Power Pressure Cooker XL
Owner's Manual
Models: PPC771 (6 qt.) - PPC773 (10 qt.)
Before You Begin
The Power Pressure Cooker XL is designed to provide many years of delicious family meals. It is essential to read this entire manual to become familiar with the appliance's operation and precautions before use.
Pressure cooking offers superior taste and faster cooking times compared to conventional stovetop methods. The Power Pressure Cooker XL features a One-Touch, Pre-Set System for convenience.
Its sealed cooking chamber builds heat and pressure, locking in flavor and reducing energy waste. This process also eliminates stovetop spills and results in cooler kitchens and easier cleanups.
Important Safeguards
⚠️ WARNING: PREVENT INJURIES! - CAREFULLY READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USE!
When using electrical appliances, always follow basic safety precautions:
- Always attach the power cord to the appliance first before plugging into a wall outlet.
- CAUTION HOT SURFACES: The appliance generates extreme heat and steam. Do not touch hot stainless steel surfaces or steam release valves on the Lid during operation. Take proper precautions to prevent personal injury, fires, and property damage.
- This appliance is not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or a lack of experience and knowledge, unless supervised or properly instructed.
- This appliance is not intended for use by children. Exercise special care when the unit is in use in their presence.
- Do not use the appliance for anything other than its intended use.
- Before use, ensure the Lid is properly secured and the Pressure Release Valve is free from debris. Refer to "ATTACHING LID" in the "PREPARING FOR USE" section.
- Never use the Lid Handle to lift or move the cooker. Use only the black handles on the side of the base. Do not move the cooker when under pressure or when contents are hot, as spilled foods can cause serious burns. Use the provided ladle to remove contents.
- Never attempt to open the Lid while the unit is operating. Do not open the pressure cooker until it has cooled and all internal pressure has been released. If the Lid is difficult to rotate, do not force it open, as this indicates the cooker is still under pressure. Refer to "SAFELY RELEASE PRESSURE" in the "PREPARING FOR USE" section.
- Once pressure is released, follow instructions to open the Lid. Always open the Lid away from your face and body to avoid steam burns.
- Certain foods, such as rice or beans, expand and create foam. Do not fill the Inner Pot more than HALFWAY for these foods. Never fill above the MAX FILL LINE to prevent clogging the Pressure Release Valve.
- Certain foods cannot be cooked in this appliance as they may clog the Pressure Release device (steam vent). These include applesauce, cranberries, pearl barley, oatmeal, other cereals, split peas, noodles, macaroni, rhubarb, and spaghetti.
- Never deep fry or fill with oil. Improper use can cause fire or burns.
- CAUTION: Do not operate the unit in an appliance garage or under hanging cabinets. Ensure proper space and ventilation to prevent property damage from steam. Never operate near flammable materials like dish towels, paper towels, curtains, or paper plates.
- Use on a countertop only. Do not operate on an unstable surface.
- Do not place the pressure cooker on or near a stovetop or in an oven.
- Do not use outdoors.
- Do not operate if the cord or plug is damaged. If the appliance malfunctions, unplug it immediately and contact an authorized service facility.
- Do not let the cord hang over the edge of a table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
- Unplug from the wall outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before removing parts.
- Anyone who has not read and understood all operating and safety instructions is not qualified to operate or clean this appliance.
- WARNING: TO REDUCE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, COOK ONLY IN THE REMOVABLE CONTAINER (INNER POT) PROVIDED.
- Never immerse the housing in water. If the unit falls or becomes immersed in water, unplug it immediately. Do not reach into liquid if the unit is plugged in and immersed. Do not immerse or rinse cords or plugs in water.
Visit www.PowerPressureCooker.com for additional safety and cooking tips.
For California Residents: This product can expose you to Bisphenol A (BPA), known to the State of California to cause cancer and/or birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS – FOR HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY.
Attaching the Power Cord
CAUTION
- Always attach the electrical cord to the Pressure Cooker first, then plug into an appropriate wall outlet. DO NOT USE AN EXTENSION CORD WITH THIS PRODUCT.
