This is, by far, the best video I have seen explaining how to use an old-fashioned pressure cooker. Your instructions and safety tips were very well explained. Thank you for uploading this video! As you can see by the recent comments, even after 5 years, it is very much appreciated by many of us. Thank you!
I've been using these for over 60 years. Thank you for showing the proper way to release the pressure. It's the same principle when you check a hot radiator in any car. Pour cold water over the radiator and the coolant pressure drops safely enough to remove the cap. And like mentioned while releasing the pressure DO NOT take the rocket off.
Oh hey, could you possibly tell me how long to leave it on, once the hissing and jiggling starts? This pressure cooker I found is so old school there is no indication of weight or pounds of pressure, etc. And not even serial numbers - any guidance appreciated, thanks
Thank you so much Jed! I used to use my very old pressure pota lot but have not use one for at least 20 years. I have been nervous but now that you have explained the parts and how to examine them, I feel more confident to use it again. I replaced the rubben about the year Iast used it, and have keep it clean the pot and protected on a shelf but now I will watch your video again and have my parts in front of me to exam them as you explain. Thank you again. Your video was great. From a great grand cooking over 70 years.
Another tip on pressure cooking, when the pot starts to hiss, reduce the temperature on your stove or hob, then start timing whatever you are cooking, to avoid pot reducing too much liquid and ruining your contents. Sent from Darlington England.
I did use it and cooked veggies, then a whole chicken. When the weight started doing the rumba, I turned down the heat so it did a nice hula. Came out wonderful. Also remembered to wait until the pressure valve settled down before opening. I really loved the way everything came out.
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I remember my grandmother who at 103 years old taught me how to use one. I didn't have one for many years until I picked up this old cooker at a yard sale! This brings back so many memories of yummy food. I'll think of Nana every time I use this cooker.
Thank you so much. We just got my Mother-in-law's1979 Presto Pressure Cooker. My MIL could not remember how to use it. She hasn't used it since my wife was a few years out of High school. But she has the original booklet and kept it in very good condition. I had no idea how to use it even after reading the instructions. I was worried about the weight at the top. Thanks so much for such an informative instructional video. I feel very comfortable re-reading the instructions and cooking with it tonight. Also, I have a bigger older Presto one from the 1920's for canning. This video helped me understand it too and know how to look for new parts for it.
I found an old Mirro at the thrift store and bought it for nostalgia sake. Had no idea how to use it. Replaced all the parts and about to start canning. Thanks for this vid
Thank you! I’ve always been intimidated by the new electric pressure cookers and I just hate the way they look. I’ve always been scared of these old ones, but after watching this, I’ll start keeping my eyes open at garage sales and thrift stores! Thanks for your great instruction!
I bought a mid/late 1940s Micro-Magic 4 quart pressure cooker (with cookbook) for $7 at Goodwill. Despite reading the cookbook with instructions, I still had questions. Thanks for your thorough vid.
Thank you, so much for this video! I grew up seeing my mom using a pressure cooker all the time but never used one myself. I inherited my grandmother's a decade ago & just decided to give it a try. I desperately needed a refresher course & your video was just the thing!
This took me back to my childhood in the 80's. Grandma cooking away in the kitchen and I couldn't hear a dang thing because this loud ass pot. Lol. Thanks for giving me answers.
When you were talking about the amount of water used……I fill the water up to the highest water mark line (which is about 2/3 full), when I am cooking pinto beans and ham hocks. You should never fill it any fuller than that though. And especially if you cook lentils! Lentils have a tendency to boil up and clog the pressure regulator hole….so you need to put LESS water in with lentils. Watched my mom use a pressure cooker since I was a baby…..got really used to hearing the pressure regulator rocking, so I never had the fear that many others have in using them. Here’s a tip that many don’t know about; If you have ‘old’ beans, that remain hard when you cook them in a regular pot, then you will ABSOLUTELY LOVE what a pressure cooker can do for your beans! It doesn’t matter how old my beans are, I have ALWAYS had tender, fresh tasting beans, when they are pressure cooked. Cooking with a pressure cooker tenderizes the old beans better than anything! You won’t even know that you are eating old beans. In order to get old beans to taste tender, I cook them for an hour and 45 minutes AFTER the pressure regulator starts rocking. That’s for old pinto beans. Other beans usually take less time, even if they are old. Sounds like a long time, but when the beans are old and tough, they are fresh and tender tasting after I cook them this way.
This has to be the best video I have watched on how to use a presure cooker. So helpful. Thank you for making it so stright forward and easy to understand and follow. You left nothing out. Great job.👍 PS your right there really isnt any vids on how to use older cookers so this was greatly appreciated
Your video is by far the most informative video I have watched as I try to learn to use an older 4 quart pressure cooker given to me. I previously canned foods but used a pressure cooker that had a gauge. Thank you for your "to the point" video that gave me the answer to so many of my questions!
Thank you. My son gave me an older type pressure cooker 20 years ago. I was afraid to use it even though I found the manual online. Now I have 3 electric pressure cookers, but never got that older one out of my mind. With your instructions I will finally try to use my manual one after ordering new seals. Thank you.
