Cuisinart CPC-900 Series - High Pressure Electric Multicooker Manual

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

When using electrical appliances, especially when children are present, basic safety precautions should always be taken, including the following:

1. Read all instructions.
2. Always attach plug to appliance first, before plugging into wall outlet. To disconnect, turn unit off, then remove plug from outlet.
3. Do not place the multicooker in a heated oven or on any stovetop.
4. Do not touch hot surfaces of multicooker. Use handles only.
5. This appliance should not be used by or near children or individuals with certain disabilities.
6. NEVER ATTEMPT TO OPEN LID WHILE THE UNIT IS OPERATING. Do not open the multicooker until the unit has cooled and all internal pressure has been released. If lid is difficult to rotate, this indicates that the cooker is still pressurized. Do not force it to open.
   Any pressure in the multicooker can be hazardous. See Instructions.
7. Extreme caution must be used when moving a multicooker containing hot liquids or foods.
8. Do not use the multicooker for other than its intended use.
9. This appliance cooks under pressure. Improper use may result in scalding injury. Make certain unit is properly closed before operating.
10. Do not fill unit over the Max Fill line (16 cups). When cooking foods that expand during cooking, such as dried vegetables, do not fill the unit more than 12 cups.
    NOTE: This includes legumes, beans, and grains. Overfilling may cause a risk of clogging the pressure limit valve and developing excess pressure.
11. To protect against electric shock, do not immerse cord, plugs, or outer vessel in water or other liquids.
12. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before putting on or removing parts.
13. Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug or after the appliance malfunctions or has been damaged in any manner. Return appliance to the nearest authorized service facility for examination, repair, or electrical or mechanical adjustment.
14. Do not let cord hang over edge of table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
15. Use of accessories not specifically recommended by Cuisinart may cause damage to unit.
16. Do not use outdoors.
17. Do not use under hanging cabinets; steam from pressure release may cause damage.
18. Be aware that certain foods, such as applesauce, cranberries, pearl barley, oatmeal and other cereals, split peas, noodles, macaroni, rhubarb, or spaghetti can foam, froth and sputter, and clog the pressure release devices. These foods should not be cooked in a multicooker.
    NOTE: Your Instruction Booklet may contain recipes that use the above ingredients. You must follow recipe exactly as written.
19. Always check the pressure release devices for clogging before use.
20. Do not use this multicooker for pressure frying oil.
21. Do not operate your appliance in an appliance garage or under a wall cabinet. When storing in an appliance garage, always unplug the unit from the electrical outlet. Not doing so could create a risk of fire, especially if the appliance touches the walls of the garage or the door touches the unit as it closes.
22. To prevent risk of explosion and injury, replace seal ring as recommended by the manufacturer. See Operating Instructions.
23. Intended for countertop use only.

Spilled food can cause serious burns. Keep appliance and cord away from children. Never drape cord over edge of counter, never use outlet below counter, and never use with an extension cord.

SPECIAL CORD SET INSTRUCTIONS

A short power-supply cord is used to reduce the risk resulting from it being grabbed by children, becoming entangled in, or tripping over a longer cord.

PARTS AND FEATURES

1. Pressure Limit Valve
2. Red Float Valve (Pressure Indicator)
3. Sealing Ring Assembly
4. Cooking Pot
5. Condensation Collector
6. Unit Handle
7. Outer Body
8. Heating Plate (not shown)
9. Base
10. Power Cord (not shown)
11. Steam Cover
12. Lid Handle
13. Lid
14. Rubber Grommet
15. Upper Ring
16. Control Panel
17. Trivet/Rack – Used for some recipes such as desserts. See Recipe Booklet.

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CONTROL PANEL

1. START/STOP Button
   Press to start and stop cooking.
2. Time Button
   Press to change the cooking time.
3. Steam Release Button
   Press and hold to automatically open the pressure release valve and release steam.
4. Temp/Pressure
   Press to change the cooking temperature or pressure setting.
5. Select and Confirm Dial
   Use to select cooking function. Set the temperature and the timer. Use dial to increase temperature or pressure setting and time, then press dial to confirm your settings.
6. Large LCD
   The backlit LCD screen is easy to read; it displays the Cooking Function(s), Temperature, Pressure Setting, Timer, Preheat, the Preheat Bars, Keep Warm, and Steam Release icon.