- Model PPC771-773 is designed for use with a 3-prong, grounded, 120V dedicated electrical outlet only. DO NOT USE WITH ANY OTHER ELECTRICAL OUTLET.
- A short power-supply cord with a grounding conductor and plug is provided to reduce the risk of entanglement or tripping.
- NOTE: If the electrical circuit is overloaded with other appliances, your appliance may not operate properly.
Parts & Accessories
The Power Pressure Cooker XL comes with several parts and accessories:
Lid Components:
- Lid - Top View: Features a Lid Handle, Magnetic Sensor, Float Valve, Red Pressure Indicator, and Pressure Release Valve.
- Lid - Underside (without Rubber Gasket): Shows the Float Valve Sealing Ring and Red Pressure Indicator Sealing Ring.
- Lock Symbols & Magnetic Sensor: Indicates lock positions (close, lock, open) and the magnetic sensor that ensures the lid is properly closed.
- Red Pressure Indicator: A visual indicator that rises when the unit is under pressure and drops when it is safe to open.
- Float Valve: A component that rises with pressure and indicates when the unit is pressurized.
- Pressure Release Valve: Used to safely release steam and pressure.
Appliance Components:
- Front View: Displays the LED Display, Control Panel with various cooking presets, and the Base.
- Inner Pot: The removable cooking pot, featuring a MAX FILL LINE.
- Lid Underside (with Rubber Gasket): The underside of the lid assembly.
- Steamer Tray: Used for steaming foods.
- Measuring Cup: For measuring ingredients.
- Condensation Collector: Attaches to the lid to collect condensation.
- AC Cord: The power supply cord.
- Ladle: For serving cooked food.
Rack Accessories (10-qt. PPC-773 model only):
- Rack A, Rack B-1, Rack B-2: Removable wire racks that can be stacked in various configurations for flexible cooking.
- Steamer Basket: A perforated basket for steaming.
Check all parts and accessories carefully before use. Contact customer service if any part appears damaged.
Three-Layer Rack Assembly (10-qt. PPC-773 model only)
The removable wire rack consists of 3 independent layers that can be stacked for maximum cooking flexibility. The 3-Layer Wire Rack is ideal for poaching, steaming, or cooking different foods simultaneously.
Rack Positions:
- Position 1: Creates a large cooking space at the bottom and a smaller space on top. Use for cooking a main dish at the bottom and smaller foods on top. Insert Rack A with handles pointing downward.
- Position 2: Suitable for cooking foods that may fall apart, like roast chicken. Insert Rack A with handles pointing upwards.
- Position 3: For foods not requiring a long handle for removal. Insert Rack B-1 with the feet-side down.
- Position 4: Creates 3 independent cooking layers. Insert Rack A (handles up), then Rack B-1 (feet-side down) through Rack A's handles, and finally Rack B-2 on top of Rack B-1.
Always add liquid as called for in the recipe for each position.
Features & Benefits
A. Built-In Safety Devices
- Lid Safety Device: Prevents pressure build-up if the Lid is not closed properly.
- Spring-Loaded Safety Device: If other safety features fail, this device allows steam and pressure to escape around the Lid, preventing dangerous situations.
- Back-Up Safety Release Valve: Releases built-up pressure if temperature/pressure sensor devices malfunction.
- Clog-Resistant Feature: Helps prevent food from blocking the steam release port.
- Pressure & Temperature Sensors: Maintain even heat and pressure by automatically activating or deactivating the power supply.
- Temperature Cut-Off Device: If the unit malfunctions and internal temperature rises beyond a safe limit, this device cuts off power and does not reset automatically.
- Magnetic Sensor for Lid: Assures the Lid is properly closed before pressurizing. If not on correctly, a beeping noise and "LID" on the LED display will occur.
NOTE: Sauté and Slow Cooking presets do not require the Lid to be on the unit. Having the Lid on while Slow Cooking is recommended to prevent splatter. The unit will not beep or show "LID" for Slow Cooking. It will beep and show "LID" for Sauté if the Lid is closed.
B. Special Features
- Digital Display: Offers a wide range of cooking choices (sauté, low-temperature cooking, stewing, steaming) with adjustable cooking times and delay options.
