What is the difference between multicookers of different price categories. What is the difference between a multicooker and a pressure cooker?

The current progress in technology makes it possible to minimize the usual kitchen processes for cooking, but at the same time get tasty and healthy meals. Real helpers in the kitchen are considered appliances such as a slow cooker and a double boiler. Housewives who value their time and work will gladly acquire at least one of these devices. Both of them are intended for direct cooking. However, which is better to buy a double boiler or a slow cooker? To do this, analyze their properties and the principle of operation.

Cooking method

A multicooker is a multifunctional kitchen appliance, thanks to which you can cook different kinds dishes. With its help, you can quickly and easily prepare a dish by:

• Cookies;
• Frying;
• baking;
• baking;
• Extinguishing;
• For a couple.

This increases the range of dishes that can be prepared with it. In fact, this is an opportunity to cook any food, while compact way and saving time.

A double boiler is a kitchen attribute, from the very name it allows you to understand the way of cooking. Products are prepared by steaming. Therefore, at the output you will get only healthy, but monotonous food, in the sense of the method of preparation.

Functionality

It is clear that you can cook food using both devices. But still, what is the difference between a double boiler and a multicooker?

Various models of multicookers and steamers contain excellent features. However, each type has standard features that actually help you choose between them.

Multicookers contain built-in programs. Among them there are functions indicating the method of preparation (baking, frying, boiling) and specific programs that provide the preparation of a particular dish. In particular:

• Cooking buckwheat;
• Omelette;
• Preparation of yogurt;
• Cooking porridge;
• cooking pilaf.

I.e comprehensive programs allowing you to properly prepare a particular dish.

The steamer is not marked by versatility, since all products are cooked only with the help of steam. However, it also has the necessary and necessary functions for the cooking process:

• steam cooking;
• Heating food;
• Defrosting food.

You can cook many dishes with the multicooker. different kind but in turn. The difference between a double boiler is that it allows you to cook several dishes at the same time, but in the only way.

With the improvement of technology, new models appear, which may contain additional functions. However, the main purpose of this kitchen appliance is to steam food. Such kitchen set a great helper in the kitchen of the hostess where there are children or people on a diet. Actually, in this case, the presence of a double boiler really helps out and saves the time and effort expended.

It should be noted that an alternative to a multicooker in the kitchen is a stove and an oven. If there is a need for constant steam cooking, then a double boiler simplifies the cooking process at times. Because its alternative is a long and difficult process in the kitchen for the hostess.

Cooking time

The method of cooking in a multicooker allows you to cook dishes quickly enough. This is due to the fact that the functions allow you to bring food to condition by frying, baking and stewing using high temperatures. For example: “a chicken in a slow cooker can be cooked in 15 minutes, and in a double boiler 50 minutes.”

Cooking a dish with a double boiler will take more time. Since, only steam will be involved here, which is less rigid than other cooking methods. Of course, it depends on the products. Vegetables and fruits cook much faster than meat. Therefore, when cooking several dishes, it is recommended to place products that require a long time to cook in the lower drawers.

Quantity of prepared food

Of course, any food loses its mass due to cooking.

In a slow cooker with a standard bowl of five liters, at the output you will receive food in proportion to four liters in content.

Steam cooking contributes to less loss of food volume. In addition, the steamer allows you to cook in several containers at the same time. That is, it is the possibility of preparing one dish in in large numbers or cooking several dishes at the same time.

The benefits of cooked foods

It is known that products prepared by roasting or stewing on high temperatures make them less useful. Therefore, the slow cooker in this regard will produce tasty, but to a certain extent less healthy food. However, it should be understood that small portions of dishes can be cooked thanks to the built-in "steam cooking" function.

The steamer, in this sense, is famous for its ability to maximize the preservation of all the useful properties of products. In fact, this is the main purpose of this device - the preparation of high-quality and healthy food.