START-UP SCREEN

1. Cooking Functions
   Pressure cooking functions: Meat, Stew/Chili, Soup, Stock, Beans, Rice/Grains, Risotto, Custom, Steam.
   Non-Pressure cooking functions: Slow Cook, Reduce, Sauté/Brown, Keep Warm.
2. Time Display
   Timer keeps track of your cooking time. The time display will also indicate when the lid is open or closed incorrectly by displaying the word LID (see figure 1).
   
3. Pressure/Temperature Settings
   Low, High, and High+ pressure settings. Low and High temperature settings.
4. Pressure
   Indicates you are cooking with a pressure cooking function.
5. Temperature
   Indicates you are cooking with a non-pressure cooking function.
6. Preheat
   Appears in the LCD when the unit is preheating.
7. Preheat Bars
   Appear when, in temperature mode, to show heat-up progress. When pressure cooking, the preheat bars appear to show progress as pressure builds, and decrease as pressure is being released.
8. Keep Warm
   Appears when the cooking time is complete, on most functions, and the unit has entered Keep Warm mode. Can also be used to keep cooked food warm for serving.
9. Steam Release Icon
   Appears when the Steam Release button is pressed and steam is being released from the unit.

BEFORE FIRST USE

Remove any packing materials and promotional labels from your electric multicooker.

Be sure all parts have been included before discarding any packing materials. You may want to keep the box and packing materials for use at a later date.

Before using your Cuisinart^® Electric Multicooker for the first time, remove any dust from shipping by wiping clean with a damp cloth. Thoroughly clean the cooking pot and sealing ring assembly in the dishwasher or with warm, soapy water. Rinse, towel dry, or air-dry, and place in the multicooker.

1. Place the multicooker on a clean, flat surface.
2. Ensure the condensation collector in rear of the unit is in place.(figure 1)
   
3. Remove the Steam Cover (#11 on diagram). Ensure the pressure limit valve on the hinge area of the lid is in place, as shown in figure 2.
   NOTE: The pressure limit valve does not click or lock into place. Even though it will have a loose fit, it is safely secured.
   

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE

1. To open lid, grasp handle, turn counterclockwise. Lift to open the lid. The unit will beep two times when turning the handle and two times when the lid is raised.
2. Add food and liquids to the cooking pot as the recipe directs.
   NOTE: The total volume of food and liquid must not exceed 16 cups/Max Fill line of the cooking pot (figure 3). For foods such as dried vegetables and beans, or rice and grains, the total volume must not exceed 12 cups (figure 4).
   NOTE: Overfilling may clog the pressure limit valve, which can cause excess pressure to develop.
   Always use at least ½ cup liquid when pressure cooking.
   
3. If sealing ring assembly has been removed from lid, check to ensure flexible ring is securely in place on the metal plate. Then, holding the knob on the metal plate, place the assembly over the center post of inner lid and press down firmly to secure (figure 5).
   BE SURE KNOB FACES OUT.
   
4. To close the lid, remove any food residue from upper rim of cooking pot to ensure a proper seal. Lower the lid, then turn the lid handle clockwise to close into place (figure 6). The unit will beep two times when turning the handle and two times when the lid is lowered.
   NOTE: If the lid is not closed correctly, scalding may result. LID will appear flashing in the LCD and the unit will beep.
   
5. Position the pressure limit valve (located on hinge area of the lid) as directed in figure 2. The float in handle area must be fully down to properly seal the pot before cooking.

