1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Hawkins Futura 3.2 Quart Hard Anodised Inner Lid Pressure Cooker. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient use, care, and maintenance of your new pressure cooker. Please read all instructions carefully before first use and retain this manual for future reference.
Image 1.1: Hawkins Futura 3.2 Quart Hard Anodised Inner Lid Pressure Cooker with its pressure regulator and cleaning brush.
2. Important Safety Instructions
When using your pressure cooker, basic safety precautions should always be followed:
- Read all instructions thoroughly.
- Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
- Close supervision is necessary when the pressure cooker is used near children.
- Do not place the pressure cooker in a heated oven.
- Extreme caution must be used when moving a pressure cooker containing hot liquids.
- Do not use the pressure cooker for other than intended use.
- This appliance cooks under pressure. Improper use may result in scalding injury. Make certain unit is properly closed before operating.
- Never force open a pressure cooker. Make sure pressure is completely released before opening.
- Do not fill the unit over 2/3 full. When cooking foods that expand during cooking, such as rice or dehydrated vegetables, do not fill the unit over 1/2 full. Overfilling may cause a risk of clogging the vent pipe and developing excess pressure.
- Be aware that certain foods, such as applesauce, cranberries, pearl barley, oatmeal or other cereals, split peas, noodles, macaroni, rhubarb, or spaghetti can foam, froth, sputter, and clog the pressure release device (vent pipe). These foods should not be cooked in a pressure cooker.
- Always check the pressure release devices for clogging before use.
- Do not use this pressure cooker for pressure frying with oil.
- The shielded safety valve is designed to release pressure if the vent pipe is blocked. Ensure it is clean and functional.
3. What's in the Box
Your Hawkins Futura Pressure Cooker package includes the following components:
- Pressure Cooker Body (3.2 Quarts / 3 Liters)
- Inner Lid with Pressure Regulator and Safety Valve
- Sealing Ring (Gasket)
- Cleaning Brush
- Guarantee Card
- Cookbook (may vary by region)
- Service Centre Directory
Image 3.1: Components of the Hawkins Futura Pressure Cooker.
4. Setup
Before using your pressure cooker for the first time:
- Unpack: Carefully remove all components from the packaging.
- Wash: Wash the pressure cooker body, lid, pressure regulator, and sealing ring with warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
- Inspect: Ensure the vent pipe and safety valve are clear of any obstructions. Check the sealing ring for any damage or cracks.
- Assemble Lid: Place the sealing ring securely around the rim of the inner lid. Ensure the pressure regulator is properly seated on the vent pipe.
5. Operating Instructions
Follow these steps for safe and effective pressure cooking:
5.1 Filling the Cooker
- Add food and liquid to the cooker. Do not fill more than 2/3 of the cooker's capacity.
- For foods that expand (e.g., rice, lentils), do not fill more than 1/2 of the cooker's capacity.
- Always ensure there is at least 1 cup (240ml) of liquid in the cooker to generate steam.
Image 5.1: Interior markings indicating maximum fill levels.
5.2 Closing the Lid
The Hawkins Futura features an inner lid design. To close:
- Place the lid inside the cooker body, aligning the lid handle with the body handle.
- Lower the lid into the cooker.
- Rotate the lid handle until it aligns with the body handle and the lid is securely seated against the inner rim of the cooker. The lid should fit snugly.
- Ensure the pressure regulator is in place on the vent pipe.
Video 5.2: Product Overview demonstrating the handling and lid mechanism of a pressure cooker. This video shows how to open and close the lid, and highlights the base of the cooker.
5.3 Building Pressure
- Place the cooker on a stovetop burner over medium-high heat.
- The pressure indicator will rise, and steam will begin to escape from the vent pipe.
- Once steam starts to escape steadily, the pressure regulator will begin to whistle. This indicates that full pressure has been reached.
- Reduce heat to maintain a steady whistle or gentle steam release, as per your recipe.
5.4 Releasing Pressure
There are two main methods for releasing pressure:
- Natural Release: Remove the cooker from heat and allow it to cool down naturally. The pressure indicator will drop, and steam will stop escaping. This method is ideal for foods that benefit from continued cooking.
- Quick Release: For faster pressure release, place the cooker under cold running water (avoiding the pressure regulator) or carefully lift the pressure regulator with a utensil to release steam. Only use quick release for foods that do not require continued cooking.
5.5 Opening the Lid
Only open the lid once all pressure has been released and the pressure indicator has dropped completely. To open:
- Ensure no steam is escaping and the pressure indicator is down.
- Gently rotate the lid handle to unlock it from the cooker body.
- Lift the lid carefully, tilting it away from you to allow any residual steam to escape safely.
6. Care and Maintenance
Proper care ensures the longevity and performance of your pressure cooker:
- Cleaning: The pressure cooker body and lid should be hand washed only with warm, soapy water. Do not use abrasive cleaners or steel wool, as this can damage the hard anodised surface. The product is not dishwasher safe.
- Gasket Care: Remove the sealing ring (gasket) from the lid after each use and wash it separately. Ensure it is clean and free from food particles. Store the gasket loosely or inverted to prevent flattening, which can affect its sealing ability. Replace the gasket if it becomes hard, cracked, or loses elasticity.
- Vent Pipe and Safety Valve: Regularly check the vent pipe and safety valve for any food particles or blockages. Use the provided cleaning brush to clear the vent pipe if necessary.
- Storage: Store the pressure cooker with the lid inverted or slightly ajar to allow air circulation and prevent odors.
Image 6.1: Inner lid and cooker body, highlighting the sealing ring and pressure regulator.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your pressure cooker, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Steam leaking from lid rim | Gasket not properly seated or damaged; lid not closed correctly; food particles on rim. | Re-seat gasket, ensure lid is closed firmly, clean rim and gasket, replace gasket if damaged. |
| Pressure not building | Insufficient liquid; heat too low; vent pipe blocked; gasket faulty. | Add more liquid, increase heat, clear vent pipe, replace gasket. |
| Food sticking to bottom | Not enough liquid; heat too high; cooking time too long. | Ensure adequate liquid, reduce heat after pressure is reached, adjust cooking time. |
| Lid difficult to open | Residual pressure inside. | Ensure all pressure is released (pressure indicator must be down) before attempting to open. |
8. Specifications
- Brand: HAWKINS
- Model Number: FP30
- Capacity: 3 Liters (approximately 3.2 Quarts)
- Material: Hard Anodised Aluminum
- Color: Black
- Finish Type: Titanium
- Product Dimensions: 13.3"D x 8"W x 5.9"H
- Item Weight: 5 Pounds
- Operation Mode: Manual
- Special Feature: Locking Lid, Shielded Safety Valve, Long Lasting Gasket, Non-corroding Hard Anodized Surface, Stay Cool Handle.
- Dishwasher Safe: No (Hand wash only)
- Compatibility: Suitable for Gas, Electric, Ceramic, Halogen, and Induction cooktops.
Image 8.1: Cooker base indicating compatibility with various heat sources.
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the Guarantee Card included in your product packaging. For customer support, service, or to purchase replacement parts, please contact Hawkins customer service or visit their official website. Details can be found in the Service Centre Directory provided with your pressure cooker.