ? Thank you
Hi Kim – There won’t be enough oil left to drain. It depends on the chicken pieces you’re using. My BBQ Chicken Legs in my cookbook uses a 4 minute cook time with a 10 minute natural release and then finish them on the grill with bbq sauce.
I have the 8 qt. XL model and use it for pot roasts mostly but today I am doing 10 hour slow cook. The question is, should it build pressure while slow cooking?
Hi Samuel – no pressure will build during slow cooking. In fact, if you have a glass lid from a pot and pan set that fits, you can use that instead of the pressure cooker lid.
I can’t find my owner’s manual and an instruction booklet that came with my Power XL Pressure Cooker. Is it possible to get one sent to me?
Hi Janet – here’s a link to an online pdf http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/downloads/PPC_771-773_6-10QT_IB_TP_ENG_V3_171019.pdf You could print it if you wanted.
How long do I cook a chuck roast for so its moist and falling apart?
Hi Lori – here’s a link to my pot roast recipe https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/pressure-cooker-pot-roast/ The cook time is the same in the XL.
I was helping a friend learn how to use this cooker and we did your pot roast recipe which said to cook under pressure for 75 minutes. The only way I could find to do it was to pick a preprogrammed function that I could pump up to 60 minutes, but I couldn’t find any way to get the 75 minutes. We finally ran the 60 minutes and when that finished I cancelled and started another for 15 minutes. Is there an easier way? I have an InstantPot and I sure appreciate it’s ease.
Hi Chris – you’re right that’s the only way to do 75 minutes on the XL..
Thanks for getting back to me, Barbara. The roast turned out perfectly, as did the veggies, and she was thrilled. Beyond thrilled, actually!! I gave her your cookbook for her birthday and told her it was THE best. Thanks for all your wonderful recipes!
That’s great – thanks for the update Chris!
I got one for a gift has no instruction book could you send. Me one
Hi Linda – you can download and print a copy here https://www.manualslib.com/manual/1357642/Power-Pressure-Cooker-Xl-Ppc772.html#manual
What does PO mean of cooker.
Once i press on any cooking option, it shows PO:number
PO – just means that it’s cooking using the pressure cooker function (operation) – it’s perfectly normal.
I bought mine several months ago at Costco, but does not have as many function buttons as this one shows. It was on sale for 39.99.
Mine did not come with a rack , only steamer rack that fits very close to top of container which is bad for steaming large artichokes. Where can I get a rack so I can do ribs and how much do they cost.?
Hi Susie – I agree, the steamer rack that comes with the XL isn’t very useful. Here’s a post with links to my favorite accessories, including an inexpensive rack and a steamer basket.
Lid kee[ showing up on the pressure I did what was suggested in the manual, but it did not stop.
Sorry, I don’t understand the question.
Good morning, I love this pot but I lose some pices of the top the plastic round,when I was cleaned where I can find?
Is very difficult for me write in Ingles, Is better in Spanish
Hi Gloria – contact Tristar customer service http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/parts-and-accessories.php
what does E3 mean showing in the display
Hi John – The E3 error code means that your unit has overheated. This is common and happens when the pressure cooker does not have enough liquid.
Please tell me step-by-step how to use the slow cook function on my Power Pressure Cooker XL that I purchased right after they came on the market. Thank you, Bobbie
Hi Bobbie – pressure the slow cook button and then press the Cook Time Selector to change it to quick (warm), medium (low), high (high) – I would recommend using the slow cook function on high for most things.
Wow I’ve been trying to figure out how to convert to high power slow cooking!
You are a life saver thanks a million!
Great – thanks!
How do you change the Quick Medium Well settings on the front of the cooker
Hi Mike – select one of the cooking functions and press Cook Time Selector to cycle through the pre-program cook times for quick, medium and well.
I have the 8 quart. We sometimes cook for a large gathering. How much (weight or size) can you put in the XL and do you need to adjust time?
Hi John – weight doesn’t matter much, it’s volume that matters most in pressure cooking. Never fill your pot more than 2/3’s full, half full with things that foam like pasta and oats. The cook time is the same when you double a recipe as long as the thickness of the meat is the same. If you’re doing a pasta recipe, you will want to decrease the cook time a few minutes because it will take longer for it to come to pressure, which increases the overall cook time.
Say you press Chicken/meat how do you change cook time. Because I tried pushing cook time adjust and nothing happened, and how do you increase or decrease.
Hi Edwin – please read the WHICH BUTTON SHOULD I USE? section above. To adjust the preset times listed above, use the time adjust button to add time. You cannot reduce the time. If you need less time, use one of the buttons with less time – Fish is the shortest cook time. You have to press the time adjust button immediately after pressing the pressure cook button you want to use.
Want to do some canning. Directions do not say where to put water. Do you put it is the
pot itself. The rack will not fit into the cooking pot low enough to fit jars. Please I need
info ASAP
You put the water in the inner pot, then a short rack, then the jars on the rack. You can buy the rack on Amazon https://amzn.to/2UYPQoF You can make your own rack in a pinch with rolled up foil like snakes.
There is an indicator on the fron of the cooker that says “Food-Quick-Medium-Well”…if I select “slow cook” do these three values (Quick-Medium-Well) have any impact on the slow cook recipe time?…Is “quick” considered “high” and “well” considered “low” as with traditional slow cookers?
Hi Ken – it will adjust the time to 2-6-12 hrs at 174-199° F which would be low on traditional slow cookers.
I accidentally poured the cold au jus broth into my pressure cooker without the liner. Liquid came out all over the counter. Is my cooker going to be ruined now?
Hi Cheryl – sorry, that’s so frustrating. Unfortunately, this happens frequently and for most, when they let it dry completely before trying to use it again, it works just fine.
Can this pressure cooker be set to cook more than 1 hour? I make bone broth and it needs to cook about 2 hours
Hi Sue – no, you have to cook it for one hour and then when the first hour finishes, set it for a second hour without releasing the pressure.
Many of my friends have another brand of electric pressure cooker that has a yogurt button. What would be the equivalent setting? I want to make quark, a soft cheese. They use the yogurt button but I don’t have it 🙁 Other than that, I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE my Power Cooker. I use it more than I ever thought I would…even made the best ever ribs.
Hi Trish – there really isn’t an equivalent setting on the XL for the yogurt setting. Although, quark is super easy to make without the pressure cooker. I’ve used this recipe https://www.splendidtable.org/recipes/quark when I made this recipe https://www.barbarabakes.com/moravian-kolaches-double-filling-kolaches/
Clear as mud, what is E3? Quite vague in instructions, why not high, med. and low for a choice. Did a child of a executive that can’t get a job anywhere else come up with program choices? You could do better. You currently suck. I’m cooking eggs on E3.
Hi Dennis – The E3 error code means that your unit has overheated. This is common and happens when the pressure cooker does not have enough liquid. I don’t think you are actually cooking the eggs. You also may be confused commenting on this post assuming that I have something to do with the design of the XL. I just reviewed the pc, I am not part of the company.
Hi there – maybe I’m missing it but I am confused on the cook time followed by the two different time selector suggestions?
For exampl, lentils have a 5 minute cook time and you are suggesting to select the 15 or 30 min option…so is it 5, 15, or 30?
The Lentil/Bean setting is initially set to cook for 5 minutes. You can use the Cook Time Adjustor to select 15 or 30 minutes if you want a longer cook time. So lentils you may want to cook for 5 minutes, but beans you may need to adjust it to 15 or 30 minutes.
I bought one of these last Christmas for my mother and we have used it a lot and we love it but it just stopped working and says error 4 so I don’t understand what that means but I am very dissapointed in your product
Hi Gina – it is not my product. I only reviewed Tristar’s product. You’ll need to contact them to express your disappointment with their product and to see if you have any recourse. http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/customer.php
I had just apressure cooker and I only cooked meat and potatoes that was my lucn. I am t rying to figure whether I can d0 this with the new pot Ijust got. I an a srior so I don’t eat much, but it’s cheapter to cook at hope. hank you for answer tp my question.
Hi Judy – until you get used to the pressure cooker, it’s best to stick with tried and true recipes like mine. Are you wanting something like a beef stew with just meat and potatoes? https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/beef-stew-in-the-pressure-cooker/
Thank you so much for creating this informative post for the Power Pressure Cooker. I have two pressure cookers and was really wanting an 8 qt of some kind, so I found out my local sams club was selling the PPC Plus for 70$ so I figured I would try it out. The seal part is a little tricky, took me about 3 times to get it right and do the water test lol. I guess there is a special way it has to face? I have your cookbook and LOVE IT. I have been cooking out of it almost every night since I got it. Thanks again for this post, it helped me alot when it came to the pressures and cook times that this cooker has.
That’s awesome! Glad the post was helpful. Thanks Jillian
Do the different selections on the power pressure cooker (stew/soup, chicken/meat, rice, etc) vary just in minutes or are they each a different temperature also?
Hi Leann – on the XL they all cook at the same psi, they only vary in minutes.
Will any pressure cooker receipt books for pressure cookers work in the power pressure cooker?
Hi Nora – yes, any pressure cooker cookbook should work well. I recommend my cookbook which many people who own a Power Pressure Cooker XL use. https://amzn.to/2t9l78d
For the old slow cooker I had and for it’s recipes there are 2 settings: low temp- takes longer to cook – and high temp – usually way faster cooking time. The slow cook setting on the power cooker gives only one option. Should I consider it the low or high temperature when cooking slow cooking recipes?
Hi Adrian – Slow cook cooks between 174-199° F which would be equivalent to low on a traditional slow cooker.
Hi Barbara! When you slow cook in the PPCXL I’ve heard different things – some people say that I should leave the pressure gauge on release mode instead of turning it to pressurizing mode – is this true? If i DO turn it to pressurize mode – if my recipe written for a slow cooker says to cook on low for 8 hours, should I adjust the time on the PPCXL from 2 to 8 hours on the Slow Cook function, or will it cook much faster when pressurized?
I hope I havent confused you too much 🙂
Hi Sandra – yes, leave the steam release valve in the open position. It won’t pressurize on the slow cook setting but sometimes the steam does cause the float valve to rise which is annoying when you want to check on the progress of your meal. Yes, adjust your time to 8 hours on the PPCXL. You can also use a glass lid if you have one from a pot and pans set that fits the PPCXL.
What does the lit message, “PO”and the minutes number mean?
Hi Bonnie – that’s what the display will show when you’re pressure cooking and the time will count down to zero when your pressure cooking time is finished.
How do you make yogurt in the power pressure cooker xl and how do you use the crock pot function I don’t have a manual
Hi Rebecca – Here’s the online manual http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/downloads/PPC_771-773_6-10QT_IB_TP_ENG_V3_171019.pdf You would make it similarly to thise http://naturemoms.com/blog/2017/05/01/making-yogurt-lux-instant-pot/?fbclid=IwAR1XCR_0BC5_j8nYDq93Oo__gV5hK5gqHTyzLKXMSdW3mAIdXgYDbLdao7E
I bought 2 power cookers xl and one was used 5 times and quit I changed outlets and pushed buttons and no power to it. The other one I bought at the same time and used 8 times and the E1 lit up. I called in and was told to send both back with a check for 24.99 shipping per cooker and they would send 2 for shipping only. I still would have to pay to ship both to them plus this. I loved using them but it’s a lot of money to use so few times plus waiting 6 weeks to 2 months to get them.
That is frustrating Katherine! Sorry you had troubles.
Why does it take forever to start. I press warm button get 0000, no wait 20 minutes for it to start . I have pushed soup / stew buttno, time adjustment and nothing happens. Nothing in my book says anything about this. I have work to do around here. It has always done this.
Hi Robert – you select a preset such a soup, then you have to wait until the XL comes to pressure before the time will appear and starts to count down. It should have rotating flashing lights as it is heating up to pressure. How long it takes for it to comes to pressure depends on what’s in the pot. A bit pot of soup could take 20 minutes to come to pressure. Typically with 1 cup of water it takes about 5 minutes.
Do you have to put water on the pot first.
I have one that I’ve never used and cant find the instruction
Hi Kathy – yes, you always need some kind of liquid for the pressure cooker to create pressure. My getting started guide will answer your questions https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/getting-started-with-your-new-electric-pressure-cooker-or-instant-pot/
Are there any good cookbooks with old fashioned recipes to pressure cook? How do I adjust recipes to include in my collection?
Hi Bonnie – I’m not sure what you consider old-fashioned recipes? Are you looking for stovetop pressure cooker recipes or old-fashioned comfort food recipes? My cookbook https://amzn.to/2SFmir4 has lots of comfort food recipes. If you want stovetop pc recipes, all the electric pressure cooker recipes will work in a stove top pressure cooker, you just start the timing when your stovetop pc comes to pressure.
How can i open the lid if its stuck!
You have to make sure all of the pressure is released. The lid will not open until all the pressure is released. There’s a float valve in the hole in the lid. Once all the pressure is released, you can use a skewer or something similar to see if the float valve is stuck in the closed and perhaps you can push it down.
I have the Power Pressure XL and really hate the inner pot being one aluminum and horrible to clean. It always sticks even with non stick spray. Actually I need a new one and considering moving over to the Insta Pot because of this issue.
I am a big fan of the stainless steel inner pot.
What does PO08 means .’
How to you sauté
I really need a book that tells me what each code means , this was giving to me no book,
Hi Mary – that means it has 8 minutes left to pressure cook. If yours doesn’t have a Saute button in the middle, the meat/chicken button has the longest cook time, it’s a good choice for sauteing and browning. Here’s an online manual http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/downloads/PPC_771-773_6-10QT_IB_TP_ENG_V3_171019.pdf
When I use the link for the online manual, my security filter says this is a suspicious site and I should not go there. Is there an alternate way to get to the online manual?
I don’t think there’s a problem with the link other than it is an http site and not https
I’m trying to cook irish lamb stew in my 8qt pressure cooker xl
4lb of lamb and vegs pot is full
How much liquid do I need to put in the pot
Is there a way to keep the vegs form geing over cooked
Hi Mark – it’s best to pressure cook the lamb until it is tender and then add the veggies and pressure cook for just a few minutes more. I typically pressure cook the cubed meat for 10 minutes, do a 5 minute natural release, then add the veggies and pressure cook for 2 minutes more, then do another 5 minute release and thicken the stew with a flour slurry. You need at least 1 cup of liquid but I typically add 2 cans of beef broth.
Worst meal ever the chicken was overdone and the apple brown betty was bland. I don’t know who does your recipes but this was not good at all, very disappointed in your product. Used your directions found in your book and not happy. Waisted all that food, just to have it not be good. Expected more for what is supposed to be a chef.??????????
Hi Linda – I think you’re confusing me with the makers of the Power Pressure Cooker XL. I just reviewed their pressure cooker and didn’t help create the recipes in their cookbook. The recipes on my site will all work in the XL, so give them a try instead.
My Power Cooker XL has started leaking steam through a hole in the top of the handle near the lock, and will not pressurize. I have cleaned and reset the gasket and lid liner. Made sure there was enough liquid. It is less than a year old and not used often so doubt the liner is old. Is this a defect?
Hi Sandra – the hole in the handle has a float valve inside which has a silicone gasket on the bottom. It sounds like you’ve lost the float valve and/or the gasket. You’ll need to replace those before it will work. You can see the gasket on the left side of the bottom picture of the lid. You’ll want to contact them to get a replacement 1-973-287-5159
Can I cook a precooked ham (11 lbs) in my pressure cooker with my brown sugar glaze already on it? I have an XL model, the large one? how much water do i put in at the bottom, or don’t i have to if I’m cooking the ham in the glaze?
Hi Kerry – I like to wrap the ham in tin foil to keep it moist and keep the glaze from melting into the water below. Here’s my recipe https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/heating-ham-slices-in-the-pressure-cooker/
I cannot find the manual for my Power Cooker Plus, where can I find it online? Thanks!
Hi Bonnie – is it this one? http://www.tristarcares.com/pdf/pcplus_PPC780P_8QT_IB_WM_ENG_V5_160624.pdf Here’s some other options http://www.tristarcares.com/product-power-cooker.php
We have used the power cooker several times with good results. Tonight when I try to use it I get a message (?) LID – what am I doing wrong or is there something I need to do to correct the situation?
Hi Steven – did you make sure the gasket is fitted properly in the lid?
I have the same problem. New 10 at. How can this be resolved. Very frustrating
Hi Sue – a couple of things to try – remove the gasket and reinsert; make sure the inner lid isn’t inserted upside down; make sure you’ve turned the lid to the closed position. If none of those work, try pushing down on the lid while it’s coming to pressure – the gasket may be just a lid stiff.
Can I make split pea soup and pressure can it in the Power Cooker Plus?
Hi Bill – I don’t recommend canning in an electric pressure cooker. As of this time, the USDA has not approve any electric pressure cooker for canning.
I beg to differ with the advice to NOT use this Power Pressure Cooker XL for canning. I used it for over 75 jars of canning this year (tomatoes, beets, carrots, garlic, mixed vegetables, fruit, etc) and had ZERO problems with it as a canner !! Golly, folks it was perfect !!! Now have used it for lasagne dinner, roasts, soups, etc and it is STILL running fantastic!!! So long as you follow the manual and home canning and recipe pamphlets provided, what the heydeeho!!! Go for it!!!!
Thanks for sharing Che – what altitude do you live at?
My power cooker xl does not have a meat chicken setting so what would I use to cook a Turkey?
Hi Karen – I would use the button with the cook time closest to the cook time in the turkey recipe https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/moist-and-tender-turkey-breast/
My Power Pressure Cooker XL has a saute button right in the center below the time. I bought mine on sale for $69 at Costco. Mine is also the 8 quart pressure cooker. I don’t know if it’s a newer edition than yours, but mine has a saute button right in the middle! It’s great! I love my Power Pressure Cooker XL! I am going to try making some garbanzo beans tomorrow after having them soak over night so I can remove more of the sugars that cause gas. I haven’t done this before so I am excited to make fresh hummus tomorrow! Thank you for this article! I just thought I would update you about the Power Pressure Cooker XL. I bought it last year in December, so it is almost already a year old at this point. I just only have a lifetime products folding table, so my cooker beeps at me sometimes since my table is not completely level. But I love my pressure cooker. I use a long handled utensil to release the steam though.
Thanks Barbara – so nice to hear you’re loving your XL. Power Pressure did add a saute button to newer models. Have fun!
On my crockpot I have the choice of low or high setting which equates to cooking time, what is the equivalent setting on the power pressure cooker xl. If I put a stew in now 9 a.m. on slower cooker and set for 8 hours does it adjust the temp. Thanks
Hi Helen – no, it does not adjust the temperature. The XL slow cooker setting is closer to the low setting on your Crockpot.
Hi how do I use the slow cooker? How much water must I put in?
Hi Stacey – you’ll use the slow cooker just like any Crockpot. Some recipes don’t require any liquid and if you have a glass lid with a pot and pan set that fits on top, you can use that instead of the pressure cooker lid. If you use the pressure cooker lid, leave the steam vent open.
My settings seemed to operate as intended. But, it never did build up pressure and pork roast was not fully cooked. What am I doing wrong here?
Hi James – Did you use enough liquid for it to come to pressure? Did you have a good seal, or did you see lots of steam coming out around the edges of the lid?
Hi there we just got the pressure cooker XL and I’m a bit confused – there is a hole on the ha doe part where steam
Continuously comes out – is that correct? Also the timer isn’t counting down… is it supposed too? Help us first timers
Hi Alessa – as it’s coming to pressure, you’ll have steam coming out of the float valve – in the XL it’s in a hole in the handle. The steam pushes the valve closed and it will stop releasing steam once the valve has risen and closed. If the steam is coming out of the steam release valve, you need to move it to the closed position.
