HAWKINS Contura Hard Anodized Induction Cooker, 5L

I’ve been using this on a boat, in a marine (salt water) environment for six months. The only corrosion I’ve seen is inside of the weight, and is not yet a problem. The rest of the finish is like new and very non-stick. The shape is very good for use on a moving vessel. It contains the food well. Cleaning under the lip is awkward, as is getting the last bit of food out. These minor inconveniences are an acceptable engineering compromise. The sealing system is foolproof, simple and reliable. I have to tell you. This is a great addition to the galley. It has worked-out exceedingly well.

I like the 3 L size: it heats up and gets to pressure fast – especially on my induction cook top – and it is convenient for cooking smaller recipes. I like that it is non-stick, anodized, and light-weight. I like that the sealing gasket is not exposed to food agents that might work to break it down. I like that parts are replaceable. It seems engineered to be safe, efficient, and affordable – and it looks nice. I like that it is easy to use: in the several times I’ve used it already, I’ve not had a problem opening or closing the lid, it has been easy to regulate the pressure, and food has turned out as I expected. The Manual is thorough, and it is essential to read it before using the pot for pressure cooking. With my induction cook top, it is possible to set a time and temperature program for heating up, venting, and consistent pressure cooking – and to walk away – as you would with an electric pressure cooker. (I recommend this process.) I doubt I’ll use the Indian recipes in the manual, but there is a glossary and the recipes are educational.

People have complained about the pressure valve; it is designed to melt if your pot gets dry and/or too hot. I have been sure to have enough water in the pot and to not let too much steam escape (the weight on the pressure relief valve helps to remind); it is for safe operation. There are 7 large holes in the pressure relief valve stem, and the chances of it ever plugging up completely are not likely – and it is easy to check and clean. The first time I used this Hawkins I was surprised at how fast it was and how little steam escaped from anywhere. It bears watching, though, and one can’t be casual using it. That said, it’s a Keeper, for sure.

Perfect

Best quality. Good color and thick enough. Really non sticky. True to specs.

This pressure cooker works just fine, however if you’ve ever used a pressure cooker you realize that it releases steam in the process of while it’s cooking. Most of them release Steam and tiny little amounts with a rocker on the top but this one does a differently. It blows a huge blast of steam out of each side of the top of the pressure cooker that could easily scald and burn someone if you were standing close to it. I have never seen anything like it before and I can’t believe they allow this kind of thing on the market. In my opinion it is very dangerous. I don’t think I’m going to use it anymore because I didn’t like the way it lasted steam out the sides so I’m going to buy a different one that’s more conventional

We are a family of 2 often have 2 guests. Being American born we DO use a lot of meat.
The cooker is great for 1-2 person American meals including most meats. Add in 1-2 more people.
its not big enough . For vegetarians the cooker is fantastic, oh,, do not use lemons in the cooker put in after cooking ,,just stir the lemon juice in to the mixture,. Lemon.lime ..strong tomato juice can hurt the
anodized finish please treat the pressure cooker as a Dutch Oven ,,handle gently.. avoid fruits, when cooking.
Over all its quick,, the lid is tricky at first ,,takes 5 minutes to learn,, the lid seal will last and last and last
forever is its well protected by/in placing the lid on/off. Overall quality is above average. Top pressure gauge is a smart valve thats easy to put on ,,take off,,,just use a little pressure, -Viola!!

We like the cooking quickness comes with a 5 year warranty ,, Wow! Manual has suggested reciepes… to get you on track,, well prepared. Manual is well written ,, a good good publication that covers,, replacing parts,, easily,, safety safety -yup,, and cleaning procedures nicely.Well written you’ll like this one!! Very good manual!! Enjoy !!