- Warm Mode: Automatically keeps food warm for up to 24 hours after cooking. Note: Food kept warm for over four hours may lose flavor and texture.
- Sterile Environment: Digital Pressure Cooking reaches 248° F (120° C), higher than traditional stovetop cooking (212° F / 100° C), providing a more sterile environment and faster cooking.
- Red Pressure Indicator: Shows when the unit is safe to open. It is "UP" when under pressure and "DOWN" when pressure is released.
- Pressure Release Valve: Quickly and completely releases pressure. WARNING: Hot steam is released; use tongs or a similar utensil, not bare hands, to operate.
- One-Touch Technology: Pre-programmed settings allow favorite homemade meals to be cooked easily and quickly with a single touch.
Instructions for Use
A. Preparing for Use
Check Parts & Accessories
- Remove all parts and accessories from packaging and verify they are included before discarding materials. Refer to "Parts & Accessories" section.
- Clean Inside Lid: Remove Lid Liner by pulling the metal knob. Remove the Rubber Gasket from the Lid Liner. Wash the Lid Liner, Gasket, Inner Pot, and other accessories with warm, soapy water. Ensure the Gasket is replaced correctly before reinstalling the Lid Liner.
- Place the Pressure Cooker on a clean, flat surface.
- Attach the Condensation Collector to the side of the unit.
- Attach the power cord to the Pressure Cooker first, then plug into the wall outlet. Refer to "ATTACHING POWER CORD". When first plugged in, the LED Display will show "0000", indicating the unit is automatically "ON".
Conduct Test Run with Water Only
- Fill the Inner Pot with water to about 2/3 full, never above the MAX FILL LINE. Place the Inner Pot in the housing.
- Attach Lid: With LED controls facing you, place the Lid on the unit using the black handle. Align the Magnetic Safety Sensor with the Condensation Collector. Rotate the Lid counter-clockwise towards "CLOSE" and then "LOCK" until it "clicks" into place and a single "beep" is heard.
- The Magnetic Safety Sensor ensures the Lid is properly closed. If not, a beeping noise and "LID" on the display will indicate it's not fully closed. (Note: Sauté and Slow Cooking options do not require the lid).
- Close Pressure Release Valve: Rotate the Pressure Release Valve on the Lid to the "LOCK" position by aligning the arrow with the [lock symbol] symbol. The valve should be in the "LOCK" position during use. It has a loose fit and does not click.
- Once the Lid is properly on, select the "CANNING/PRESERVING" button. This sets a default 10-minute time. Allow pressure to build; the LED display will show a "rotating effect" indicating pressure build-up.
- When full pressure is reached, the Red Pressure Indicator on the Lid will move to the "UP" position. CAUTION: DO NOT ATTEMPT TO OPEN LID WHEN RED PRESSURE INDICATOR IS UP. DO NOT TOUCH OR PRESS RED PRESSURE INDICATOR DURING OPERATION. Doing so will release hot steam and may cause injury.
- Safely Release Pressure: Select "KEEP WARM/CANCEL" mode. Using tongs or a similar utensil, rotate the Pressure Release Valve counter-clockwise from "LOCK" to "OPEN". The steam release/vent open symbol [steam symbol] should align with the side arrow. Allow all pressure to escape. WARNING: NEVER USE YOUR HAND TO OPEN OR CLOSE PRESSURE RELEASE VALVE. USE TONGS OR SIMILAR UTENSIL. FOLLOW THESE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS WHEN RELEASING PRESSURE TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY.
- Open Lid: When all pressure has escaped, the Red Pressure Indicator will drop "DOWN". It is now safe to open the Lid. Open by rotating the handle clockwise. A single "beep" will be heard. Lift the lid with the handle. WARNING: PREVENT BURNS! DO NOT TOUCH STAINLESS STEEL EXTERIOR. ONLY USE BLACK HANDLE ON LID TO OPEN. CONTENTS IN COOKER ARE HOT. ALWAYS OPEN LID AWAY FROM FACE AND BODY.
- Allow water in the Inner Pot to cool. Remove the Inner Pot and empty. Rinse and towel dry. WARNING: DO NOT LIFT BASE TO REMOVE CONTENTS from the Inner Pot. Lift the Inner Pot from the base with caution when contents are hot.