Thank you for making this video. I have an old Presto model that I bought when my kids were still kids. I don't use it very often so sometimes I need a little refresher on how things work. Your video offered me peace of mind 😊 I did replace the seals a few months ago. The unit will not work right or as it "normally" does if the seals aren't good. Everyone has the new electric models but i prefer to cook on the gas stove because my home is old and has old wiring, and putting a load on old wiring makes me nervous. Glad we still have the old fashioned option 👍
Thank you so much! My instant pot stopped working and I picked up an old pressure cooker that is very similar to yours for $2. I was feeling very insecure about using it because I’ve heard so many horror stories about using old pressure cookers. Your video really helped.
I was gettimg frustrated trying to find a video that would help me to close my presto pressure cooker, and about to just give up. Until I found this video. Thank you.
I was in the same spot with my Mom's pressure cooker, I'm thankful for this video too. Online to locate new seals before I try to use it 😳 Mom's is a Presto too. God's speed to us
Thanks. Good tutorial. I was lucky to learn from my Mom (and Gram) how to use the Presto. We used it for the holidays to make all the vegetables very quickly. Back when I was cooking every day, it was a real time-saver. I was taught to use the trivet/plate only when making vegetables, not when making meat. I just wanted to say "great job" and I know you helped a lot of folks with this video. Also, I wanted to mention that sometimes if your seal is dry and you have trouble sliding the cover into the lock position, I use my finger and dab a tiny bit of vegetable oil around the seal. Cover goes on and off smoothly. Doing so has never caused me a problem, so I thought I'd suggest it to you.
Thanks for the review. 😊 I was taught to always use the trivet/plate. I Soak my seal in warm water before using it. I like your idea about the vegetable oil. 👍
Thanks! I have my grandmother's old one. It's good to know the safety tips. I would add that another reason you want to avoid the sudden release of steam is that it can cause SERIOUS burns!! The steam will be hotter than boiling water especially since it's been under high pressure, above it's normal vapourisation temperature and density.
Thank you so much.I just got one instead of these electric ones.Old school is the best school.I remember my grandma using one and myself but that was 30+ yrs ago.Thank you so much .Such a helpful video.
Most comprehensive video on old pressure cookers, thanks so much. Even four years later still helping out so many people. I finally used one tonight that I bought from a garage sale, an old English Prestige. Changed the main gasket. Was a bit anxious cooking first time as the pot began to hiss. Had to "feel out" the right amount of hiss (by adjusting temp) as I had no other references. The weight never jiggled for me however, just steam. Steam was also bubbling out from the safety valve which was bit scary lol. But the result was good - big piece of tender roast. Yum!
Your weight might be too heavy. find out what your altitude is and go off your altitude. I’m high I live in Colorado so I use a 15 pound if you’re closer to sea level you would use a 5 pound. Sorry I did explain this wrong in the video. Good luck hope you have a great week and I hope this helps.
@@jedyeslittlekitchen514 I see, it came with the pot and I live in a coastal metropolitan suburb. Not sure if I’ll be able to source something this old but I’ll look into it. Have cooked 3 meals successfully though!
WOW! Excellent information on this old-school pot! I’ve learned so much! I just got our first 6qt. Instant Pot a few days ago and have already had great success (having NEVER pressure cooked anything before) - but I do remember my mom had pretty much this sort of pot way back in the early-mid 70’s, and that thing scared me! Watching the info here is amazing for comparing with other appliances...and it doesn’t seem so intimidating! Thank you!
Thanks so much for this. I used to have an instant pot but moved overseas and can’t find one. Lots of old cookers though, so now I can use one with confidence. I appreciate you taking the time and effort to make this video.
Great video!! I just bought an older Presto from a yard sale for $5. I remember my mom used to make meat for tamales in her pressure cooker, but I don't recall the plate on the bottom.
Thank you 🙏 I have just acquired a vintage prestige pressure cooker to cook hot food especially during the many power cuts we have nowadays. I couldn’t remember how my mum used hers and this is full of information! Great advice and safety information. Next mission is to find some basic recipes!
Great instructions, most grateful. I have my Mums old prestige from 1970s. I'm going to check it over and have a go at her melt in the mouth bacon ribs as I'm feeling nostalgic. I'll see if I can find the instruction and recipe book somewhere. Bound to be here, she kept everything. This is emotional thank you xx
Thank you this was really helpful, really needed it. Also, had no idea the bottom has the parts ordering info and how the weight plus timing worked- thank you! May God bless you more.
I appreciate the time and detail on this video. Very interesting. For myself, I will add this to the short list that has things on it like a deep fryer that I will pass on having in my kitchen!
Thank you very much for this. I am a novice when it comes to these type of pressure cookers. I've looked many places for the simple operational procedures, and could not find the information that you have provided all of us. Much thanks to you sir.
