Our Top Picks
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Best Overall: Instant Pot Electric Pressure Cooker
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Best Multi-Use: Crock-Pot Express Crock
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Best Electric: Hamilton Beach Professional Sous
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Best Stovetop: Fissler Vitaquick Pressure Cooker
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Best Programmable: T-fal Clipso Pressure Cooker
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Best Rice: Zojirushi NS-TSC10 5-1/2-Cup
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Best Countertop: Breville BPR700BSS Fast Slow Pro
- Best Induction: Nuwave Brio Digital Air Fryer
Buying Guide
1. Type
There are two main types of cookers: freestanding and built-in. Freestanding cookers are stand-alone units that can be moved around as needed. They typically have an oven and a hob on top.
Built-in cookers are integrated into the kitchen cabinetry and can be customized to fit your specific needs. They can be more expensive than freestanding cookers but offer a sleeker look.
2. Oven Capacity
The oven capacity is another important consideration. The capacity of the oven is measured in liters, and it determines how much food you can cook at once. If you frequently cook large meals or have a large family, you may want to opt for an oven with a capacity of 70 liters or more.
3. Hob
The hob is where you do most of your cooking, so it's important to choose a cooker with a hob that suits your needs. Gas hobs are popular because they offer precise temperature control and are responsive.
Electric hobs are easy to clean, but they may take longer to heat up. Induction hobs are the most energy-efficient and offer precise temperature control, but they require special cookware.
4. Fuel Type
Cookers can be powered by gas, electric, or dual fuel. Gas cookers are preferred by many chefs as they offer more control over the heat and are more energy-efficient.
Electric cookers are easy to use and clean, and often come with additional features such as a fan oven or a grill.
Dual fuel cookers combine both gas and electric elements, giving you the best of both worlds.
5. Size
Cookers come in a range of sizes, from small tabletop models to large range cookers. When choosing a cooker, consider the size of your kitchen and the amount of cooking you’ll be doing. A larger family or someone who loves to entertain may want a larger cooker with multiple ovens and a larger hob.
6. Safety Features
Cookers can be dangerous if not used properly. Look for cookers with safety features such as flame failure devices and automatic shut-off functions. Flame failure devices turn off the gas supply if the flame goes out, while automatic shut-off functions turn off the cooker after a certain period of inactivity.
7. Features and Functions
Modern cookers come with various features and functions to make cooking easier and more convenient.
For instance, some cookers have a built-in timer that alerts you when your food is ready, while others have a self-cleaning function that saves time and effort.
Other features to consider include a grilling function, a fan-assisted oven, and a warming drawer.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a dual fuel cooker?
A dual fuel cooker is a cooker that combines a gas cooktop with an electric oven. This gives you the best of both worlds, with the quick heat-up time and precise temperature control of gas, as well as the even baking and roasting of electric.
2. What is a warming drawer?
A warming drawer is a feature on some cookers that keeps food warm without cooking it further. This can be a handy feature for dinner parties or families with different schedules, as it allows you to keep food warm until everyone is ready to eat.
3. How long should my cooker last?
The lifespan of a cooker depends on several factors, such as usage, maintenance, and quality. On average, a cooker can last between 10-15 years.
Final Thought
A cooker is a great addition to any kitchen, and choosing the right one can make a big difference in the quality of your cooking. With the right features, top brands, and benefits, you can find the best cooker for your needs. We hope this guide has been helpful in helping you make the best buying decision.
