Power Pressure Cooker XL Owner's Manual

Affordable, Healthy Homemade Meals in Minutes

Congratulations! You are about to discover the benefits of pressure cooking, which results in meals that taste better and cook faster than conventional stovetop methods. For decades, the company's culinary design division has created popular kitchen appliances. The Power Pressure Cooker XL™ is the latest in this line, featuring a combination of metals, cooking surfaces, and digital technology designed for ease of use and excellent results. The "one-touch" pre-set system allows many favorite family recipes to be cooked perfectly in a fraction of the time. The sealed cooking chamber builds heat and pressure, locking in flavor and saving energy. This process also eliminates messy stovetop spills and keeps kitchens cooler.

Before You Begin

The Power Pressure Cooker XL™ is designed to provide many years of delicious meals. It is crucial to read this entire manual thoroughly to become familiar with its operation and safety precautions before use.

Important Safeguards

When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions must always be followed:

• This appliance is not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless supervised by a responsible person or given proper instruction. This appliance is NOT INTENDED FOR USE BY CHILDREN.
• Always ensure the float valve is correctly positioned before use. Incorrect assembly can prevent pressure build-up or allow steam to escape from the lid sides. (See page 11 for assembly instructions).
• DO NOT TOUCH HOT SURFACES. Use handles or knobs.
• To protect against electric shock, DO NOT IMMERSE or rinse cords or plugs in water or other liquid.
• This appliance should NEVER BE OPERATED BY CHILDREN, and extra care is needed when children are present.
• Unplug from the outlet when not in use and before cleaning. ALLOW TO COOL before removing or attaching parts.
• DO NOT OPERATE any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or if it has malfunctioned or been damaged. Return it to an authorized service facility for examination or repair.
• DO NOT USE attachments or utensils not recommended or supplied by the manufacturer, as this may cause hazardous situations or personal injury.
• DO NOT USE outdoors.
• DO NOT LET CORD HANG over the edge of a table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
• DO NOT PLACE on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven. Exercise extreme caution when moving an appliance containing hot oil or other hot liquids.
• ALWAYS ATTACH PLUG TO APPLIANCE FIRST, then plug into the wall outlet. To disconnect, set control to "Off" and remove plug from wall outlet.
• DO NOT USE appliance for anything other than its intended use.
• This appliance cooks under pressure. Improper use may result in scalding injury. MAKE CERTAIN the unit is properly closed before operating.
• NEVER FILL THE UNIT ABOVE THE MAX LINE in the Inner Pot. For foods that expand (like rice or beans), follow specific recipes and do not fill above the "halfway" point to prevent clogging and excess pressure.
• Be aware that certain foods (applesauce, cranberries, barley, oatmeal, split peas, noodles, rhubarb, spaghetti) can foam, froth, sputter, and clog the pressure release device. Follow recipes carefully for these items.
• ALWAYS CHECK the pressure release devices for clogs before use.
• DO NOT OPEN the Power Pressure Cooker XL until it has cooled and all internal pressure has been released. If difficult to open, it indicates pressure is still present; do not force it open. Any residual pressure can be hazardous.
• DO NOT USE this pressure cooker for pressure frying with oil.
• This appliance is designed for use with a 3-prong, grounded, 120V electrical outlet only. DO NOT USE any other electrical outlet.
• The Power Pressure Cooker XL generates extreme heat and steam. All necessary precautions must be taken to avoid fire, burns, and other personal injury.
• When in operation, ensure sufficient air space on all sides. NEVER OPERATE near flammable materials like dish towels, paper towels, curtains, or paper plates.
• If the appliance malfunctions during use, UNPLUG THE CORD IMMEDIATELY. Do not attempt repair.
• ALWAYS PLUG the cord directly into the wall outlet. Never use an extension cord.
• Anyone who has not fully read and understood all operating and safety instructions is NOT QUALIFIED TO OPERATE or clean this appliance.
• If the unit falls or becomes immersed in water, UNPLUG IT FROM THE WALL OUTLET IMMEDIATELY. DO NOT REACH INTO THE WATER!
• DO NOT OPERATE on an unstable surface.
• NEVER FORCE OPEN the Power Pressure Cooker XL. Use the "KEEP WARM/CANCEL" button and tongs or a kitchen tool to rotate the Pressure Valve to the OPEN position to release pressure. Open the lid away from you to avoid steam contact.
• INTENDED FOR COUNTERTOP USE ONLY. Spilled food can cause serious burns. Keep appliance and cord away from children. NEVER drape cord over edge of counter. NEVER use with an extension cord.

Caution: Electric Shock

To reduce the risk of electric shock, cook only in the removable container. Do not immerse the housing or base in water. Before use, clean the bottom of the Inner Pot and the heater plate surface. Insert the Inner Pot, turning it slightly to ensure it is seated correctly on the heater plate. Failure to do so can prevent proper operation and cause damage.