MULTICOOKER FUNCTIONS

Pressure Cooking Functions

1. Meat – This preset is programmed for larger pieces or chunks of meat, such as brisket and pork, as well as the perfect setting for cooking a whole chicken. The default is High+ pressure for 35 minutes, but High and Low pressures are available as well. The time is adjustable from 1 minute to 4 hours. In most cases Natural Pressure Release should be used. The Sauté/Brown function can be used to brown meats prior to cooking to add more flavor, and the Reduce function can be used to simmer the cooking liquid into a flavorful sauce after removing the meat from the cooking pot.
2. Stew/Chili – Whether cooking a hearty beef or lamb stew, or a flavorful ground turkey chili, this is the best setting to use. Be sure to use the Sauté/Brown function to brown the meat prior to cooking, especially if using ground meat. The default is High pressure for 30 minutes, but High+ and Low are available as well. The time is adjustable from 1 minute to 4 hours. In most cases Natural Pressure Release should be used.
3. Soup – This preset can be used to prepare very flavorful soups in a fraction of the time it takes to cook on the stovetop. Place the meat (if using), vegetables and other ingredients into the cooking pot, add enough liquid to cover. Most recipes will require High pressure, but Low and High+ are also available. The default cooking time is 10 minutes.
4. Stock – When preparing richer, longer-cooking stocks, use the Stock preset. This is for poultry, meat, and vegetable stocks. Expert Tip: Save vegetable scraps throughout the week (or month), wrap well and store in the freezer. When you're ready to make a stock, take out those scraps that would otherwise be headed for the garbage or compost, and instead use them to flavor a delicious stock. Add ingredients (bones, meat, vegetables, herbs) plus enough water to cover, being sure not to exceed the Maximum Fill line. The default is High pressure for 30 minutes, but both Low and High+ pressure are available. For richer stocks, cook for 1 hour 30 minutes. Always use Natural Pressure Release to achieve the best results.
5. Beans – This preset can be used to prepare dried beans quicker and tastier than on the stovetop or in the oven. Add beans and other ingredients to cooking pot. Add enough liquid to cover beans by one inch. The default is High pressure for 30 minutes, but be sure to use our Cooking Guide to select the best cooking time for the specific beans that are being prepared.
6. Rice/Grains – Cook a variety of rice and grains using this preset. Use the Cooking Guide to determine the appropriate amount of water, as well as cooking pressure and time. Most items use High pressure and Quick Pressure Release. The default is High pressure for 5 minutes.
7. Risotto – This preset offers a (mostly) hands-off approach to risotto. After using the Sauté/Brown function to sauté aromatics and toast the rice, the liquid is added, the lid is closed and, once under pressure, it is only 5 minutes to achieve perfect risotto. Use the Steam Release button to quickly release pressure to ensure the risotto stays nice and creamy. The default is High pressure and the time is 5 minutes.
8. Custom – This preset is to allow full flexibility when pressure cooking. This is perfect for foods that do not fit within the preset programs, such as vegetables, desserts, and other dishes. The default is Low pressure for 1 minute.
9. Steam – A unique program that allows you to steam foods while under pressure. This cuts down the cooking time of most steaming tasks, while retaining important nutrients. This setting only has one temperature, so it is not adjustable. The default time is 20 minutes, but it is adjustable from 1 minute to 2 hours. This program does NOT go into Keep Warm after cooking is complete.

Non-Pressure Cooking Functions

1. Slow Cook – Treat this program like you would any slow cook. It has the option to cook with a Low or High slow-cook temperature, with a timing of 30 minutes to 20 hours. When using the Low temperature, cooking times will usually be on the higher side, 8 to 20 hours. When using the High temperature, cooking times are shorter, usually 2 to 6 hours. The default for this program is High for 4 hours. NOTE: In some rare cases, pressure can build in the unit while using the Slow Cook function. If pressure does build during Slow Cook, simply press the Steam Release button to release pressure.
2. Reduce – This program is primarily used at the end of a pressure cooking or slow cooking task to thicken sauces and reduce liquids. It can also be used to thicken a soup. There is only one temperature and it is not adjustable. The default time is 10 minutes, but is adjustable from 1 minute up to 2 hours.
3. Sauté/Brown – Sometimes recipes call for sautéing vegetables and aromatics before cooking, and other times you may want to brown meat before pressure cooking. This program has both of those options. There are two temperatures, Low for sautéing and High for browning. There is a timer, but unlike other programs, it does not need to be programmed. Sautéing/Browning reduces the time it takes full pressure to build and pressure cooking to begin. This program is to be used without closing the lid. NOTE: Use a wooden spoon to scrape up brown bits. DO NOT use metal utensils.
4. Automatic Keep Warm – All cooking functions, except for Steam, Reduce and Sauté/Brown will automatically go into a Keep Warm program, but this can also be used separately to keep already hot foods warm for serving. This program is NOT to be used to reheat foods. There is one temperature, it is not adjustable, and can be programmed between 30 minutes and 4 hours.