I have a question. While cleaning the lid the floating valve feel out. Is there suppose to be something to hold it in or is it free to fall out.?
Hi Wanda – the float valve should have a little silicone gasket on the end. You’ll need to buy a replacement gasket before the pressure cooker will work again. You’ll want to call customer service http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/parts-and-accessories.php
I want to use my pressure cooker xl like a crock pot delay it a hour and have it cook for 6-8 hours while I’m gone. but My question is. Will my food come out over cooked? does it regulate the time if I go from 2 hours for pot roast to 6 hours?
Hi Brandy – unfortunately, I don’t have any experience using the slow cooker function on the xl. For pot roast though, I doubt it will be done in 6 hours on slow cook. But you could always pressure cooker it at the end if need be.
How do I get it to cook 1/12 hours? It changes to 30 minutes when I hit the cook button
Hi Debbie – you’ll have to set if for 60 minutes and then when the time is up set it for 30 minutes without opening it.
i enjoy my pressure cooker. I was getting ready to cook a roast this evening for supper, as I was setting my temperature and settings,I had an error fault (E4) to come on. I unplugged it and waited 10 minutes to restart it. When I plugged it back up, the same error came back on.What is the problem?
Hi Doris – sorry you’re having trouble. The manual says the E4 error is the sensor is open – which doesn’t make a lot of sense. Have you tried adding more liquid or waiting to let the unit cool down and then trying again?
I want to cook a pot full of baby carrots for a pot luck … do I just add 1 cup of water, dump in the carrots, select STEAM then increase time to 6 minutes maybe??
Hi Kathy – 1 cup of water and steam will work, I think 6 minutes is probably too long because it will take longer for a pot full of baby carrots to come to pressure. Maybe 2 or 3 minutes would be plenty.
How do I adjust the cooking time on my power pressure cooker xl
Hi Delores – use the cook time selector to adjust the cooking time higher. If you want a lower cook time, you have to select a different setting.
Is there a way to adjust the time when the PC is working. We selected the Chicken/Meat setting & then Cook time Selector. We seared some spare ribs & noticed the time counting down from 40 to 30 by the time we noticed. How do I add back time?
Hi Mags – you just have to cancel the cycle and then set it again without releasing the pressure.
I am trying to use my power pressure cooker xl on canning. When i press the button then adjust the time. It clears out the time and the numbers light just moves around
Hi Jennifer – the lights do flash as it’s coming to pressure. Is it working on other settings?
My cooker also does not leave default to count down time after pressure is built up on any settings any suggestions?
Hi James – so it comes to pressure, the float valve rises and then it just shuts down?
I purchased the 10 quart cooker from tv and had just had foot surgery 1 year ago so did not use it till a month ago, I love it I have made bbq chicken with honey and spaghetti and mased potatoes in it. Saves so much time. Only downside my pot looks burnt on inside.
Do you have any comments regarding the 8 quart Instant Pot IP DUO 80? I was given this but it seems cumbersome to set and use.
Would recipes from Fagor work in this one. I dislike having something in my kitchen that I can’t seem to use well. Or is it the pot?
Thanks
The XL is a little more difficult to set the time, but using it is about the same. On the 4th of July I was cooking corn on the cob for a crowd and started the 8 quart Instant Pot and the 8 quart XL at the same time. I used a 3 minute cook time and the XL came to pressure and was almost finished cooking before the Instant Pot came to pressure – which surprised me. All the recipes for the Instant Pot and the Fagor will work in the XL. The main downsides to the XL are ease of setting the time and it doesn’t have a stainless steel pot.
I am looking for an 800 customer service number for the Power Pressure Cooker XL. I can’t find it in my info. Appreciate it and thanks so much.
Hi Margaret – I’m not aware of an 800 number, but here’s their customer service number 1-973-287-5159.
I tried the telephone you have listed. It is out sourced, so the person I talked to was not helpful, she couldn’t tell me how to test water. I told her I don’t think you can help me. Disappointed ? in their customer service. I couldn’t find an 800 number. Not a customer friendly company from my experience.
That is frustrating! Sorry. I do describe the water test in this post https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/getting-started-with-your-new-electric-pressure-cooker-or-instant-pot/
We really like ours. The one thing that infuriates me is the inner pot. I have taken extra care not to burn, overcook, never used metal utensils on it. NOW!!!! Why can’t the company come out with a stainless steel inner pot. That would make my day. I went out, and purchased an Insta Pot, just so I could use it without the unsafe crap that comes off the bottom and into the food. I have asked several questions in different sites, and etc. and NEVER any satisfaction. Make your product better please. I will never by another product from this company again, unless they do t his small request.
DEBBIE,
You can buy one on Amazon for $25. that’s what I did. Or QVC has an instant pot on sale that comes with a SS pot. GooD Luck.
How can you get it to cook past 30 minutes? I pres COOK then the time button but it only goes to 30 minutes then starts at zero again.. A 3 pound chuck roast requires 45 minutes or more to fully tenderize it to fall-apart consistency. At 30 minutes, it’s done through but tough. Do I have to wait until it finishes at 30 minutes then hit cook again for another fifteen?
Hi Don – first you have to select a pre-set button like chicken, then immediately press the time adjustment button to change the time. You can also change the time by pushing the cook time selector after pushing a pre-set button. Use a preset button that is closest to the time in the recipe. You do not have to wait until it finishes to cancel the cycle and start a new cook time.
I have Power Pressure Cooker PPC770… The inner pot is losing most of its non stick surface. I would really like to find a polished stainless pot as a replacement
Hi Roger – the Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/PressureCookingFun/ is a good source for recommendations for replacement pots.
Also… when reattaching the gasket to the inner liner after cleaning, be sure you aren’t mounting it upside down!
I can’t get my valve to close properly. Steam is coming out all the time. The valve is running around from close to open position.
This can be so frustrating! I’m sorry! A few questions—was it just this one time or is it a recent occurrence? If steam is just coming out this time, it may be that the pressure cooking ring isn’t sealed properly. In this instance, turn off the pressure cooker and wait until the pressure is all the way released and you can open it. Check that the sealing ring is properly in place and that the float valve (the little thing that comes up with the PC) has the mini sealing ring attached correctly as well. If this is a recent occurrence, your sealing ring may be damaged or you may have something stuck in the valve—again, wait for it to cool, take it out, and inspect it closely.
Can oil be used rather than water or broth such as adding Coated chicken pieces?
Hi Trisha – no, you can not pressure fry in the XL or other electric pressure cookers.
Would you try cooking with the “Slow Cook” option so we can have a definitive answer on how to us this setting?
I cannot find a clear answer on weather you should leave the pressure/steam valve open or closed.
Also I have seen references indicating that you can choose a high setting or a low setting. How is this done?
I also wonder of I should use the steam rack or not.
I am cooking a really tasty recipie using six bone-in pork lion chops, (1) 16 oz. can of jellied cranberry sauce,1/2 C. cranberry juice,1/4 C. Sugar, 2 tbsp spicy brown mustard, 2 tablespoons cornstarch,1/4 C. Cold water,1/2 t. Salt, Dash pepper it says to cover and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or until the meat is tender. And you just remove the meat sick in the other ingredients with the cold water and cornstarch and you’re done. I’m just not sure how to do it in my Power Pressure Cooker XL and I threw away my slow cooker. Help!
Hi Patti – put the steam release valve in the open position. Here’s a video on using the Instant Pot as a slow cooker, your steps will be similar on the XL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tf3fQE2BjeI
For your recipe, I would not use the rack. Then after your chips are tender, cancel the slow cook cycle. Use the saute function or one of the pressure cook buttons if your XL doesn’t have the saute button to thicken the sauce.
Here’s a Facebook group who’s members and admins use the XL https://www.facebook.com/groups/PressureCookingFun/ It’s a great place to get your questions answered about the XL.
I love my pc xl. I’ve had it about a month and have used it a ton. I haven’t tried to cook anything from frozen, ex. CHIcken breast. How much time do I need to add for frozen meat.
Hi Jane – glad to hear you’re loving pressure cooking. For frozen meats like chicken breasts that are thin, you may not need to add extra time. For something thick like a roast, you’ll want to add about 5 minutes per pound.
I have Power XL and sometimes when I put the lid on to cook. I get a message. LID I take lid off and replace but still get this message.
Once I have finished cooking soup in the pressure cooker, how do I keep it simmering as in just bubbling?. The stay warm setting just keeps it warm and does not simmer it, the saute setting boils it too strongly. Please advise.
Thanks
Hi Noel – unfortunately, I’m not aware of any way to adjust the saute setting on the XL so it will just simmer. Is there a reason you want to simmer it after pressure cooking? If you want to do it briefly, I often lift the pot away from the heating element on the bottom occasionally when using the saute setting.
I got as used pot and it didn’t come with the two round racks. Do you know where I can get those?
You can get some trivets on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/shop/pressurecookingtoday or call and you may be able to order them http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/parts-and-accessories.php
I have a Power Cooker Plus. Can I follow recipes for Instant Pot recipes or is there too much of a difference between the two? My recipe book that came with my Power Cooker Plus doesn’t have a lot of recipes in it! I just worry about the different buttons to push for other recipes! Thank You in advance.
Hi Linda – yes, you can use Instant Pot recipes in your Power Cooker. Just use the setting with the time closest to the time in the recipe.
How do i slow cook in my PC?
Hi Betty – I haven’t used the slow cook feature on the XL, but it’s my understanding it works similarly to a slow cooker on low.
If a recipe in a slow cooker is 5-6 hours, what would I put it on in my pressure cooker to pressure cook it instead of the slow cooker setting?
Hi Robin – it’s best to find a similar pressure cooker recipe and use the cook time in the recipe. What recipe are you converting?
I have I have steam coming out from where my little I don’t know what valve it is it’s the little silver one that pops up and down and I think I’ve got the lid on there correctly I’ve took it off twice and put it back on there and I think it’s on correctly I don’t no any other way to put it on it seems to be right but when I set it, steam comes out of it
Hi Tammy – steam will come out of the float valve (hole in the handle) until there is enough pressure to push the float valve closed. Then you shouldn’t see any steam coming from anywhere until it’s time to release the steam with the steam release valve.
I wanted to adjust the time for pulled pork and it doesn’t go higher than 60 min. I have an 9 lb. roast. Do I need to wait until the 60 min. are up to add minutes? I have the Power Cooker Plus.
Hi Linda – yes, you’ll need to wait until the first 60 minutes is up to add more time, but you don’t have to release the pressure so it should just continue cooking.
Barbara, I have a pressure cooker and I just used it for the first time today but while using it e4 came on it can you tell me why
Hi Dorothy – the E4 error means there’s not enough liquid in the pot. What were you trying to cook and how much liquid did you use?
After releasing pressure on my Power Pressure Cooker XL from Costco I tried to open the top. It stuck (a safety feature I appreciate) due to the pressure being too high to safely open. However it was loosened (though, again, would not open) but steam came through a hole located on the handle. I was holding the handle right on that hole and got a terrible burn that later blistered and peeled off. I had not realized that hole was a portal for steam, even though I had used it many times- steam had never come out of it. Doesn’t this seem like the unit has malfunctioned?
Hi Joy – the hole in the handle is the float valve and steam should always come out of the hole when the pressure cooker is coming to pressure. It’s the steam that causes the float valve to rise and seal the lid shut. However, I haven’t had steam come out of the float valve when releasing the pressure. You don’t want to try to force the lid to open when there’s pressure in the pressure cooker. So if there’s still steam releasing from the steam release valve, you do not want to try and open the lid. You need to wait until the steam release valve drops to open the lid. Sorry you got burned.
I am having trouble with my 8 qt Power Pressure Cooker XL. The last two meals I have prepared have burned (black) on the bottom, to include the pot. Steam seems to be leaking out from under the lid, it will not seal correctly. Please help.
Hi Linda – any time you see steam coming from around the sides of the lid, you need to cancel the cycle or your food will burn. Make sure your gasket is in properly (make sure it is not upside down – look at the pictures in the post).
it seems like it takes forever for it to build up pressure is that normal??
Hi Sharon – it depends on how much and what’s in the pressure cooker. A cup of warm water will come to pressure quickly. A large pot of soup with cold ingredients can take as long as 20 minutes to come to pressure. Think of it similarly to bringing a pot of water to boil on the stove before cooking pasta.
My markings came off the valve all three the arrow, ciicle, and steem. Please help
Hi Lisa – the closed circle is directly across from the knob. The steam release is to the left of the circle about 90 degrees. Others have used nail polish to mark the steam release valve. Just orient your lid as shown in the picture and mark your valve.
Just wandering can you put everything together in pressure cooker to cook at same time
Hi Deborah – you can put everything together if they have similar cook times. Some times you can cut ingredients, meats for example, into small pieces so the cook times are the same.
I have a PC WAL1 not the xl and I can’t get it to give me a 90 minute time. I’m doing brisket. How can I set it to 90 minutes. My buttons are cook, cook time, stew, rice, and stem. Also does it have any thing to do with the pressure
Hi Cooky – you’ll have to set it for the longest cook time – 50 minutes on stew. Then when the first 50 minutes is up, cancel it and set it again for 40 minutes. It won’t have to pressurize again, it can just go from one cook time to another.
What do the “quick”, “medium”, “well” indicators do?
Hi Gayle – think of them as less time, normal time and more time.
I live in NM and to cook beans it needs more time but the bean adjustment won’t go to 50 or 55 minutes. I think it’s because I live in a higher altitude. Please help me figure this out and other high altitude adjustments I need to make. I also think the brand name Instant Pot self adjusts for altitude but not the PPCXL doesn’t. Is this correct?
Hi Toni – some models of the Instant Pot do have an altitude adjustment feature that you can set to adjust the pre-set buttons. If you use the pressure cook button, you have to do the adjustment yourself. On the PPCXL you always have to do the adjustment yourself. Here’s a great guide to help – it’s pretty easy really https://www.pressurecookrecipes.com/pressure-cooker-high-altitude-cooking-time/
Can I make yogurt in my PPC XL?
Hi Gillian – you would make it similarly to this recipe http://naturemoms.com/blog/2017/05/01/making-yogurt-lux-instant-pot/
I’m trying to figure out what button would be high pressure and what would be manual?
The XL doesn’t have a manual button. You have to use a pre-set button and adjust it to the time in the recipe. All of these pressure cooking buttons cook at 7.2 psi, which is considered the high end of low pressure on the Instant Pot. However, Power Pressure Cooker XL users report that they do not have to increase the cook time when cooking Pressure Cooking Today recipes that are cooked on high pressure.
I am making beef broth. The directions I have say to put shank, water, vegetables, and spices into a slow cooker for 12 – 36 hours. On my Power Pressure Cooker XL I pushed slow cooker and 2 hours popped up. I need at least 6 hours at a time. I have tried the “Cook Time Selector” and nothing happened, so I pushed “Time Adjustment” and nothing happened. Are these buttons supposed to be held pushed in for a number of seconds because I did not do that. Since I am supposed to slow cook, that is the button I pushed. Currently, the “Slow Cooker” is at P 1:22, which I assume is the number of hours left. Once the time is in play, do I need to wait until the remainder of time to adjust the clock and if so–how?
I would unplug the pressure cooker, plug it back in and press Slow Cook and then immediately press the Cook Time Selector to adjust to 6 hours and then push it again to select 12 hours.
When I try to adjust the pressure for cooking on my power cooker it will only go to 30 minutes, how can I set it for a longer cook time?
Choose a different setting like meat that goes for a longer cook time.
I have bought 3 Power Pressure Cookers 1 small one for my Grandson and a large one for my oldest son and one for myself. I had to send the first Power Pressure Cooker XL back, the ones I bought for my sons work great and they love them. I just received my replacement Power Pressure Cooker XL and iti s doing the same thing. No matter how I try to put the lid on I get beeps and the Cooker says LID. What am I doing wrong Please ?
Do you have the inner part of the lid on upside down perhaps? There’s a Facebook group Pressure Cooking Fun https://www.facebook.com/groups/PressureCookingFun/ and many of the members use the XL – that’s a great place to get help.
When using the Power Pressure Cooker XL on the slow cooker setting, does it cook like a slow cooker or is it still under pressure?
Hi Patti – it cooks like a slow cooker on low. It does not use pressure.
I want to cook my own Cuban Beans soups and Spanish Potage which include meats such as Sapanish Sausages and other meats. Which button should I use. I’m leaning towards the Stew button. Thank you
The cook time will depend on whether or not you are using dried beans or canned beans.
What is manual high pressure?? The recipe says , place pot on sauté, add ingredients, secure lid for high pressure manual high pressure 10 minutes . Quick release . Don’t have a high pressure on xl . Not sure if I understand functions properly
Hi Liz – the XL doesn’t have a manual button so you have to use one of the pre-set buttons and adjust the time to the time in the recipe. The XL does cook at as high a psi (so not quite high pressure) but most find you can use the time in high pressure recipes without any changes.
How do you adjust time? I’ve tried to use it time adjust button but it doesn’t do anything. Is there a certain time you have to make adjustments?
Hi Judy – first you have to select a pre-set button like chicken, then immediately press the time adjustment button to change the time. You can also change the time by pushing the cook time selector after pushing a pre-set button.
How do you set time manually to decrease the cook time. I recently purchased a Power Pressure Cooker XL from Sam’s. Many recipes on Pinterest has you to set the cook time manually. I can’t find out how to set that. Your help would be greatly appreciate it.
How do I make Greek yogurt in this pot?
When you slow cook in the power XL is it an equivalent to the low setting on a regular slow cooker?
Hi Julia – yes, it is equivalent to the low setting.
Steam is coming out of the hole in the handle as its cooking my meat. Is that ok.?
Hi Marty – steam should come out of the hole in the handle until the float valve is pushed up with the pressure and seals the pressure cooker shut. If the time is counting down and the steam is still coming out, then your float valve is not working properly and you should stop the pressure cooker and assess the problem – perhaps the gasket is missing.
How do I make yogurt in my prower pressure xl?
Hi! I’m new to pressure cooking and so far I’m loving it! But I’m confused about the difference in the psi for the instant pot and the power pressure cooker. The instant pot has a pressure adjust button to adjust depending on the recipe, The power cooker does not but cooks at 7.2 psi for all the preset buttons….except canning right? Is the 7.2 enough? Why the difference between the instant pot and the power cooker?
Also the new power pressure cooker ex does have a sauté button…yay!!
Hi Christa – I’m so glad they decided to add the saute button. Power Pressure Cooker XL users report that they do not have to increase the cook time when cooking Pressure Cooking Today recipes that are cooked on high pressure so you shouldn’t have a problem either. I recommend keeping a notebook and adding additional time if you find it necessary. My guess is the company that make the Power Pressure did it as a cost savings. Have fun!
I bought Power Pressure Cooker XL, mine does not have saute button, what do I use to use instead?
Use the chicken button without the lid on.
I’m new to pressure cooking and I’m trying to figure out how to add minutes to the cook time I can get it to 45 but it just goes back to zero and doesn’t take what am I missing
HOW do you add minutes
Hi Rose – use the time adjust button to add minutes.
I understand the time adjust button but after we get it to the desired time how do I make it stay on that time
The time won’t start counting down until the pressure cooker has come to pressure. So it will show the circling lights for a bit until a burst of steam pushes the float valve closed and a few minutes later the time will show up again and start to count down.
