A trivet is a very important accessory for pressure cooking. They are usually made of metal and have spikes or feet that lift them off the surface. You may not have a trivet available when using a pressure cooker, so what can you use instead?
In this blog post, we will explore some alternatives to the traditional trivet you can use in pressure cookers. Keep reading to learn about them.
Trivets in Pressure Cookers and Their Uses
A trivet is a heatproof metal platform with short legs to support a hot dish during cooking or serving. It keeps the hot dish from coming into direct contact with the surface, which can cause it to stick or become damaged.
A trivet acts as a support system for your food while cooking in pressure cookers. It helps to keep your food elevated from the bottom of the pot, which can cause burning or sticking. It also allows you to cook multiple items at once without touching each other.
A trivet is placed inside the pot to lift the cooking vessel off the bottom when using a pressure cooker. This allows for even heating and prevents scorching. Furthermore, it allows hot air and steam to circulate in the pot for more even cooking.
Pressure Cooker Trivet Substitutes
If you are looking for an alternative to the traditional trivet, there are several options that you can use in pressure cookers. Let’s have a look at some of the most easy and safe options:
1. Metal cooling racks
A metal cooling rack is an ideal substitute for trivets you can use in a pressure cooker. You can place it at the bottom of the pressure cooker pot to create a raised surface.
These racks are typically stainless steel or aluminum and have a series of crossbars that allow hot air to circulate. This is ideal for cooking multiple items at once.
2. Metal canning racks
Canning racks are designed to be used in pressure cookers. You can use them as a trivet. They usually have legs that lift them off the bottom of the pot. This allows for circulating hot air and steam around the food.
3. Metal steamer baskets
A steamer basket is another option you can use in place of a trivet. It is usually made of stainless steel and has a raised platform where the food can be placed on.
4. Stainless steel cookie cutters
You can use cookie cutters as a trivet to create a raised surface in the pressure cooking pot. This is ideal for cooking smaller items such as vegetables.
5. Aluminum foil balls
Aluminum foil can be used to create balls placed at the bottom of the pot. This will create a raised surface for the food to be cooked on.
6. A large metal lid from a jar
The lid from a large jar could be an alternative to a trivet. It is important to make sure that the lid is large enough not to touch the food.
7. Pennies
You can also use pennies at the bottom of the pot to create a raised surface. This is ideal for cooking smaller items such as vegetables.
8. Upside-down ceramic or stainless steel bowl
You can place a bowl upside down in the pot to create a raised surface. This is ideal for cooking larger items such as meats.
These are the most common substitutes you can use in place of a trivet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do pressure cookers come with a trivet?
Yes, most pressure cookers come with a trivet but not all of them do. So, if you do not have a trivet, you can use several household items as substitutes.
Some pressure cookers also come with a steamer basket. You can also use it as a trivet. This is ideal for cooking multiple items at once.
How to use a trivet in a pressure cooker?
Add the required amount of water to the pot then place the trivet at the bottom of the pot. Next, place your food on it. Finally, close the lid and cook according to the recipe instructions.
How to make a foil trivet?
First, take a sheet of aluminum foil and fold it into thirds to make a foil trivet. Next, roll it up into a coil. Then, shape it into a ring or ball. Finally, place it at the bottom of the pot. This will create a raised surface for keeping the vessel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a trivet is a very important accessory for pressure cooking. If you do not have a trivet available, there are many substitutes that you can use. Whatever you use, it should be food grade and heat resistant.
In addition, it is important to make sure that the trivet is secured in the pot and that the steam vents are clear before cooking. Do you have any other questions about pressure cookers or trivets? Let us know in the comments below.