Caution: Hot Surfaces

This appliance generates heat and escaping steam during use. Proper precautions must be taken to prevent personal injury, fires, and property damage.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS. FOR HOUSEHOLD ONLY.

Must Be Grounded

This product must be grounded. If it malfunctions or breaks down, grounding provides a path of least resistance for electric current to reduce the risk of electric shock. The product is equipped with a cord having an equipment grounding conductor and a grounding plug. The plug must be plugged into an appropriate outlet that is properly installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.

Electrical Power

If the electrical circuit is overloaded with other appliances, your appliance may not operate properly. It should be operated on a dedicated electrical circuit.

Short Cord Instructions

A short power-supply cord is provided to reduce the risk of entanglement or tripping. Do not use an extension cord with this product.

Built-in Safety Features

• Lid Safety Device: Prevents pressure build-up if the lid is not closed properly. Do not attempt to open when pressurized. Always fully close the lid. If the lid is misaligned, unplug immediately and release pressure.
• Spring-Loaded Safety Device: If all other safety features fail, this device automatically lowers the Inner Pot, causing it to separate from the gasket, allowing steam and pressure to escape safely. Keep yourself and objects away from the unit.
• Red Pressure Indicator (On Lid): Indicates when the unit is pressurized. Do not touch or press it, as this releases hot steam. Always use the manual pressure release valve. Check that the indicator is down before opening the unit.
• Magnetic Sensor (For Lid): Ensures the lid is properly closed for pressurization. A beeping noise and "Lid" on the display indicate the lid is not fully closed.
• Back-Up Safety Release Valve: Should the temperature/pressure sensor malfunction, this valve automatically releases excess pressure.
• Clog Resistant Feature: Helps prevent food from blocking the steam release port.
• Pressure & Temperature Sensors: Maintain even heat and pressure by automatically adjusting the power supply.
• Temperature Cut-Off Device: Cuts off power if the internal temperature rises beyond a safe limit.

Special Features

• Digital Display: Offers a range of cooking choices including Sauté, Low Temp Cooking, Stewing, and Steaming.
• Steam Mode: Heats cooking liquid quickly for steaming various foods.
• Warm Mode: Automatically shifts to KEEP WARM after cooking, keeping food warm for up to 24 hours (flavor may degrade after 4 hours).
• Pressure Release Valve: Allows quick and complete pressure release using tongs or a kitchen tool. CAUTION: Protect skin from escaping steam.
• Sterile Environment: Utilizes temperatures up to 248°F (120°C) for a more sterile and healthier cooking environment.
• One-Touch Technology: Pre-set buttons for easy cooking of favorite meals.

Unit Specifications

Parts & Accessories

The Power Pressure Cooker XL includes the following parts:

• Lid: Features Lock Symbols, Magnetic Sensor, Floating Valve, Red Pressure Indicator, Pressure Release Valve, and Lid Handle.
• Front: Includes the LED Display, Control Panel, and Base.
• Inner Pot: The removable cooking pot.
• Rubber Gasket - Under Lid: Seals the lid.
• AC Cord: Power supply cord.
• Condensation Collector: Collects condensation.
• Ladle: For serving.
• Measuring Cup: For liquids.
• Steamer Tray: For steaming.

Important: Check all parts carefully before use. If any part appears damaged, do not use the product and contact customer service.

Before the First Use

1. Lid (underside) Rubber Gasket

   Wash the Inner Pot, Lid, and Rubber Gasket with warm soapy water. Rinse and dry thoroughly. Remove the Rubber Gasket for proper cleaning. Re-attach it securely. Note: Ensure the gasket is properly placed on the lid; otherwise, the unit may not pressurize.

2. Fill with Water - Place Lid on the Cooker

   Never fill the Inner Pot above the MAX line. Seat the Inner Pot properly. Place the Lid on the cooker with the handle and recessed valve pointed to the "10:00 o'clock" position. Rotate the Lid counter-clockwise until it clicks. HOT LID WARNING: Use the black composite handle only when opening the lid, as stainless steel parts become very hot.

   To test the Rubber Gasket, fill the Inner Pot about 2/3 full with water. Place the Lid on the cooker, rotate the Pressure Valve to the Lock position, and run on CANNING mode for 10 minutes. The unit has a Magnetic Safety Sensor that ensures the lid is properly closed for pressurization. If the lid is not on correctly, a beeping noise will occur, and "Lid" will appear on the display.

3. Pressure Valve

   When the cycle is complete, use tongs or a kitchen tool to carefully rotate the Pressure Valve to the Open position to allow pressure to escape. The Floating Valve and Red Pressure Indicator will drop. Let the appliance cool to room temperature. Pour out the water and dry the Inner Pot. WARNING: To avoid serious injury, never use your hand to set the Pressure Valve after any cooking process; always use tongs or another kitchen tool.