The Power Pressure Cooker XL is now ready for use.
B. Operating Instructions
IMPORTANT: ANY FUNCTION CAN BE STOPPED IMMEDIATELY BY SELECTING THE “CANCEL” BUTTON.
- Place Pressure Cooker on a clean, flat surface.
- Attach Condensation Collector to the side of the unit.
- Attach cord plug into Pressure Cooker first, then into wall outlet. Refer to "ATTACHING POWER CORD". When the unit is first plugged in, "0000" will appear on the LED Display, indicating the unit is automatically "ON".
- Choose desired recipe. Refer to "PRESSURE COOKING TIME CHARTS" and the recipe book for directions. Add ingredients to the Inner Pot. NEVER LOAD INNER POT ABOVE MAX FILL LINE. Place the Inner Pot in housing.
- Place Lid on cooker using safe guidelines. Refer to "ATTACHING LID" in "PREPARING FOR USE".
- Rotate Pressure Release Valve to "CLOSE" position. Refer to "CLOSE PRESSURE RELEASE VALVE" in "PREPARING FOR USE".
- SELECT COOKING MODE: Based on the recipe, choose from various cooking modes that can be used alone or in combination. (See Fig. H for control panel layout).
- SELECT COOK TIME: When a cooking mode is selected, a default time displays for 5 seconds, and the "QUICK" indicator lights up. There are three pre-programmed options: "QUICK" (most rare), "MEDIUM", and "WELL" (well-done). You can also use the "TIME ADJUSTMENT" button to override pre-programmed times.
- USE DELAY TIMER: This optional setting allows the cooking process to start at a later time. Select "DELAY TIMER" before choosing the cooking mode. Indicate the desired delay, then select the cooking mode and time. The timer will count down, and the cooking cycle will start after the delay.
- Once cooking mode and time are selected, a "rotating effect" will appear on the LED display to signify pressure build-up.
- When the unit is under full pressure, the Red Pressure Indicator will move to the "UP" position. DURING THIS TIME, DO NOT ATTEMPT TO MOVE UNIT OR OPEN LID.
- At the completion of the cooking cycle, the unit will "beep" and enter "KEEP WARM" mode until manually cancelled by selecting the "CANCEL" button. Refer to instructions for "SAFELY RELEASING PRESSURE" and "OPEN LID" in "PREPARING FOR USE".
NOTE: THE AMOUNT OF TIME REQUIRED FOR THE "ROTATING EFFECT" ON THE LED DISPLAY TO END, AND THE COUNTDOWN PROCESS TO BEGIN, IS DEPENDENT UPON VOLUME, CONCENTRATION, AND RATIOS OF SOLID TO LIQUID IN COOKER – GENERALLY 5 TO 40 MINUTES.
Figure H depicts the control panel of the Power Pressure Cooker XL, showing various cooking presets like Delay Timer, Canning/Preserving, Soup/Stew, Sauté, Chicken/Meat, Slow Cook, Fish/Vegetables, Steam, Rice/Risotto, Beans/Lentils, Food settings (Quick, Medium, Well), Keep Warm/Cancel, and Time Adjustment.