My cooker keeps flashing E3 what does that mean?
The E3 error code means that your unit has overheated. This is common and happens when the pressure cooker does not have enough liquid. How much water did you use? Do you think you had a good seal?
This is my first time using it and I had a hard time closing it should it be very hard to close? And yes I think I have enough water in it
IlAccording to the manual, the slow cooker button cooks at about 4.3 psi for 2 hours.
I get a bit confused at people using glass lids. How does the pressure build with a glass lid on it? And if it is preset for 2 hours, should that be close for most recipes to have cooked?
Thank you.
Hi Carol – the slow cook button does not use pressure to cook so the glass lid works well. Most slow cooker recipes take much longer than 2 hours to cook.
Quiero saber si puedo meter latas de leche condensada en mi pressure cooking to
Hi Erika – yes, you can https://www.hippressurecooking.com/dulce-de-leche-pressure-cooked-condensed-milk/ but I prefer this method https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/pressure-cooker-dulce-de-leche/
Hi Barbara. I’m so glad I found this page! I’m a newbie at pressure cooking and just got a Power Pressure Cooker. I’m looking for a recipe for shredded beef, and all I seem to find is a lot of Instant Pot recipies online. Are ALL pressure cookers & Intant Pot recipes the same for a Power Pressure? Are all recipes exchangeable without changing anything? Thank you! 🙂
Hi Roberta – I’m so glad you found me too. Here’s my shredded beef recipe https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/pressure-cooker-shredded-beef-enchiladas/. All the Instant Pot recipes should work well in the Power Pressure Cooker. Just use the button with the closest time to the time in the recipe. If whatever you’re cooking needs a little more time, either saute it with the lid off or lock the lid in place and pressure cook it for a minute more.
time for my corned beef and cabage calls for 90 minutes, but the meat- fish button only goes to 60 minutes. How do I increase time
You’ll need to set the XL for another 30 minutes once the first 60 minutes is finished. Don’t release the pressure, just start it again and it won’t have to pressurize again.
When I use the slow cook and set the time to 8 hours nothing is cooked. I thought it would cook like a crockpot for 8 hours. Any suggestions?
Hi Sharon – the temperature of the slow cook function according to the manual is 174-199 degrees – which is more like low on most slow cookers.
So should I set it for maybe 12 hours?
It’s worth a try 🙂
I cannot get the lid notice off. I do not see anything wrong. Please help
Hi Lynn- is the inner part of the lid and gasket on upside down perhaps?
Hi, I am trying to find out if when you turn the pressure release value to the circle and line it up with the arrows can you feel ii fall into place. I am trying to decide if mine is defective. I can feel it fall into place when I turn it to the image of steaming coming out but just not to the circle. I cannot get my pressure cooker to lock in place and when I try to cook it releases steam. I have done everything I am suppose to with the inner liner and everything looks fine. The only thing that I can see that might be wrong is the pressure release value and the circle. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Your sealer valve may have lost the silicon gasket.. Happened to me but I found mine in the drawer later.
I want to cook a pork roast and would like to cook it for 2 to 2,5 hours. How do I do that? It only let’s me set for 1 hour
You’ll have to set it for another hour after the first hour is done, but don’t release the pressure and it will start right back up again in about 30 seconds.
My 6 qt pot has a steamer tray, can I put meats on it so the water is below the meat and not sitting in it?
Hi Greg – yes, that should work well.
The newer versions have a saute button. I recently purchased one from Costco.
Thanks Jason – a definite improvement.
I just got this pc at Sams. The instruction booklet is not real clear on how to add minutes. I pushed the button for chicken and it set for 15 minutes but when I hit the adjust time button nothing happens. Do I need to hit the adjust time button before I hit the chicken button. I thought I would just hit the adjust time and it would add minutes as wanted.
Hello. I left a message but no reply. How and when can I add minutes to my power cooker xl purchased at sams. I hit the adjust time button after I hit the chicken button but nothing happens.
Hi Jane – I’m out of town and don’t have access to my XL and I wanted to test it for you. Here’s a great group where lots of people use the XL and they’ll be able to help you https://www.facebook.com/groups/PressureCookingFun/
I am trying to make a beef stew recipe – the recipe calls for 35 min on HIGH in their instant pot –
Would you recommend I choose an option close to the time (ie meat for 40 mins) – or select the canning option to cook on high for close to 35 mins?
Also – users in the recipe commented that their veggies turned out mushy and wanted to split the time up – how do you add something in halfway during cooking time in this pressure cooker?
Thanks for the advice! I’m completely new to this so your article was very helpful so far!
Hi Catherine – glad the post was helpful. I prefer to split the cook time as well. My cookbook stew recipe, I cook the beef stew meat for 10 meats, a npr for 5 minutes, then add the veggies and cook for 2 minutes with a second npr of 5 minutes. So on the XL you would select the Stew option, natural pressure release https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/quick-pressure-release-or-natural-pressure-release/ for 5 minutes. Then release the pressure with a quick pressure release add the veggies and select the Fish option and cook 2 minutes longer.
Question. What does the PO in front of the minutes mean?
Hi Phyllis – that stands for pressure on – you’re pressure cooking for that number of minutes.
Hi… the buttons on my machine are lite but not working. Please help
Hi Shelbery – did you perhaps hit the delay timer? Are the lights circulating so it’s working on coming to pressure?
My pot corkscrew and cannot open. I have my beans in there. I was just setting it up.
My new power cooker plus has no manual button. Alll the recipe books tell me to select manual. Please tell me what to do so I can use this new power plus 8 qt cooker. Thank you.
Hi Mary – just use one of the pressure cooking buttons with the time closest to the time in the recipe you’re using. So if the recipe called for a 5 minute cook time, use the beans button.
After plugging in the cooker, how do I add time? I hit the fish/vegetable button but wanted more minutes and when I hit the time adjustment button, nothing happened.
My pressure cooker releases steam the entire time through the relief valve. Is this correct?
Hi Vicki – no, it should stop releasing steam as soon as the float valve rises up and the time starts counting down.
I have had the same problem. I found that if I reset the lid it usually takes care of the problem.
Will it cook without inner plastic lid
No – you need the inner lid with the silicone gasket around it in place for the pressure cooker to come to pressure.
The bottom of my pan (paint? Teflon? Whatever) is coming off. Afraid it is getting into my food. Do you have a suggestion?.
Hi Ida – I’d recommend buying a stainless steel replacement pot. What size do you have?
Is the slow cooker button on pressure cooker XL comparable to low or high on slow cook recipes.
My pressure cooker xl released steam 10 minutes into cooking.. is that normal?
Hi Kendall – that can happen if there’s too much pressure in the pot, but it could also be because the ingredients in the pot are too thick.
New at this, how can i find some great recipes?
Hi Diana – all of my recipes will work well in the Power Pressure Cooker XL. Just check out my getting started guide https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/getting-started-with-your-new-electric-pressure-cooker-or-instant-pot/ and start with an easy recipe https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/easy-recipes-for-the-pressure-cooker/
What is the 99it button for
My pressure cooker doesn’t release pressure during cooking time is this a problem
Hi Liz – that’s perfectly normal. A stove top pressure cooker will release steam as it cooks but electric pressure cookers regulate pressure by turning on and off the heating element rather than releasing excess pressure.
After cleaning, I put the lid back on the pressure cooker to put it away. I realized I didn’t put the rubber seal back on the lid portion but now I can’t get the lid off. Suggestions?
Do I lock the pressure cooker to cook slow cooking
If you want you can, but some people like to use a glass lid while they’re slow cooking. You may have one with a pot and pan set that would fit.
My new cooker releases are an all the ti.e
I’m not sure what you mean Judy?
First time using—how do I set it for beef bone broth? I think it is supposed to pressure cook for 3-4 hrs?
Hi Cathy – Typically you’ll cook bone broth for 2 hours in the pressure cooker. Use the soup button and adjust it to 60 minutes. After the first 60 minutes, don’t release the pressure, just set it again for 60 minutes.
(This is about the bone broth). The model I was given, the XL, has a stew setting which only goes for a max of 50 min. I’m doing that and I’ll see how it looks after 110min. If it needs a little more time, can I use the cook setting for 15-30 min? It’s the same pressure, right? Is there no way to surpass 50 min? I could only find a manual for the XL model. Thank You!
You can go on the manufacturer page and they have downloadable manuals for all the XL PCs. I lost mine and just downloaded it..Best of luck
When I made the Spaghetti and Lasagna from the book that came with my XL the Red Pressure indicator did not rise.. Is that normal?
Hi Debbie – I’m not sure what red pressure indicator you mean. Did the time start and count down after the red rotating lights quit?
Yes, the time counted down. I figured it out on my own. Thank you..
I would like to use the delay timer on my Power Pressure XL. I can’t seem to find any instructions on the procedure for using it.In what order do I select timer and cooking instructions etc.
Most of my recipes call for bone-in meats. If I prefer boneless, do I need to adjust time or amounts. Can I just follow the instructions as printed, whether using boned or boneless?
Hi Elyse – I would reduce the cook time for cooking boneless chicken breasts or pork, a large roast probably won’t need any change in cook time.
I tried to make Creme Brulee with my power cooker and the custard did not quite set. Believe I chose the rice setting with 6 minutes. What am I doing wrong?
Hi Carol – you may not be doing anything wrong. I hope you just put them back in the XL and cooked them for a minute or two longer. If you live at altitude, your cook times will need to be a little longer. If you used a different container to cook them in, your cook time could be a little longer. Just keep a notebook with the cook times that worked for you and before you know it, you’ll be getting the times just right every time.
Hello-
So what button do I use if a recipe calls to cook the meal on high for 6 minutes (make beef stroganoff)? There is no high button so I typically use the meat button and hit the cook time selector and move it over to “food: well” where the three lights are, and adjust the time for 6 minutes. Is that right?
Hi Stephanie – yes, use the meat button and adjust the time to 6 minutes. Here’s my beef stroganoff recipe https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/beef-stroganoff-pressure-cooker/ I use an 18 minute cook time for super tender beef.
Thank you Barbara for all of the information. I have the same problem as 1 of the other ladies, my pressure cooker red LED lights kept circling and wouldn’t stop. The weird thing was that the food actually cooked like that. I cooked a pot of meatball marinara and pasta and it was great. The timer however never did start.
I was very excited to start using my Power pressure cooker. I have tried many different food types without much success. Honestly, I am tired of wasting food. I have tried rice, pasta, eggs, and quinoa. Only the eggs came out without any problems. It seems that my pressure cooker has a “hot spot. ” My food is getting stuck to the inner pot and burns the food. My rice came out crunchy. I have read and watched Youtube videos to ensure its correct use. I am beyond frustrated and not able to return the product since I have no box. Any suggestions as to what to do with this appliance would be welcomed. Thank you
Hi Nicole – if you’re following reputable recipes, it sounds like you’re not getting a good seal and too much liquid is being released while you’re cooking. Do you see steam coming out around the edges of the lid as it cooks?
I have a pressure cooker xl. After the cooking time finishes, is there a timer countdown to say how long pressure release is occurring.
Hi Marcia – no, the XL does have that feature.
I don’t have a bake button to make wings what button do I use and for how many minutes for frozen wings? Thank you.
Hi Ginger – you can use any of the buttons that adjusts to the time in the recipe you’re using. I would use the bean button and this recipe https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/pressure-cooker-bbq-wings/ no need to adjust the time for frozen wings. https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/pressure-cooker-bbq-wings/
Hi Barbara! Thank you for all of the fantastic info! I am new to pressure cooking and new to owning a PPCXL. I would love to use it to make yogurt (more specifically Skyr), and although i have found about a million recipes for Instant Pot Yogurt (etc), I can not seem to find any recipes for making yogurt with the PPCXL. Surely I am not the only person who would love to make yogurt with this awesome machine! LOL!
Do you happen to have a recipe or advice or know a direction to guide me? 😉 Thank you in advance!
Hi Jessica – here’s a link to a recipe for the LUX http://naturemoms.com/blog/2017/05/01/making-yogurt-lux-instant-pot/ Here’s another option if you prefer to make them in cups. http://maomaomom.com/yogurt-diy/ I haven’t tried it, let me know if you do. Have fun!
which is better all around for pressure cooking, this pot or the instant pot. Pros and cons please. how does the instant pot bake?
Hi Peggy – they both do a good job of pressure cooking, but I prefer the ease of adjusting the time on the Instant Pot and the stainless steel pot that comes with the Instant Pot.
Is it normal for my PPC xl to have a constant stream of steam coming from the hole in the handle when I’m cooking until time runs out.
Hi Elizabeth – no it is not normal to have steam coming out of the hole in the handle until the time runs out. The hole is the float valve and the steam should push it closed before the time starts to count down. Perhaps you’re missing the gasket on the end of the float valve or the float valve is stuck open or something. Look at the inside of the lid pictures in this post https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/how-to-use-the-power-pressure-cooker-xl/ and see if the little white gasket is on your lid.
I have been looking up recipes online and most say set to manual setting on low med or high. Do you just chose the button that closely represents what your cooking and adjust the time.
That’s exactly right! Have fun 🙂
Bought the last Power Pressure Cooker CL .. floor model so it did not have a directions booklet how can I get one ?
Hi Marlys – here’s a link to the manual online that you should be able to print http://www.qvc.com/footers/cd/pdf/K41645_Manual.pdf
After you put lid on and it stares to steam then you close the vent valve to off or do I do that after I put the lid on
Hi Barbara – you want to have the valve closed as soon as you put the lid on, before any steam starts to come out.
I was canning chili and my jars leak out why I had the same problem with green beans all the fluid came out leaving dry beans
Hi Cheryl – sorry, I don’t have any experience canning. Canning in electric pressure cookers is controversial. https://www.hippressurecooking.com/consumer-alert-no-pressure-canning-in-un-tested-multi-cookers/
I want to cook some ham hocks so the meat falls off the bone.
Then I want to use the broth for pinto beans.
Any suggestions???
Hi Katherine – you’d make the broth similar to this recipe https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/chicken-stock-in-the-pressure-cooker/
No where does it tell you how to cook dried beans. Want to cook two pounds of navy beans but don’t know how much water or setting and cook time. Help.
Hi Denise – there’s lot of good info about cooking different kinds of beans in this post https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/pressure-cooked-beans-most-beans-cook-in-less-than-10-minutes/
I found a recipe that asks for 75 minute cook time(broth) but the soup button only goes up to 60 minutes. The time adjustment button also only goes to 60 minutes. How do I get to 75 minutes? Am I limited to only a max cook time of 60 mins? Other broth recipes I’ve found go as high as 2 hrs, I don’t want to have to baby sit the pot and reset it after an hr. Is there a way around it?
Hi Drew – no, there isn’t any way around it. You’ll need to cook it for 60 minutes and then don’t release the pressure, just cancel and start a second round for 15 minutes. It won’t need to pressurize again so while it’s not ideal, it will be easy.
Please Help, I have had my pressure cooker for a couple of years & love it. But the last 3 times I use it I can’t either put the cover on and seal it or after cooking time is completed I can’t get the cover off. I don’t load the inner pot above the MAX line. And I do rotate the inner pot to make certain that it is seated properly. The seal looks good. I can’t figure it out.
Hi Cindy – is it possible the lid got dropped so it’s misshaping a bit?
how do you set the timer button? the red lines just keep moving around on mine.
Hi Karen – the red lines moving around mean the pressure cooker is working on reaching pressure. When pressure is reached, the time will show and start counting down. The time to pressure will depend on what’s in your pot. I pot of soup with cold ingredients could take 20 minutes to come to pressure.
What does E4 mean. My pressure cooker has stopped working. I loved using it till it stopped wirking. I cannot get it to work back to back. Sometimes it doesn’t start pressurizing. What am I doing wrong.
Hi Alvina – E4 could mean a problem with a sensor. I would contact the company 1-973-287-5159
I just purchased this from Costco and I tried it last night. I cant tell if my pressure button is broken or not.. It is really loose and doesn’t seem to “lock” in place.. Is anyone else’s like this?
Hi Brittney – yes the pressure regulator knob on top is loose. It does not lock in place
just line it up with the arrow. Once it starts pressurizing, you will notice steam coming out. As it builds pressure, it will lock in place (if you have it positioned correctly.
Generally, how long does it take the Power Pressure Cooker XL to come to pressure and start to cook. And how long does it take the appliance to depressurize so the food can be removed. I am trying to determine when to start cooking and what time I can serve.
Hi Janice – the time to pressure will vary according to what’s in the pot. If you have a pot 2/3’s (the max you should use) full of cold ingredients then it could take 20 minutes to come to pressure. If it’s just a small amount of rice it will come to pressure within 3 to 5 minutes. The same applies to a natural pressure release.
Hi there, i have never used a pressure cooker before so any information would be helpful. I have steam coming out of the top of the lid while the meal is cooking! Is this normal? There are no error indicators being displayed.
Hi Fay – steam will come out until it comes to pressure and then you should see very little steam when the time starts counting down. Make sure your gasket and the inner lid are installed properly if there is still steam after the time starts counting down.
How do I cook oxtail in my power pressure xl
Hi Marjorie – I’ve never cooked oxtail. However, there were several in the Pressure Cooking Fun group who had https://www.facebook.com/groups/PressureCookingFun/search/?query=oxtail
I’m new at this can someone tell me how to cook a pot of white beans in my pressure cooker xl plz and it’s my first time using I’m so confused with this
Add the beans, the liquid and spices you want to use press the beans button, use the cook time selector to change the time to 30 minutes. If the beans need a little longer, you can pressure cook them a little longer. When you’re starting out, I recommend using some recipes. I’ve got a great new cookbook with lots of info. https://www.amazon.com/dp/1558328963/_encoding=UTF8?ref=exp_inf_pl_pressurecookingtoday
Hello just a question, I did a whole chicken last night and when I hit checked meat to saute with just oil and onions I got the E3 error which seems to mean not enough liquid and it’s over heated. Is there a way around this?
Hi Jay – as far as I know you just have to let the pressure cooker cool down and reset.
Thank you, almost want to return it and get the instant pot and not worry about the overheating. I’ll give it a chance and play with it more.
Hi Barbara,
Thanks for this little tutorial. It’s very helpful. My husband got me an 8 qt Power Pressure Cooker XL from Costco for Christmas and it has a Saute button where your has the little “Cook Time” button in the middle. Just thought I’d let you know. 🙂
Janet
Thanks for sharing Janet – I’m glad they’ve add a saute button. I consider it essential.
I really do not care for my power cooker it did not come with instructions so you just kinda guess if it’s going I think once you get done guessing what you want it should have a on button. I realize I’m not overly smart but what the heck no instructions? I’ve googled it and it is no help either any suggestions would be great or else I’ve wasted 100.00
Hi Ginger – all the information you need to do is in this post. Just use one of the pressure cook buttons and adjust it to the time in the recipe you’re using. It will be less frustrating after you’ve used it a few times. Here’s more info on getting started https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/getting-started-with-your-new-electric-pressure-cooker-or-instant-pot/
I am planning on using petite pork roasts which are a great value at Costco for $1.69 lb.
Hello! Thank you for all of the research you have done along with the great tips, ideas and recipes.
***I need ideas on how to cook a large amount of pulled pork for a coaches room that i am helping with. I have found slow cooking recipes, but was hoping to find a quicker one so that I could repeat the process. This would help eliminate using multiple slow cookers all day.
Thank you!
