The Fagor SPLENDID Pressure Cooker is a U.L.-listed appliance designed for household use, offering a safe and efficient method for cooking and, in the 10 qt model, home canning. Made from high-quality, heavy-gauge 18/10 stainless steel, it is built for durability and performance.
Function Description:
The primary function of the Fagor SPLENDID Pressure Cooker is to cook food under pressure, significantly reducing cooking times compared to traditional methods. This process helps retain the food's color, flavor, and vital minerals and vitamins that might otherwise be lost through evaporation or dilution. The cooker operates by building steam pressure inside a sealed pot, which raises the boiling point of water and cooks food faster. It features an easy-to-use pressure regulator that signals when the desired pressure level is reached, allowing for precise heat adjustment. The 10 qt model also functions as a pressure canner, enabling the safe preservation of low-acid foods.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Material: High-quality, heavy-gauge 18/10 stainless steel for the pot and lid.
- Pressure Levels: Operates at a high pressure setting, equivalent to 15 psi (pounds of pressure per square inch).
- Heat Conductive Base: Features a thermo heat conductive base comprised of three layers of metal: an inner stainless steel layer safe for food contact, an aluminum middle layer for excellent heat conduction and even distribution, and an outer magnetic stainless steel layer for induction compatibility.
- Pressure Lock: A purple pressure lock button ensures the lid is securely closed and pressure can build. It also prevents the lid from being opened while the cooker is pressurized.
- Silicone Gasket: Provides an airtight seal between the lid and the pot.
- Safety Valve: Located under the lid, it activates to release excess pressure in case of buildup.
- Pressure Indicator: A yellow-tipped rod on the lid handle that rises when pressure builds inside the cooker, indicating it cannot be safely opened.
- Operating Valve: Features three positions: a pressure setting (pot icon) for cooking, a steam release position (steam icon) for automatic pressure release, and an unlock position (circle with a line through it) for removing the valve for cleaning.
- Compatibility: Suitable for all types of burners, including gas, electric, ceramic, and induction.
- Capacity Options: Available in 4 qt, 6 qt, 8 qt, and 10 qt models, with various sets including nesting pots and steamer baskets.
Usage Features:
- Before First Use: All parts and components should be washed with warm water and mild dishwashing soap, rinsed, and towel-dried. The gasket should be oiled with a thin coat of cooking oil to extend its life and facilitate lid locking.
- Liquid Requirement: Always use at least 1/2 cup of liquid for cooking times of 10 minutes or less, or 2 cups for cooking times over 10 minutes. Oil should not be the only cooking liquid.
- Filling Capacity: Never fill the pressure cooker more than two-thirds full with food and liquid. For foods that expand or foam (e.g., rice, dried vegetables, soups, stocks), fill only halfway.
- Closing the Lid: Align the mark on the lid with the mark on the pot handle, press down lightly, slide the lid handle clockwise to interlock with the pot handle, and push the pressure lock button up to secure.
- Cooking Process: Turn the operating valve to the pressure setting (pot icon). Heat on high until steam starts coming out of the operating valve, then lower the heat to maintain a gentle, steady stream of steam. This marks the start of the cooking time.
- Pressure Release Methods:
- Natural Release: Remove from heat and let pressure drop naturally (10-15 minutes). Recommended for meats, stews, and home canning.
- Cold Water Release: Remove from burner, place in sink, and run cold tap water gently over the lid until steam dissipates and the pressure indicator drops. Used for vegetables, seafood, and tender foods to prevent overcooking. Never immerse the cooker in water.
- Automatic Release: Turn the operating valve to the steam release position (steam icon). Steam will release automatically. Suitable for stews, meats, poultry, and soups, but not for vegetables or tender foods.
- Opening the Lid: After pressure is fully released and the pressure indicator has dropped, slide the pressure cooker lock down, then slide the lid handle to the right (counterclockwise) and lift the lid. Always open the lid towards the back of the stove to avoid steam burns.
- Home Canning (10 qt model only):
- Jar Preparation: Use standard home canning jars, washed and kept hot.
- Lid Preparation: Use new, flat metal lids with sealing compound and metal screw bands. Follow manufacturer's directions for preparing and tightening lids.
- Processing: Place filled jars on a wire rack in the pressure cooker with 2-3 inches of boiling water. Process at high pressure for the specified time. Use the natural release method only for pressure canning.
- Post-Processing: Carefully remove hot jars, place on a rack or dry towels, and allow to cool for 12-24 hours without tightening lids.
Maintenance Features:
- Cleaning the Pot: The pressure cooker pot is dishwasher safe.
- Cleaning the Lid: The lid and all its components should be hand washed with warm water and mild dishwashing soap. Avoid metal scouring pads or abrasive cleaners on the mirror-finish exterior.
- Removing Stubborn Stains: For interior stains, add juice of half a lemon and 1-2 cups of water, cook at high pressure for 15 minutes, then let pressure release naturally and wash.
- Gasket Care: Remove the silicone gasket after every use, wash with warm, soapy water, rinse, dry, and apply a thin coat of vegetable oil. Replace the gasket approximately every 12-15 months or if worn/torn.
- Operating Valve Cleaning: After every use, turn the operating valve to the steam release position, gently lift it upward while turning counterclockwise to the unlock position, then lift it out. Clean it under running water and ensure the hole under the valve is clear of food particles using a small brush or pipe cleaner if necessary.
- Handle Maintenance: Regularly check that the handles (pot, lid, support grip) are securely screwed in place and tighten with a screwdriver if needed.
- Storage: Do not lock the lid in place when storing; simply place it upside down on the pot to prevent vacuum formation and stale odors.
- Replacement Parts: Use only authentic Fagor America replacement parts to ensure safety and maintain warranty validity. Parts can be ordered via customer service or online.