Pressure Cooking Time Charts
Chart 1: Cooking Modes and Settings
Digital Display Button | Default Time | Quick-Medium-Well Default Time | Adjustable Cook Time Range | Temperature | Pressure |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Delay Timer | N/A | N/A | 0-24 hrs. | N/A | N/A |
Canning/Preserving | 10 mins. | 10-45-120 mins. | 10-120 mins. | 116° C (241° F) | 82.7 kPa (12 psi) |
Soup/Stew | 10 mins. | 10-30-60 mins. | 10-60 mins. | 109° C (228° F) | 50 kPa (7.2 psi) |
Slow Cook | 2 hrs. | 2-6-12 hrs. | 2-12 hrs. | 79-93° C (174-199° F) | <30 kPa (<4.3 psi) |
Rice/Risotto | 6 mins. | 6-18-25 mins. | 6-25 mins. | 109° C (228° F) | 50 kPa (7.2 psi) |
Beans/Lentils | 5 mins. | 5-15-30 mins. | 5-30 mins. | 109° C (228° F) | 50 kPa (7.2 psi) |
Fish/Veg/Steam | 2 mins. | 2-4-10 mins. | 2-10 mins. | 109° C (228° F) | 50 kPa (7.2 psi) |
Meat/Chicken | 15 mins. | 15-40-60 mins. | 15-60 mins. | 109° C (228° F) | 50 kPa (7.2 psi) |
Sauté | 20 mins. | 20-25-30 mins. | 1-30 mins. | N/A | N/A |
Keep Warm | N/A | N/A | N/A | 70° C [+/-10° C] (158° F [+/-50° F]) | N/A |
Chart 2: Approximate Cooking Times by Food Type
Vegetable | Liquid Amount (cups) | Approx. Time (min.) | Meat | Liquid Amount (cups) | Approx. Time (min.) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Asparagus, thin whole | 1 | 1-2 | Beef/veal, roast or brisket | 3-4 | 35-40 |
Beans, fava | 1 | 4 | Beef Meatloaf, 2 lbs. | 1 | 10-15 |
Beans, green | 1 | 2-3 | Beef, corned | 4 | 50-60 |
Beans, lima | 1 | 2 | Pork, roast | 1 | 40-45 |
Beets, medium | 1 | 10 | Pork, ribs, 2 lbs. | 3 | 20 |
Broccoli, pieces | 1 | 2 | Leg of lamb | 2-4 | 35-40 |
Brussels sprouts, whole | 1 | 4 | Chicken, whole, 2-3 lbs. | 3-4 | 20 |
Carrots, 1-in. pieces | 1 | 4 | Chicken, pieces, 2-3 lbs. | 3-4 | 15-20 |
Corn, on the cob | 1 | 3 | Cornish hens, two | 1 | 15 |
Pearl onions, whole | 1 | 2 | Meat/poultry soup/stock | 4-6 | 15-20 |
Potatoes, 1 1/2-in. chunks | 1 | 6 | |||
Potatoes, whole, medium | 1 | 10-11 | |||
Squash, acorn, halved | 1 | 7 | |||
Squash, summer, zucchini | 1 | 4 | |||
Seafood/Fish | Liquid Amount (cups) | Approx. Time (min.) | |||
Clams | 1 | 2-3 | |||
Lobster, 1 1/2-2 lbs. | 1 | 2-3 | |||
Shrimp | 1 | 1-2 | |||
Fish, soup or stock | 1-4 | 5-6 |
NOTE: All pressure cooking modes require liquid. NEVER fill Inner Pot above MAX LINE. Always use the Pressure Release Valve to lower pressure quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Does the Power Pressure Cooker XL have lead in it? A: No! This unit does not contain lead.
- Q: What is the material of construction? A: This appliance has a stainless steel housing and an aluminum Inner Pot.
- Q: How do you assemble/disassemble the unit? A: The appliance comes fully assembled. Attach the Condensation Collector before operation. Refer to "PREPARING FOR USE".
- Q: What is the default time? A: Each cooking mode has a default time that appears after selecting a program button. The unit must reach proper pressure and/or temperature before the "countdown" clock begins.
- Q: How long does it take for the unit to reach full pressure and for the cook time clock to start a countdown? A: This time is dependent upon volume, concentration, and ratios of solid to liquid in the cooker – generally 5 to 40 minutes.
- Q: Can you change the cook time from the default setting? A: Yes! You can increase cook time by selecting "QUICK", "MEDIUM", or "WELL", or by using the "TIME ADJUSTMENT" mode.
- Q: Can you leave the unit on while not at home? A: Yes, but it should not be left unattended, especially with pets or children. Review FDA guidelines for food left outside refrigeration.
- Q: Can you put frozen foods in unit without defrosting? A: Yes! Add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.
- Q: Can I cook with oil in the pressure cooker? A: No! Do not attempt to pressure fry. Pressure cookers lack safety measures for oil fumes and fire, which can cause explosions.
Care & Cleaning
CAUTION: Leftover food or debris can prevent safety devices from operating correctly. Follow these cleaning instructions after each use.