AGM
Here’s my pulled pork recipe https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/easy-pressure-cooker-pulled-pork/ – the smaller the pieces of pork are cut, the more quickly they will cook. I’m not familiar with the petite pork roasts from Costco. Pork shoulder is the best choice for pulled pork because it’s not too lean and stays moist and tender in the pressure cooker. Pulled pork in the pressure cooker is great – definitely a much better way to cook a big batch quickly. Enjoy!
I am trying to cook a pork shoulder, it’s not going very well. I have turned it back on 3 times. Each time was 30 min. I used the cook button. I have it on stew button right now, don’t know yet. I hope I don’t have this much trouble each time.
Hi Mary – you’ll get the hang of it. You’ll need to use one of the pressure cook buttons – stew is a good choice for pork shoulder and then adjust the cook time with the cook time button. If you want a fall apart pork should you’ll need to cook longer than 30 minutes. Which recipe are you using?
I too just got an 8 qt. Power pressure cooker not an xl
And can’t figure out how to make it go past 25 min
Cook time when I press cook then cook time I can
Only get it to 25min. How do I adjust for recipes
That call for 45 min
Hi Laurel – have you tried using the stew button which came be adjusted up to 50 minutes?
I’m trying to use the slow cooker setting but it doesn’t heat up. What am I doing wrong? All the other settings work
Hi Rachelle – when you push the slow cooker button, do the lights begin to flash? I can feel the heat starting almost immediately on the slow cooker setting.
I love my PPC XL! I use a lot of InstantPot recipes and simply identify the difference in language (sauté = chicken button on XL.) You have to use it regularly to enjoy it. I have made ribs that were boring in oven too so I just try not to blame the XL but just the mere fact some experimenting is necessary as it is with oven cooking. I use boxed cake mix so looking for bundt recipes for that if anyone has any. I just ordered Barbara’s cookbook and it’s on back order so very popular!
Thanks Dana! My publisher didn’t anticipate the big demand, but more books have been printed and sent to distributors, including Amazon, and we’re impatiently waiting for them to distribute them and start shipping them. It should be any day now 🙂 Thanks for sharing your tips.
I thought I’d pass a tip on to you regarding the stainless steel inner pot. You can order one that is made for an Elite pressure cooker and it fits the Power Pressure Cooker exactly. I have an 8 quart and thats the one i specifically ordered. You can simply buy on amazon. . I like having both options depending on what i am cooking… I find that tomato-based sauces are temperamental so I prefer to cook them in a non-stick pot. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00UYZHTW8/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I have a Power Cooker Plus 8 quart. Mine is not an XL. Do you know if the stainless steel will still fit. I am having a hard time finding any information for this exact model. Thanks
Do you know if there is there one that is stainless and fits the 6 quart?
I want to use the slow cooker setting, my question is what type of lid should be use?
Hi Liz, you can use the lid that came with the pressure cooker, but some prefer to use a glass lid. Often you’ll have one with a pots and pan set that will fit.
So basically there is no PSI when cooking in slow-cooker mode then since you are saying we can use the glass lid instead of the lid for pressure cooking?
That’s correct – the slow cook function does not use pressure.
I’m having a problem understanding what to do when a recipe says cook on high, which by default is 15 min. But the recipe says use the time adjustment to set to 5 min it doesn’t decrease the default time it increases. Any ideas? Thanks
I’m really new at this (like a week) but every recipe I’ve found said high, but with the time limitations you mentioned, I use the Beans (5 minutes) or Rice (6 minutes) and go up from there. Because you’re right, you can’t go down. If you need lower time than that, use the Fish button, which is only 2 minutes and go up. I’ve used mostly Instant Pot recipes and they’ve all come out fine using the times listed in the recipe on the Beans or Rice setting.
Thanks for sharing!
Hey Penny, this was a response Barbara gave to another question but I thought it might be helpful here too. You can set it to canning and then set another timer for the real time you want to cook on Canning (HIGH) and hit cancel when that timer goes off. Not perfect, but should work.
Hi Ray – The canning button cooks at a higher psi, so you can try using that button instead. I prefer the quick soak method when cooking beans. Cook the beans for 1 minute on the canning button in 8 cups of water – just set it for 10 minutes, then cancel it after 1 minute. Let the beans soak for 1 hour without opening the pressure cooker. Then discard the soaking water. Then I’d saute some onion or garlic, add 3 cups of water for l lb. of beans and pressure cook them on the canning button for 35 minutes or until they’re as soft as you like.
I have the Power Pressure Cooker XL, but I’ve been struggling with it. The only delicious thing I’ve made is a rack of ribs. Every other recipe has been very boring. I bought an Instant Pot cookbook at Sam’s one day, but the recipe I tried to make turned out very bland. Do you think the Instant Pot & Power Pressure Cooker XL are interchangeable?
I am right there with you. I wasn’t impressed with the feel of the ribs and the pot roast was not very tender either. I am struggling to try to find some simple directions on how long to steam some artichokes and how much water to add. I also would love some simple instructions on how to use the steamer and the book which came with it only shows the accessory steamer pot and NO INSTRUCTIONS to use it! I have been looking for steamed vegetable directions and no luck. :/ The customer service people were rude and not helpful. The recipes on the website are not common recipes. I am not impressed at all and I, unfortunately, bought 3 smaller ones for gifts. What they don’t tell you when you purchase these pots is NONE of your shipping charges are refunded, so I will be out about $125 if I choose to return the product. Lesson learned on AS SEEN ON TV!
Hi Kym – don’t give up, just try some recipes that you do like. I have a new cookbook filled with 200 great recipes and there’s lots of great recipes on my site. Kalyn’s Kitchen has an easy artichoke recipe https://kalynskitchen.com/how-to-cook-artichokes-in-pressure/ – scroll to the bottom and follow the Instant Pot recipe. Here’s my post on easy recipes to start with https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/easy-recipes-for-the-pressure-cooker/ Try some of those before you give up.
Barbara, What are your thoughts on my original question? Do you think the Instant Pot and the Power Pressure Cooker XL are interchangeable? Can I follow Instant Pot recipes in my Power Pressure Cooker XL?
The recipes are interchangeable and should work well in your XL. The Instant Pot is easier to adjust the time but Instant Pot recipes will work just fine in your XL. Have you looked through my recipe index to find recipes that might be more to your liking and not bland? https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/recipe-index/
Beth, I use the Power Pressure Cooker 3+ times a week for the last 2 years. I love it mostly because of the flavor it infuses into food. I interchange recipes between the instapot and power pressure cooker down to the minute. I use the same recommended pressure release time they give as well. Sensitive things that came out exactly the same, for instance, are a pumpkin cheesecake I made for Thanksgiving. Another I made last week is a Banana bread in a bundt pan (I added dates, walnuts and coconut). Cake came out deliciously moist. Items my family die for when I make them:
Whole roast chicken or split chicken breasts – Instead of water, I use 1 cup of OJ. Add your herbs and salt and pepper and fresh garlic on top as usual. My 12 year old is drooling by the pressure cooker waiting for me to serve him when he knows I’m making it. It is more tender and juice and flavorful than any chicken ever.
Turkey breast – use the same process above for a turkey breast. great flavor. My family loves having fresh turkey slices in fridge to make sandwiches. Turkey doesn’t have to be all about thanksgiving!
Chicken wings – I put in about 4 lbs at a time and then take them out and run under broiler basted in your favorite sauce.
Pork Shoulder – I cook this regularly and make pulled pork out of it.
Homemade pinto beans or black beans – I use the beans i make for either soup or for chili.
Chili – the flavors are amazing in 25 min. Tastes like its been cooking for hours.
Butternut squash soup, Cauliflower Soup, Broccoli Soup, Chicken Soup, Bean soup, etc.
Home made stocks – I make them and freeze them
Spaghetti sauce – I throw everything together and cook for 25 min under pressure. Again, the spices/herbs come out tasting more wonderful and the meat it more tender.
Stuffed Cabbage – I load up the whole pot with stuffed cabbage roles and turn cook for 20-30 min and it is amazing.
Just thought I’d throw a few ideas at you of items I cook regularly. Hope this helps.
Hi I have a 10 quart power pressure XL and I absolutely love love love it. I think my oven feels neglected anymore. LOL however, I am looking to purchase a glass lid for my inner pot in order to move it to the refrigerator to save it to be heated up later. I have been unable to locate anything bigger than a quart. Do you have any idea if they even sell one for the 10 quart? Even the silicone lid would interest me but again I can’t find that one in that size either. Any insight you could provide me would be much appreciated. Thank you in advance Julie from Indiana
Hi Julie – have you tried lids for pots and pans for the stovetop? Often I’ll use a lid from my pots and pan set for my 6 quart pressure cooker.
I have lost my instruction book. for my power pressure cooker XL please send me a replacement book to Lavona Gusdal at 729 J Street Centralia WA 98531Thank you very much
Hi Lavona – I am not affiliated with the Power Pressure Cooker XL company. You can download a copy http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/downloads/PPC790_10QT_IB_RTL_ENG_V5_160629.pdf
I cook pinto beans by pushing the meat button for 1 hour then repeated in for 30 minutes and the beans was still hard. What can i do different to cook them faster?
Hi Ray – The canning button cooks at a higher psi, so you can try using that button instead. I prefer the quick soak method when cooking beans. Cook the beans for 1 minute on the canning button in 8 cups of water – just set it for 10 minutes, then cancel it after 1 minute. Let the beans soak for 1 hour without opening the pressure cooker. Then discard the soaking water. Then I’d saute some onion or garlic, add 3 cups of water for l lb. of beans and pressure cook them on the canning button for 35 minutes or until they’re as soft as you like.
Barbara, good morning from Illinois. Thank you for sending the excellent pressure cooker recipes out. I continue to be a little confused on setting the timer. Please, if possible, can you give me an example on setting it for 40 minutes and 3 minutes? Thank you. Happy Holidays!
I love all the information you have provided. It has really been so helpful since we are new to this process. Since the 2000 ft. altitude was brought up in canning, would higher altitudes make a difference for cooking times on other recipes? We live at 6000 altitude.
Hi Carol – yes, at your altitude, you will need to adjust recipes. Here’s the information in my new cookbook: I live about 4,000 feet (1.2 km) above sea level, which is considered high altitude, and I occasionally need to change a recipe to adjust for that. Water boils at a lower temperature at high altitudes, so foods may need a slightly longer cook time. The technical rule is to add 5 percent more cook time at 3,000 feet (0.9 km) above sea level, 10 percent for 4,000 feet (1.2 km) above sea level, and so on, increasing by 5 percent every additional 1,000 feet (0.3 km). For example, at my altitude, if a recipe has a cook time of 30 minutes at sea level, technically I should add an extra 3 minutes to account for my altitude (0.10 × 30 minutes = 3 minutes extra). That said, I rarely adjust for altitude, especially for foods with short cook times. Occasionally, I need to increase my cook times by a few minutes, especially with beans and grains. The recipes in this cookbook were tested at various altitudes and should not need any adjustment below 5,000 feet (1.5 km).
Schieving, Barbara. The Electric Pressure Cooker Cookbook: 200 Fast and Foolproof Recipes for Every Brand of Electric Pressure Cooker (Kindle Locations 490-497). Harvard Common Press. Kindle Edition.
Can you run the Power Pressure Cooker XL using 2000 watt generator (tailgating)?
Sorry I don’t have any experience using a generator. I would assume it would be alright though.
Is it possible to use oil in the pressure cooker? I live in Wisconsin and we have Broasted Chicken which is prepared in a commercial broaster which is basically a pressure cooker and uses oil. The company only sells commercially and their broasters are not available to the general public. They also use a “breading” to coat the chicken before placing it in the broaster. Any information you can provide me with would be greatly appreciated.
Hi Al – no, you do need a special pressure cooker to use oil in it.
I was wondering if you have a recipe for scalloped potatoes. My mother In law always made them and browned pork chops and put it all in the pressure cooker and the meat was tender andrhepotaotoes awesome. Would you have any idea on how to do that
Hi Jeanne – Here’s my au gratin potatoes recipe https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/cheesy-potatoes-au-gratin/ Are you wanting to cook the pork chops at the same time? You’d almost need to cook the pork for a little while first https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/easy-pork-chops-in-mushroom-gravy/ and then add the potatoes since they cook much more quickly.
My lid will not seal, it’s not cooking under pressure?
Make sure your inner lid is not upside down and that the gasket is fit on the inner lid properly.
Whats your suggestions for a frozen 9 lb ham? Its fully cooked shank ham.
Hi Terri – I’m not a big fan of cooking large cuts of frozen meat because the outside cooks so much faster than the inside. I would probably thaw it in the sink in cold water and then warm it https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/heating-ham-slices-in-the-pressure-cooker/ My guess is it will take 30 minutes to warm it.
How do you find out how to convert regular recipes to pressure cooking. I also cannot find the bread recipes anywhere that you made in coffee cans in the power xl. I have just recently received the largest cooker and also have the small. I would love to use them daily but need to know how to convert my recipes. I am also unsure on how to activate the sauté button. I love the cooker but need help.
Hi Dohnia – here’s my post on converting recipes https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/how-to-convert-a-recipe-into-a-pressure-cooker-recipe/. I have not made bread in coffee cans before, perhaps you were thinking of another site. Some of the new XLs have a saute button, the older models do not.
I can’t get the lid to close
Make sure all the pressure is released. If you’re absolutely sure the pressure is released, then the valve may be stuck. It’s inside the hole in the lid. Try using the end of a chopstick or something similar and gently push on it to get it to release.
My question looks like it was deleted.. I’ll try again. What’s your best advice for cooking pinto beans? Mainly need to.know how much water and how much time for about 2 lbs of beans.
Hi Terri – you’ll need 2 cups of water for each cup of dry beans and about a 25 minute cook time at high pressure.
when i slow cook do i keep the valve open or closed
Generally closed 🙂
When you slow cook the valve isn’t there because you’re supposed to be using the glass lid that came with it.
A glass lid is a great option. Many don’t come with a glass lid however.
I can’t get my cooker to do anything. When I plug it in there is just a ticking sound. The timer does not show all zeros.
Hi Brenda – I would contact customer service at 1-973-287-5159 or start an online chat http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/customer.php
I have miss placed my original pressure cooker instruction booklet. Is there a way I can obtain another one? even a photo copy one would be adequate. Because I am in the dark trying to operate this machine. Thank you
Hi Donna – here’s a link to the manual online that you should be able to print http://www.qvc.com/footers/cd/pdf/K41645_Manual.pdf
2 questions how do I brown a turkey in the pressure cooker and also how long can I set the timer for a pork shoulder roast.
Hi Brian – browning a turkey in the pressure cooker is difficult. You are almost better off browning it after pressure cooking in the oven if you have one available. https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/moist-and-tender-turkey-breast/. Pork shoulder I like to cook until it’s fall apart tender for 90 minutes https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/pressure-cooker-kalua-pork/
HMMM – I am unable to advance the pressure timer. I pressed the Chicken/Meat button as directed and it also said to advance the timer to 25 minutes. It does not advance or do anything.
Hi Jeanne – try pushing the cool time selector to advance the time.
How can I simmer
Hi Donald – just use the chicken button without the lid on to simmer. If it starts boiling to fast, lift the pan slightly away from the heating element on the bottom.
I have a recipe for shrimp that calls for 0 minutes. How do I get the cooker to cook 0 minutes?
Hi Debbie – since you can’t set the XL to 0 minutes, what you need to do is stay by the pressure cooker. When the timer starts, but before the first minute elapses, cancel or unplug the pressure cooker. Then immediately release the pressure.
How can I set the timer for more than 60 minutes.
I have the regular power cooker. Cook time only goes to 20 mins. How do I increase anotherc30 minutes? Frustrated
Hi Linda – it looks like on your model https://smedia3.webcollage.net/c70309ff7015a5866fd3828d27dc50d0e85618d7?Signature=uoayTnlw9tZJvLHb9V898Mq%2Bwt4%3D&AWSAccessKeyId=AKIAIIE5CHZ4PRWSLYKQ&Expires=1893493454&response-content-type=application/pdf you press the cook time button to advance the cook time in 5 minutes increments.
Can i cook a whole chicken without a rack? Mine didn’t come with one
Sure, a rack is nice but not essential. They’re inexpensive to buy. Here’s my favorite accessories https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/best-pressure-cooker-accessories/
How do you use it like a slow cooker, I would love to make stew beef with vegetables
Hi Weston – the slow cooker temperature is similar to low on a traditional slow cooker.
I do a lot of cannlng how do you adjust the pressure to can apple slices I tried and it always turns out being Apple sauce any suggestions would be appreciated thanks Willie Morrison
Hi Willie – I’ve been meaning to perfect apple slices in the pressure cooker. Last time I tried, I got applesauce too. My next try is going to be 0 minutes and I’ll buy apples that hold their shape better like Gala or Granny Smith. Let me know if you give it a try.
How long would you cook an 11 lb Boston butt pork roar for?
Hi Terri – I assume you’re making something like pulled pork? I’d cut it into about 2 lb. pieces and use the cook time in my pulled pork recipe. https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/easy-pressure-cooker-pulled-pork/
I was thinking roast and potatoes
A roast that big will take at least 90 minutes. Check it after 90 minutes and see if it’s as tender as you’d like. If not, cook it longer. Then after the roast is tender, I would add the potatoes if you have room, or remove the roast and cook the potatoes in the juices. The potatoes will only need 5 or 6 minutes if cut into large bite size pieces.
You may want to update your article. I just bought a Power Pressure Cooker XL at costco and it has a saute button! They obviously have updated the unit.
Great – thanks for sharing 🙂
A lot of people when they first try their Power Pressure Cooker think that its valve is broken or not normal because it spins around completely like a wobbly roulette wheel or its too loose and not tight. However, it is normal for it to be that way. You can see an excellent video explaining it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J1DC3rfqIto&t=32s
I just love my 8 qt xl pressure cooker canner. I HAVE canned and cooked in it . I just love it . Can’t say it enough.
How does pressure canning works? Im planning to make bottled spanish sardines? Is pressure canning using the power pressure cooker safe and easy to do? Can i use any bottle with metal lid?
Hi Nerie – here’s a good article about canning https://www.hippressurecooking.com/consumer-alert-no-pressure-canning-in-un-tested-multi-cookers/
Thanks a lot for sharing the article. ?
When cooking a 5-6 lb rump roast my pressure cooker after I brown both sides press chicken/meat and put the top on it the cooker reads PO:15 and does not allow me to change the time to 50 minutes as stated in the cookbook. All buttons are locked down. How do I set my time for 50 minutes after I brown my roast? I’m having to go to it after PO:15 expires and press cancel to warm and adjust time but it goes back to PO:15 so I had to press it three times to get the meat cooked. What am I doing wrong?
Hi Jane – try pressing the soup button and then immediately pressing the cook time selector button to adjust it to 60 minutes. It doesn’t really matter which button you use.
When using the Power Pressure Cooker XL for slow cooking how do select low or high?
Hi Lynn – I think the XL only has one temperature setting which is similar to the low setting on a standard slow cooker.
Can u pressure fry in XL
Hi Noah – no, you can not pressure fry.
Hi Barbara!
My question pertains to the cleaning of the Power Pressure Cooker XL. The Quick Start Guide makes a reference to placing any dishwasher safe parts on the top rack of a dishwasher, but nowhere in the manual does it say what parts those would be. One of the promotional videos makes a reference to putting them in a dishwasher for easy clean up, but again, no mention of what. All the owner’s manual describes is how to wash the various components by immersing in hot soapy water, using a mild detergent, rinsing in hot running water, and towel drying. What can you tell me?