Oh it does indeed help, thank you very much! That last tip was spot on... It just happened to me about 30 min ago. My first time cooking with a pressure cooker, Garbanzo beans. My instinct told me something was wrong though so I turned off the fire for it to cool, then I figured it might be better if I move it off the burner. I have a fan in the window so I knew it would cool a little faster there. The manual didn't say anything about putting the pan under running water so I didn't even know about that trick. But other videos have all mentioned it. Yours is by far the best video out there. I got a new pressure cooker by Farberware from Walmart, no gauges, baskets, or bottom plates. Just the pot, gasket, lid, and pressure weight for 15 lbs. They weren't missing from the box, they were not part of the set at all. I will get a better one as soon as budget permits.
Thank you so much! My grandma died and left me a pressure cooker. Everything you pointed out that I needed I was afraid I didn't have. But nope...I should've know with my wonderful grandma - she left EVERYTHING in perfect condition! I want to make collards (I have them soaking), but I"m still scared because every time she cooked with a pressure cooker she warned me. smh I think I might be scarred lol
Yeah I was scarred a similar way. I recently learned the worst bomb stories were from steel pressure cookers. Post world war they weren’t aluminum very often and if steel ones exploded they could rip into the next room. That’s where their bad reputation comes from. Aluminum ones, if they explode, do it in an entirely different way. Instead of shrapnel you’ll have a softer metal that balloons out and pops. Still technically an explosion but not the stuff I’ve had nightmares about. Just remember to keep the vent clear and that your pot never exploded when your gran used it so it works and is well made. Do some test runs with an empty pot (with the water in it but no jars or food) and keep a long handled spoon nearby if you actually need to nudge the vent weight. Work your way up to longer times and pressure and learn to count how often the weight jiggles to get a feel for what pressure it’s at. Watch as many videos as you need. You’ll get there. It sucks to be given a phobia. Still… at least I know now just to keep my face away and that I don’t have to hide two houses over while I’m learning now.
Thanks so much for this video Jed. I came across an old Namco mealmaster at an op shop with perished seals. I didn't want to order new one's for it until I worked out how to use it. Now I can! My mother used to make the most amazing casseroles with 'fall apart meat' in hers. Very keen to try it myself.
i am a first time user of pressurz cooker ....you the most informative ...and thank to your mother and her pressure cooker long before u born still in excellent condition
Thanks Jedye, I have an old pressure cooker too and I love it. Thank you so much for all your wisdom. God bless you real good. Love, Jude from Kentucky ✝️🐴 🥀🇺🇲
Thank you so much for your wonderful video I have the old pressure cookers like you do too and I mine was hissing and I realize now I’m gonna change all my rubbers in and out because I’ve had mine for years as well I bought the newer ones like you I don’t like them they don’t look as good as the old ones bless your mother and bless you for this wonderful video! Look forward to looking through your whole site thank you!
I wanted to ask you if you have a place you recommend to replace the rubbers in I have three wonderful old pressure cooker is very similar to yours only my pressure doesn’t come up from the handle mine comes up from the side of the pot on the top where do you get your replacements if you could send me that information I would be most appreciative!!
Thanks so much for your video!! I have my Mom's pressure cooker I watched her use it many times but I was always afraid of it blowing up, which is what she cautioned me about. I wanted to start using it but had no clue so THANK YOU!!!
Thank you for taking the time to teach us about the old school pressure cooker! I could not find anything online, all you can find is the new insta pot info..
I recently found an old Mirro pressure cooker at a thrift shop, it had a new seal in it so I decided to buy it. It had been years since my wife and I had one and had to watch your video as a refresher, as I had forgotten how to use one. I am cooking a pot roast in it right now. Thank you for your very informative video.
Thanks for sharing! This was very informational! My mom gave me one a few years ago (5qt Casa Essentials) a few years ago, and I don't even know if she knows how to use it (perhaps I'll ask). I sure didn't and had looked a few times but didn't find much, until today! You had me looking at parts of a pot I've never thought to look at! Lol. Again, very helpful!
I have a 1960-ish Mirro-Matic. Alot of the TH-cam recipes i watch dont mention the lbs of pressure, only to cook for so many whistles. Ive had it for a few years but never used it. Theyre using new pressure cookers. Im a bit confused still. But I did learn some good information from this video. Thank you.
Look up your altitude and it’ll tell you what weight you should be using. If you’re in a high altitude like Colorado, you would be using a 15 pound all the time if you’re in a low altitude close to the ocean level you’d be using a 5 pound weight only if you’re in the middle somewhere you’re gonna be using a 10 pound, so find out what you’re altitude is in your state. Then you could look it up to see what weight you should be using and that’s the only way you’ll ever use unless you move two different altitude. Good luck. I hope this helps. 😊
Thanks so much forthis video. I bought a Tower pressure cooker months ago. On first use, it started leaking water from the handle. Watching your video I guess the black little thing for the locking mechanism was not behind the seal. I am going to try and do that when next I use the cooker. I've been scared to use it since I used it first.
Amazon don’t have my parts. I Google my pressure cooker with model and found mine. You pay a little for shipping, so when I order I get up to 3 of all items at once. It’s still the same shipping price. I hope you find your parts 👍.