- Allow the unit to cool to room temperature before cleaning. Do not attempt to clean a hot unit.
- Unplug the power cord from the wall and then from the pressure cooker.
- Clean the exterior of the unit with a soft, damp cloth or paper towel. Do not immerse the Pressure Cooker housing in water or pour water into it.
- Pull the metal knob under the Lid to remove the Inner Lid (Lid Liner). Remove the Rubber Gasket from the Lid Liner. Wash the Rubber Gasket separately with a sponge or soft cloth and warm, soapy water. Re-attach the Rubber Gasket to the Inner Lid. NOTE: Periodically check that the Gasket is clean, flexible, and not torn. Replace if damaged.
- Remove the Pressure Release Valve by pulling it up. Wash it with mild, soapy water and rinse well. Use a small pin to clear any blockages. Ensure the interior spring-loaded part moves freely.
- Rinse the upper and underside of the Lid with warm water, ensuring the Float Valve and Red Pressure Indicator are free from debris. Both valves on the underside should move freely. Dry completely.
- Attach the Lid Liner to the Lid. Improper placement can prevent the Lid from closing properly. Replace the Pressure Release Valve by pushing it down onto the spring-loaded mechanism.
- When cleaning the Inner Pot by hand, wash with warm soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse and towel dry. Be careful not to damage the inside coating. Do not use harsh chemicals or scouring pads. NOTE: The Inner Pot is dishwasher safe.
- Clean the condensation collector with warm soapy water and re-attach.
- Any other service should be performed by an authorized service representative.
NOTE: The Inner Pot, Measuring Cup, Spoon, and Steamer Tray can be placed in the dishwasher. It is recommended to hand wash other components to prolong their life. DO NOT PLACE LID, HOUSING, OR RUBBER GASKET IN DISHWASHER!
Troubleshooting
Common Issues and Solutions
Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
---|---|---|
Lid Does Not Lock | Rubber Gasket on Inner Lid is not properly installed | Re-install Rubber Gasket on Inner Lid. |
Cannot Open Lid after Pressure is Released | Float Valve and Red Pressure Indicator are still raised | Make sure the steam release is open. CAUTION: Hot steam may be released. Do not place face near valve opening. |
Air Escapes from Rim of Lid and Pressure will Not Increase | Rubber Gasket was not installed or was not installed properly | Install Rubber Gasket. |
Food residue remains on Rubber Gasket | Clean Rubber Gasket. | |
Rubber Gasket is damaged or worn out | Replace Rubber Gasket. Visit www.PowerPressureCooker.com for replacement parts. | |
Air Escapes from Float Valve During Operation | Food is stuck on Rubber Sealing Ring of Float Valve | Clean Sealing Ring on Float Valve. |
Float Valve Does Not Rise | Sealing Ring of Float Valve is worn out | Replace Sealing Ring of Float Valve. Visit www.PowerPressureCooker.com for replacement parts. |
Pressure Release Valve is not in proper position | Adjust Pressure Release Valve to "CLOSE" position. | |
Appliance is not filled with enough food or water | Check recipe for proper quantities of solids and liquids. | |
Air is escaping from rim of Lid and/or from Pressure Release Valve | Float Valve not assembled correctly | Float Valve should move up and down freely. Ensure Sealing Ring is clean and Float Valve moves freely. Refer to "PARTS & ACCESSORIES" for assembly details. |
Unit Turns Off Unexpectedly | Appliance is overheated | Unplug and let unit cool for 30 minutes to re-set. |
Display Reads "LID” and Beeping Sound Occurs | Lid not positioned correctly | Adjust Lid by following "ATTACHING LID" in "PREPARING FOR USE". |
Display Error Indicator
Display Shown | Cause of Error |
---|---|
Error Indicator - Code E1 | Circuit open of sensor |
Error Indicator - Code E2 | Short circuit of sensor |
Error Indicator - Code E3 | Overheated |
Error Indicator - Code E4 | Pressure switch malfunction |
NOTE: DO NOT USE OR ATTEMPT TO REPAIR A MALFUNCTIONING APPLIANCE. Contact customer service for further information.
