Hawkins 2 Litre Contura Black Pressure Cooker Instruction Manual

1. Introduction and Overview

The Hawkins Contura Black Pressure Cooker, Model CB20, is designed for efficient and safe cooking. This 2-litre capacity cooker is ideal for 2-3 persons. Its hard anodised body and stainless steel lid ensure durability and superior performance. The black finish enhances heat absorption, leading to faster and more energy-efficient cooking.

Key features include:

• Hard Anodised Body: Does not react with food and heats faster.
• Stainless Steel Lid: Strong and sturdy for long-lasting use.
• Inside-fitting Safety Lid: Will not open until pressure falls, ensuring safety.
• Durable Black Finish: Maintains its new appearance for years.
• 3.25 mm Extra-Thick Base: Spreads heat evenly, preventing food from burning or sticking.

Image: Hawkins 2 Litre Contura Black Pressure Cooker, showcasing its compact design and suitability for small meals.

2. Safety Information

Your Hawkins pressure cooker is designed with multiple safety features. Always read and understand these instructions before use to prevent injury or damage.

• Inside-Fitting Safety Lid: The lid is designed to fit from the inside and cannot be opened while there is pressure inside the cooker. Do not attempt to force it open.
• Vent Weight (Pressure Regulator): Always ensure the vent weight is properly placed on the vent tube before cooking. Clear the vent tube regularly to prevent blockages.
• Safety Valve: The cooker is equipped with a shielded safety valve that operates reliably in case of excessive pressure build-up.
• Gasket: Ensure the rubber gasket is correctly seated and free from damage before each use. Replace worn or damaged gaskets promptly.
• Filling Capacity: Never fill the cooker more than two-thirds full. For foods that expand (e.g., rice, lentils), do not fill more than half full.
• Heat Source: This cooker is recommended for use on gas stoves and electric stovetops.

Image: The inside-fitting safety lid design, which prevents opening under pressure.

3. Components

The Hawkins Contura Black Pressure Cooker comes with the following components:

• Cooker Body: The main vessel made of hard anodised aluminum.
• Pressure Cooker Lid: Stainless steel lid with an inside-fitting design.
• Vent Weight (Pressure Regulator): Sits on the vent tube to regulate pressure.
• Rubber Gasket: Creates an airtight seal between the lid and the body.
• Instruction Manual/Cookbook: Provides usage guidelines and recipes.

Image: All components included in the carton for the Hawkins pressure cooker.

4. Setup

Before first use, wash all components with warm soapy water and rinse thoroughly. Ensure the rubber gasket is properly fitted into the lid.

1. Place your ingredients and liquid into the cooker body, ensuring not to exceed the maximum fill lines (two-thirds full, or half full for expanding foods).
2. Hold the lid by its handle and insert it into the cooker body at an angle.
3. Rotate the lid until it aligns with the body handles and gently lower it into place. The lid should sit snugly inside the rim of the cooker body.
4. Align the lid handle with the body handle and bring them together. The handle locking mechanism should engage, securing the lid.
5. Place the vent weight (pressure regulator) onto the vent tube on the lid.

Your pressure cooker is now ready for operation.

Video: A product overview demonstrating the assembly and basic operation of a Hawkins pressure cooker.

5. Operating Instructions

1. After setup, place the cooker on a gas or electric stovetop over medium-high heat.
2. Heat the cooker until steam begins to escape steadily from the vent weight. This indicates that pressure has built up inside.
3. Once steam is steadily escaping, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle, steady flow of steam. Do not keep on full flame.
4. Cook for the recommended time according to your recipe.
5. After cooking, turn off the heat. Allow the pressure to drop naturally. The vent weight will stop releasing steam, and the lid handle locking mechanism will release, indicating it is safe to open.
6. To open, hold the cooker handles, gently push the lid handle away from the body handle to disengage the lock, and lift the lid.

Note: Never attempt to open the cooker by force while it is under pressure. Always allow pressure to release completely.

Image: The black body of the pressure cooker on a gas stove, highlighting its faster heating capability.

6. Maintenance and Cleaning

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your Hawkins pressure cooker.

• Cleaning: The cooker is not dishwasher safe. Hand wash all parts with warm soapy water after each use. The hard anodised body is easy to clean, even if food has stuck.
• Gasket Care: Remove the rubber gasket from the lid after each use and wash it. Store the gasket loosely or inside the cooker without locking the lid to prolong its life.
• Vent Weight and Vent Tube: Clean the vent weight and ensure the vent tube on the lid is clear of any food particles. Use a thin wire or pin if necessary to clear blockages.
• Body and Lid: Inspect the cooker body and lid for any signs of damage or wear. Replace any damaged parts immediately.

Image: The durable hard anodised body and stainless steel lid of the pressure cooker.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues with your pressure cooker, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

• Steam Leakage from Lid: Check if the rubber gasket is properly seated, clean, and undamaged. Ensure the lid is correctly aligned and locked.
• Pressure Not Building: Verify that the vent weight is correctly placed and the vent tube is clear. Ensure there is sufficient liquid inside the cooker.
• Vent Weight Stuck Open: Ensure the vent weight is clean and free from food debris. Sometimes, adjusting the retainer clip (black band) on the weighted valve can resolve this.
• Lid Difficult to Open: Ensure all pressure has been released naturally. Never force the lid open. If it's still difficult, run cold water over the lid (avoiding the vent weight) to cool it down, which may help release any remaining pressure.

For persistent issues, contact Hawkins customer service or your retailer.

8. Specifications

Image: Detailed dimensions of the Hawkins Contura Black Pressure Cooker.

9. Warranty and Support

The Hawkins 2 Litre Contura Black Pressure Cooker comes with a 5-year guarantee. For any warranty claims or support needs, please retain your proof of purchase and contact the retailer from whom you purchased the product. For general inquiries or to find replacement parts, you may also visit the official Hawkins website or contact their customer service.