BRA Allure Pressure Cooker Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and efficient use of your BRA Allure Pressure Cooker. Please read all instructions carefully before first use and retain this manual for future reference.

Image 1.1: BRA Allure Pressure Cooker (22 cm, 6 L) with lid closed, showing the main handle and pressure valve.

2. Important Safety Instructions

Failure to follow these safety instructions may result in serious injury or damage to the pressure cooker.

• Read all instructions thoroughly before operating the pressure cooker.
• 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.
• Exercise extreme caution when moving a pressure cooker containing hot liquids.
• Ensure the pressure cooker is correctly assembled and the lid is securely locked before applying heat. The BRA Allure features 4 safety systems, including 3 pressure safety systems and 1 opening lock system, to prevent accidental opening under pressure.
• Never force the lid open. Ensure all internal pressure has been released before attempting to open the lid.
• Do not use the pressure cooker for purposes other than its intended use.
• Regularly inspect the gasket and other safety components for wear or damage. Replace if necessary.
• Do not fill the pressure cooker more than two-thirds full. For foods that expand (e.g., rice, dried vegetables), do not fill more than half full.
• Always ensure the pressure release valve is clear before use.

Image 2.1: Illustration of the BRA Allure's 4 safety systems and easy-open mechanism, indicating secure locking and pressure levels (60 kPa for gentle, 100 kPa for fast cooking).

3. Product Features

The BRA Allure Pressure Cooker is designed for efficient and safe cooking, incorporating several key features:

• High-Quality Construction: Made from durable 18/10 stainless steel for longevity and resistance to wear.
• Ergonomic Handles: Features an ergonomic main handle and a robust thermal bakelite grip for comfortable and secure handling.
• Diffuser Base: Equipped with a diffuser base that ensures rapid and even heat distribution, reaching optimal cooking temperature quickly.
• Versatile Hob Compatibility: Suitable for all types of cooktops, including gas, electric, ceramic, and induction hobs.
• Two Cooking Levels: Offers two distinct pressure levels for versatile cooking, allowing for gentle (60 kPa) or fast (100 kPa) cooking.
• Sliding Closing System: An intuitive sliding mechanism for easy and secure opening and closing of the lid.
• Multiple Safety Systems: Incorporates 4 safety systems, including 3 pressure safety systems and 1 opening lock system, for maximum user safety.
• Dishwasher Safe: The pot body is dishwasher safe for convenient cleaning (lid components should be hand-washed).

Image 3.1: BRA Allure Pressure Cooker highlighting its 6L capacity, 22 cm diameter, and overall dimensions (24.4x17 cm).

Image 3.2: The BRA Allure Pressure Cooker on an induction hob, illustrating its 18/10 stainless steel construction with bakelite handle and compatibility with vitro-ceramic, electric, gas, and induction cooktops.

4. Setup and First Use

1. Unpacking: Carefully remove all packaging materials and labels from the pressure cooker and its components.
2. Initial Cleaning: Before first use, wash the pot body, lid, and all removable parts (gasket, valves) with warm soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely. Ensure no residue remains.
3. Gasket Installation: Check that the silicone gasket is correctly seated inside the lid rim. It should be flexible and free from cracks or damage.
4. Valve Check: Verify that the pressure release valve and safety valve are clear and move freely.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Filling the Pressure Cooker

• Add your ingredients and the required amount of liquid to the pot.
• Do not fill the cooker more than two-thirds (2/3) full. For foods that expand during cooking (e.g., rice, dried beans, lentils), do not fill more than half (1/2) full.
• Ensure there is always sufficient liquid to generate steam.

Image 5.1: An open BRA Allure Pressure Cooker showing vegetables and liquid inside, ready for cooking.

5.2. Closing the Lid

1. Align the lid with the pot body.
2. Using the sliding closing system, gently push the lid down and slide the handle until it clicks into place. Ensure the lid is fully seated and locked. You should hear a distinct "click" sound.
3. Verify that the safety lock indicator is engaged, confirming the lid is securely closed and cannot be opened under pressure.

Image 5.2: Detail of the sliding closing system on the BRA Allure lid, showing how to engage the lock.

5.3. Cooking Process

1. Place the pressure cooker on a suitable hob (gas, electric, ceramic, or induction). Ensure the heat source diameter matches the base of the cooker.
2. Set the desired cooking level using the selector on the lid handle. The BRA Allure offers two levels:
   • Level 1 (60 kPa): For delicate foods like vegetables and fish.
   • Level 2 (100 kPa): For tougher foods like meat and legumes.
3. Turn the heat to high. Steam will begin to escape from the pressure valve, and the pressure indicator will rise.
4. Once the desired pressure level is reached (indicated by the valve), reduce the heat to maintain a steady, gentle release of steam. Start timing your cooking from this point.

5.4. Releasing Pressure and Opening the Lid

After cooking, pressure must be released before the lid can be opened. There are two main methods:

• Natural Release: Remove the pressure cooker from the heat source and allow it to cool down naturally. The pressure indicator will drop as the pressure decreases. This method is suitable for foods that benefit from additional cooking time, such as stews and roasts.
• Quick Release: Carefully turn the pressure release valve to the release position. Steam will escape rapidly. Exercise extreme caution to avoid steam burns. Once all steam has escaped and the pressure indicator has dropped completely, the lid can be opened. This method is suitable for delicate foods that can overcook quickly.

Once the pressure indicator has fully dropped, slide the lid handle to unlock and lift the lid. Always open the lid away from your face to avoid residual steam.

Image 5.3: Steam being released from the pressure valve of the BRA Allure Pressure Cooker.

6. Maintenance and Cleaning

• Pot Body: The stainless steel pot body is dishwasher safe. For hand washing, use warm soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge.
• Lid: The lid, with its complex valve system, should always be hand-washed. Disassemble removable parts (gasket, pressure valve components) as per manufacturer instructions for thorough cleaning. Ensure all parts are clean and dry before reassembly.
• Gasket: Remove the gasket after each use and wash it. Inspect for cracks, tears, or hardening. A damaged gasket can prevent proper pressure sealing. Replace if necessary.
• Valves: Ensure all pressure valves and safety mechanisms are free from food particles and blockages. Use a small brush or toothpick if needed.
• White Spots/Mineral Deposits: If white spots or mineral deposits appear on the stainless steel interior, these are typically from hard tap water. They can be easily removed by washing with a mild detergent or by using a solution of water and vinegar.
• Storage: Store the pressure cooker with the lid inverted or slightly ajar to allow air circulation and prevent odors.

7. Troubleshooting

8. Product Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For information regarding warranty coverage, terms, and conditions, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official BRA website. For customer support, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly using the contact information provided in your product packaging.