Presto Pressure Canner and Cooker, 23 qt, Silver

The USDA recommends pressure canning as the sole safe method for low-acid foods such as vegetables, meats, and poultry. The Presto 23-quart pressure canner is more than adequate for any home canning needs, serving as a professional-quality tool constructed of heavy-duty aluminum with stay-cool handles and a strong-lock steel lid.

This pressure canner can also double as a large capacity pressure cooker, making it a versatile kitchen appliance. An accompanying rack fits down into the pot to keep jars up off the bottom, allowing liquid to circulate underneath. Pressure cooking is an efficient way to cook, as it retains more nutrients and flavour in the food.

The sturdy lid locks down during canning or cooking, with an inner sealing ring to keep the steam in. Safety features include a pop-up pressure indicator, a simple steam release mechanism, and an overpressure plug that will release steam if it builds up excessively. The accurate pressure dial gauge ensures pressure can be kept constant during the canning process, which is especially important at higher altitudes.

In addition to canning, this pressure cooker is useful for weeknight dinners or any meal that needs to come together quickly. An included booklet provides over 50 recipes, ranging from basic soup stocks to stews, pot roasts, and even sweets like English Plum Pudding or Brown Bread. Tougher cuts of meat can be tenderized, and chicken, fish, or vegetables can be cooked faster than in a microwave, without losing moisture.

Cleaning the Presto 23-quart pressure canner is straightforward, with nonabrasive cleansers recommended for the aluminum body. The lid is not fully immersible, and the sealing ring should be removed after each use to allow cleaning of the inside rim. The delicate dial gauge requires careful attention, as outlined in the instruction booklet.

At 14 inches in diameter (17 inches including handles) and 15-1/2 inches tall, this pressure canner is a substantial appliance. However, its extended 12-year warranty and included canning/cooking rack, instruction manual, and recipe book make it a valuable investment for home cooks and canners. The large capacity is great for big canning jobs, with a mason jar capacity of 26 half-pints, 20 pints, or 7 quarts.

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