BRA Tekna Easy Quick Pressure Cooker User Manual

Introduction and Overview

The BRA Tekna Easy Quick Pressure Cooker is designed for efficient and healthy cooking. Made from durable 18/10 stainless steel, this 4-liter pressure cooker features a triple diffuser bottom for even heat distribution, making it suitable for all types of hobs, including induction. It incorporates two cooking programs and a secure locking opening system to ensure safety and versatility in your kitchen.

Key Features:

• Quality Stainless Steel: Constructed from 18/10 stainless steel for enhanced durability and resistance to wear.
• Triple Diffuser Bottom: Ensures uniform heat distribution across the cooking surface, optimizing performance on induction, gas, ceramic, and electric cooktops.
• Fast and Healthy Cooking: Offers two distinct operating levels: Level 1 for delicate or diet cooking, and Level 2 for foods requiring longer cooking times, enabling rapid meal preparation.
• Advanced Safety Systems: Equipped with two pressure safety systems and one pressure release system, adhering to CE regulations for user safety.
• Culinary Versatility: The 4-liter capacity (with an 18 cm induction base diameter) is ideal for preparing a wide range of dishes, from hearty stews to various desserts.

Important Safety Information

Please read all instructions carefully before using your pressure cooker. Failure to follow these safety guidelines may result in serious injury or damage to the appliance.

• Always ensure the lid is properly closed and locked before applying heat.
• Do not overfill the pressure cooker. The maximum fill line should not be exceeded.
• Never force the lid open while the cooker is under pressure. Wait until all pressure has been released.
• Regularly inspect the gasket, valves, and safety mechanisms for any signs of wear or damage. Replace parts as necessary.
• Keep hands and face away from the steam release valve when releasing pressure.
• Do not use the pressure cooker for deep frying with oil.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Components

Familiarize yourself with the main parts of your BRA Tekna pressure cooker:

• Pot Body: The main cooking vessel.
• Lid: Features the main handle, pressure regulator, and safety valves.
• Main Handle: Ergonomically designed for easy handling and opening/closing.
• Pressure Regulator/Valve: Controls and releases steam pressure.
• Safety Valves: Additional safety mechanisms to prevent overpressure.
• Gasket/Sealing Ring: Ensures an airtight seal between the lid and the pot.
• Side Handles: For safe lifting and carrying of the pot.

Image: The BRA Tekna pressure cooker fully assembled, showing the pot body, lid, and handles.

Image: The BRA Tekna pressure cooker with the lid removed from the pot body, illustrating the separate components.

Setup and First Use

Before First Use:

1. Unpack all components and remove any packaging materials.
2. Wash the pot body, lid, and gasket thoroughly with warm soapy water. Rinse well and dry completely.
3. Inspect the gasket for any tears or damage. Ensure it is properly seated in the lid.
4. Familiarize yourself with the lid locking mechanism and pressure release valve.

Operating Instructions

1. Filling the Pressure Cooker:

• Add food and liquid to the pot. Ensure the liquid level is at least 1 cup (250ml) for pressure to build.
• Do not fill the cooker more than two-thirds full for most foods. For foods that expand (e.g., rice, beans, dried vegetables), do not fill more than half full.

2. Closing and Locking the Lid:

1. Align the lid with the pot body.
2. Press down firmly and rotate the lid handle until it clicks into the locked position. Ensure the lid is securely sealed.

Image: A hand demonstrating the operation of the lid's locking mechanism on the BRA Tekna pressure cooker.

3. Setting the Pressure Level:

The BRA Tekna pressure cooker offers two cooking programs:

• Level 1 (Low Pressure): Ideal for delicate foods such as fish, vegetables, or diet-friendly recipes.
• Level 2 (High Pressure): Suitable for foods requiring longer cooking times, such as meats, legumes, or stews.

Rotate the pressure regulator dial on the lid to select the desired cooking program (1 or 2).

Image: A top-down view of the BRA Tekna pressure cooker lid, highlighting the pressure regulator dial and cooking program settings.

4. Cooking:

1. Place the pressure cooker on a suitable heat source (induction, gas, ceramic, electric).
2. Heat on high until the pressure indicator rises and steam begins to escape steadily from the valve.
3. Once pressure is reached, reduce the heat to the lowest setting that maintains pressure.
4. Begin timing your recipe according to the cooking chart (refer to your recipe book for specific times).

5. Releasing Pressure:

There are generally three methods for releasing pressure:

• Natural Release: Remove the cooker from heat and allow pressure to dissipate naturally. This is suitable for foods that benefit from continued cooking, like stews or roasts.
• Quick Release: Carefully turn the pressure release valve to the "release" position. Steam will escape rapidly. Use caution to avoid burns. This method is for foods that cook quickly, like vegetables.
• Cold Water Release (for stovetop models only): Place the cooker under cold running water, avoiding the lid and valves, until pressure drops. This is the fastest method but should be used sparingly to protect the gasket.

The lid can only be opened once all pressure has been released and the pressure indicator has dropped.

Image: The BRA Tekna pressure cooker positioned on a wooden surface in a kitchen, alongside a bowl of cooked food, demonstrating its use in a culinary context.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Proper cleaning and maintenance will extend the life of your pressure cooker.

• After Each Use:
  • Allow the cooker to cool completely before cleaning.
  • Wash the pot body and lid with warm soapy water. The pot body is dishwasher safe.
  • Remove the gasket from the lid and wash it separately. Ensure it is clean and flexible.
  • Clean the pressure release valve and safety valves to ensure they are free of food particles. Use a small brush if necessary.
  • Rinse all parts thoroughly and dry completely before storing.
• Storage: Store the pressure cooker with the lid inverted on the pot to allow air circulation and prevent the gasket from compressing permanently.
• Gasket Replacement: The gasket is a wear item and should be replaced annually or if it shows signs of cracking, hardening, or poor sealing.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official BRA website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For further assistance, you may contact BRA customer service through their official channels. Always provide your model number (A185601) when seeking support.