How to clean burnt food from a pressure cooker?

Burnt food stuck at the bottom of your pressure cooker can be frustrating—not only is it tough to remove, but it can also affect the taste of your future meals if not cleaned properly. Whether it’s scorched rice, overcooked dal, or stubborn food residue, don’t worry—your pressure cooker can be restored to its sparkling best with the right techniques.

Below is a step-by-step guide to help you safely and effectively clean burnt food from your pressure cooker, without damaging its surface or compromising its performance.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Burnt Food

1. Allow the Cooker to Cool Completely

Before you begin any cleaning, ensure the cooker is completely cool. Trying to clean a hot cooker can be dangerous and may warp the metal if exposed to cold water.

2. Soak with Warm Water and Dish Soap

Fill the burnt cooker with warm water and a few drops of mild dishwashing liquid. Let it soak for at least 30–60 minutes, or even overnight for stubborn stains. This helps loosen the burnt residue and makes it easier to scrub off later.

Tip: If using the Meyer Presta tri-ply stainless steel cooker, the stainless interior will not react with soap or food acids, so soaking is completely safe.

3. Scrub Gently with a Non-Abrasive Sponge

Use a soft sponge or nylon scrubber to gently scrub the base. Avoid steel wool or abrasive pads, especially on high-quality stainless steel surfaces like the Meyer Presta. Scratching the surface can compromise its durability and aesthetic.

4. Try a Baking Soda and Vinegar Solution (if Needed)

If soap and water aren’t enough, make a paste using:

• 2 tablespoons of baking soda

• A few drops of water or white vinegar

Apply this paste to the burnt areas and let it sit for 15–20 minutes. Then scrub gently. Baking soda is mildly abrasive and acts as a natural cleaner and deodorizer, while vinegar helps break down burnt-on residue.

5. Boil Water with Baking Soda for Deep Burns

For tougher stains:

• Add 1–2 tablespoons of baking soda and water to fill the burnt area.

• Bring the solution to a gentle boil in the pressure cooker (without sealing the lid), and simmer for 5–10 minutes.

• Allow the water to cool, then scrub the residue again.

This method works wonders on tri-ply stainless steel interiors like those in Meyer Presta pressure cookers, as the heat enhances the cleaning reaction without damaging the surface.

6. Rinse Thoroughly and Dry Immediately

Once the burnt residue is removed, rinse the cooker thoroughly to remove any remaining soap, baking soda, or vinegar. Dry the pressure cooker completely with a soft cloth to prevent water spots or mineral stains—especially important for maintaining stainless steel finishes.

Preventive Tips for Future Use

• Preheat carefully: Always add oil or water before heating the cooker to avoid dry burning.

• Monitor heat: Avoid using high heat for too long. Meyer Presta's tri-ply base ensures even heat distribution, so medium heat is usually sufficient.

• Add enough water: Especially when cooking thick dishes like dal or biryani, ensure there's enough liquid to avoid scorching.

• Deglaze after sautéing: If you sauté ingredients before pressure cooking, deglaze the pot with a splash of water to prevent sticking.

MEYER Presta 3L Tri-ply with Outer Lid Pressure Cooker

Why Choose Meyer Presta for Easier Cleaning

The Meyer Presta Pressure Cooker, made from tri-ply stainless steel, is especially resistant to burning and scorching. Here’s why it makes cleaning simpler:

• Even Heat Distribution: Prevents hot spots that lead to food sticking or burning.

• Non-Reactive Surface: No flavor or chemical reactions with food, and cleaning agents remain effective.

• Durability: Withstands repeated cleanings without warping or discoloration.

• Ergonomic Design: The wide base and smooth interior surface make reaching and scrubbing burnt spots much easier.

Conclusion

Cleaning burnt food from a pressure cooker doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little patience and the right approach, you can restore your cooker to its original shine. And when you cook with high-quality cookware like the Meyer Presta, cleanup becomes even more manageable thanks to its superior build and thoughtful design.