Remember you just want a gentle rocking on that pressure weight. If it’s rattling really really hard your temperature needs to be brought down a little. You just wanna get it to the point where it’s moving and making a little noise not going crazy. And you’re better off to let your pot cool slowly without putting it in water. The altitude determines the weight you will use. High mountain altitudes are 15 where anything below 1000 ft is 10. Almost no one uses five. You can find your altitude by just going online. Or check with national preservation and food safety website.
Kathy Jenkins. Thanks for the comment 🙂. I’m a few miles north of Denver Colorado. I always use 15 and was taught with this pressure cooker and a very young age from my Mother and other family members who use them still today. We don’t use a gas stoves.on a gas stove I would recommend turning down the heat after it’s rattling. I have had glass top stoves for many many years and always leave the temperature on high and also on a regular stove top. Don’t drop your pressure cooker on glass top that would break your glass top stove. And have always cooled them off in sink after cooking. I guess it’s a matter of Preference. 👍
Thanks for posting this, I just got an old presto 21 qt, it doesn't even have the lock on the handle and I had no idea what I was doing. After watching this I ordered a new seal and auto release valve thing, not even going to try it out at all until I get the new parts!
Good job, I have one of these old school pressure cookers and I learned a few new things today even though I have been using a pressure cooker. I really didn't know how much water to put it but still never over did it. However somethings came out soupier than I would like and now I know why lol so thanks!
Thank you a million and then some more l have an old one like yours. I was about to throw it out and ran across your video l did every thing you said It work like charm Thank you again
I went and bought a new one about a year ago, I did not realize the disadvantages of an aluminum cooker (problems with acidic foods, like tomatoe) so I'll keep my eye out for a stainless steel one.
before spending more money, look into the wonderful concept of pot-in-pot cooking. You could use a short trivet and a pot sitting on top of that for cooking tomato products. I did this to make rice the other day - used a pretty stoneware bowl on a trivet.
This is a great video. My pressure cooker is just like this. I’ve used it for about t three years. No problem. I’ve replaced the rubber in the lid before but never the lock in the handle. Cooked some chili beans left the pot in the fridge overnight now it won’t open. Tried reheating pressure still won’t release can’t get the lock to come up just to through away the beans😂 help if it’s possible. Don’t want to throw away this good pot. Love it better than my new Instant Pot
Once it’s cooled. If the lock will not drop and you have the weight off. You can use something to push the lock down like a old stake knife 🔪. I have to mess with the lock to Seal the pressure cooker sometimes. Don’t recommend this but it is what I do. I have another video about pressure cooker on here please go check it out maybe that will help also. I hope that helps.
This is, by far, the best video I have seen explaining how to use an old-fashioned pressure cooker. Your instructions and safety tips were very well explained. Thank you for uploading this video! As you can see by the recent comments, even after 5 years, it is very much appreciated by many of us. Thank you!
I've been using these for over 60 years. Thank you for showing the proper way to release the pressure. It's the same principle when you check a hot radiator in any car. Pour cold water over the radiator and the coolant pressure drops safely enough to remove the cap. And like mentioned while releasing the pressure DO NOT take the rocket off.
Oh hey, could you possibly tell me how long to leave it on, once the hissing and jiggling starts? This pressure cooker I found is so old school there is no indication of weight or pounds of pressure, etc. And not even serial numbers - any guidance appreciated, thanks
Thank you so much Jed! I used to use my very old pressure pota lot but have not use one for at least 20 years. I have been nervous but now that you have explained the parts and how to examine them, I feel more confident to use it again. I replaced the rubben about the year Iast used it, and have keep it clean the pot and protected on a shelf but now I will watch your video again and have my parts in front of me to exam them as you explain. Thank you again. Your video was great. From a great grand cooking over 70 years.
Another tip on pressure cooking, when the pot starts to hiss, reduce the temperature on your stove or hob, then start timing whatever you are cooking, to avoid pot reducing too much liquid and ruining your contents. Sent from Darlington England.
But by how much roughly?
I switched the gas off and ran out the room😂😂😂😂😂😂
That was my question.
That will all depend on your cook top
I did use it and cooked veggies, then a whole chicken. When the weight started doing the rumba, I turned down the heat so it did a nice hula. Came out wonderful. Also remembered to wait until the pressure valve settled down before opening. I really loved the way everything came out.
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I remember my grandmother who at 103 years old taught me how to use one. I didn't have one for many years until I picked up this old cooker at a yard sale! This brings back so many memories of yummy food. I'll think of Nana every time I use this cooker.
Thank you so much. We just got my Mother-in-law's1979 Presto Pressure Cooker. My MIL could not remember how to use it. She hasn't used it since my wife was a few years out of High school. But she has the original booklet and kept it in very good condition. I had no idea how to use it even after reading the instructions. I was worried about the weight at the top.
Thanks so much for such an informative instructional video. I feel very comfortable re-reading the instructions and cooking with it tonight. Also, I have a bigger older Presto one from the 1920's for canning. This video helped me understand it too and know how to look for new parts for it.
