If you’re in the market for a pressure canner, it’s natural to feel daunted by the array of options available. Pricing, quality, and features can be overwhelming, making it difficult to determine which one is right for your canning needs. But fear not! In this post, we’ll guide you through the buying process, highlighting the key considerations to keep in mind as well as sharing our expert opinions on some of the top-performing pressure canners out there.
The 5 Best Pressure Canners
When it comes to pressure canners and cookers, there are several top-notch options available in the market. For instance, the Presto 01781 and All American 921 Canner Pressure Cooker stand out for their exceptional performance. The Power Pressure Cooker XL from Granite Ware is another popular choice among cooking enthusiasts. Additionally, the Mirro 92122A Polished Aluminum 5/10/15-PSI Pressure Cooker/Canner Cookware is a reliable option for those who want to cook and can simultaneously.
Our Top Pick for the Best Pressure Canner
We’re enthusiastic about our top recommendation, the All American 921 Canner Pressure Cooker, which offers a winning combination of versatility and safety. With this appliance, you’ll have the freedom to can your favorite recipes whenever the mood strikes, knowing that you’re doing so with confidence and peace of mind. If you’re interested in getting your hands on this exceptional pressure canner, we encourage you to check out the current pricing on Amazon.
Why Should You Can?
You Save Money
As the convenience of modern grocery stores has made it easier than ever to grab what we need on the go, the art of canning has begun to fade from memory. While it’s certainly convenient to simply pop into a store and pick up whatever our hearts desire, there’s something to be said for taking control of our food supply by growing our own and preserving the excess through canning.
By doing so, we can essentially turn what would otherwise be an expense into a tiny investment that yields a big payoff – in this case, delicious, affordable meals.
You Know What You Are Eating
When adopting a canning routine, one of the most significant advantages is the unparalleled control it offers over the ingredients that go into your food. Unlike commercial products with lengthy lists of unfamiliar components, home-canned goods allow you to gaze upon the labels and confidently recognize every item on them, free from confusing or unpronounceable terms.
You Know You Have Food
When it comes to securing a steady supply of fresh produce, many individuals turn to canning as a reliable method. Whether you’re simply stockpiling for the winter or embracing the prepper lifestyle, this preservation technique offers a unique combination of cost-effectiveness and self-sufficiency.
By growing your own food at a fraction of the market price, preserving it through canning, and having it readily available whenever needed, you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with being fully prepared.
Pressure Canner vs. Water Bath Canner
When considering the world of canning, two terms that often arise are ‘pressure canners’ and ‘water bath canners.’ While both serve as vessels for cooking and preserving food, there is a significant distinction between them. A water bath canner is essentially a large pot designed for boiling water, allowing for the safe preservation of high-acid foods like jellies, pickles, and most fruits. These products thrive in an environment where boiling point is reached.
On the other hand, pressure canners are designed to operate at higher temperatures and pressures, permitting the processing of lower-acid foods such as vegetables, meat, poultry, and more. The primary difference lies in their capacity to withstand elevated heat and pressure levels. In this sense, it’s crucial to understand that pressure canners hold a dual advantage: not only do they excel at high-temperature cooking but also they can accommodate both water bath and pressure cooking methods.
This versatility renders them an indispensable tool for those seeking to preserve a wide range of food types. In contrast, water bath canners are largely limited in their functionality, making them less versatile than pressure canners.
Choosing the Right Pressure Canner
Space
The size of the canner needed depends on the scale of your canning operations. While some may suffice with smaller 7-quart jars, others might require the capacity of up to 19-quart jars. The key consideration is the quantity you plan to process. Having a larger canner can significantly streamline the canning process, making it an attractive option for those with bigger families or those who aim to preserve a substantial portion of their annual food supply.
No Gaskets
When it comes to canning, gaskets can be a major source of frustration. If they become dislodged or fail to secure properly, it can impact your ability to build pressure in the canner. Moreover, gaskets on some canners may eventually warp and need replacement, which can be an added expense. To avoid these issues from the start, consider investing in newer canners that feature no-gasket designs, which provide a tighter seal and eliminate the need for future replacements.
Automatic Over-Pressure Release
Fear not the pressure canner! While it’s true that these devices do build up significant pressure, it’s important to note that modern pressure canners come equipped with an automatic over-pressure release mechanism. This means that if the pressure starts to get too high, a small flap will open automatically, releasing the excess pressure and preventing any potential issues. This feature is a valuable safety net for home cooks and canners.
