Afghan pressure cooker Shams Baba

Is an Afghan pressure cooker available in different sizes?

We present to you the renowned Afghan pressure cooker.  This cooker stands out from other pressure cookers due to its speed in cooking, as food is ready just minutes after the pressure cooker starts whistling. 

What are the expected cooking times in Afghan pressure cookers?

1- Corn meat: 8 to 12 minutes 

2- Lamb meat: 6 to 10 minutes 

3- Chicken: 5 to 7 minutes 

What are the characteristics of an Afghan pressure cooker?

1- The pressure cooker is characterized by the presence of two steam release valves (two whistles) and a safety valve. 

2- A pot that is characterized by its high thickness (10ml) in order to keep the heat inside for a longer time. 

3- Its outer colors are heat-resistant and suitable for use at home, on trips and in the desert. 

4- High quality 

5- Its distinctive and delicious flavor 

What is the industry and country of origin of the Afghan pressure cooker?

Afghan industry 

How does an Afghan pressure cooker work?

The Afghan pressure cooker works like other traditional pressure cookers by trapping the steam generated while the contents of the pot are heating. As the steam builds up, the pressure increases, causing the water to exceed its boiling point of 100°C. This high temperature generally reduces cooking times , and because of the reduced evaporation, flavor is extracted from the food more efficiently.

However, the Afghan pressure cooker differs from other pressure cookers in its round exterior design and distinctive exterior finish, which can be black, brown, or other colors depending on the model. The Afghan pressure cooker is typically made of thick aluminum alloy and also differs from traditional pressure cookers in the thickness of the metal and the lid's mounting mechanism.

The Afghan pressure cooker features a locking handle with a comfortable grip that closes securely and is easy to install. Its unique design makes it suitable for use on virtually any stove or grill with almost any fuel source, such as wood-burning stoves , charcoal grills , gas grills , and even kitchen stoves , making it ideal for picnics, camping trips, and outdoor adventures. It can be used as a pressure cooker or simply as a sturdy camping pot. Mixing food inside the Afghan pressure cooker is very convenient; you won't need to open the lid often. The ideal food volume inside the Afghan pressure cooker is 65-80%. When the load exceeds this limit, there is a risk of the valve becoming clogged.

Advantages and disadvantages of the Afghan pressure cooker

First: What are the advantages of the original Afghan pressure cooker? 

1- This design makes the pressure cooker absorb heat faster, making its energy consumption more efficient.

2- The design works to distribute heat evenly, which ensures professional cooking results.

3- It works on any type of stove such as wood or coal, gas stove, or any other flat stove.

4- The Afghan pressure cooker design also reduces cooking time by up to 70% for quick results – without losing valuable nutrients and flavors.

5- The robust aluminum structure ensures long-lasting performance.

6- Compact and lightweight design makes the pressure cooker easier to store and carry.

7- Independent release valves prevent excessive pressure even if the other two valves are blocked.

8- The pot will not open during use. The design allows for one-handed, risk-free opening and closing.

9- It is also used as a container for boiling water to preserve fruits, jams, jellies, pickles and sauces, and it is useful as a large-capacity pressure cooker.

10- It provides fast and even heating and works on normal and homogeneous surfaces with a lifespan of up to 12 years.

Secondly: What are the disadvantages of a non-original Afghan pressure cooker?

1- Some of the lower-quality types contain a coating on the inside, which causes the food to have an unpleasant taste.

2- Some people complained about the difficulty of closing the lid of the pot and the presence of a leak in some models.

Is it possible to stir food in an Afghan pressure cooker?

Yes and no, once the lid is closed and the pot is placed on a heat source, the lid cannot be removed. However, you can remove the pot from the heat source and rotate it to stir and mix the food.

What should I do if the food is not fully cooked after the recommended cooking time?

Simply return the pressure cooker to the pressure setting and cook the food for a little longer.

Is it necessary to brown meat and poultry before pressure cooking?

No, however, the golden brown color adds a rich, intense flavor to the recipe. In many cases, this flavor enhancement is recommended, but not essential if time is short.

Can I use an Afghan pressure cooker on an open flame?

Yes. The pot can be used over an open wood fire. The entire pot is made of sturdy, thick metal and can be placed directly on the flame.

And coal. Does using an Afghan pressure cooker work at high altitudes?

Yes, the pot works great at higher altitudes where the boiling point is lower. The pressure raises the boiling point higher than with normal cooking methods.

How can an Afghan pressure cooker be used?

A pressure cooker can be used in several ways:

It can be used as a pot with or without a lid, mixing food with water and cooking over a fire or charcoal. It can also be used as a frying pan for sautéing and cooking. Pour oil into the bottom after heating it, with or without a lid, over high heat. It can also function as a pressure cooker. With a tightly sealed lid, cook over medium heat, adding water or other liquids. Additionally, you can combine several methods in one dish. For example, sauté onions and meat first, add spices and water, stir in vegetables, and let it simmer covered over low heat.

Professional note: Their sizes are smaller than the well-known sword pots.