Thank you for this wonderful video! Everyone seems to only provide tutorials on the new models that don't seem as sturdy as the old models.
I found an old Mirro at the thrift store and bought it for nostalgia sake. Had no idea how to use it. Replaced all the parts and about to start canning. Thanks for this vid
I got mine the same way, so grateful. Came with a manuel, its so old there is no model on the bottom of it.
Thank you! I’ve always been intimidated by the new electric pressure cookers and I just hate the way they look. I’ve always been scared of these old ones, but after watching this, I’ll start keeping my eyes open at garage sales and thrift stores! Thanks for your great instruction!
I bought a mid/late 1940s Micro-Magic 4 quart pressure cooker (with cookbook) for $7 at Goodwill.
Despite reading the cookbook with instructions, I still had questions.
Thanks for your thorough vid.
This video is extremely helpful, thank you so much!
I found this helpful. I appreciate the stove top pressure cooker as it reminds me of life back in 70s. Thanks for posting
Thank you, so much for this video! I grew up seeing my mom using a pressure cooker all the time but never used one myself. I inherited my grandmother's a decade ago & just decided to give it a try. I desperately needed a refresher course & your video was just the thing!
Great video 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 the best way to not be afraid is to know the correct information, I loved your explanation
This took me back to my childhood in the 80's. Grandma cooking away in the kitchen and I couldn't hear a dang thing because this loud ass pot. Lol. Thanks for giving me answers.
When you were talking about the amount of water used……I fill the water up to the highest water mark line (which is about 2/3 full), when I am cooking pinto beans and ham hocks. You should never fill it any fuller than that though. And especially if you cook lentils! Lentils have a tendency to boil up and clog the pressure regulator hole….so you need to put LESS water in with lentils.
Watched my mom use a pressure cooker since I was a baby…..got really used to hearing the pressure regulator rocking, so I never had the fear that many others have in using them.
Here’s a tip that many don’t know about; If you have ‘old’ beans, that remain hard when you cook them in a regular pot, then you will ABSOLUTELY LOVE what a pressure cooker can do for your beans! It doesn’t matter how old my beans are, I have ALWAYS had tender, fresh tasting beans, when they are pressure cooked. Cooking with a pressure cooker tenderizes the old beans better than anything! You won’t even know that you are eating old beans. In order to get old beans to taste tender, I cook them for an hour and 45 minutes AFTER the pressure regulator starts rocking. That’s for old pinto beans. Other beans usually take less time, even if they are old.
Sounds like a long time, but when the beans are old and tough, they are fresh and tender tasting after I cook them this way.
Great tip.
This has to be the best video I have watched on how to use a presure cooker. So helpful. Thank you for making it so stright forward and easy to understand and follow. You left nothing out. Great job.👍 PS your right there really isnt any vids on how to use older cookers so this was greatly appreciated
Really excellent demonstration and very thorough explanation. I am still using my mom's old pressure cooker and I appreciate this video. Thank you!
Your video is by far the most informative video I have watched as I try to learn to use an older 4 quart pressure cooker given to me. I previously canned foods but used a pressure cooker that had a gauge. Thank you for your "to the point" video that gave me the answer to so many of my questions!
This video has a lot of safety errors. Are you still alive or did you have to go anywhere to get treatment for botulism?
Thank you. My son gave me an older type pressure cooker 20 years ago. I was afraid to use it even though I found the manual online. Now I have 3 electric pressure cookers, but never got that older one out of my mind. With your instructions I will finally try to use my manual one after ordering new seals. Thank you.
Thank you for making this video. I have an old Presto model that I bought when my kids were still kids. I don't use it very often so sometimes I need a little refresher on how things work. Your video offered me peace of mind 😊 I did replace the seals a few months ago. The unit will not work right or as it "normally" does if the seals aren't good. Everyone has the new electric models but i prefer to cook on the gas stove because my home is old and has old wiring, and putting a load on old wiring makes me nervous. Glad we still have the old fashioned option 👍
Thank you so much! My instant pot stopped working and I picked up an old pressure cooker that is very similar to yours for $2. I was feeling very insecure about using it because I’ve heard so many horror stories about using old pressure cookers. Your video really helped.
I was gettimg frustrated trying to find a video that would help me to close my presto pressure cooker, and about to just give up. Until I found this video. Thank you.
I was in the same spot with my Mom's pressure cooker, I'm thankful for this video too. Online to locate new seals before I try to use it 😳 Mom's is a Presto too. God's speed to us
Mine's a Presto too, model 40. What model is yours?
Thanks. Good tutorial. I was lucky to learn from my Mom (and Gram) how to use the Presto. We used it for the holidays to make all the vegetables very quickly. Back when I was cooking every day, it was a real time-saver. I was taught to use the trivet/plate only when making vegetables, not when making meat. I just wanted to say "great job" and I know you helped a lot of folks with this video.