5 Best Pressure Canners – Reviews
Presto 01781 Pressure Canner and Cooker
The Presto 01781 Pressure Canner and Cooker is available in two sizes, a 23-quart model that accommodates 14-quart jars, as well as a smaller 7-quart variant. Constructed from warp-resistant heavy-gauge aluminum, this canner ensures even heat distribution throughout its entire surface, facilitating faster pressure buildup. This robust design, coupled with a reasonable price point, makes the Presto 01781 an attractive option for home canners.
On the plus side, it features a 12-year limited warranty, providing peace of mind in case any repairs or replacements are needed. Additionally, the two size options enable faster canning processes. However, one notable drawback is the lack of a jiggler, which some users might miss. Nevertheless, this absence allows for a more intuitive monitoring of pressure buildup without constant hovering over the canner.
All American 921 Canner Pressure Cooker
The All American 921 Canner Pressure Cooker is an exceptional product that caters to various canning needs. It comes with a range of sizes, from 10.5-quarts to 41.5-quarts, ensuring a perfect fit for most users. Its innovative metal-to-metal seal eliminates the need for gaskets, resulting in a tighter seal and reduced maintenance over time.
This canner also boasts an automatic over-pressure release, providing an added layer of safety and peace of mind during the canning process.
Furthermore, it can hold pressures ranging from 5 to 15 PSI, making it suitable for a wide range of recipes.
On the plus side, this product features a reliable safety release mechanism when excessive pressure builds up, offers various size options, eliminates the need for gaskets, and provides adjustable pressure settings. However, its premium price tag may not be feasible for everyone.
Granite Ware Pressure Canner/Cooker/Steamer
The Granite Ware Pressure Canner/Cooker/Steamer stands out for its simplicity, featuring a 3-piece pressure regulatory system that ensures safe and reliable operation. The set also includes a canning rack and steamer, providing users with added versatility. One of its most appealing aspects is the availability of two size options: the 12-quart model or the larger 20-quart version.
The latter accommodates up to 7-quart jars, 8-pint jars, or 24 half-pint jars, while the smaller option holds 4-quart jars, 7-pint jars, and 8 half-pint jars. This basic canner is an excellent choice for those seeking a straightforward, budget-friendly solution. On the plus side, it offers great value, a reasonable price point that suits most budgets, and includes the necessary canning rack.
Additionally, the device utilizes a jiggler over-pressure gauge, allowing users to audibly detect any pressure issues. While some may view its reliance on gaskets as a drawback, this canner remains an attractive option for those seeking a dependable, entry-level model.
Power Pressure Cooker XL
The Power Pressure Cooker XL is an unconventional pressure cooker that excels at smaller tasks, yet offers more functionality than its average counterpart. This compact canner boasts a multitude of uses, including pressure cooking, canning, rice cooking, soup making, and steaming. It’s also available in two other sizes: 8-quarts or 10-quarts, catering to varying needs. The device features a manual steam release mechanism and dishwasher-safe parts for effortless cleaning.
Its versatility, ease of use, and practicality are its notable strengths.
The downsides include the limited capacity, which may impact canning efficiency, resulting in a higher price tag compared to larger models. Nevertheless, this pressure cooker’s overall value lies in its ability to efficiently manage smaller batches with relative ease.
Mirro 92122A Polished Aluminum 5 / 10/ 15-PSI Pressure Cooker/Canner Cookware
While the Mirro 92122A may appear straightforward at first glance, it packs some impressive features under its polished aluminum exterior. The heavy-gauge metal construction ensures the pressure cooker/canner is warp-proof and promotes even heating throughout the cooking process. This versatile cookware comes in two practical sizes: a 16-quart model that can accommodate five-quart jars, and a larger 22-quart option that can hold multiple five-quart jars simultaneously.
The 5-10-15 PSI pressure canner capability allows for greater control over the canning process. What’s more, the Mirro 92122A boasts an overpressure release option and a sure-locking lid system to guarantee safe pressure canning. And with a 10-year limited warranty, you can trust this kitchen essential will remain a reliable companion for years to come.
On the plus side, the cookware offers excellent value for its price point, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a reliable pressure cooker/canner. However, one potential drawback is that it may not hold as many jars as some users might prefer.
Our Top Pick for the Best Pressure Canner
The top pressure canner in our lineup is undoubtedly the All American 921 Pressure Canner, a highly versatile and safe option for all your canning needs. With this appliance, you’ll have the freedom to can any food item at your convenience, without compromising on safety standards. You can check the current price of this product on Amazon.