The cost of appliances

Depending on functionality and brand, prices are different for both kitchen appliances. But, for example, a double boiler of the same company as a multicooker will cost less. This is directly related to the functionality of the devices.

However, when making a choice, it is worth focusing rather on the needs and preferences of the family. People who support healthy lifestyle life or for those who follow a strict diet, it is more appropriate to opt for a double boiler.

At a time when the family prefers colorful dishes and loves variety in the way of cooking, it is better to prefer a slow cooker.

Pros and cons of a double boiler and a slow cooker

In order to in general terms understand how a double boiler differs from a multicooker, pay attention to their advantages and disadvantages.

Double boiler

Advantages:

• Healthy food.
• Larger amount of food.
• Ability to cook several dishes at the same time.

Disadvantages:

• Long cooking time
• Uniform cooking method

Multicooker

Advantages:

• Fast cooking.
• Various cooking methods.

Disadvantages:

• Cooked meals are less healthy
• Possibility to cook only one dish at a time

Operation and care

Both devices are quite easy to use. All commands are set automatically. After cooking, the containers of both appliances can be easily removed and washed. in the usual way or in the dishwasher.

Regarding the multicooker, given the use of oil and cooking methods, the bowl should be washed well. After cooking in a double boiler, in most cases it is enough to rinse the containers under running water.

Both devices are very practical in the kitchen of the hostess. Because it's not just about saving time. This allows, to some extent, to abandon the use of another kitchen appliances(stove, oven) and leave them clean and tidy.

Multicookers occupy a leading position in the kitchen market. household appliances. Rave reviews from friends, bright advertising and heated discussion on the forums make you want to buy this kitchen device.

Some ardently assure that they are now preparing all the dishes in this miracle saucepan, others do not find anything special in it.

But after all, each novelty has its pros and cons, which you notice after a certain period of its operation.

Why so many rave reviews? Is it worth it to buy a device personal use? How to choose a multicooker? What are her pros and cons?

Let's try to understand all the issues.

General characteristics

Multicooker is a multifunctional kitchen appliance program management designed for cooking in different modes.

She connects several household appliances: bread maker, cooker, rice cooker, double boiler, yogurt maker.

There are 2 types of multicookers:

• pressure cooker - works under pressure. It is characterized by fast cooking and energy saving.
• Double boiler - conventional multicooker, works without pressure.

The multicooker consists of a body and a bowl. The cooking process takes place in the bowl. And the case takes on the role of a thermos and does not release heat outside the unit. The heating elements are located at the bottom of the multicooker, more advanced models are equipped with additional elements on the sides and top.

There is a valve on the lid, it is responsible for adjusting the pressure during the cooking process. And below is a container for the accumulation of escaping condensate.

The electronic panel allows you to select a program, set the desired temperature and cooking duration.

Thus, a multicooker is a pan with its own heating element and closed system heat loss. It does not need to be controlled and notifies you of the end of the cooking process with a sound signal.

General advantages and disadvantages

Pros:

1. Exemption from participation in cooking. One of the main benefits is time saving. No need to wait for the water to boil, to be afraid that the food will burn, it is impossible to burn the dish in the cartoon. Simply cut the products, put them in the bowl and set the desired mode. And this kitchen gadget will take care of all further worries.
2. Maintaining the desired temperature of the dish. After the cooking process is completed, the multicooker automatically switches to the heating mode. A warm meal will be waiting for you at any moment.
3. Delayed start function. Delaying cooking is a godsend for those who love healthy cereals for breakfast. Pour oatmeal into a bowl in the evening, pour milk and set aside. right time. And in the morning, just spread the hot porridge on plates.
4. Multifunctionality. The slow cooker is great for lovers of minimalism or owners of oversized kitchens. It simultaneously replaces the yogurt maker, bread maker, oven, microwave and double boiler. In addition, by combining all these functions in itself, it frees up not only space, but also saves money, because separately these devices are much more expensive.
5. Multimode and ease of use. The device can fry, boil, bake, stew, simmer food, prepare desserts. Even a novice hostess will be able to cook a fragrant and mouth-watering dish in a miracle saucepan. Many recipes for the slow cooker will help you avoid monotony in food.
6. Preservation of useful properties of the product. Products are cooked in a hermetically sealed bowl. The effect of the Russian stove preserves everything in food useful material, vitamins and minerals. In addition, food cooked in a slow cooker requires fewer spices and seasonings.
7. Mobility. Compact kitchen appliance does not require much space and works wherever it is electric outlet. A real mini-kitchen weighing several kilograms and with a convenient carrying handle.
8. When cooking in a slow cooker, there is no such abundance of odors as when cooking on the stove.