Also, I wanted to mention that sometimes if your seal is dry and you have trouble sliding the cover into the lock position, I use my finger and dab a tiny bit of vegetable oil around the seal. Cover goes on and off smoothly. Doing so has never caused me a problem, so I thought I'd suggest it to you.
Thanks for the review. 😊 I was taught to always use the trivet/plate. I Soak my seal in warm water before using it. I like your idea about the vegetable oil. 👍
The vegetable oil is recommended.
Thanks! I have my grandmother's old one.
It's good to know the safety tips. I would add that another reason you want to avoid the sudden release of steam is that it can cause SERIOUS burns!! The steam will be hotter than boiling water especially since it's been under high pressure, above it's normal vapourisation temperature and density.
Easy to understand, no long winded explanation, well thought out. Thank. you so much.
Thank you so much.I just got one instead of these electric ones.Old school is the best school.I remember my grandma using one and myself but that was 30+ yrs ago.Thank you so much .Such a helpful video.
I am so glad I saw this before attempting to use the one I have!! Thanks for all the info ❤
Most comprehensive video on old pressure cookers, thanks so much. Even four years later still helping out so many people. I finally used one tonight that I bought from a garage sale, an old English Prestige. Changed the main gasket. Was a bit anxious cooking first time as the pot began to hiss. Had to "feel out" the right amount of hiss (by adjusting temp) as I had no other references. The weight never jiggled for me however, just steam. Steam was also bubbling out from the safety valve which was bit scary lol. But the result was good - big piece of tender roast. Yum!
Your weight might be too heavy. find out what your altitude is and go off your altitude. I’m high I live in Colorado so I use a 15 pound if you’re closer to sea level you would use a 5 pound. Sorry I did explain this wrong in the video. Good luck hope you have a great week and I hope this helps.
@@jedyeslittlekitchen514 I see, it came with the pot and I live in a coastal metropolitan suburb. Not sure if I’ll be able to source something this old but I’ll look into it. Have cooked 3 meals successfully though!
WOW! Excellent information on this old-school pot! I’ve learned so much!
I just got our first 6qt. Instant Pot a few days ago and have already had great success (having NEVER pressure cooked anything before) - but I do remember my mom had pretty much this sort of pot way back in the early-mid 70’s, and that thing scared me! Watching the info here is amazing for comparing with other appliances...and it doesn’t seem so intimidating! Thank you!
Thanks so much for this. I used to have an instant pot but moved overseas and can’t find one. Lots of old cookers though, so now I can use one with confidence. I appreciate you taking the time and effort to make this video.
Great video!! I just bought an older Presto from a yard sale for $5. I remember my mom used to make meat for tamales in her pressure cooker, but I don't recall the plate on the bottom.
Thank you 🙏 I have just acquired a vintage prestige pressure cooker to cook hot food especially during the many power cuts we have nowadays. I couldn’t remember how my mum used hers and this is full of information! Great advice and safety information. Next mission is to find some basic recipes!
You have many power cuts? Where are you living?
Excellent tutorial for anyone using these old pressure cookers. I have an old one and I LOVE IT
Great instructions, most grateful. I have my Mums old prestige from 1970s. I'm going to check it over and have a go at her melt in the mouth bacon ribs as I'm feeling nostalgic. I'll see if I can find the instruction and recipe book somewhere. Bound to be here, she kept everything. This is emotional thank you xx
Thank you this was really helpful, really needed it. Also, had no idea the bottom has the parts ordering info and how the weight plus timing worked- thank you! May God bless you more.
I appreciate the time and detail on this video. Very interesting. For myself, I will add this to the short list that has things on it like a deep fryer that I will pass on having in my kitchen!
Thank you very much for this. I am a novice when it comes to these type of pressure cookers. I've looked many places for the simple operational procedures, and could not find the information that you have provided all of us. Much thanks to you sir.
Oh it does indeed help, thank you very much! That last tip was spot on... It just happened to me about 30 min ago. My first time cooking with a pressure cooker, Garbanzo beans. My instinct told me something was wrong though so I turned off the fire for it to cool, then I figured it might be better if I move it off the burner. I have a fan in the window so I knew it would cool a little faster there.
The manual didn't say anything about putting the pan under running water so I didn't even know about that trick. But other videos have all mentioned it. Yours is by far the best video out there. I got a new pressure cooker by Farberware from Walmart, no gauges, baskets, or bottom plates. Just the pot, gasket, lid, and pressure weight for 15 lbs. They weren't missing from the box, they were not part of the set at all. I will get a better one as soon as budget permits.
Thank you so much! My grandma died and left me a pressure cooker. Everything you pointed out that I needed I was afraid I didn't have. But nope...I should've know with my wonderful grandma - she left EVERYTHING in perfect condition! I want to make collards (I have them soaking), but I"m still scared because every time she cooked with a pressure cooker she warned me. smh I think I might be scarred lol
Michelle Taylor. I know you will do great. Let me know how everything goes. 😁
@@jedyeslittlekitchen514 Thank you! I will! Thanks for your great instructions
Yeah I was scarred a similar way. I recently learned the worst bomb stories were from steel pressure cookers. Post world war they weren’t aluminum very often and if steel ones exploded they could rip into the next room. That’s where their bad reputation comes from.