Hi Jim – the only part of any of my electric pressure cookers that I put in the dishwasher is the inner cooking pot. My guess is the steaming rack that comes with the XL is what can be washed on the top rack?
I received my Power Pressure Cooker XL for Christmas from my husband and love it! I had never used a pressure cooker before so I was (and still am a bit) intimidated by it. So far everything I have made in it has been so good but it’s nice to have recipes to follow while I continue to learn how to use it. I was happy to find your site that specifically addresses the Power Cooker XL as most refer to the Instant Pot.
Thanks Pam! So nice to hear you’re enjoying using it and my recipes.
Hello
I can’t ADJUST My Time To PAST 60 MINUTES. It says you be able to adjust to 120 minutes
Hi Linda – only the canning setting adjusts to 120 minutes. But if you want to use another setting, just wait until the 60 minutes is up, hit cancel and then select the setting and additional time needed.
I can not get my meat cooked the 1st time, i just put a pork roast on for 45 min. When the timer speed and i cut it open it is still raw, this happens every time i use my pressure cooker. What am i doing wrong????
Hi Cheryl – if it’s still raw after 45 minutes perhaps the pressure cooker is not coming to pressure? Try bring the pressure cooker to pressure with just 2 cups of water. Then after it comes to pressure and starts counting down. Quick release the pressure and see if lots of steam is being released.
Hi my name is Carol Sewell and I was given a “Power pressure cooker” but I can’t find out how to use it, the buttons on The Power Pressure Cooker ” are not the same as the ones on the Power Pressure Cooker XL. All the receipes that I can find are for the newer model. So here I sit with a “Power Pressure Cooker” and unable to use it I sure hope you can help me make sense out of the “Power Pressure Cooker” so I can make some wonderful meals. Thank you so much for your help. Sincerely Carol Sewell email wldbil1@cox.net
Hi Carol – no need to worry too much about what the buttons are labeled. Just use a cook button and adjust the time to match the time in the recipe. Is this the model you have? http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/downloads/PCTRI6_IB_TP_ENG_V10_151214.pdf
What is the pressure adjust button used for on a power cooker 9-in-1 digital pressure cooker. I really enjoy using it I didn’t think I would like it but I do.
Hi Carey – I assume it switched it from high pressure to low pressure. Glad to hear you’re enjoying using it!
So the pressure adjust button is the pressure in the pot like when I can something I have to press it first or do I just press canning and cook time or do I have to press the pressure adjust first and let the pressure build up first I’m new at this and it didn’t come with a book to explain.
I have it on slow cook but the is a light that says food quick. What does that mean???!
Hi Desiree – “When a specific cooking program is selected, the unit will display the default time in the LED window and the “Food:Quick” indicator below the LED window will light. Should your recipe or personal taste require “Medium” or “Well” results, you may select those options by pushing the Cook Time Selector button. In addition, the Cook Time Selector Button may be used when cooking Rice to select the perfect program for White, Brown or Wild varieties.” So essentially the first light is the default time, the second light is the next longer time on that setting and the third light is the next longer time pre-programmed on that setting.
What setting to I use in place of the Saute setting?
Victoria
Hi Victoria – you’ll use the chicken setting with the lid off.
Thank you, Barbara! Can you please recommend a stainless steel insert for the Power Pressure XL? The non-stick surface seems to be chipping and getting into the food.
Hi Barbara. Me again. Could you please let me know one way or the other if you know of a stainless steel insert I can buy for the Power Pressure Cooker XL? The Fagor 8 quart does not fit. Thank you.
https://carts.powerpressurecooker.com/parts/cart.aspx?_ga=2.23014204.642669538.1507229255-1649611113.1507229255
Here’s the link to the website where you can buy a new pot for your pressure cooker.
Thanks for sharing Katlin!
I have a power pressure cooker xl 6qt and have misplaced the cooking manual. How do I get a new one?
Hi Martha – here’s a link to the manual online. You can download it or print it if you prefer. http://www.qvc.com/footers/cd/pdf/K41645_Manual.pdf
I am canning and my time adjustment button will not adjust, what am I doing wrong
Hi Marty – after I press the canning button, I can immediately press the adjust button to adjust it in 10 minute increments to 2 hrs. Perhaps you didn’t press the adjust button quickly enough?
My pressure cooker XL has been my primary cooking tool for almost a year but it no longer cooks like it once did. Dishes that used to be falling off the bone now are sometimes completely uncooked in the middle. It seals up and doesn’t leak steam or liquids. It seems to have less pressure when releasing the steam at the end too. How long do they last if used 3x or more a week? Is there any way to check the pressure?
Hi Ruben – that is frustrating. It does sound like you aren’t reaching pressure properly. I don’t know of any way to check the pressure. I would contact the company.
Pressure cooker was making a light hissing noise once when the squash was cooking and I did not leave much time between starting again. 3/4 cup water.
My daughter told me her instapot cooked the whole spaghetti squash in 10 minutes so I tried with the pressure cooker xl and it was not even close to done. I ok it out and cut it two, cleaned out the seeds and put it back in for another 10 minutes. I got a E3 on the screen and it would not cook. What’s up? Used fish and veggies for the timer and adjusted the time to 10.
Hi Jeanette – The E3 error code means that your unit has overheated. This is common and happens when the pressure cooker does not have enough liquid. How much water did you use? Do you think you had a good seal?
Ok, I did not wait a long time before putting the squash back in and I did hear some sounds from the pot when it was cooking. 3/4 cup of water might have been a little light. Thanks
When using my power cooker plus today it says P0:12, is that time it takes to build pressure or my food to cook? It didn’t do this last two times I used it.
Hi Mendy – it’s the cook time remaining. Perhaps you just didn’t notice the P before.
I’m really impressed with my Pressure Cooker XL so far. Just one little problem — sometimes food is burning onto the bottom (& then burnt pieces will mix in with the dish when served). Do you have any idea what might be happening here &/or how to fix it?
In particular, I’m wondering if there’s a minimum quantity of water I need to be adding to prevent this, or if there’s some other explanation.
Thanks!
Hi Samantha – yes, there is a minimum requirement, but some foods release liquid as they cook, so you may not need as much. Typically you’ll want at least 1 cup of liquid. It also makes me wonder since this is happening often, if you’re not getting a good seal on your pot. Do you see steam coming around the edges of the lid?
What does E3 mean on the digital screen?
What does it mean when E3 comes n the digital display?
Hi MJ – this info was posted in a FB Group:
The E3 error code means that your unit has overheated. This is common and happens when the pressure cooker does not have enough liquid. Another poster: It needs to have something in. A few pieces of meat – sometimes just the oil is enough but it won’t turn on if it can’t tell something is in the pot.
Help?? How do I get the pressure cooker XL to set for 25 minutes on the canning mode? I’m trying to can carrots and I can’t get it to set for 25 minutes. It goes by 10 minute incramits.
Hi Niki – the easiest way is to set a kitchen timer when the time starts counting down, and cancel the cycle after 25 minutes when the timer beeps.
Huh? Lol. So after it’s done pressurizing and the timer starts cancel it? Sorry, I’m cofused. I just set it for 30 minutes and I’m going to cancel it when it has 5 minutes left! That’s all I can think to do
l have a power pressure xl and want to can some carrots pint jars ,l cant find how to can veg from start to finish,can anyone tell me how or guide me to a site
When using the slow cook feature how do you set the pressure release valve, open or closed, or do you leave it off?
Hi Audrey – some people use a glass lid if they have one that fits. Often you’ll have a lid that came with a pots and pan set that fits. Otherwise, generally you’ll leave the valve in the open position for slow cooking.
I want to can corn. I have to questions… 1. do I have to use a rack? 2. I can’t find a recipe to can corn. Do you have one?
Hi BillieJo – I’m sorry I don’t have any experience with canning. Generally you can only do hot water bath canning in the electric pressure cookers, and since corn is a low acid food, you can’t can it in a hot water bath. Which may be why you’re having a hard time finding a recipe.
I’m having trouble getting the lid to turn to the close position. My husband thinks we should put a little cooking oil on the gasket. Is that a good idea? If not, what else can I try? He can close it with a hard pull, but I can’t.
Hi Linda – yes you can use a small amount of vegetable oil on the gasket. Fagor actually recommends oiling the gasket after each use. If your gasket is over 2 years old, it may be time to replace it.
I recently purchased the pressure cooker. I have been excited to use it for canning thinking it will heat up the kitchen less. Now my question: The recipes tells me what pressure and how long. But, how much water do you put in the cooker for canning? Cover the jars?
Hi Sarah – I haven’t done any water bath canning in the pressure cooker, but it’s my understanding you should follow the same rules as you would use on the stove top water bath canning.
The instruction booklet says to bring water 1/4 of the way up the jars.
I have the Power Cooker 6 qt, so far everything I made has been great. My question is, all the recipes I find call for less water (1 cup) and less time than what the book comes with. Should I follow the recipes or the book. I feel like I am over cooking everything, but I may not me taking in the time it takes to heat up. Another question, do you put your cook time in first and then the pressure?
Thanks for your help!
Hi Kelly – I have found many recipes in pressure cooker manuals don’t take in to account the liquid that is released as foods cook. If your foods are overcooked, definitely reduce the cook time and if the broths / sauces aren’t as flavorful as you’d like, reduce the liquid as well. The XL you can’t change the pressure, so just put in the cook time.
Thank you!
I don’t have the XL
I have the 6 qt, I select the meat 1st, select cook time next then select the pressure or does the pressure set itself according to the meat selection?
Thanks again.
I don’t have the 6 quart, but typically the pressure will set itself when you select a programmed setting.
I’m not sure I agree with all your adjustments listed above. I’ve had ours for a couple years. Everything has turned out great following the recipes, I’ve never had to move chicken/ meat over the 15 minutes unless I’m cooking a real large portion. One of our favorites is Chili. One of the recipes suggested cooking it first in a frying-pan. We add the raw meat in with all the other ingredients and cook for 15 minutes and let it slowly natural release. Tastes awesome.
So, unless I’m miss reading that section as instructions vs it’s adjustable scale… I think many things could be getting over done.
The other info on the cooking temps and pressure was good to know.
For the person who bought a stainless insert to replace the one it came with… Where and how much was that. Soon it might be time to replace ours. Curious…
Hi David – one of the reasons for browning meat before cooking is to give the gravy / sauce a richer flavor. I always brown in the pressure cooker and not a frying pan. But if you’re happy using raw meat then that’s really all that matters. I’m a big believer in doing what works for you.
I guess to be honest, by the time all the ingredients make it into the pot, the meat is usually browned… At least with the Chilli recipe. We made it again last night. I put the oil in and turned on the meat 15 minute setting. then started cutting onions etc and opening cans, By the time the last items were added, the meat was fully browned.
Thanks
Hi David, I bought a 8 quart stainless steel pot for the power XL from HSN. It was made by Wolfgang Puck. Works perfect. It was on special for @$10.
Thank you, Kimberly. That doesn’t seem to bad. I will keep my eye open for one.
Thanks for clarifying which settings were low and high pressure on the XL! Now, I may consider cooking using the canning button to cook. If I use the canning button, do you know by how much cooking time do I should adjust on average?
I completely agree about having a stainless steel inner pot. That non stick is too much to deal with in a pressure cooker after a few months of use. I bought a stainless steel pot, and it’s so much better.
As for deodorizing the silicone gasket, I find it best to run the cooker with just water inside for about 10-15 minutes. I cooked a roast on Saturday, and the smell just lingered on and on and on in that gasket for days! I bet putting in a drop or two of lemon juice may have worked better.
Hi Sean – for short cooking items, you probably don’t need to adjust the cook time, longer cooking times I’d start with reducing by 10% and see if that works better for you. Thanks for sharing your tips.
I bought my XL a bout 3 weeks ago! I took the recipe book to the store and forgot it in the basket! So all the recipes I have been reading says to cook on high for so many minutes! How do I do this?
Hi Sandy – just adjust the time to the cook time in the recipe and you should be good to go. Choose a setting with the nearest time and adjust it.
So I made three recipes from the book that came with the cooker. They all turned out HORRIBLE, the only thing I did different than the recipes was seasoning. Everything tasted boiled, no flavor, so so gross! Every meal had so much liquid at the end, it just boiled everything. I did some trouble shooting on google and it says to use 1C of liquid. But these recipes call for way more than that. How do you know what to do?? I’m so disappointed I’m about ready to return it. Not one recipe turned out, and these recipes are from the book that comes with this pressure cooker. HELP!
Hi Shannon – sorry you were disappointed in the recipes. Too much liquid can water down a recipe. Have you tried some of my recipes? Most people love my Beef and Broccoli recipe https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/pressure-cooker-beef-and-broccoli/, or pulled pork https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/easy-pressure-cooker-pulled-pork/ or a great soup https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/creamy-chicken-wild-rice-soup/
I don’t want to follow a recipe. I want to be able to just throw stuff in and cook. I want to cook brown rice with chicken breasts and cream of mushroom soup and corn. How do I know what amount of liquid to use.
I’ve only used my XL once so far. Got it as a gift a few days ago.
I appreciate any help.
Brenda
Hi Brenda – until you get use to using the XL, I do recommend following recipes. Brown rice has a much longer cook time than you’ll need for chicken https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/pressure-cooker-brown-rice-and-a-giveaway/, so you may want to do them separately and serve it over the rice https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/easy-pork-chops-in-mushroom-gravy/. Here’s the cook time for bone-in breasts https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/braised-chicken-with-capers/ Have fun!
Thank you so much. I appreciate the help.
How to take the smell out of gasket after using pressure cooker xl
I am canning dill pickles. The recipe says add half the salt but nowhere else in the recipe does it say what to do the the other half of the salt. Please tell me, thanks.
Hi Marg – I don’t have any experience canning but I took a look at the recipes in the cookbook and the bread and butter pickles recipe has you add the same amount of sea salt to the recipe. So I would probably just add the entire 1/4 cup sea salt instead of half as indicated in the directions.
I am trying to use it as a crock pot slow cooker but it browned the meat after a minute – that’s not what I would expect. I don’t know how to get the heat down so it actually slow cooks. Help!!!
Are you sure you pressed the slow cook button? Did you add any liquid?
Is the slow cooker temp low or right?
I mean high.. sorry. Low or high?
Hi Nancy – the XL setting cooks at 174 – 199° F which is low.
Thank you, I needed to know this answer!
I am having a problem with my cooker. I plugged it in this morning to cook some eggs. but I didn’t push any buttons right away because I wanted to let my eggs come to room temp first. When I went back about 15 minutes later, the zeros were still on the display but I couldn’t push any buttons. Nothing would happen. I tried the cancel button, nothing. I unplugged it and plugged it back in and still nothing. I never could get it to let me push any buttons to start it. Also, the other day my husband tried to start it and he pushed the meat button but didn’t push the other button to make it cook for more time and it went ahead and started so we tried to push the cancel button to start over and it wouldn’t work either. Do you think maybe my cancel button is just broke and that’s why I cant get it to restart?
Hi Janet – sorry you’re having problems. It does sound like something is wrong with the panel. I would call the company 1-973-287-5169
Thank you
If I could hug you for explaining these buttons and pressure releases, I would! I’ve googled my heart out trying to figure out what “high pressure” and “natural release” are on my Power Pressure XL, and you’ve answered those questions, and more! Thank you thank you thank you for taking the time to help! Happy Cooking!
Thanks Suzanne! So glad it was helpful 🙂
Hi, I have the 6qt Power pressure cooker XL, bought it about 2 yrs ago. Mine DOES have a keep warm/SAUTE’/cancel button, and also, my rice/risotto button is where your “cook time selector” button is, and mine is called “pressure adjustment ” and it’s right under the “time adjustment ” button. Also my lid doesn’t have an adjustable or moveable steam release. I have a slide button opposite side on the lid of where the pressure is released, to QR. I wonder why the differences in them…..I got mine off the TV infomercial for $99.00 when it first came out so maybe that’s why…and I LOVE IT.
Thanks for sharing Donna – I have seen that style before. Nice to hear you’re loving it!
What happens if you dont release the steam right a way after cooking ribs
Hi Jamie – I often let my ribs release the pressure naturally. They will continue to cook while the pressure is releasing, but with something like ribs that have a lot of fat, that is not generally a problem.
I don’t have the recipe book can I get one?
Hi Niccole – here’s a link to the manual http://www.qvc.com/footers/cd/pdf/K41645_Manual.pdf
I want to use the steamer to cook a ham. Where do I put the steamer tray?
Hi Carole – the steamer tray that comes with the XL only fits on the ridge at the top of the pot.
If I’m cooking a larger chicken than the roasted chicken on their recipe must I increase the time?
Hi Scott – yes, the thicker the piece of meat, the longer the cook time will be.
Hi Monique from Brooklyn .
My Power Pressure XL is so complicated it seems to never stop warming up. On tv they show the host making a low country boil but there is no recipe in the book and shrimps always overcook. I’m on my last leg and ready to give my cooker away. SMH
Hi Monique – sorry you’re having struggles, but don’t give up. There’s a Facebook group where a lot of members use the XL and I believe someone even recently posted a low boil https://www.facebook.com/groups/1732269790323247/
I received a PPC XL as a gift. I followed the instructions putting on the lid and now it’s stuck. I haven’t even turned it on! The locking pin will not release. There is no mention of the locking pin in the manual, so I have no idea what to do!! I tried calling, and they don’t have support on the weekend. So I have raw meat just sitting inside?! Help!
Hi Vanessa – that’s frustrating. Someone commented that ” My MIL’s does that. We took the handle of a wooden spoon and jiggled till it released.” and also ” I think their husband messed around with the pin and he was able to get it to open.
There’s also this response: The way I read the comment is that the member put the lid on, turned it and the pin popped out. Therefore they need to push the pin in with eg screwdriver to release the lid.
Is the slow cooker feature a low setting or a high setting?
I live in New Mexico ( altitude 5000+) and pinto beans will not be done in 30 minutes. How do I manually set the time for 55 minutes? The highes I can go on the bean setting is 30 and the manual button doesn’t override the bean button.
Hi Toni – the buttons are just suggested pre-set times, so you don’t have to use the bean button for beans. Just adjust one of the other buttons to 55 minutes or select 60 minutes and cancel after 55 minutes.
I can’t get mine to let me set the time on canning… It is just flashing? I hear it doing something?
Hi, I’m curious if you are supposed to leave the vent/steam release open ever? Like for steaming or crock pot use. Or if is to be in the closed position every time?
Hi Sarah – I typically leave it closed all the time. If you have a glass lid from a pots and pans set that fits your pressure cooker, you can use that while you slow cook or steaming too.
Thankyou, I could find nothing about it, and was curious. My electric steamer vents so much! I figured I had to leave that valve open. Thanx again.
Does the slower cooker button mean, you can use the Power Pressure Cooker like a crock pot.
Hi Rosanne – yes, you can use the Power Pressure Cooker XL like a crock pot.
What does rrp mean
I’m not sure – how was it used?
if i have 5lb of beef short ribs (boneless) how much liquid do I need to have in the pot? How long to I cook it?
Hi Mark – here’s a link to my short ribs recipe. You shouldn’t need to make any changes for 5 lbs of boneless ribs.
I cannot find the directions and will be canning apricots within a week. I have the 6 quart size. How high do I fill the canner with water and how many minutes do I set the timer for?
Thank you.
Hi Bruce – I’m sorry, I don’t have any experience canning.
Which setting do I use if the recipe is asking to sautéed?
Hi Gladys – The manual says to saute using the chicken setting.
I need to know how to cook soup beans in my power fusion xl. We like our beans soupy. Have no idea how much water to put in them.
