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PRESSURE RELEASE
There are two pressure-release methods: quick release and natural release. The
method that you should use depends on your recipe. Most recipes will indicate
which method to use.
Quick-Release Method
This method releases pressure quickly in the form of steam. When cooking is
complete, turn the steam release handle to the venting position to release the
pressure. Hot steam will be released through the vent, so be sure to use extreme
caution by wearing protective gloves and keeping your hands, face, and skin
away from the valve to avoid the risk of burns. When all of the steam has been
released and the float valve has dropped, carefully open the lid so that it is
pointing away from you, and be cautious of any lingering steam, oil, or water.
Natural-Release Method
This method takes much more time than the quick-release method. Use this
method for foods with a large volume of liquid, starch content, or ingredients
that may produce foam, such as soup, pasta, oatmeal, and beans, to prevent
liquid from splattering out. When cooking is complete, do not turn the steam
release handle. Rather, let the pressure release on its own. This could take 10
to 40 minutes or longer. You can leave the cooker on the Keep Warm setting,
or you can turn it off so the contents will cool more quickly. After about 10 to
15 minutes have passed, you can turn the steam release handle to the venting
position to release pressure. Generally, this will not affect the ingredients. When
the float valve has dropped, carefully open the lid so that it is pointing away from
you.
CAUTION:
• Never block the steam release vent or open the lid while the cooker is in
operation or when it is releasing steam.
• Keep your hands, face, and skin away from the steam release vent while the
cooker is in operation or when it is releasing steam.
• Never touch the lid or any metal parts of the appliance unless you are
wearing mitts/gloves.
• Use utensils or wear protective mitts/gloves when using the quick-release
method.
• See the “Safety Instructions” section on page 2 for more information on
safety precautions to observe.