Aluminum ones, if they explode, do it in an entirely different way. Instead of shrapnel you’ll have a softer metal that balloons out and pops. Still technically an explosion but not the stuff I’ve had nightmares about.
Just remember to keep the vent clear and that your pot never exploded when your gran used it so it works and is well made.
Do some test runs with an empty pot (with the water in it but no jars or food) and keep a long handled spoon nearby if you actually need to nudge the vent weight. Work your way up to longer times and pressure and learn to count how often the weight jiggles to get a feel for what pressure it’s at. Watch as many videos as you need.
You’ll get there. It sucks to be given a phobia.
Still… at least I know now just to keep my face away and that I don’t have to hide two houses over while I’m learning now.
A good video. I acquired an older pressure canner and wanted to review some information before putting it use. Thank you.
So helpful I’m about to try this pot I’ve had for years from my dad finally gonna use it thanks
Thanks so much for this video Jed. I came across an old Namco mealmaster at an op shop with perished seals. I didn't want to order new one's for it until I worked out how to use it. Now I can! My mother used to make the most amazing casseroles with 'fall apart meat' in hers. Very keen to try it myself.
i am a first time user of pressurz cooker ....you the most informative ...and thank to your mother and her pressure cooker long before u born still in excellent condition
Thank you! We had one when I was little. Just reliving the old days. :)
Thanks so much!! I have an older model as well and after watching your video I can’t wait to use it!!!
Ty brother God bless you hadn't used mine in yrs found the piece u put on top for pds and forgot what it was for ty again
Thanks Jedye, I have an old pressure cooker too and I love it. Thank you so much for all your wisdom.
God bless you real good. Love, Jude from Kentucky ✝️🐴 🥀🇺🇲
Thank you Jade from Kentucky. 👍🇺🇸
Thank you so much for your wonderful video I have the old pressure cookers like you do too and I mine was hissing and I realize now I’m gonna change all my rubbers in and out because I’ve had mine for years as well I bought the newer ones like you I don’t like them they don’t look as good as the old ones bless your mother and bless you for this wonderful video!
Look forward to looking through your whole site thank you!
I wanted to ask you if you have a place you recommend to replace the rubbers in I have three wonderful old pressure cooker is very similar to yours only my pressure doesn’t come up from the handle mine comes up from the side of the pot on the top where do you get your replacements if you could send me that information I would be most appreciative!!
Thanks so much for your video!! I have my Mom's pressure cooker I watched her use it many times but I was always afraid of it blowing up, which is what she cautioned me about. I wanted to start using it but had no clue so THANK YOU!!!
Thank you for taking the time to teach us about the old school pressure cooker! I could not find anything online, all you can find is the new insta pot info..
Thank you for making this video, I've been given a old one and now i feel comfortable using it
I recently found an old Mirro pressure cooker at a thrift shop, it had a new seal in it so I decided to buy it. It had been years since my wife and I had one and had to watch your video as a refresher, as I had forgotten how to use one. I am cooking a pot roast in it right now. Thank you for your very informative video.
You're a lifesaver, have been looking for this type of video for a long time
Just acquired one of these old ones and dint know how to use it. So thank you so much for your great video
Thank you!! Bought a beautiful, older, never used pressure cooker. Answered all my questions. 💕
Thank you so much for this video. All the others seem to be for the new type cookers, I'm a vintage girl!!!
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you. Just scored a beautiful old Presto (40's) in nice shape. Very helpful video to get me started.
Thanks for sharing! This was very informational! My mom gave me one a few years ago (5qt Casa Essentials) a few years ago, and I don't even know if she knows how to use it (perhaps I'll ask). I sure didn't and had looked a few times but didn't find much, until today! You had me looking at parts of a pot I've never thought to look at! Lol. Again, very helpful!
I have a 1960-ish Mirro-Matic. Alot of the TH-cam recipes i watch dont mention the lbs of pressure, only to cook for so many whistles. Ive had it for a few years but never used it. Theyre using new pressure cookers. Im a bit confused still. But I did learn some good information from this video. Thank you.
Look up your altitude and it’ll tell you what weight you should be using. If you’re in a high altitude like Colorado, you would be using a 15 pound all the time if you’re in a low altitude close to the ocean level you’d be using a 5 pound weight only if you’re in the middle somewhere you’re gonna be using a 10 pound, so find out what you’re altitude is in your state. Then you could look it up to see what weight you should be using and that’s the only way you’ll ever use unless you move two different altitude. Good luck. I hope this helps. 😊
@@jedyeslittlekitchen514 thank you so much
Thanks so much forthis video. I bought a Tower pressure cooker months ago. On first use, it started leaking water from the handle. Watching your video I guess the black little thing for the locking mechanism was not behind the seal. I am going to try and do that when next I use the cooker. I've been scared to use it since I used it first.