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Plug your multicooker into an electrical outlet.

The LCD will illuminate.

Select Cooking Function:
With the unit turned on and the LCD displayed, rotate the Select and Confirm dial to select the desired cooking function. The function will flash. To confirm the cooking function, press the Select and Confirm dial. The selected function is now confirmed and no longer flashing.
Once the cooking function is confirmed, the START/ STOP, TIME and TEMP/PRESSURE buttons will flash.
At this time you can start cooking by pressing the START/STOP button or change the default temperature and time.

Set Temperature:
Each cooking function has a default cooking temperature (Low, High) or pressure setting (Low, High, and High+). To change the default temperature or pressure setting, press the TEMP/PRESSURE button. The default temperature will flash. Rotate the Select and Confirm dial to the desired temperature / pressure setting. To confirm the temperature / pressure setting, press the Select and Confirm dial.

Set Time:
Each cooking function has a default cooking time.
To change the default time, press the TIME button. The default time will flash. Rotate the Select and Confirm dial to increase or decrease the time.
To confirm the time, press the Select and Confirm dial.
Once you have confirmed the cooking function, temperature and time, press the START/STOP button to begin cooking. The first preheat bar and the word Preheat will appear in the LCD. NOTE: Preheat and the preheat bars will not appear for Slow Cook, Steam, Reduce or Sauté/Brown.

Changing Settings:
To change any of your settings (cooking function, temperature and time) at any time during use, follow these instructions.

To change the Cooking Function – Press and hold the START/STOP button. Rotate the Select and Confirm dial to select the desired cooking function. The function will flash. To confirm the cooking function, press the Select and Confirm dial. The selected function is now confirmed and no longer flashing. Press the START/STOP button to continue cooking.

To change the Temperature – Press and hold the TEMP/PRESSURE button until the current temperature begins to flash. Rotate the Select and Confirm dial to the desired temperature / pressure setting. The temperature will flash. To confirm the temperature / pressure setting, press the Select and Confirm dial, and the unit will continue cooking.

To change the Time – Press and hold the TIME button until the current time begins to flash. Rotate the Select and Confirm dial to the desired time setting. The time will flash. To confirm the time setting, press the Select and Confirm dial, and the unit will continue cooking.
To stop cooking and return to the start-up screen, press and hold the START/STOP button.

YOU SHOULD NEVER ATTEMPT TO OPEN THE LID WHILE PRESSURE COOKING.

NOTE: During pressure cooking, when the unit has reached full pressure, it is normal to see a small gap between the lid and the housing.

KEEP WARM

Automatic Keep Warm Feature
When timer reaches 00:00, the multicooker automatically shifts to Keep Warm mode. Keep Warm will appear in the LCD and unit will beep 4 times to indicate cooking is complete. The timer will count up to show how long the unit has been in Keep Warm.

Independent Keep Warm Feature
Use to keep cooked food warm for serving.

1. Open the lid and place prepared hot ingredients into the cooking pot to be kept warm.
2. Close the lid. NOTE: There is no need to rotate lid to the closed position.
3. Power on the unit.
4. Rotate the Select and Confirm dial until Keep Warm is flashing. Press the Select and Confirm dial to confirm, then press the START/STOP button to start Keep Warm.
5. To adjust the 2-hour default Keep Warm time, press the TIME button and use the Select and Confirm dial to adjust time from 30 minutes up to 4 hours. Press the Select and Confirm dial to confirm the desired time, then press the START/STOP button to start Keep Warm. Timer will begin counting down.
   NOTE: Keep Warm time can be adjusted at any time by repeating step 5.
   NOTE: The Keep Warm setting should not be used for more than 12 hours. The quality or texture of the food will begin to change after 1 hour on Keep Warm. In the Keep Warm setting, a little condensation in the upper ring is normal.