Hi Kathy – most beans are cooked similarly to the beans in my baked beans recipe https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/pressure-cooker-baked-beans/ Note the quick soak version at the bottom of the recipe as well.
Do i need to to add stock when cooking wings?
Hi Greg – yes, either stock or water https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/pressure-cooker-bbq-wings/ Enjoy!
I have had my PKP for around three months and although I am very pleased with it I am disappointed in the fact that the recipe booklet that came with the cooker has very few recipes in it especially for fish, in fact there are only two, both of which are expensive. One is for king crab and the other is for lobster both of which are very expensive. Is there a another book with more recipes that I could purchase from you. As the pressure cooker is a new kitchen aid to me I am nervous to use it without a recipe to follow.
Only had mine for a month. It want come on. Is there a reset button on it?
Hi Holly – I’m not aware of a reset button. Have you checked to make sure the cord is attached completely?
After a few months mine as well won’t kick in to the timer after the initial 15-17 minute searing point. it stays at searing stage forever! Not safe to place the lid on when it won’t regulate itself. This is the second one that is doing it that I’ve owned since I had to exchange the first one. There should be a way to reset the electronics on them by simply holding down a button or something. Very disappointed in this product.
I am so frustrated with my XL pressure cooker. The directions are very vague and I didn’t know what order to press the buttons. I was doing the pot roast recipe and it was bigger than the recipe called for so I was going to do a longer time. It would not let me add any more than 30 minutes. I know I have to do the pressure adjust to make sure it’s at 70. So, do I hit cook first and then time and then pressure adjust???? If I do it in other orders then the pressure goes back to 20. I am so confused! Help!
Hi Mary Anne – you want to select the meat button first, then press the cook time selector until it adjusts to 60 minutes. If you want to cook it longer than 60 minutes, you need to wait until the 60 minutes is up and then don’t release the pressure and select the additional time. Hang in there, you’ll get it figured out 🙂
I much enjoyed your web site. I also found it very helpful. I also have a question? I have the 10 quart xl. My question is how can you get longer cook times then what is programmed. I live at 7,000 ft and seem to need longer cook time for meats
Hi Tiea – If you want to cook it longer than the programmed time, you need to wait until the time is up and then don’t release the pressure and select the additional time.
How long would someone do boneless and skinless chicken breasts with mini potatoes and carrots. I heard the cooking time in the booklet is not very accurate. It had said 25 minutes for a pot roast but was advised to do it for 70-90 minutes and it would just fall apart and nice and moist. So that’s a huge time difference from what the book says. So does anyone know a proper time for about 4 nice size chicken breasts, potatoes and a veggie (carrots). And how much liquid would someone use for that meal??.
Hi Jennifer – typically you’ll always want to use 1 cup liquid when pressure cooking. Large boneless skinless chicken breasts cook in about 6 minutes, which should be plenty of time for mini potatoes and carrots piled on top as well.
I want to use mine for canning are there recipies for that?
You can safely do water bath canning but the XL hasn’t been approved for all times of canning. You’ll find more info here https://www.hippressurecooking.com/consumer-alert-no-pressure-canning-in-un-tested-multi-cookers/
Can you make yogurt in a Power Pressure Cooker XL?
Hi Cathy – yes you can. Here’s a recipe that was posted in the Pressure Cooking Fun Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1732269790323247/permalink/1811494605734098/?match=eW9ndXJ0
The plastic gasket has retained the odor of the foods ooked.. how can I get rid of this..I wash it in soap and water after using the Cooker. Is it dishwasher safe?
Hi Pat- you can wash the gasket in the dishwasher but some say it shortens the life of the gasket. There is not a sure fire way to get rid of the odor. I leave mine in the lid upside down on top of the pressure cooker to air out. Others leave it in the sun to deodorize it. Most keep a second gasket for cooking mild or sweet tasting things like cheesecake. Ratherly does the odor transfer to the food.
Someone suggested soaking in baking soda bath…it worked ?
So to build up the pressure before it starts to then cook. Do I add the additional 17 minutes that it says in the book to build up the pressure before the “actual’ cooking time? I haven’t used it yet as I’m unclear on how to incorporate the 17 minutes it takes to build up the pressure before the actual cook time. So even recipes are 25 minutes. So do I add 17 minutes on top of the 25 minutes???? I read through the the manual and I can’t seem to figure that part out about the 17 minutes to build up the pressure before I can start the cooking time for the 25 minute Pot Roast
Hi Jennifer – No you don’t need to add the time it takes to come to pressure, the timer won’t start counting down until pressure has been reached. They’re just letting you know so you can figure out when dinner will be served. In my experience 25 minutes is not enough time for a pot roast. If you want a tender, fall apart beef chuck roast I typically cook it 75 to 90 minutes. You can practice bringing it to pressure with just a cup of water and you’ll feel much more confident about how it works. Have fun!
I recently purchased the Power Cooker. Successfully made delicious pork chops. But I am confused with some of the recipes that involved browning. Example, directions say set Brown button to brown chicken, remove chicken, sauté mushrooms/onions. Add chicken and other ingredients. Place lid, lock, close valve. But no mention of setting COOK/MEAT. Don’t I need to add cooking time? I can’t imagine the 15 min Brown cycle is enough to COOK the chicken. I don’t want to over cook or under cook.
Hi Carolyn – if your pressure cooker doesn’t have a browning setting, just use the meat setting to brown without the lid on. Wait for the pressure cooker to get hot before browning. Then adjust the cook time to the cook time in the recipe and pressure cook as you normally would.
Using new pressure cooker.getting a hissing sound from release knob…pressure seems to be built up fine but not sure I should heading that hissing sound.please let me know
Hi Robert – make sure you knob on top is in the closed / sealed position.
I am trying to make the wing recipe. I could not get the time to change to 10 minutes. What do I have to do just turn it off after 10 minutes. The stew button automatically made it 40 mins.
Can you cook on the canning setting to cook foods even faster with less cooking time?? Such as pot roast
I just got my pressure cooker for Mother’s day,and I am having trouble getting the lid to close properly for pressure cooking.
I have use the stove top pressure cookers of by gone days, in fact the one I have was my Dad’s, and it is
62 years old. But I also have not used it for years.
I have seared my meat in this pot. In my directions it tells you to put it on meat. After I have seared it then I press cancel and prpare it for cooking by pressing the meat button and the pot goose to work has cooked perfectly every Time
First time we used the Power Pressure Cooker XL and as recommended, we cleaned it by using the Canning button. Once cleaned, we wanted to saute our roast and then cook it in the pressure cooker. The unit did not allow us to change the setting from Canning to Meat/Chicken. Do I need to return it or wait till the unit is stone cold? We tried to unplug it and wait a couple of minutes but it only selects canning. Please advise!
You have to push the top button that says keep warm/cancel in order to switch modes.
There is a P in with the timing digets what does that mean?
I am waiting for an answer to this also. I have gone through the manuals, and so far I have found nothing to tell me. Today I am trying my 6 quart for the first time with a Spanish chicken stew. I hope it’s cooking with the p showing. It has been in for about 25 minutes
The P is perfectly normal. It indicates that the pressure cooker has reached pressure and the time should start counting down. Sounds like you’ve done everything right.
How long will the “warm” feature stay on after cooking finishes?
Thank you for all the helpful information you have given about Powerpressuer. I just got mine and was getting ready to send it back because of the lack of information on how to use it. I was so frustrated, now I may try it, with your help.
Thank you so much.
Thanks Carol! Glad it was helpful 🙂 Have fun!
I just have a question I want to make a cake in the pressure cooker is that possibly and what kind of pan can I use to make it in.
Hi Cindy – I like to use a half size bundt pan (6 cups) https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/pressure-cooker-pumpkin-chocolate-chip-bundt-cake/
Hi! I just bought mine and tried to pressurize it for the first time. It took 25 minutes of pressurizing time before I finally gave up. Is this normal? I am also wondering if the pressure valve on mine is not on correctly. It seems to “float” around and would very easily move from released to close. Is this how it’s supposed to be? Any advice would be so appreciated! Thanks!!
Hi Ali – sorry you were frustrated. What were you trying to cook? A large pot of soup with cold liquids could take 25 minutes to reach pressure. The valve does sit loosely on top and is easily move. You can test it with just a cup of water to see if it’s working properly.
It does float, so as long as you line it up initially, you should be fine. 25 minutes is too long, mine usually takes about 5 minutes or so. Did you have enough liquid in it? What were you cooking and how much liquid did you use?
I am trying to find slow cooking recipes and instructions to use the slow cooker feature on my my power pressure xl. Do I need to put the “rack” in the pot for slow cooking? Can I brown meat and then use the slow cooking feature? Do I close the pressure valve to do the slow cooker feature? Do I seal the lid for slow cooking? Really need some information on the slow cooking feature, and the book, as well as the info on the internet. does not address anything regarding the slow cooking feature or recipes. I was not impressed by much of the feedback on the internet and hope I have not made a bad choice. Jo Berreth
Hi Sara – most any slow cooker recipe should work. Here’s a couple of sites I like https://www.365daysofcrockpot.com/ and http://www.slowcookerfromscratch.com/.
– You do not need to use the rack in the pot for slow cooking.
– You can brown meat and then uses the slow cooking feature – in fact, I think you should and also saute onions before slow cooking.
– You don’t have to seal the lid, in fact many people use a glass lid from one of their stove top pot and pans set
There’s a FB group and lots of the members have the XL, and the members are very helpful https://www.facebook.com/groups/1732269790323247/
What setting is high on the presser cooker xl the recipe says manual high don’t what setting this is on my.power presser cooker xl. Help
The canning setting uses the highest pressure available on the XL.
what is the code E2? what do I do when it shows up?
I need to know how to use the time adjustment- when do I press the button. I cooked pinto beans for 30 minutes and were not cooked, yesterday I cooked pinto beans again and I pressed the time adjustment to add one hour and I was not able to do so. I cooked for 30 minutes and when that stopped I added 30 more minutes. please let me know who to add one hour and how and when to use the time adjustment.
thank you
What am I supposed to do with the steamer tray. Is it supposed to be in the inside of the pot at all times to keep food from sticking to the bottom or is it just used at certain times? Instruction booklet is far from self-explanatory and doesn’t tell you much at all about how to assemble the parts after initial washing before use. Wanted to use for ribs for Easter but am afraid togo ahead since the directions are very unclear.
Hi Carole – you don’t need to uses the steamer tray at all if you’d rather not. It’s just for steaming above foods or liquid cooking below. There’s a Facebook group where a lot of members use the Power Pressure and it’s a great place to get answers https://www.facebook.com/groups/1732269790323247/. Here’s a link to my ribs recipes https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/?s=ribs I wouldn’t think you want to use the steamer rack for ribs. Have fun!
My husband surprised me about purchasing the power pressure cooker 10 quart but I am disappointed because I cannot find the exclusive website that you are entitled to when purchasing the power pressure cooker that shows on the infomercial that only you the purchaser will have the link for. I’m very disappointed in the fact that I cannot find the website it shows on the infomercial that is exclusive only to people who purchase the power pressure cooker
Hi Kim – sorry I don’t have any info about the website on the infomercial, but I’m sure you can find all the information you need to enjoy your pressure cooker online. Here’s a Facebook group that a lot of members have the Power Pressure Cooker. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1732269790323247/ Have fun!
I really love my power pressure XL cooker. Absolutely love it.
Thanks Caroline! So nice to hear you’re loving it.
How do I set the timer for more than 1 hour???
Hi Sherry – on the XL you can’t. You can cook it for 1 hour and then press the cancel button and set it for the additional minutes required. Or, if it’s easier, set if for the time over an hour first, and then set it for an hour.
Just brought the class 10 XL when browning in it do you leave the top off?
Congratulations Geri – yes, leave the top off when browning.
Hello! I was so excited to purchase what I thought was the instant pot and I mis ordered and ended up with the Power Pressure XL 6 QT.
My first try out I was attempting a mac and cheese and found that I was cooking for what seemed an hour and was not even close to being ready.
Do I really have to pressurize it every time I want to use it as the instructions say to when using for the first time?
I was so disappointed I haven’t wanted to try again. I got this for the quicker meal options as a busy mom and was so disappointed. I’m seriously thinking of returning it.
Thank you in advance for any tips!
Hi Brandi – sorry you had trouble. Mac and cheese should not take that long to cook. You can practice bringing your pressure cooker to pressure using just 1 cup of water. It should come to pressure in less than 10 minutes and you’ll be able to see if it’s functioning properly.
My steamer tray sits at about 2/3 pot height yet the manual says not to fill past that mark. How do I use it for steaming?
As long as the liquid isn’t higher than that point, you’re fine to steam on top of it with just a little liquid below – about 1 cup should be fine for most things.
Hello, when using the slow cook feature and I have a freezer prep meal that is now thawed and is chops with a marinade/gravy already, will I need to add water to the pot is one question and then should I close the vent or leave the vent open?
Thank you for your help.
Hi – if the freezer prep meal works in a regular slow cooker on low without any additional liquid, then you probably won’t need to add any water in the XL. If you leave the vent open, you’ll lose more liquid than if the vent is closed. So if you want the sauce to thicken up some, you may want it open.
How to set the timer for more than one hour?
I just brought a power pressure cooker xl 10 I want to know why it’s take 20 min to cook beans when it says it should only take 5 min this is after it warms up
Hi Rosa – it probably is a cooker cooking bean that only takes 5 minutes. What type of bean are you trying to cook?
How do you use the trivet and steamer tray
Hi Terrie – the trivet is used to keep food or pans off of the bottom of the pressure cooker and the steamer tray is used to steam or cook two things at once.
How many quart jars can u put in the 10quart cooker. How long does it take to can quart jars?
Hi Chris – sorry I don’t have any experience canning. You’ll need to be sure you elevation is less than 2,000 if you want to can in the XL.
Helloo
I need the recipe to make brown rice, how much water is needed please. thank you very much
Hi Rosa – here’s a link to the recipe https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/pressure-cooker-brown-rice-and-a-giveaway/
I’ve finished cooker and pressure released but can’t get it open, what am I doing wrong?
Hi Donna – hopefully you figured it out by now. Perhaps your float valve was stuck in the closed position? The float valve is in the hole in the handle.
I can’t find my instruction book and don’t know how to set timer. Can you send me another book please.
Hi Kim – here’s a link to the manual http://www.qvc.com/footers/cd/pdf/K41645_Manual.pdf
when i slow cook do i put the lid on and seal it
Hi Bill – slow cook with the lid on and seal it if you don’t want much evaporation. If you prefer a little evaporation, don’t seal it.
Are you saying when using an intant pot recipe that says to set on manual, high pressure for xx minutes that using the preprogrammed buttons and adjusting the time for the same minutes comes out alright? Just making sure. Seems like that are so many instant pot recipes out there and they all seem to use manual and high pressure.
TIA
Hi Kristy – yes, just use one of the pre-programmed buttons and adjust the time.
Is there an instruction manual online anywhere? I have the Modern Cooker model BD-OJ pressure cooker and have no idea of how to even turn it on. I need step by step directions!
Hi Susan – I couldn’t find an instruction manual online, but looking at the controls on Amazon it looks like it operates similarly to the Instant Pot. Here’s info on how to use an Instant Pot https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/video-use-instant-pot-ip-duo/ https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/instant-pot-duo-and-smartcooker/ and a link to the Instant Pot manual https://instantpot.com/wp-content/uploads/IP-DUO/InstantPot-IP-DUO-Manual-English.pdf Those should all help you get started using your new pressure cooker.
Thank you for this site, I just found it and am thankful for your information. One question, is the handle on the lid supposed to steam (from the little hole) while cooking? The lid fell on the ground so I’m not sure if this is normal or not.
My handle also has steam coming from the little hole. Is this normal?
Hi Eli – steam will come up the little hole in the handle, which contains a float valve, when the pressure cooker is coming to pressure. The steam will cause the float valve to rise and close so the pressure can build inside the pressure cooker. After the XL has come to pressure you should see very little steam coming out of the hole. If there’s a lot of steam coming out after pressure has been achieved and the timer starts counting down, then you don’t have a good seal and you’ll lose too much liquid during cooking.
Thank you so much for your reply!
I purchased my XL , tried it , didn’t understand the instructions , was doing a lot of things wrong , so I returned it to cost co , they are awesome about taking back merchandise, anyway after rethinking the whole thing about a month later , I went back and purchased another one ,
Now that I’ve read your how to use it , I can’t wait to get it out of the box and give it another try .
Thank you very much .
Hi Virginia – so glad the post helped. Have fun!
How do I get the Crockpot temperature on high?
Hi Deborah – I don’t believe the slow cook setting is adjustable on the Power Pressure Cookers. Sorry!
I purchased a Power Pressure Cooker XL 6 quart and in the book it shows a float valve but i didn’t get one, I have a hole in the top of the handle, should that be open or should there be a valve in here? I have not tried to use it jet. I have a friend that has one and she just loves it, also the manual book does not give you too much information and how to use the cooker.
Hi, just read my pressure cooker last night…off to use it.
Yes
I find that the pressure button on the top spins around
When I match it up to pressure cook
It seems to wobble. Was I too excited aND missed a step
Hi Gina – the pressure knobs do wobble. Sounds like you did everything right. Enjoy!
I have the first power pressure xl ,I don’t have a meat button, do I use the stew for the meat? And which button do I press first to cook corn beef…cook? pressure? buttons.
Hi Ann – all the pressure cooker buttons except the canning button cook the same, so pick the pressure cooker button with the time closest to the time in the recipe. Stew for all meats is fine.
I’ve recently purchased a Power Pressure Cooker XL. This recipe calls for 90 minutes cooking time, but the Pressure cooker goes up to 60 minutes?? Is there a way to get around this or will I have to manually add another 30 minutes. Thank you.
I’m wondering the same thing. I can’t seem to get passed 60mins.
Hi Bernadine – unfortunately there isn’t a way around it. But when the 60 minutes is up just hit the cancel button and cook it for 30 minutes. The pressure cooker won’t lose pressure and will just continue cooking. Or, you could cancel it after 30 minutes and then set it for the final 90 minutes, etc.
When do I use the steamer tray I have not seen a recipe yet ? Even steamed broccoli it says to put in the bottom of the pot so I’m not understanding the steamer tray. Thank you
I have made several meals in my Power Pressure Cooker XL and am really liking it and getting more comfortable with it. My question is about high pressure. I got a cookbook for Christmas and almost all of the recipes say to cook at high pressure (9-11 psi) for so many minutes but my owners manual says that all the buttons cook at 7.2 psi except the canning button which cooks at 12 psi. Is there a way to increase the psi or do I cook things for longer? How do I adjust for this?
Hi Valora – there isn’t a way to increase the psi. When you’re cooking my electric pressure cooker recipes in the Power Pressure Cooker XL, don’t add additional cooking time because of the difference in psi. You can always add additional if necessary after the initial cooking time, but you don’t want to overcook foods. If you find you’re consistently needing to add time, you can use the canning button for all of your pressure cooking.
How do you use the slow cooker on the XL some recipes say High for 4 hours and low on for 6-8 hrs. how do you adjust this once you push the slow cooker and how do you know if it is on high or low to put in the hours.
Hi Ginny – I don’t think you have high and low on the XL. The manual says it cooks 174-199 degrees which would be low slow cook.
why does the valve in the lid fall out when turning lid upside down to clean it?
What does PO mean on display?
How do you adjust time? No book was in mine
I want to cook a brisket for 1 hour 20 minutes. I tried the chicken/meat pre-selected mode, then cook time selector to well and it sets the cook time to 1 hour. How do I adjust the time?