I can't seem to find the parts I need on Amazon.. Or anywhere
I learned a lot from watching this video thank you so much for sharing all this info ❤️
Amazon don’t have my parts. I Google my pressure cooker with model and found mine. You pay a little for shipping, so when I order I get up to 3 of all items at once. It’s still the same shipping price. I hope you find your parts 👍.
Finally a video that my pressure cooker, very helpful.
Excellent presentation and thanks for all those great tips. 👍🙏
Excellent video! Very informative! Thank you.
Thanks for the video ! I love the older pots as well
Remember you just want a gentle rocking on that pressure weight. If it’s rattling really really hard your temperature needs to be brought down a little. You just wanna get it to the point where it’s moving and making a little noise not going crazy. And you’re better off to let your pot cool slowly without putting it in water. The altitude determines the weight you will use. High mountain altitudes are 15 where anything below 1000 ft is 10. Almost no one uses five. You can find your altitude by just going online. Or check with national preservation and food safety website.
Kathy Jenkins. Thanks for the comment 🙂. I’m a few miles north of Denver Colorado. I always use 15 and was taught with this pressure cooker and a very young age from my Mother and other family members who use them still today. We don’t use a gas stoves.on a gas stove I would recommend turning down the heat after it’s rattling. I have had glass top stoves for many many years and always leave the temperature on high and also on a regular stove top. Don’t drop your pressure cooker on glass top that would break your glass top stove. And have always cooled them off in sink after cooking. I guess it’s a matter of Preference. 👍
All I have is a #10 pressure and I'm at 1,600 ft. what do I do, cook it longer?
@@mkmason2002 No. You would use the 15 lbs weight at your altitude. Time of cooking depends on the recipe.
Thank you for the break down on the operation of the cooker
Thanks for a very thorough video. 5 stars
Thanks for posting this, I just got an old presto 21 qt, it doesn't even have the lock on the handle and I had no idea what I was doing.
After watching this I ordered a new seal and auto release valve thing, not even going to try it out at all until I get the new parts!
Thank you for uploading this great clear informative video!
Very helpful!
Thanks for the great video! After I get my new seals I'm going to start canning!!
Thank you for the video. This video is really good. I have nothing idea how to use a pressure cooker presto .
Good job, I have one of these old school pressure cookers and I learned a few new things today even though I have been using a pressure cooker. I really didn't know how much water to put it but still never over did it. However somethings came out soupier than I would like and now I know why lol so thanks!
Thank you a million and then some more
l have an old one like yours. I was about to throw it out and ran across your video
l did every thing you said
It work like charm
Thank you again
Thank you so much! This is very helpful & similar to my pressure cooker.
I went and bought a new one about a year ago, I did not realize the disadvantages of an aluminum cooker (problems with acidic foods, like tomatoe) so I'll keep my eye out for a stainless steel one.
Where you got that information from? That is no disadvantages!
before spending more money, look into the wonderful concept of pot-in-pot cooking. You could use a short trivet and a pot sitting on top of that for cooking tomato products. I did this to make rice the other day - used a pretty stoneware bowl on a trivet.
Thanks so much for this detailed video!!
Good job explaining.
This is a great video. My pressure cooker is just like this. I’ve used it for about t three years. No problem. I’ve replaced the rubber in the lid before but never the lock in the handle. Cooked some chili beans left the pot in the fridge overnight now it won’t open. Tried reheating pressure still won’t release can’t get the lock to come up just to through away the beans😂 help if it’s possible. Don’t want to throw away this good pot. Love it better than my new Instant Pot
Once it’s cooled. If the lock will not drop and you have the weight off. You can use something to push the lock down like a old stake knife 🔪. I have to mess with the lock to Seal the pressure cooker sometimes. Don’t recommend this but it is what I do. I have another video about pressure cooker on here please go check it out maybe that will help also. I hope that helps.
Thank you so much for the video I also have my moms just like that andI need to order some new parts.
Very informative! Thanks.
Thank you for making this video. It is very helpful xx
💫 Thankyou for creating this content. I realized it could also function as my air humidifier as well. 💪🏽💫
Very good video thank you I found an old one...this was good to figure out
This video is super educational. Thank you for sharing!!
This was great info. Thank you so much!!
Fantastic! Super helpful; better than manual. Thank you so very much.
I appreciate your video. It was clear, easy to understand, and went step by step.
super helpful! I now realize I wasnt lettimg it get to full pressure. I was kinda afraid of it lol
Thank you! Very helpful tips👍
Thanks man great video 🎉
Thank you for the video, that answered a very important question I had. ❤🎉
Great teacher, learned a lot
Thank you for this video! For the quick release method - is it the same as how u mentioned to put cooker in sink & pour cold water over lid?
I have another video on here about pressure cooker. That shows how I cool the pressure cooker. Yes I use water in the sink.
This is a really good review. Thank you.
Very helpful, thank you
Glad it was helpful!
Been years inside one time to practice. Thank you.
Waw. I thank you my dear. Really useful. God bless you.
Thank you -I am researching for a pressure cooker