Unit Specifications
Model Number | Supply Power | Rated Power | Capacity of Inner Pot | Working Pressure | Safety Working Pressure |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
PPC771 | AC 120V 60HZ | 1000W | 6 qt. | 0-80 kPa | 80-90 kPa |
PPC773 | AC 120V 60HZ | 1400W | 10 qt. | 0-80 kPa | 80-90 kPa |
Canning Guide
CAUTION: Improper canning can lead to serious health consequences. Read this guide carefully and follow all steps to ensure food is processed to preserve its nutritional value and is safe for consumption.
The canning process allows for preparation and preservation of family favorites, including fruits, vegetables, meats, jams, and jellies. It's an economical way to enjoy out-of-season foods.
A. Pressure Canning
Why Pressure Canning?
Pressure canning is used for all foods, especially those with low acid content like vegetables, meat, and seafood. It is crucial to use the exact time, temperature, and method specified in recipes to protect against harmful bacteria, mold, and enzymes. Altering times can destroy nutrients and flavor.
Food enzymes promote mold and yeast growth, causing spoilage. While steam canning reaches 212° F (100° C) to destroy some agents, other contaminants like salmonella and staphylococcus aureus, and clostridium botulinum (cause of botulism), require 240° F (115° C) for destruction, which only pressure canning provides.
Food Acidity
Lower acid content in food increases the potential for spoilage. Fruits are high in acid, while meats, dairy products, and seafood have low acid levels. Proper pressure canning minimizes spoilage.
Foods High in Acidity
- Apples
- Applesauce
- Apricots
- Berries
- Cherries
- Cranberries
- Fruit Juices
Foods Low in Acidity
- Asparagus
- Beans
- Beets
- Carrots
- Corn
- Hominy
- Meat
Foods High in Acidity (Continued)
- Oranges
- Peaches
- Pears
- Pickled Beets
- Pineapple
- Plums
- Rhubarb
Foods Low in Acidity (Continued)
- Mushrooms
- Okra
- Peas
- Potatoes
- Seafood
- Spinach
- Winter Squash
Raw Packing and Hot Packing
Raw Packing: Canning fresh, unheated foods. Causes fresh fruit to float. May lose color over time. Preferable in some recipes.
Hot Packing: Canning pre-cooked foods. Reduces air in food. All added liquids should be heated to a boiling point to remove excess air, shrink foods, prevent floating, and create a tighter seal.
Processing Time, Pressure, Altitude
The Power Pressure Cooker XL's "CANNING" button sets pressure at 80 kPa (11.6 psi). Up to 2000 ft. above sea level, it produces sufficient pressure and heat for safe processing. Water boiling temperature varies with altitude. Do not use this unit for pressure canning above 2000 ft. For additional information, refer to the National Center for Home Food Preservation (http://www.uga.edu/nchfp/) or your local extension agent.
IMPORTANT: Review USDA guidelines prior to canning.
Food Item | Style of Packing | Canning Time |
---|---|---|
Asparagus | Hot & Raw | 30 mins. |
Beans (green) | Hot & Raw | 20 mins. |
Beans (lima, pinto, butter, or soy) | Hot & Raw | 40 mins. |
Beets | Hot | 30 mins. |
Carrots | Hot & Raw | 25 mins. |
Corn, whole-kernel | Hot & Raw | 55 mins. |
Greens | Hot | 70 mins. |
Okra | Hot | 25 mins. |
Peas, green or English | Hot & Raw | 40 mins. |
Potatoes, white | Hot | 35 mins. |
Meat strips, cubes or chunks | Hot & Raw | 75 mins. |
Ground or chopped meat | Hot & Raw | 75 mins. |
Poultry, without bones | Hot & Raw | 75 mins. |
Poultry, with bones | Hot & Raw | 65 mins. |
B. Safe Canning Tips
- Do not use over-ripe fruit; bad quality fruit degrades with storage.
- Do not add more low-acid ingredients (onions, celery, peppers, garlic) than specified in the recipe, as this may result in an unsafe product.
- Do not over-season with spices, as spices can be high in bacteria and make canned goods unsafe.