You can’t, you’ll need to cook it for 60 minutes then set it for an additional 20 minutes, or cook it for 20 min then set it for an additional 60 min, which ever you prefer.
I just did this last night cooking a corned beef for 1 hour 30 min and set it for 30 min, then when it chimed, I set it for an additional 60 minutes and all worked out fine.
I do find it really odd that I can’t go above 60 min, almost (*almost*) makes me want to return it.
I fixed a rump roast in mine and it took 2 tries. First time was 40 mins. For the same roast and the second time was an hour for the same roast it still wasn’t done. The roast was so tough. So far I am not happy with this pressure cooker. I have always used the old fashion pressure cooker and in 40 mins. A fully cooked mouth watering tender roast..
I just decided to try canning and quickly realized the timer goes up by 10 minutes each time I press the time button. I need to Can for 75 minutes though. Can I just set it to warm manually when it is done or is there a way to adjust the timer to 5 minutes? HELP!
Hi Collette – I would just set it for a longer cook time and set a timer to cancel it after 75 minutes.
Did you find it takes 15 to 20 minutes just to pressure up on the meat setting? I am wondering if something is wrong with mine or if that is just how it works. Cook time is fast but if it takes that long to pressure up it’s a little misleading.
Hi Sheri – if the meat is cold and there is a lot of cold meat and cold liquid in the pot, it can take 15 to 20 minutes to reach pressure. At first it can seem misleading but recipes for the stove top or the oven don’t include the time it takes to pre-heat the oven or for the water to come to a boil on the stove. Once you’re more familiar with cooking in the pressure cooker, you’ll be better able to judge how much time you’ll need to plan on when preparing a recipe, just as you do with other methods of cooking. 🙂
I have problem with the stove gave me a E1, what can l do
That happened to me too! It ended up when I had put it away after the last use the steamer rack ended under the inner pot so the centre pole part at the bottom wasn’t able to connect properly. I was so annoyed at the time but when I realized it was my own doing, well I just got over it. I hope this helps!
I just purchased the xl pro 6 and would like to know if their are any Diabetic recipes available, in very much need of as boyfriend was just diagnosed with diabetes.
As a diabetic (diagnosed 2 years ago), doing my research what I found is this…
1. Just stay away from adding sugar to anything.
2. Avoid white rice (use brown rice instead).
3. Avoid white potatoes (use sweet potatoes instead, with a tiny pat of butter so that it releases/you can absorb the nutrients. The gist of this is that the sweet potatoes release their sugars slower than white potatoes, so your blood sugar doesn’t spike as bad.
4. Avoid sugary foods (ice cream, sodas etc)
Other than that, we can eat what everybody else eats, only we have to find the right sized portion of the same foods so that our bodies can deal with the intake of sugars, in other words, we can eat almost everything non diabetics can, we just have to do it in much smaller portions, which is often hard to do for many people.
When I cook pinto beans on the stove I put enough water that is about 3 inches above the beans. How much water do I put when using the power pressure cooker XL?
Don’t use as much water or the beans will be watery. I made this mistake. I covered them by about 2″ and that was about an inch and a half too much. I will try next time with only covering by 1/2″.
Hey i have the pressure cooker xl and the lid will close if the pot is not in but will not when my pot is in please help
Is it possible the gasket is not in place properly or the inner lid isn’t in place? Here’s a link to the Power Pressure website with a toll free number http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/ and chat line and they should be able to help you.
I had this same problem not to long ago, the bottom of the pot warped. Check and see, you will be able to tell if the pot does not sit level on a flat surface. Mine wobbled around. I fixed it by slamming it down onto a flat surface and taking my cutting board and a hammer to beat the bottom flat again. Don’t hit the bottom of the pot directly with the hammer use something flat that you don’t mind getting dents on. Hope this helps.
I seemed to have misplaced my instruction packet that came with my Power Pressure Cooker XL. I was wondering if you could send me the instruction packet.
Thank you in advance.
Hi Kristine – you’ll need to contact the Power Pressure Cooker company about that http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/
Can I make yogurt in the power pressure cooker XL? It does not have a yogurt button.
Hi Megan – I haven’t tried it, but this recipe should work http://maomaomom.com/yogurt-diy/. Let me know if you give it a try.
I would love to make yogurt in the Pressure Cooker XL, but have not seen any instructions for this machine, only the IP. Do you have instructions for this?
Hi Patti – I haven’t tried it, but I think this recipe should work http://maomaomom.com/yogurt-diy/
I see in some recipes it will say something like this, (10 minutes high pressure). How do you set the pressure level. I have had my 10 quart for about 3 weeks. Love it so far. Only had one bad event and realize it could have been me. When cooking ribs is there a proper way to load them in the pot? I laid mine in and they did not get done. I loaded them about 1/2 thawed but added ten minutes. Had to cook Additional 30 minutes and still were not what I expected.
Hi Larry – here’s how I do my ribs https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/make-ahead-bbq-baby-back-ribs-perfect-for-tailgating-parties/ All of these pressure cooking buttons on the XL cook at 7.2 psi, which is considered the high end of low pressure on the Instant Pot. However, Power Pressure Cooker XL users report that they do not have to increase the cook time when cooking Pressure Cooking Today recipes that are cooked on high pressure. the canning button cooks at 12 psi, which is high pressure in the Instant Pot. If you prefer, you can do all your pressure cooking using the canning button if you’re pressure cooking longer than 10 minutes. Glad you’re having fun!
I have a 10lb pork shoulder. How long should I cook it for pulled bbq pork and how. I just got my cooker yesterday and have no idea
Hi Anita – cut it into 2 lbs pieces and cook it like this https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/easy-pressure-cooker-pulled-pork/ Don’t fill the pot more than 2/3’s full. Enjoy!
Hola Barbara schieving, mi olla de presion trajo el manual en ingles y los libros de recetas tambien, yo quisiera tenerlos en espanol pero no se de que forma conseguirlos, si usted fuera tan amable y me pudiera ayudar, gracias saludos Nuria
Hola Nuria – Contacto con la empresa en 1-800-649-7898 🙂
Can you use the delayed timer if the recipe calls for browning the meat first? Also do you set the cooking time first before you set the delay timer?
Hi Sue – the Instant Pot manual says “We highly discourage using the Timer function for perishable foods, such as meat and fish, which may go bad when left at room temperature for hours”, so it would be the same for the XL. I believe you do set the cooking time before you set the delay timer.
Hi!
My sister bought the XL and she questioned the slow cooking mode. I told her the vent stays open, but because it didn’t say it in the owners manual, she’s unsure.
Can’t find it it in the manual
Hi Pat – I haven’t tried slow cooking in the XL, but on others it doesn’t matter if you have it open or closed. If you want some evaporation then you’ll want to have the vent open, but if you want to lose less liquid, then leave the vent closed.
Please help! The first two times I used my pressure cooker XL, I noticed that the lid locked and I couldn’t do anything until I released the steam. My recipes worked great Then the last two times making the same exact recipes, the lid isn’t locking and when I go to release the pressure – there is none! And the recipe is taking longer (5-10 minutes)… I’m so confused!
Hi CJ – if the lid isn’t locking and there’s no pressure when you go to release it, then you’re not pressure cooking, you’re just cooking as you would on the stove top. Is your gasket in place properly? Is the lid assembled properly? How can call and have them trouble shoot for you http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/customer.php
I cannot get the steam vent on the top to close tight, any suggestions
Hi Deborah – which brand of pressure cooker do you have? Has it always not closed properly, or is it possible something is stuck inside and blocking it?
Why do I hear steam from the hole in the handle?
Hi Francine – the float valve in the XL is in the handle. The steam forces the float valve closed which allows the pressure to build.
If something is already cooking, but I want to add 10-15 more minutes on it, how do I do that—I have tried pressing the cook time selector and the time adjustment buttons—do I have to wait until it is done with this cooking and reset it for additional minutes???
Hi Verna – You should be able to press the cancel button and then select another cooking function and adjust the time without losing pressure. Or you can add it at the end without releasing the pressure. Whatever is more convenient.
How much water do you need to add?
It depends on what you’re cooking and how long it takes too cook it. Generally about 1 cup.
I’m waiting 30 minutes to build steam to make soup. Is something wrong?
Hi Jane – if your ingredients are cold and the pot is full, it could take 30 minutes, but it shouldn’t take much longer than that.
I can’t seem to get the lid to a lock position and its very frustrating it will not turn to click and lock please help
That’s frustrating. Make sure you gasket and inner lid are installed properly.
It takes a full 10 minutes for my 8 QT XL To go into the PO timer mode for brown rice is this normal ? I am new to pressure cooking. This is the second time useing it.
Hi David – time to pressure depends on what is the in pot. If you have a big pot of soup, or cold ingredients 10 – 20 minutes would not be unusual. Have fun!
Do you know if there is a way to cook something longer than 60 minutes on high pressure? I tried to cook two rump roasts together in my 8 qt. I cooked it for the 60 minutes and had to hover over it to wait for it to finish so I could start it over for 30 more minutes (which still wasn’t quite long enough for the meat to shred easily). It would be nice to not need to set the time twice.
Hi Amy – if you use the pressure canning button, you can cook it for 120 minutes.
I can’t seem to saute anything in my pressure cooker. None of the buttons do anything unless I have the lid on and locked into place. There are a few 000’s on the display and that’s all. Any ideas on how to saute/brown things?
Hi Sara – the recipes from the Power Pressure Cooker XL say to use the Chicken/Meat button to saute and brown. Have you tried that button? You could see if it will heat up and boil water.
My lid doesn’t fit properly onto the pot and doesn’t close all of the way.. do you have any suggestions on how to fix this?
Hi Lauren – that’s frustrating. Is your gasket in place properly. Have you taken off the inner liner and re-installed it with the pin facing out?
We can’t get ours to open once we did the first cleaning! Help
Hi Brandyn – maybe the float valve is stuck in the closed position. If you’re certain all the pressure has been released, try pushing it down with a metal skewer or something similar. It’s inside the hole in the handle.
What does it mean when a PO displays in front of the countdown time? It didn’t have that last time I used it.
Thanks
When it reaches pressure and starts to countdown it will have PO in front of the time. I guess it stands for pressure on. Perhaps you just didn’t notice it last time?
Hello… I bought the XL (10qt) pressure cooker as I needed a bigger crock pot really. Roast potatoes and carrots just didn’t fit into one 6qt crock pot and feed our family but two didn’t taste the same. My roaster is very space consuming… so today I out it all in its been cooking since 8am on slow cook – it’s still not done and it’s 6:30pm now. I would usually cook on high for 6-8 hrs in cock pot . What should I have e done differently? My family is hungry and bummed that supper isn’t ready and saying I chiukdve used the crock pot.
Hi Lisa – sorry I don’t have any experience using the slow cooker function on the pressure cooker XL. Is there a reason you didn’t want to pressure cook it?
Having a hard time setting my power pressure cooker xl. Don’t understand how to set the pot to cook longer than 15 minutes
Hi Sandy – press the Meat/Chicken and it will give you a 15 minute cook time, then immediately press the cook time selector button and it will adjust to 40, press it a second time and it will change to 60 minutes.
Can I adjust the timer while it is cooking?
You should be able to press cancel and then select a new function and then adjust the time without it losing pressure.
Thanks so much for sharing this information.. I was cooking rice yesterday and as it was counting down it had PO in front of the number. Does it mean pressure on or what does it mean? Thanks!
What does E3 mean?
Hi Cherie – short circuit of a sensor http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/downloads/PCTRI6_IB_TP_ENG_V10_151214.pdf I would call 1-973-287-5169
Hi Cherie – this info was posted in a FB Group:
The E3 error code means that your unit has overheated. This is common and happens when the pressure cooker does not have enough liquid. Another poster: It needs to have something in. A few pieces of meat – sometimes just the oil is enough but it won’t turn on if it can’t tell something is in the pot.
How long do I can meat in my pressure cooker XL?
Hi Dawn – I don’t have any experience pressure canning. Be sure and read the section on canning above.
I have the 6qt ppcxl. I’m so sorry if you’ve already answered this question, but I’m having so much trouble find an answer 🙂
Is the slow cook function equivalent to “low” or “high” on a standard sow cooker? If my slow cooker recipe calls for 4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low, which time do I choose?
TIA!!
Hi Robin – the manual says the temperature is 174-199° F so more equivalent to low on a standard slow cooker.
I love my pressure cooker ! This morning i was cledaning my lid and the valve in the handle fell out and I dont know how to put it back in ! I cant find my book . PLEASE HELP
Hi Belinda – here’s a link to the manual http://www.qvc.com/footers/cd/pdf/K41645_Manual.pdf and you can also contact the company via phone or chat http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/?gclid=CjwKEAiA48fDBRDJ24_imejhwUkSJAAr0M5k3VuPJtnyTYHfZka_2OhqP3lzkPdyoF4uCiof0EEaqBoCCJ_w_wcB
I have a generic pressure cooker and mine does not a have a minus button for lowering cooking times. However I found that if I hold the button that adds time it will cycle (quickly) to the max time then roll over to 1. This is when I use low or high pressure buttons not the preset buttons. So that is what I do when I want to cook for less than 10 minutes which is what mine is set for when you turn it on. Maybe it will work for this model?
Thanks for sharing Norma – I’ll check it out and see if it works for the Power Pressure Cooker XL.
As with everything you cook on a stove top or oven, you have to test out recipes! I made my Sour Cream Chicken. I laid the onions down first, the chicken next and the sour cream topping last. It actually burnt my onions! But, it was still good!!
I need to know if I can adjust the slow cooker function to low. Want to cook for a longer time
Hi Nancy yes, it starts with a 2 hour cook time, then use the cook time selector to adjust to 6 hours or 12 hours.
I try to select and it doesn’t do anything
Are you pressing the slow cook button first and then immediately the cook time selector?
As a newbie to cooking & also to a Power Pressure XL- Pro , I am finding it a wonderful machine. But , as I am pushing close to 80 , I’m finding the embossed black on silver very hard to see . This is even harder to see with the sunlight .
Thanks for sharing – that’s something I hadn’t considered. So fun to hear that you’re enjoy pressure cooking at close to 80.
i put in a frozen corned beef. with 4 cups of water and the seasoning pack. what do I push to cook it?
Hi Beverly – I would probably use the canning button for 2 45 minutes cycles.
I don’t yet know if my dinner tonight is going to turn out, but I haven’t been able to set the buttons. I plugged the unit in, it is already set on rice, and it won’t let me switch to soup/stew or to add time – either one. When do I do that? I guess the pressure is building up now for rice, which is not what I”m cooking – I’m cooking ribs! Need help quickly! I have the Power Pressure Cooker XL.
No worries, once it comes to pressure and cooks for 5 minutes, you should be able to press the cancel button and select another button for the remainder of the cook time.
I have the xl and the pro, my pro is giving me an E1 error. Does anyone know what this is and how do I fix it? I have searched internet site to be given fixed but nothing works.
Sorry I don’t. Have you tried calling or using their chat on their website? http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/?gclid=CjwKEAiA48fDBRDJ24_imejhwUkSJAAr0M5k3VuPJtnyTYHfZka_2OhqP3lzkPdyoF4uCiof0EEaqBoCCJ_w_wcB
Looks like it’s a pressure switch malfunction. https://scontent.fsnc1-5.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t35.0-12/15934140_10202589343051550_877750979_o.png?oh=e1878f1757e924c61dd584978dae48fe&oe=58750104.
Check for something under the lid around the gasket or something even as small as a piece of rice stuck to the bottom of the pot it will not work therefore it will give you the E1 error message
Thanks for sharing Jill 🙂
I have had a roast potatoes carrots and onions in pressure cooker for almost 2 hours it won’t hold pressure what am I doing wrong
Hi Kim – sorry you’re having troubles. The most likely causes are the gasket is not in place correctly, you haven’t used enough water, or you used flour or other thickeners and that’s created a layer on the bottom of the pressure cooker that is preventing pressure.
can I use the pressure cooker to make slip pea soup?
Hi Beverly – you sure can. Here’s my recipe https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/split-pea-soup-with-chicken-sausage/
Hi Barbara! ~ I have the 8 quart Power Pro Pressure Cooker XL & absolutely love it! I was looking for more recipes and came across your page on how to use it, thank you for the great info. I also noticed your comment that yours doesn’t have a Sauté button. On mine, it’s the top button on the right side, ( Keep Warm/Sauté/Cancel button ). The recipe book that came with it was a little confusing to me in the beginning, where I used a pan on my stove to brown meat instead of the pan for the pressure cooker. Are there any other pressure cooker cookbooks that give more of a variety for those of us that are type 2 diabetic? I appreciate your information & enjoy your recipes! Thank you so much for putting it together for us all, I look forward to trying your Cranberry Baked French Toast recipe! ?.
Thanks Suzi – glad you found the info helpful. Interesting about your Keep Warm button. Does the button toggle between the three, so the saute setting is higher, or is it still an on or off situation?
Jill Nussinow has a cookbook, Vegan Under Pressure, that has lots of healthful recipes that you could easily add some lean meats too, that might be to your liking.
Is there a canning book available?
Hi Alice – I’m not aware of a canning book. Sorry.
I just got a 6 qt Power Pressure Cooker XL. It came with a small canning cookbook.
I bought my wife the Power Pressure Cooker XL for Christmas last year. She works and I stay at home and cook for her. I use it at least twice a week. She has not used it yet! I just found a community of users with techniques and recipes! I feel like Christmas all over again. I recommend it for all husbands and single guys who like Beef, Pork and Chicken that is prepped in minutes instead of hours, plus the flavor infusion is so much better! Keep the recipes coming!!!
Is there a Toll Free number to call and ask questions when a user has problem?
Hi David – there is a toll free number listed on the website. http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/ I’ve also used the chat feature on their website and that was helpful. Hope they’re able to help you with the lid problem.
I have used my Pressure Cooker (Power Pressure Cooker XL a few time with no problem, however, the last time I used for some reason the Led (the top) does not open. I have released the pressure completely several days ago. I still can not open the top.
I got my cooker 2 days ago. Used it once and worked great. When i went to use it again, the led screen only has 0000. It will not allow me to use any of the settings. Does anyone have any suggestions?
Hi Marissa – I would contact the company http://www.powerpressurecooker.com/ Sorry 🙁
just got my power pressure cooker xl. I called the company because I could not get it to start the count down. I started over and locked everything in place. I am unclear if the pressure release valve is to sit firmly in the socked. I cannot get any pressure. Help
Hi Delores – no, the pressure release valve does not sit firmly in the socket. Does it heat up? Can you boil water without the lid on? https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/getting-started-with-your-new-electric-pressure-cooker-or-instant-pot/
Thanks. We just got PPXL and the manual lacked details. Your info was super. We are familiar with stovetop canners but the electronic version is new territory. Looking forward to the challenge.
Thanks Linda – have fun!
I agree with Linda. The manual provided with the PPXL is lacking in information. I am learning more reading your site’s comments than I did reading through the manual. I still am a little intimidated to use mine, but as I read more, I’m feeling more confindent. Thank you for this informative site!
What do you mean when you say “10 minute cook time, use the cook time selector to adjust to 30 or 60 minutes.” I am confused by this section of you information above. I just received mine and want to do other recipes that are not from the Power pressure website and am confused when I read to use medium or high heat level.