4. Red Pressure Indicator

   This indicator shows when the unit is pressurized. Do not touch or press it, as this releases hot steam and can cause injury. Always use the manual pressure release valve.

General Operating Instructions

The Power Pressure Cooker XL offers eight basic cooking modes that can be used alone or in combination.

LED Display

When plugged in, the display shows "0000". After selecting a cooking process and closing the lid, the default time appears for 5 seconds. A rotating effect indicates pressure build-up, followed by a countdown. Upon completion, the unit beeps and enters KEEP WARM mode.

Selecting Default Preset Functions

Each cooking program has Quick, Medium, or Well modes. Select the desired mode by pressing the program button multiple times. The default time and "Food:Quick" indicator will light up. You can override pre-programmed times using the Time Adjustment button.

Important: Any function can be stopped immediately by pressing the CANCEL button.

Cooking Modes and Settings

Important: If steam escapes from the sides and the Pressure Valve is in the Lock position, the lid is not on properly. Ensure the Float Valve is assembled correctly and moves freely. Condensation in the condensation collector is normal.

Pressure Cooking Charts

Note: All pressure cooking modes require liquid. Never fill the inner pot above the MAX line. Always use the Pressure Valve to lower pressure quickly.

Vegetables

Meats

Seafood/Fish

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does the Power Pressure Cooker XL have lead in it?

No!

2. What type of steel is the unit made of?

Stainless steel outside. Aluminum inner pot.

3. How do you assemble/disassemble the unit?

See page 9 on this manual.

4. What is the default time?

Each cooking mode has a default time that appears after selecting the mode. Before the countdown begins, the unit must reach the proper pressure and/or temperature for that mode.

5. How long does it take for the unit to reach full pressure and for the cook time clock to start a countdown?

Up to 17 minutes.

6. Can you change the cook time so that it is more than the default setting?

Yes!

7. Can you leave the unit on while not at home?

Yes! However, it is not recommended to leave the unit on and unattended.

8. Can you put frozen foods in without defrosting?

Yes, remember to add an extra 10 minutes for frozen meals.

Care & Cleaning

Cleaning the Safety Devices

In addition to the gasket, other safety devices must be cleaned after each use.

The Pressure Valve

To remove, pull up. Apply mild detergent and wash under warm running water. Check that the interior spring-loaded part moves freely. Re-insert by pushing down. This appliance requires little maintenance and has no user-serviceable parts. Contact customer service for repair information.

To Clean After Use

Unplug the unit and allow it to cool completely. Clean thoroughly after each use to avoid staining from food residue. DO NOT POUR COLD WATER INTO A HOT Power Pressure Cooker XL.

Note: To ensure safe operation, strictly follow cleaning instructions. A tiny bit of food left in the unit could prevent safety devices from operating.

Important: Always remove the Pressure Valve and clean the opening with a pin to remove any blockage. The removable cooking pot and inner lid are immersible. Rinse with hot water. Use mild liquid detergent and a soft cloth, sponge, or nylon scrubber. DO NOT use abrasive powders, bicarbonate of soda, bleach, or scouring pads.

Dishwasher Safe Parts: Inner pot, pressure valve, rubber gasket, inner lid, measuring cup, spoon, and steamer tray.

Wipe the base with a soft, damp cloth or sponge, ensuring all food residue is removed. Do not immerse the base or upper lid in water.

• UNPLUG and let the unit cool before cleaning.
• When cleaning the Lid, the RUBBER GASKET MUST BE REMOVED and washed separately.
• Wash the removable pot with warm, soapy water and clean with a soft cloth or sponge. Rinse and towel dry.
• Ensure the Rubber Gasket is properly positioned on the lid's underside. Check for cleanliness and flexibility. Do not use if damaged.
• Wipe the outer housing with a damp soft cloth or sponge.
• NEVER USE HARSH CHEMICAL DETERGENTS, scouring pads, or powders.
• Always check that the Pressure Valve and Float Valve are in good working order and free of debris.
• Any other servicing should be performed by an authorized service representative.

Trouble Shooting

Display Error Indicator

Canning Guide

The canning process allows you to prepare and preserve favorite foods economically. Pressure canning is suitable for all foods, especially those with low acidity like vegetables, meats, and seafood. It is crucial to follow recipes exactly for time, temperature, and method to ensure food safety and prevent spoilage from bacteria, molds, and enzymes.

Food Acidity: Lower acid content increases the potential for spoilage. High-acid foods include fruits, while low-acid foods include meats and seafood.

