Hawkins Futura 3 Litre Pressure Cooker, Hard Anodised Inner Lid Pressure Cooker, Pan Cooker, Black (FP30)

A few years ago, I needed to replace an American made pressure cooker when I was unable to find any source for a replacement safety valve which had done its job and fused open, when the contents became dry and overheated. After a lot of research, I settled on the Hawkins 3L Contura, telling myself that if I found that we needed a larger model for some of our pressure cooking needs, I would get one of these beautiful cookers. I was so happy with that pressure cooker that I got others (3.5L) as gifts,but chose the 5L Futura for my artist sister and architect brother-in-law, who I was sure would appreciate the sleek design, and whose grown son lives very close by, so I knew the larger size would get some good use. I finally got to the point that I was certain I did want a larger model myself, and chose the 5L Futura, partially based on there being accessories available (steamer, separator, and mold), which would make it even more versatile, and partially due to its suitability for use on any type of cooking surface (although that has not been a problem with the Contura, it doesn't hurt to consider that whatever range eventually replaces the one we have will be different, since Corning no longer makes a countertop range).I admit to having been a little intimidated by the cooker initially. Despite having used a number of pressure cookers in the past, and already having a Hawkins pressure cooker I use frequently, this is enough different that I wanted to make sure I had a good grasp of how it works before using it. It was really quite easy to operate, and following the instructions to do a trial run with 2 cups of water first, in order to become more familiar with the pressure cooker and its safety features did the trick. As soon as I had done that, I started a larger pot of spaghetti sauce than I had been making in the smaller pressure cooker, and it was completed, flavours nicely melded, within minutes. If I still cooked pasta on the stove, and started them at the same time, the pasta would have been done after the sauce.I continue to be impressed with Hawkins' thoughtful design and safety features. It is so much easier to put the lid on their pressure cookers than conventional ones because the oval lid sits inside the opening of the pot, held in place by shape, and leverage of the handle, and there are no heavy, clunky lugs which have to be strong armed into place: and that makes it simply impossible to blow the top off. Their shielding the safety valve, which would melt open should the pot boil dry and become too hot, would prevent food from spewing up to the ceiling if that happened. Also, it's great to be able to release the steam and pressure with nothing more than finger pressure on the regulator. I love the helper handle on the opposite side, as this is a substantial pot. In short, I expect to be even happier with this pressure cooker than I am with the smaller one, which will remain in use for smaller quantities.

This has pretty much replaced my larger pressure cooker. I bought the 5L. I think this would be a good size for a couple or small family. For a single person that doesn't have time to cook, it's still convenient if one stores/freezes the leftovers. I have used this for soups, pork roasts, beans, and brown rice. The only thing I don't think it has been good at is the brown rice (too gummy, so I still use my steamer for that), but it may be my method. Easy to clean. I have pureed soups right in the cooker using an emersion blender and no problems. Have not had any problems with the lid - does take getting used to, but a great seal. To take the lid off/on one has to angle the lid INTO the cooker and turn 90 degrees. I use the cooker about once or twice a week and it looks like new and has not discolored like my old aluminum one. I guess the only thing I would add is that there is a huge size range offered and one should be careful re the smaller sizes (1.5 or 2L). The size refers to the total volume of the cooker, not the volume of food that can be appropriately cooked. In my opinion, even for a single person the smallest size that should be considered is a 3L. Overall very convenient and happy with this purchase. Glad I bought this vs. the more expensive stainless steel ones in the department stores (was wary as I never heard of this brand before). Have not had any of the problems noted in the low rated reviews.update 6.15.11. - Now cook all brown rice in this - turns out great, better and faster than the steamer. Bought anohter one for my parents and they were impressed, though it took them a while to figure out how to close the thing.update 6.4.24 - Still using both my pressure cookers (5L and 2L) regularly, still w/original parts. They still work awesome. My parents', though, have had to replace 3 safety valves (user error x 2, and one replacement failed right off the bat). My brother doesn't use his very much, but hasn't had any issues.Having used the cookers now for years and getting older, my only complaint is that they are on the heavier side. The 5L has a little helper handle, the 2L does not. When full, I definitely need to use the helper handle if moving it from stovetop to countertop. The insides have slightly discolored, the outsides remain pristine. They remain 5 star products.

Most expensive WASTE PURCHASE in the kitchen Disaster in polished black finish that almost killed us besides messing up the kitchen completely!!Amazon refuses to help cos it’s ’beyond the 1 month return period’ and the Dealer chooses to stay completely silent.Don’t know who will help replace this Damaged Unit!!Probable I should go legal and file against them both..But I must warm all other buyers considering this PressureDisaster Cooker… STAY AWAY!!!