On a note! In addition, food cooked in a slow cooker requires less spices and seasonings.

Minuses:

1. Longer cooking time on some modes, such as soups, compared to a gas stove.
2. For 1 cycle only 1 dish. Unlike a stove with several burners, where you can immediately cook, stew and cook, in a slow cooker you can cook only 1 dish. And that stretches the time.
3. Coating durability. The surface of the multicooker bowl needs careful handling. Only plastic, rubberized and wooden spatulas or spoons are suitable for use. By the way, the standard bowl is only 5 liters, which means that the usable volume is a maximum of 3.5-4 liters. Cooking soup for a week for a large family will not work.
4. Missing automatic opening covers. A small trifle, but spoils appearance dishes. After the end of the cooking process, condensation accumulates on the lid. If you do not open it yourself, then the drops will drip directly into the finished food.
5. Spread of functionality. A multicooker, like almost any multifunctional technique, is inferior in its functionality to specialized devices. For the "Steam" function, it has a very small tray, it holds a limited amount of products, unlike a double boiler. And yoghurts are thicker and tastier in a yoghurt maker. Each of these kitchen appliances will provide more possibilities in full mode than a slow cooker.
6. No crispy crust forms. Since there is no top a heating element, then the slow cooker cannot appetizingly brown the pastries, it has to be turned over.
7. The multicooker does not have a stir function.
8. It is impossible to cancel the heating mode in many models, this function is not always appropriate.

On a note! To cook food in a multicooker in turn, you need to immediately transfer the cooked dish to another container, freeing the multicooker bowl for the next dish.

Which multicooker to choose?

Before buying, you need to decide on the following criteria:

• Power;
• The volume of the bowl and its coating;
• Number of modes;
• Control type;
• Structural nuances;
• Manufacturers.

Power

The power of the device varies from 200 W to 2 kW, this figure depends on the volume of the bowl.

Interesting! It is proved that the multicooker is more economical electric stove 2 times!

For a small family, a multicooker with a power of 800 W is suitable; it will cook with optimal speed. The higher the power of the device, the faster the cooking process will be, and accordingly less electricity will be spent.

Attention! Maximum rate power is achieved with a fully loaded bowl.

Bowl volume and coating

Multicookers with a bowl of 1.5-3 liters are suitable for a small family or one person. big family it is necessary to consider the volume of 5-6 liters. There are devices with a bowl of 10 liters, but they are extremely rare.

It is optimal to purchase a device with a 4-5 liter bowl, even if you live alone. There can always be guests who need to be fed, and with a small capacity this is unlikely to succeed.

When choosing a bowl cover, you need to focus on the pros and cons of each material.

• Teflon, if handled carelessly, quickly loses its non-stick properties. The taste of food may vary slightly due to harmful fumes that are released when the metal is heated. But Teflon containers are perfectly washed.
• Ceramic is resistant to cleaning agents, hygienic and does not absorb odors. But it has increased fragility, which also requires careful handling.
• five-layer non-stick coating easy to clean, durable, absolutely safe and retains a maximum of vitamins. But it has a high cost.