- Do not add butter or fat; fats don't store well and may increase spoilage rate.
- Use only USDA recommended thickeners; never use flour, starch, pasta, rice, or barley.
- Add acid (lemon juice, vinegar, or citric acid) as directed, especially to tomato products. Add sugar if necessary to balance tartness.
C. Getting Started
The Power Pressure Cooker XL accommodates specific numbers of jars:
- PPC771: four (4), 16-oz (1 pint)-wide mouth jars
- PPC773: seven (7), 16-oz (1 pint)-wide mouth jars
Jar Cleaning
Wash empty jars in hot water with detergent, by hand or in dishwasher. Rinse thoroughly. Scale or hard water films can be removed by soaking jars in a solution of 1 cup vinegar (5 percent acidity) per gallon of water for several hours.
Figure A shows a jar lid and screw band. Figure B shows a jar filled to the liquid level with headspace. Figure C shows a spatula pressing food to remove air bubbles. Figure D shows a lid placed on a jar. Figure E shows a screw band tightened.
D. The Canning Process
- Select a pre-tested pressure canning recipe.
- Use the freshest ingredients at their peak ripeness.
- Fill 16-oz. clean Canning Jars to the indicated Liquid Level, leaving an approximate 1-in. headspace at the top.
- Gently press food against the jar with a spatula to remove any trapped air bubbles.
- Place a clean flat lid on the jar opening and add the Screw Band. Turn clockwise and hand-tighten. NOTE: Loose screw bands may cause liquid to escape; too tight bands prevent air venting and can discolor food.
- Place the Inner Pot of the Pressure Cooker in its base. Place the Wire Rack in the bottom of the Inner Pot. Place the filled, sealed jars on the Wire Rack. (Maximum jar quantity varies by model. Refer to "GETTING STARTED").
- Pour hot water into the Inner Pot with the jars until the water level reaches 1¼ way up the sides of the jars. For four 16-oz. jars, use about 6 cups of water.
- Place the Lid on the appliance and lock it into place. Plug the unit into the wall outlet.
- Select the "CANNING/PRESERVING" option. Pressure will automatically set at 80 kPa. Select Cook Time as indicated in the chosen recipe.
- When the CANNING process is complete, select "CANCEL". Release pressure by adjusting the Pressure Release Valve to "OPEN". Follow instructions to remove the Lid.
- Using Canning Tongs (sold separately), carefully remove hot jars and place them on a heat-resistant surface to cool to room temperature. CAUTION: Jars are hot! Handle with extreme care to avoid burns.
- When jars are completely cool, remove Screw Bands. Lids should be tightly sealed. If pressing the center causes a "give" or springing motion, the canning process was not successful; re-process immediately or refrigerate and use within a few days. NOTE: Never re-tighten lids after processing jars.
- Place finished jars on shelves in a cool, clean, dry atmosphere. NOTE: Screw bands are not needed on stored jars; remove them after cooling.
Properly canned food will last for months and/or even seasons.
Figure G shows jars being removed with tongs. Figure H shows a close-up of the cooker lid with controls.
60-Day Limited Warranty
Tristar warrants all parts and components to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for 60 days from the date of purchase. This warranty is valid only under the conditions set forth.
- The warranty extends only to the original consumer purchaser and is not transferable. Proof of purchase is required.
- This limited warranty is the only written or express warranty given by Tristar. Any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose is limited to the duration of this warranty.
- This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that vary from state to state.
Procedure for Replacement or Return within the 60 days:
To return the product for replacement or refund within 60 days, the original purchaser must pack the product securely, send it postage paid with a description of the reason for replacement or refund, proof of purchase, and include the order number on the package to the following address:
Tristar Products, Inc.
500 Returns Road
Wallingford, CT 06495
Customer Support
Tristar is proud of the design and quality of the Power Pressure Cooker XL. This product has been manufactured to the highest standards. For any problems, customer service staff are available to help.
Customer Service Phone: 973-287-5169
Distributed by:
Tristar Products, Inc.
Fairfield, NJ 07004
©2018 Tristar Products, Inc.
Made in China
Model: PPC 771-773 6-10QT IB TP ENG V5 180918