Painekeitin

Painekeitin is a Finnish term that translates to "pressure cooker" in English. It is a kitchen utensil that cooks food quickly under high pressure. This is achieved by sealing a pot with a lid that locks tightly, preventing steam from escaping. As the liquid inside heats up, it turns to steam, increasing the pressure within the pot. This elevated pressure raises the boiling point of water, allowing food to cook at a higher temperature and therefore much faster than in conventional cooking methods.

The increased pressure also helps to tenderize tougher cuts of meat and can reduce cooking times for items like beans and grains significantly. Modern painekeittimet often feature safety valves to prevent over-pressurization and may be made of stainless steel or aluminum. They are widely used in Finnish households for their efficiency and ability to preserve nutrients in food due to the shorter cooking times. The use of a painekeitin can also lead to energy savings as meals are prepared more quickly. They are a common and practical tool in many kitchens, valued for their speed and effectiveness.