Attention! Based on the above, it is better to opt for a ceramic bowl. The main thing is to handle it with care.

Number of modes

Now they produce multicookers with a large selection of different programs. But are all these modes necessary? It is important not to overpay for unnecessary features.

The main ones include:

• Cooking;
• Frying;
• Bakery;
• Extinguishing;
• For a couple;
• Milk Porridge;
• Buckwheat, rice

Additional ones include:

• Yogurt;
• Dumplings;
• Compote;
• Stew;
• Breadmaker.

Many manufacturers, in order to attract customers, supply a kitchen device with a bunch of unnecessary modes. This affects the cost of the multicooker upwards. It makes no sense to overpay an extra couple of thousand if you do not like to bake bread or make jam.

Stop your choice on those modes that are really needed. Moreover, the name of the function does not limit its use, for example, pilaf and stew will turn out perfectly in the stewing or baking mode.
Control type

The device provides 2 types of control:

• mechanical;
• electronic.

In the first version, there are various buttons and switches on the front panel. They are reliable and time-tested.

In the electronic version, the panel has a touch screen.

The sensor is not important nuance when choosing a multicooker. It is good for those who like to keep abreast of all the latest technical innovations.

Therefore, if the difference is not fundamental to you, then it is better to choose a multicooker with push-button control, it will cost an order of magnitude cheaper.

Design nuances

Be sure to pay attention to such important points!

• The legs of the multicooker must be rubberized. This will protect the table from scratches, and the multicooker from falling, it will stand securely on the countertop.
• The case made of metal will last longer than the plastic counterpart and will not burn out over time.
• The moisture trap provided in the design will collect condensate, protecting the dish from dripping drops.
• A nice bonus will be a removable stand for spoons and shoulder blades, it is attached to the side of the device and does not cause inconvenience when looking for additional space for these devices.
• Length network cable should be sufficient to connect to a power outlet. Better yet, if the cord is removable, it will make it easier to move in a small space.
• A multi-cooker with 3D heating is better in cooking, but its cost is above average.

On a note! Multi-cook - the function allows you to set your own temperature, time and experiment with recipes.

Manufacturers

The market is overflowing with manufacturers of these miracle pots. You need to pay attention to those brands that have proven themselves in the production of kitchen appliances. Consider the most famous.

• Redmond- is a leader, has a well-deserved reputation, and excellent quality and functionality fully justify its price.
• Moulinex - good multicookers, have large bowls, are distinguished by high power.
• Panasonic- reliable quality, the bowls have a multilayer coating, and the multicookers themselves are equipped with a display, a heating mode, a multicooker.
• Polaris- good quality and design, but the developer mostly uses the ideas of other manufacturers.
• Philips- multicookers have bowls of different sizes, high power, steel body and microprocessor control.

To understand which model is the best from the manufacturer, you can go to the thematic forum. There are reviews from real people who have already tried this device. In addition, there are special Internet sites where you can compare mogli with each other in terms of functionality, price, power and other details.

Before buying, pay attention to the reviews of experts, they will help you make the final choice and not overpay for a kitchen device:

1. Check display backlight
2. All functions must be in Russian.
3. Auto power off. If you often run out of soup or burn something in a pan, then this function will be necessary.
4. pay attention to guarantee period the longer it is, the more confidence as a commodity. The warranty must be at least one year.
5. With mechanical control, all buttons should be pressed without effort.
6. Check if a separate bowl is sold for the selected model. So that in case of damage to the coating, do not change the entire multicooker.
7. Inspect the body of the multicooker so that there is no neat joints or gaps.

Now you know how to choose a multicooker. Remember that a kitchen appliance is bought on long years so it's not worth saving. But choosing the most expensive model is also not reasonable. Based on your capabilities and needs, read specifications device and choose a trusted manufacturer.