PRESSURE RELEASE

To Open the Lid

When pressure cooking cycle is finished, the unit will automatically switch to the Keep Warm mode. At this point, you may choose to release pressure in one of three ways – Natural Pressure Release, Quick Pressure Release, or a combination of both. The choice will be dictated by the particular food being cooked and indications in the recipe. If adapting your own recipe for pressure cooking, find a similar recipe in our recipe booklet and use that as a guide.

1. Natural Pressure Release – Allow the unit to remain on Keep Warm. The pressure will begin to drop – time for pressure to drop will depend on the amount of liquid in the multicooker and the length of time that pressure was maintained. As pressure is being released, the preheat bars will count down. Natural Pressure Release could take from 20 to 80 minutes. During this time, cooking continues, so it is not recommended for certain cuts of meats and some desserts. When pressure is fully released, the unit will beep once, all preheat bars will disappear from the screen and the lid will unlock to open.
2. Quick Pressure Release – Following pressure cooking you will hear 4 beeps indicating the process is finished. Press and hold the Steam Release button. The Steam Release icon will appear in the LCD and steam will immediately begin to release through the hinge area of the lid. Keep face and hands away from steam as it is released. Do not release pressure under hanging cabinets, which can be damaged by steam. As pressure is being released, the preheat bars will count down. When pressure is fully released, the unit will beep once and all preheat bars will disappear from the screen, the pressure indicator will drop and the lid will unlock to open. Using Quick Pressure Release stops the pressure cooking immediately. If further cooking is necessary, the unit may be returned to Pressure.
3. Combination Natural Pressure Release and Quick Pressure Release – Some recipes use a combination of Natural Pressure Release and Quick Pressure Release. Allow Natural Pressure Release for the time indicated in the recipe (food will continue to cook slightly), followed by Quick Pressure Release.

SAFETY FEATURES

There are six safety devices installed in the multicooker to assure its reliability.

1. Open-and-Close Lid Safety Device
   The appliance will not start pressurizing until the lid is closed and locked properly. The lid cannot be opened if the appliance is filled with pressure.
2. Pressure Control Device
   The correct pressure level is automatically maintained during the cooking cycle.
3. Pressure Limit Valve
   The pressure limit valve will release air automatically when the pressure inside exceeds the preset temperature. NOTE: Overfilling the multicooker (see Instructions for Use) may clog the pressure limit valve, which can cause excess pressure to develop.
4. Pressure Relief Device
   When the multicooker reaches the maximum allowable pressure and temperature, the cooking pot will move down until lid separates from the sealing ring, releasing air pressure.
5. Thermal Control
   The power will automatically shut off when the cooking pot temperature reaches the preset value, or the multicooker is heating without any food inside.
6. Thermal Fuse
   The circuit will be opened when the multicooker reaches the maximum temperature.

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE

1. Unplug the power cord before cleaning.
2. Clean the outer body with a soft cloth, such as a paper towel or microfiber cloth. Do not immerse the outer body in water or pour water into it.
3. Remove the sealing ring assembly from the inside of the lid by grasping the knob and pulling. Set aside.
4. Ensure red float valve is clean and moves freely.
5. Remove the Steam Cover and then the pressure limit valve (figure 7) by gripping and pulling firmly upward. Rinse with warm water and dry.
   
6. Clean the upper and underside of the lid with a cloth and warm water, including all areas on the underside. Dry completely, and replace pressure limit valve.
7. To clean sealing ring assembly, carefully remove flexible sealing ring and clean in the dishwasher or with a dampened cloth or microfiber cloth. Do not use chemical cleaners. Wash metal plate in the dishwasher or with warm water, dry thoroughly and replace sealing ring.
8. To clean the rubber grommet in center of sealing ring assembly, carefully remove it, clean it, and replace it.
9. Replace sealing ring assembly in lid. BE SURE KNOB FACES OUT (figure 8).
   
10. Cooking pot is dishwasher safe. To hand-clean the pot, use a soft cloth or sponge and wipe. Be careful not to damage the inside coating. Never use harsh chemicals or scouring pads.
11. To clean the condensation collector, remove and clean it with warm, soapy water, then reinstall it (figure 9).
    
12. Any other servicing should be performed by an authorized service representative.
    NOTE: If scouring is necessary, use a nonabrasive cleaner or liquid detergent with nylon pad or brush.

TROUBLESHOOTING