The number of whistles needed to cook something can vary depending on the type of pressure cooker you're using, the quantity and type of food being cooked, and the desired level of 'doneness'. In general, most pressure cookers will give off a certain number of whistles to indicate that the cooking pressure has been reached. After that, you typically reduce the heat and cook for a certain amount of time.
For example, if you're cooking lentils or beans, it might take around 2-3 whistles to cook them thoroughly. For rice, it might take just one whistle on high heat followed by simmering for a few minutes. It's essential to follow the specific instructions for your pressure cooker and the recipe you're using to determine the number of whistles required for optimal results.
1 cup rice
Typically, for cooking rice in a pressure cooker, you may need just one whistle on high heat. After the first whistle, you should immediately reduce the heat to low and let it cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, allowing the rice to fully cook under pressure. Then turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally before opening the cooker.
This method should yield perfectly cooked rice. However, it's important to adjust the cooking time and number of whistles based on your specific pressure cooker and the type of rice you're using, as well as personal preference for rice texture.
1 cup green peas
Fresh or overnight-socked green peas can be cooked using the water to peas ratio at around 2:1 or 3:1. It will usually take about 2-3 whistles on high heat to cook the peas. After reaching the desired number of whistles, reduce the heat to low and allow the peas to cook for an additional 8-10 minutes.
1 cup chickpeas/chana
Cooking chickpeas in a pressure cooker typically requires a slightly longer cooking time compared to other legumes like lentils or green peas. Soak the chickpeas in water for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight. This helps to soften the chickpeas and reduce cooking time. Add water to cover the chickpeas completely. The ratio of water to chickpeas is typically around 3:1. Cook the chickpeas on high heat until it reaches full pressure. This will usually take about 3-4 whistles. Once the desired number of whistles is reached, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for an additional 20-25 minutes.
500gm chicken, curry cut pieces
Prior to cooking chicken in a pressure cooker, sauté them for a few minutes until they are lightly browned on all sides. Add water or any liquid base (like tomato puree, coconut milk, etc.) to cover the chicken pieces and close the pressure cooker lid securely. Cook the chicken on high heat until it reaches full pressure. This may take around 2-3 whistles. After reaching the desired number of whistles, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes. Also ensure that the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 75°C.
1 cup dal
When cooking soaked dal (such as toor dal, masoor dal, moong dal, etc.) in a pressure cooker, you typically need around 2-3 whistles on high heat. The ratio of water to dal is typically around 2:1 or 3:1, depending on how thick you want the cooked dal to be.
Sambar
The number of whistles needed to cook sambar in a pressure cooker can vary based on the ingredients used, the size of the cooker, and personal preferences for the consistency of the sambar. However, here's a general guideline: Rinse and soak the dal (usually toor dal or split pigeon peas) for about 30 minutes. In a pressure cooker, add the soaked dal along with chopped vegetables (like carrots, beans, potatoes, drumsticks, etc.), tamarind extract, sambar powder, salt, and water. Close the pressure cooker lid securely. Cook the sambar on high heat until it reaches full pressure. This may take about 2-3 whistles. After reaching the desired number of whistles, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes. Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. Once the pressure has released completely, carefully open the lid and check the consistency of the sambar. If it's too thick, you can add more water and adjust the seasoning as needed.
500gm meat
When cooking meat in a pressure cooker, the number of whistles needed can vary depending on factors such as the type of meat, the size of the meat pieces, and the desired level of tenderness. Here is a general guideline for cooking meat cut into bite-sized pieces: Season the meat pieces with your preferred spices and seasonings. Add a small amount of oil to the pressure cooker pot and heat it. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned meat pieces to the pot. Sauté the meat for a few minutes until it's lightly browned on all sides. Add any additional ingredients such as onions, garlic, or vegetables if desired. Close the pressure cooker lid securely. Cook the meat on high heat until it reaches full pressure. The number of whistles required can vary, but typically, for tender cuts of meat like chicken or pork, it may take 2-3 whistles. For tougher cuts of meat like beef or lamb, it may take 4-5 whistles. After reaching the desired number of whistles, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes.
1 cup beans and legumes
Soak the beans or legumes in water for several hours or overnight. This helps to soften them and reduce cooking time. Drain the soaked beans or legumes and add them to the pressure cooker pot. Add water to cover the beans or legumes completely. The ratio of water to beans or legumes is typically around 2:1 or 3:1. Close the pressure cooker lid securely. Cook the beans or legumes on high heat until it reaches full pressure. This usually takes about 2-3 whistles. After reaching the desired number of whistles, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