Honor and praise to the one who invented the slow cooker! For many, this appliance has become indispensable in the kitchen. And this is not at all surprising. After all, it greatly facilitates cooking, reduces the time spent in the kitchen, while allowing you to get tasty and healthy dishes.

There are a lot of models of multicookers on sale. And the head is spinning for those who are engaged in choosing a kitchen assistant for themselves. The price of the device is a significant criterion. Surprisingly, the price tags differ by tens of thousands. What is the difference between expensive multicookers and cheap ones and does it make sense to pay more?

The main functions in multicookers

Consider, first of all, a set of functions. Usually, the higher the cost of acquisition, the greater the set of programs and modes it is endowed with. Variety is great, of course. Another question is whether it is necessary. The most popular modes are baking, rice, soup, stewing, frying, steaming, and also heating. With this set, you can cook any dish from the usual menu. However, most of the functions are interchangeable. And, for example, it is possible to stew the meat using the "soup" button, and fry the chicken in the baking mode.

The minimum set of programs is on most of the most inexpensive models. Depending on your needs, you can choose multicookers with separate buttons for milk porridge, yogurt, bread baking, etc. As a rule, you have to pay extra for these privileges. If the device will completely replace cooker, then a roasting program is desirable.

Keep warm function keeps food hot for a long time. And the ability to delay the start makes life much easier. But this is available not only to owners of expensive models. Almost all of these useful things are already in the multicookers of the middle price segment.

Those who want to keep everything under control and create their own programs will like multicook. But this, perhaps, is about those who do not spend a single day without a smart saucepan and masterfully understand all the nuances. For all other existing modes, it is quite enough, because with them you can cook a lot delicious meals. There are enough resources on the Internet offering a wide variety of recipes for multicookers of any model.

bowl materials

Multicookers also differ in the material from which the bowl is made. Both Teflon and ceramic coatings are common. Both of them have non-stick properties. Ceramic is easier to maintain and more environmentally friendly, but Teflon is somewhat more durable. Especially if it has many layers. The higher the quality of the coating, the higher the cost. However, among inexpensive models there are worthy options.

Build quality

Build quality is also an important factor. Basically, all multicookers, regardless of brand, are made in China. But there are still differences. The body material can be metal or plastic. And the quality of the plastic also varies. For expensive models, the assembly is more thorough. But this does not affect the taste and quality of the dishes.

What's behind the high price

So is it worth buying multicookers with high cost? For instance, BORK U700. Its cost is about 20-26 thousand rubles. It looks very attractive, the case is made of plastic and metal. The bowl has a durable and high-quality Teflon coating, which can be judged even by its appearance. Fourteen modes and unusual features like child lock, voice menu and octopus frying. Beautiful, stylish, comfortable, but not very practical due to the high cost.

Or here's an example. Polaris EVO EPMC 0125 with wifi.

except beautiful design, 15 programs, as well as the ability to choose a pressure cooker or multicooker mode, there is a unique control function from a smartphone or tablet through the appropriate application. And all this pleasure costs about 15 thousand rubles. But not many are ready to cook dinner remotely yet.

Perhaps, in order to appreciate all the unusual functions of expensive models, you need to be a very experienced multivar. For an ordinary kitchen and a familiar menu, basic modes are enough. Often models with similar parameters differ significantly in price. Overpayment for the brand in such cases is obvious. Therefore, you should not spend extra money, focusing on the manufacturer. After all, a multicooker is not an element of decor. She's just a wonderful helper in the kitchen. Practical, comfortable and inexpensive.

Along with the multicookers that have become familiar, multifunctional ones are on sale. combined appliances called multicookers-pressure cookers. Often, buyers have a question: a multicooker or a pressure cooker-multicooker - which is better? You can give a more or less objective answer to this question if you compare their characteristics. Let's take a closer look at them in this article.

How do appliances work?

The impact on products placed in these two devices is different:

• For a conventional multicooker, this is the temperature.
• Cooking in a pressure cooker takes place under the combined influence of temperature and high pressure.