Hi Michelle – if a recipe says to use medium or high heat, then it’s probably written for a stove top pressure cooker. The Power Pressure controls the heat, so all you need to worry about is the pressure cooking time. So for example a recipe says to pressure cook something for 30 minutes, you could push the soup button and it would start at 10 minutes, then you would push the cook time selector button once and the time would change to 30 minutes, and after a few seconds, assuming the lid is locked in place, the pressure cooker would begin heating up and when the pressure cooker had reached pressure, the time would start counting down.
This is some great information I bought the pressure cooker XL about 18 months ago and have never even tried to use it. A little intimidating to me, but now I am gonna get it out and use it today! Thanks for this article. I only wish I had seen it sooner.
Hi Jyl – so glad you’re giving it a try. Have fun!
hey babara, i just got my PPC XL a few weeks ago, did a pot of chili & it was great, so i tried some country ribs, had to throw them out, the time quit before it got done i think & i was afraid they may have spoiled so threw them out, then i tried frying chicken & could never get the time to stay on long enough to brown the chicken & so i would reset it & do it over again & after i did this about 3 times, it would start beeping & give me & error code of E3…..it took me over an hour & 1/2 to fry 3 lrg breast with the PPC….it was a nightmare & the chicken was done, but very tough….i was SO disappointed in my PPC so i called the company & they are going to replace this one, but the recipes & instructions they give are very limited to just plain ole country cooking…i guess my questions mainly is can you just use a recipe for anything & cook it in the PPC or how do you convert the time from a reg recipe to fit the PPC….the cookbook i got with the cooker doesn’t explain any of that….i’m hoping when i get the replacement that it will work like it’s supposed to & i can use it..is there a conversion chart that i can get somewhere for the time & the amount of liquids to use? thanks
Hi Ann – that is frustrating. I’m glad they’re replacing it for you. Here’s a post all about How To Convert A Recipe Into A Pressure Cooker Recipe https://www.pressurecookingtoday.com/how-to-convert-a-recipe-into-a-pressure-cooker-recipe/
Cooked a 12 lb. turkey for T-giving in my Power Pressure Cooker XL for the first time. It came out wonderful! I was skeptical and pleasantly surprised. I used an apricot spiced glaze I saw on a You Tube demo, it tasted good.
Thanks for sharing Stephanie. An apricot spice glaze does sound terrific.
What do the quick, medium and well lights mean? I’m confused by these.
Hi Darcie – it’s basically just a quick way to extend the cooking time. So for example the stew button on quick has a 10 minute cook time, use the cook time selector to adjust to 30 (medium) or 60 minutes (well).
How do you use the slow cook setting? Does using the pressure seal take less time than traditional slow cookers?
Hi Rae – no, you’ll just get less evaporation if you have the lid in the sealing position. Many like to use a glass lid while slow cooking. Often using a saucepan lid they already own that fits.
My hubby bought me the XL Power Cooker Plus 3 weeks ago. I wish I had bought one sooner!! I’ve been making bone broth for about 1 year. I have never gotten it to gel, no matter what I did. My first batch in the PCP gelled! I dumped a turkey carcass, and neck, some veggies, spices in, then filled to the fill line with water and cooked for 2 hours on the canner cycle. It was the best broth I have ever made! It’s going to get used a whole lot! When a recipe calls for sauté or browning I do it on the stove then add it to the PCP, it’s just simpler than guessing at the temperature. My only complaint is the finish on the pan, I wish it was stainless instead of coated.
Hi Melissa – sounds like you’re off to a great start! Amazon does sell stainless steel pans that may fit.
Can I cook dumplings in a pressure cooker under pressure .doing a beef stew.
Hi Margaret – I haven’t done it, but others have http://instantpot.com/chicken-dumplings/
Please give recipe for making Greek yogurt in the XL version.
If I am slow cooking a roast, do I leave the pressure valve closed or open?
Hi Christine – it doesn’t really matter. If you want some evaporation with what you’re cooking, then don’t close it. But if you don’t want to lose any liquid, leave it closed.
Just bought Pressure CookerXL. Getting ready to use it for the first time, tomorrow.
Have fun!
I have the original electric pressure pot. I have used it a few times. Surprised? When I use it is have to hold the pot down while my husband gets the top off. Can anyone help?
Hi Bev – sorry I’m not much help. Have you tried contacting the company?
My pressure cooker, ILux 5 qu can also be a slow cooker. Can I use a lid from another pot if it fits or is it required to buy the glass lid for this specific combination cooker? Thank you so much.
Hi Donna – yes, any lid that fits is fine to use when using the slow cooker function.
Hi
I have one of the newer xl power presser cookers from Walmart. Mine does have the browning button on it.
Have only used it a couple of times and really have to play with it. Did a chicken once and wasn’t done enough. Don’t know if I had to much liquid . It is suppose to take up to 15-18 minutes to climb to pressure and mine makes it to 5 and starts counting down. So not quite sure what I am doing wrong. Gasket is clean and in place, locked properly, valve is clean.
Ps… do not like the browning button….splatters everywhere. Rather drown on stove and then use.
Going to play more with it this weekend. Want to make something simple so not a waste.
Glad I found your site!
Hi Jules – it’s nice that you have the browning button. I thought the high sides of the pressure cooker splattered less than on the stove, but definitely do what works for you. If the chicken and the cooking liquid were cold, it could easily take 15 – 18 minutes to reach pressure. I would suggest bringing your pressure cooker to pressure with just a cup of water to make sure it’s functioning properly. Glad you found me too 🙂
I just press the chicken/meat button with the lid off and there is more than enough heat to brown beef. Then I add the lid and seal, and the pressure starts building. I add 1/2 cup broth.
I have the power pressure cooker xl and I love it. I’ve cooked from frozen with noodles cooked right in the pot and everything comes out delicious. I fixed short ribs last note and they came out great.
Hi Sandy – glad you’re loving pressure cooking. Short ribs are one of my favorite things to cook in the pressure cooker. Great choice.
Thank you for the great review and information. I have always wondered if I needed to adjust the time when a recipe calls for ‘high’ as I knew all setting on ppcxl had the lower psi.
Hi Barbara
I just bought my electric pressure cooker and used it for the first time yesterday. My first attempt to cook 3 cups of rice was a disaster. What did I do wrong as I press the rice button the appliance. Logik 6litre cooker.
Thanks
Hi Muriel – sorry you had trouble. I’d need more information to tell what went wrong. I always recommend practicing bringing your pressure cooker to pressure with just water the first time so you get familiar with how it works.
Hi Barbara
Thanks so much for the response. Should I just add water in it an select one of the functions.
It is a Salton pressure cooker.
Thanks
Yes, I’m not familiar with that brand, but any of the pressure cooker buttons should work similarly.
I got the Instant Pot 7 in 1 and it must be defective because I have not been able to get good hard boiled eggs. In my Cuisanart, 6 minutes high pressure with 6 minutes natural release and I had perfect eggs every time. With the IP, I have tried 6,7,8, 9 minutes and they are still under cooked. I think I will give it away as nothing cooks in the right amount of time and go back to my Cuisanart.
Hi Frieda – don’t give up on the Instant Pot. Have you contacted their customer service. They are really responsive and will help you trouble shoot.
One of the disadvantages you allude to is being able to wash a stainless steel pot-does this mean you cannot remove the pot from the appliance to wash it? I remember the old slow cookers that you could not remove the food container to clean-that was a real pain and I replaced my slow cooker with one that had a removable container. If that is the case with the Power Pressure XL, I would run the other way as fast as I could!
One thing I have liked about my Instant pot Duo is that I can make yogurt in it and, often, I get questions from the folks at Amazon who pass on questions that other users have asked. It seems they really want people to be able to use their product to the fullest extent!
Hi Bev – the pot is removal. It just has a non-stock coating on the pot. Some people actually prefer non-stick. I know I have both type of pots and pans.
This was a well organized and informative review. I think I’ll stay with my Instapot as I like the saute and minus button features.
Thank you,
Linda in Portland OR
Canning in a Multi-cooker is unsafe and not recommended by the National Center for Home Food Preservation…even if the manufacturer says it is safe. Here is a link to their research. http://nchfp.uga.edu/publications/nchfp/factsheets/electric_cookers.html
Can you explain the Time Adjustment Button? The included instructions do not mention this button.
Hi Jean – the Time Adjustment Button lets you add time to the cooking programs. For example using the Rice button, which defaults to a 6 minute cook time, you can add an additional 19 minutes for a total cook time of 25 minutes. It only let’s you adjust the time to the longest cook time for that program.
But how do you adjust? We just bought the Power XL and can not quite figure this out. The actual steps?
Hi Carol – put your ingredients in the pot, lock the lid in place, make sure the valve is the locked position. Select a cooking function that is closet to the time in the recipe. You can adjust it using the cook time selector to adjust to other pre-set times, or the time adjust button to advance it a minute at a time. Then wait for the pressure cooker to come to pressure, which may take 10 minutes or more if you have a full pot of soup or something frozen or cold. I recommend practicing bringing it to pressure with just water to familiarize yourself with the XL. You’ll have the hang of it in no time.
I found Barbara’s review of the Power Pressure Cooker XL interesting and did see that she noted some of its shortcomings. While I was a bit surprised to see her review of this pressure cooker I understand that one of the purposes of Pressure Cooking Today is to provide assistance and information to pressure cooker users and potential users as well as provide recipes (and hers are wonderful )
While there are several brands of digital pressure cookers that I’d consider reasonable choices, the Power Pressure Cooker XL is not one of them and would like to share my reasons as well as the reasons I believe there is a superior choice.
I’m guessing that the Power Pressure Cooker XL sells as well as it does because there is a glitzy, frequently-running infomercial promoting it and it’s sold at QVC.
The Power Pressure Cooker XL is sold by a marketing company called TriStar Products which markets many types of products with an emphasis on none. They do not design pressure cookers, they buy them from elsewhere and market them. Their focus is not on pressure cookers; it’s on all the products this marketing company sells. Among the items Tristar markets: Genie Bras, Perfecter Fusion Styler, Cami Shaper, Slim and Tone Leggings, Power Juicer, Flex-Able Hose, the Ab Roller, Rechargeable Twisting Lure and more. Their expertise is not in product design and implementation; it’s in marketing. If you have questions about using your Power PC, how much do you think that that the Tristar customer support people know about pressure cookers and pressure cooking? It’s a guess, but I suspect that there would be few pressure cooking-related questions Tristar customer support could answer if you called it.
I noticed that if you need service while the product is still under warranty, you must “pack the product securely and send it postage paid with a description of the defect, proof of purchase, and a check or money order for $24.99 to cover return postage and handling.” If it’s warranty service I don’t believe the owner should have to pay for shipping to the company and back, however this may be standard operating procedure for all sellers of digital pressure cookers.
As I noted above, there are several brands of digital pressure cookers that would be reasonable choices but I believe one of those is an exceptional choice and the one I would purchase – in fact I did purchase the 7 in 1 Instant Pot-DUO, 6 quart.
Instant Pot brand – why their digital PCs?
The 7 in 1 Instant Pot-DUO is a 3rd generation model of a successful digital pressure cooker. The company selling this PC is Canadian. Their products are designed by Instant Pot engineers in Canada and sold by the Instant Pot company in Canada. They are manufactured in China. By the way, all digital PCs are manufactured in Asia and sold by various companies. ALL the Instant Pot company sells is pressure cookers so clearly that is their focus.
Why select the Instant Pot digital pressure cooker over the other brands out there?
* As the Instant Pot IP-DUO was introduced about a year ago, it likely incorporates the latest in digital pressure cooker technology.
* The Instant Pot IP-DUO is the third generation of this product. That’s a good sign, as if generation 1 wasn’t a successful, quality product there wouldn’t have been a generation 2 version and certainly not a generation 3 version. Note, this model currently has 11,929 reviews on Amazon. 84% are 5 star and an additional 9% are 4 star – that’s a total of 11,094 out of the 11,929 reviews – pretty impressive.
* This company makes nothing but the Instant Pot pressure cookers, thus all their attention and focus is on making them the highest quality pressure cookers they can. That’s not the case with companies that also sell coffee makers, deep fryers, slow cookers, pots and pans, etc., etc, (or in the case of GoWise and TriStar – tire pressure monitors, pedometers, flashlights, blood pressure cuff, Genie bras, flex-able hoses and assorted other items not even cooking related), where if one product is a dud they can fall back on some others.
* There’s no guarantee that any company will be around in the future, but given the success of the Instant Pot (it’s the best selling digital PC on Amazon) it’s likely that replacement parts for the Instant Pot will be available. Parts are certainly readily available now.
* While not having personally dealt with their customer service, IP customer service monitors things like Amazon customer reviews and when a customer or potential customer expresses concerns or asks a question, someone from the actual company often responds to the person posting the concern or question. I’m not aware of any maker of pressure cookers or other cookware that does that. When customers contact their customer service department they get a response. In other words it appears that the Instant Pot Customer Service is more responsive and available to customers than any other maker of digital pressure cookers available.
Instant Pot even has a Suggest a Feature page on its website. That page notes that they “are constantly seeking new ideas that could make Instant Pot more convenient and useful to the life style of North Americans” and goes on to say, “If you have any suggestion and request, please comment on this page. When your new features are eventually realized, we’ll send you a free product.” If you read comments and suggestions on this page, you’ll see many responses to them from Instant Pot – in many cases they note that a suggested feature is going to be implemented in the next model. Talk about paying attention to your customers – that’s impressive.
* The Instant Pot website is a very helpful website: http://instantpot.com
Among other things it includes detailed information on:
– the features of its product, cooking videos using its product
– how-to videos on getting to know your Instant Pot (IP), an IP overview, using the Instant Pot as a pressure cooker, as a slow cooker, using the sauté function, making yogurt, using the IP as a pressure steamer, in-depth looks at the steam release handle, the float valve, the sealing ring, leaking steam
– numerous recipes
…and much more. If you do some research and compare, you’ll see that this is by far the most helpful and complete website for any digital pressure cooker – or stovetop pressure cooker for that matter. In fact for most other digital pressure cookers, available resources are non-existent or extremely limited.
Also look at You Tube for Instant Pot – there’s a huge number of Instant Pot-related videos there. Not so for Power PC XL.
Comparing Instant Pot to Fagor, Cuisinart, GoWise, Power PC XL or any other brand of digital pressure cookers, Instant Pot blows everyone else out of the water.
One final piece of information I would note. Currently the Instant Pot IP-DUO60 7-in-1 Programmable Pressure Cooker with Stainless Steel Cooking Pot is their next to newest Instant Pot model. The absolute newest model, the IP-SMART.
The IP-DUO60 has not gone away now that the IP-SMART60 is available. The primary difference between the IP-DUO60 and the IP-SMART is that the IP-SMART is quite sophisticated in its programmability and is the first bluetooth-enabled pressure cooker on the market. It has the ability to interact with an Apple and perhaps now, an Android App – by far the most advanced and sophisticated digital pressure cooker available. It may be just the thing for some of us and for others the IP-DUO60 is what we’d prefer.
So these are the reasons why, when I decided to purchase a digital PC, my only decision was WHICH Instant Pot to purchase, not which brand to purchase. I chose between the Instant Pot IP-DUO 60 and the newest IP-SMART.
As I said there are other acceptable choices of digital PCs. I just think that the Instant Pot is a superior choice to all of the others. You may think differently, especially if you’re looking for a lower cost digital pressure cooker, and that’s fine. On Amazon Prime Day, 250,000 Instant Pots were sold at $69 each. I certainly don’t have any inside information, but there’s speculation that Instant Pot may offer a great price on one of its models on Black Friday. If you’re interested in an Instant Pot, keep your eyes open for a Black Friday deal.
Thanks Sigrid for sharing your research. The Black Friday price of $69 is a great value for the 6 quart Instant Pot for sure. It’s the pressure cooker I use the most in my kitchen. It will be interesting to see if the 8 quart Instant Pot price drops, and if they’ll eventually sell a 10 quart Instant Pot.
Salesman/representative alert hu
She’s a faithful PCT reader and just passionate about the Instant Pot.
HI, and thanks for the review! I see you with other kinds of Pressure Cookers, but never this one. I was thinking about picking this one up to have around for a second one, and maybe getting one for a gift for a friend since the price is lower than some of the others I’ve seen. But wasn’t sure if this was any good or not? But with all the positive reviews from people online I thought it must work OK? I would like to get the 10 quart and try some canning. Usually when I make something in mine, it makes a lot. I would like to try and can some of it, make it last longer. I think the 10 quart size would be good for that.
Thanks again for the great review, love your site, always so informative!
Darin
Thanks Darin 🙂 I admit to being a bit leery about the Power Pressure Cooker because of the controversy about canning in it. I can only recommend water canning in it. People do seem pleased with the pressure cooking functions.
I purchased a Wolfgang Puck 8 qt. cooker for the same price as the one mentioned here. I am a male aged 77 years and have cooked everything from spaghetti and meat sauce to chicken cacciatori, including beef roasts and stews, whole chicken and chicken stews, pork stew. I also adapt the odd slow cooker recipe by just altering the cooking time to that of the pressure cooker. Great piece of kitchen equipment and heartily recommended.
Thanks for sharing Bob. Sounds like you’re doing great.
I do not have the Pressure Cooker XL – I have the XL Pro. I could not get it to work if I set it to under 5 minutes with the cook time. So I ended up using the preset 15 minutes and then just stopping it when the correct time had elapsed and did either a quick or natural release as the recipe called for.
Thanks Kathi – nice way to find a work around.
Excellent review. Thank you! I was looking to buy this for a niece, but I think I’ll wait until the IP goes on sale on Black Monday.
I’m excited to see what IP offers. Last year Black Friday was the big day. I’ll post something on my Facebook page as soon as I hear.
Hi, is the round thing with the holes a trivet? I could not figure out how to use. Thanks! Debbie
Hi Debbie – it’s a steamer tray that sits on the rim. So you can do layered cooking and cook something below and steam something on the rack above. Or, you could use it just to steam something without sitting in the water.
Hi Barbara,
I love your site. I use your recipes/guide all the time when I use my power XL pot. Mine comes with a saute’ button and it works great. It doesn’t let you know when it’s hot but I don’t find that to be an issue. I think I paid about $110.00 for mine and I ordered right from their site.
Thanks Frankie!
If you need to replace the gasket, does that mean replacing that entire (pull tab) lid assembly, or does it come apart so you could just replace the gasket material?
Hi Jan – yes, the gasket separates from the liner and can be replaced.
Thank you for explaining about cooking with the higher pressure on canning cycle. I like my meat cooked tender, and this would solve the problem of having to cook it twice! Thank you again:-) 🙂
Barbara, you never cease to amaze me. Thank you for posting this. It answers a lot of questions I have. I started out with the power pressure cooker xl. I gave it away after I got my Instant Pot. So I never really got to compare the two side by side. I’ll be saving this page for future reference.
There are 2 buttons that are not programed “high”. These are the canning button and the slow cooker button.
Hi Jane – the canning button pressure cooks at 12 psi and the other pressure cooking buttons cook at 7.2 psi. The slow cooker button doesn’t pressure cook.
Enjoying your information on pressure cooking both on Facebook and your site! Being new to pressure cooking, I appreciate the insights and hints!
I have a whole chicken and some assorted aromatics in my Pressure Cooker XL as I type. Making chicken stock this morning and will have the cooked chicken to morph into a quick meal later in the week. Since I make all my own stocks, soup bases and such, I am thrilled that pressure cooking lets me get it all done in considerably less time!
Keep it up! It’s hard finding tried and true information beyond the instruction booklet!
Thanks so much Michal! Homemade chicken stock is the best! Your house must smell amazing right now 🙂