Examples of High Acidic Foods

• Apples, Applesauce, Apricots, Berries, Cherries, Cranberries, Fruit Juices
• Oranges, Peaches, Pears, Pickled Beets, Pineapple, Plums, Rhubarb

Examples of Low Acidic Foods

• Asparagus, Beans, Beets, Carrots, Corn, Hominy, Meat
• Mushrooms, Okra, Peas, Potatoes, Seafood, Spinach, Winter Squash

Raw Packing and Hot Packing

Fresh foods contain air, which affects shelf life. Raw packing involves canning unheated foods, which may lose color. Hot packing involves pre-cooking foods to reduce air content. Regardless of method, liquids added to foods should be heated to a boiling point to remove air, shrink foods, prevent floating, and create a tighter seal.

Processing Time and Pressure

The Power Pressure Cooker XL sets pressure via the CANNING button. A kPa setting of 80 is equal to 11.6 PSI. At altitudes up to 2,000 ft., it produces sufficient pressure and heat for safe food processing.

Altitude and Pressure Canning

Boiling temperature varies with altitude. The Power Pressure Cooker XL operates properly up to 2,000 ft. above sea level. For processing times and methods for low-acid foods at higher altitudes, refer to the National Center for Home Food Preservation (http://www.uga.edu/nchfp/) or your local county extension agent. Review USDA guidelines prior to canning.

Safe Canning Tips

• Do not use over-ripe fruit.
• Limit low-acid ingredients (onions, celery, peppers, garlic) as specified in the recipe.
• Do not over-season with spices.
• Do not add butter or fat.
• Never use flour, starch, pasta, rice, or barley as thickeners; use only USDA-recommended thickeners.
• Add acid (lemon juice, vinegar, citric acid) to tomato products as directed. Sugar can balance tartness if needed.

Getting Started

The unit accommodates four 16-oz. (1 pint) wide mouth jars per canning session. Use jars with self-sealing lids.

Jar Cleaning

Wash jars in hot water with detergent or in a dishwasher. Scale or hard-water films can be removed by soaking jars in a solution of 1 cup vinegar per gallon of water.

Lid Preparation

The self-sealing lid consists of a flat metal lid held by a screw band. Follow manufacturer's directions for lid preparation. Examine lids for defects.

The Canning Process

1. Select a pre-tested pressure canning recipe. Prepare ingredients at peak ripeness.

2. Fill clean 16 oz. jars to the indicated level, leaving approximately 1 inch of headspace.

3. Use a spatula to gently press between food and jar to remove air bubbles.

4. Place a clean lid on the jar and add a screw band, tightening by hand.

Note: Do not retighten lids after processing. As jars cool, contents contract, creating a vacuum seal. Screw bands should be removed after cooling to prevent rust and difficulty in removal.

5. Place the Inner Pot in the base unit, then put the Wire Rack in the bottom. Place filled, sealed jars on the rack (unit holds up to four 16-oz jars).

6. Pour hot water over jars and into the Inner Pot until it reaches ¼ up the sides of the jars (approx. 6 cups for four jars).

7. Place the lid on the unit and lock it. Plug into the wall outlet.

8. Select the Canning/Preserving button. Set the Cook Time per your recipe.

9. When complete, press Cancel. Unplug the unit and set the Pressure Release Valve to Open. Once steam has escaped, carefully remove the lid.

10. Using Canning Tongs, remove hot jars and place them on a heat-resistant surface to cool.

11. When cool, check seals. Lids should be tightly sealed with no "give." If seals fail, food must be reprocessed or refrigerated.

12. Store jars in a cool, clean, dry place. Properly processed food lasts for months. Jars, lids, and bands are reusable; check for damage before reuse.

IMPORTANT: The Power Pressure Cooker XL's effective operating capacity for pressure canning is limited to 2,000 ft. above sea level.

Manufacturer's Sixty Day Limited Warranty

The manufacturer warrants all parts and components to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for 60 days from the date of receipt. This warranty is valid only under the following conditions:

1. Normal wear and tear are not covered. Warranty applies to consumer use only and is void for commercial or institutional settings.
2. Warranty extends only to the original consumer purchaser and is not transferable. Proof of purchase is required. Warranty is void if the product is subject to accident, misuse, abuse, improper maintenance/repair, or unauthorized modification.
3. This limited warranty is the only express warranty given. Any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose is limited to the duration of this warranty. Some states do not allow limitations on implied warranty duration.
4. Repair or replacement (or refund if not feasible) is the exclusive remedy. The manufacturer is not liable for incidental or consequential damages. Some states do not allow exclusion or limitation of such damages.
5. This warranty gives specific legal rights, which may vary by state.

Procedure for Warranty Repairs or Replacement:

If warranty service is needed, the original purchaser must pack the product securely and send it postage paid with a description of the defect, proof of purchase, and a check or money order for $19.99 to:

Tristar Products, Inc.
500 Returns Road
Wallingford, CT 06495