Both devices have special valves. At the same time, valve devices are fundamentally different:

1. The valve on the multicooker is designed to release excess steam. This valve is constantly open, so there is no increase in pressure inside the device.
2. The pressure cooker is equipped with two valves. Their task is to ensure tightness and safety. During cooking, the operating valve is closed. Due to this, the device supports high pressure pair. If created overpressure, the valve opens slightly and steam partially escapes through the hole formed. The second, safety valve is designed to fix the lid and release steam if there is a problem with the working valve.

Important! Do you want to buy a really high-quality, reliable device that you will use with pleasure every day? You don't have to waste your time searching for information about different models on thematic forums and online stores, because we have already completed this work for you. Follow the link for an overview of the pros, cons, features.

What is the difference between a multicooker and a pressure cooker, which is better?

Cooking speed

An electric pressure cooker, as it is called, copes with cooking more quickly. However, this does not take into account the pressure build-up time. In addition, time is also spent on relieving pressure. Only then can the result be evaluated.

Undoubtedly, she has an advantage when you need to cook a “long-playing” dish: lobio, aspic. For example, it will take about 3 hours to cook jelly in it, while on conventional stove- almost half a day.

Important! If we are talking only about heating a dish or cooking on hastily, it is unlikely that it will be possible to gain time.

Functional

In terms of the number of working programs, a conventional multicooker clearly outperforms a combined device. An exception to this rule are pressure cookers equipped with the “Multi-cook” mode. This mode allows you to set the desired cooking parameters bypassing the automation.

However, there are modes that combine both devices. For example, the baking function is available in both devices. At the same time, intensive vaporization does not occur, and it is not necessary. If the pressure cooker does not have a special function, then you can quite successfully use the “soup” mode.

Important! In some models of electric pressure cookers, there is also a frying mode. In order for the steam to escape freely, it is necessary to fry food with the lid open or with the operating valve raised.

Ease of use

If you have not used any of these devices before, then it is probably easier to get comfortable with a conventional multicooker to begin with. The pressure cooker is somewhat more difficult to operate. Sometimes experts recommend purchasing both devices at once, using an electric pressure cooker if necessary.

Important! As for the cooking itself, the multicooker lid can be opened at any time to control the cooking process. Doing the same with a pressure cooker is not worth it. By opening the lid, you release the steam pressure, and the whole effect fast food comes to naught.

food quality

The design features of both devices are such that beneficial features products are saved. In addition, external attractiveness and natural flavor ingredients. However, the pressure cooker has a certain advantage: food cooked faster is considered healthier.

economy

Compared to a pressure cooker, a multicooker is cheaper. As for energy consumption, this is an individual indicator, and depends on the power specific model.

Find N differences

So what are individual characteristics of both devices, a multicooker or a pressure cooker-multicooker - which is better?

1. Cooking in a slow cooker is slow, like in a Russian oven. This cooking technology can be called “languishing”. Cooking in an electric pressure cooker is much faster, but steam is injected within 15 minutes from turning on the device. Therefore, it is not advisable to use a pressure cooker for fast food.
2. In terms of functionality, the multicooker wins. It is suitable for preparing the most different dishes— from borscht and soups to pastries. The capabilities of most models of pressure cookers in this regard are much poorer.
3. Using a slow cooker, you have the ability to control the preparation of food. You can't do this with a pressure cooker. But when cooking products such as beef, peas or beans, the electric pressure cooker is unbeatable. What cooks in a pressure cooker in twenty minutes, languishes in a slow cooker for hours.
4. In terms of safety, the multicooker has advantages. The pressure cooker, if mishandled, can cause serious injury.
5. cost factor. A good electric pressure cooker is much more expensive than a conventional multicooker, and it is much more difficult to purchase it.
6. As for the choice of design, multicookers are represented by a huge number of models. Choose a device that fits into kitchen interior, much easier.