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Tools Required: #2 Phillips screwdriver
Parts Included: 4 Legs, 2 Handles
This versatile electric multi-cooker braises, steams, boils, deep fries, and more. It is also great for making soups, stews, and desserts.
Before using the multi-cooker for the first time, become familiar with the various parts (Fig. D), read the instructions carefully, and wash it according to the "Care and Cleaning" instructions.
Fig. D
NOTICE: This appliance is not intended to melt wax, gels, plastics, or other materials for making candles or for other hobbyist activities or in any commercial or business application. Using this appliance for purposes different from those specified in the instruction manual may cause damage to the appliance and will void the warranty.
NOTICE: Avoid using no-stick cooking sprays as they may cause the cooking surface to become tacky. In addition, use heat-resistant nylon, plastic, wooden, or rubber utensils to turn, stir, or remove food when not using the basket. Do not use metal utensils as they may scratch the nonstick surface.
Your Options ™ multi-cooker/steamer is truly versatile as you can prepare soups and stews, steam vegetables and seafood, and even deep fry in it. Because this multi-cooker does so many things, this book first provides a general overview of how to use, clean, and care for it and then specific sections on the various cooking methods available to you. Detailed instructions and recipes can be found below.
The multi-cooker may be washed in the dishwasher or by hand. Remove the heat control before cleaning the appliance.
NOTICE: If you choose to wash the multi-cooker in the dishwasher, the basket and the bottom of the multi-cooker will likely discolor due to the caustic nature of the dishwasher detergent. In addition, a gray residue may form on the outside bottom of the multi-cooker which can transfer to towels or to skin.
When washing by hand, use warm, soapy water and rinse and dry thoroughly. Clean the nonstick base with a non-metal cleaning pad, such as Scotch-Brite* Multi-Purpose Scrub Sponge or Scotch-Brite* Dobie* Cleaning Pad. Firm pressure can be applied, if necessary.
*Scotch-Brite and Dobie are registered trademarks of 3M Company. Presto is not affiliated with 3M Company.
Soaking the multi-cooker to loosen food residue is not necessary. If, however, soaking the multi-cooker is desired, do not soak for more than two hours. Soaking for more than two hours may damage the nonstick finish.
Do not use steel wool or abrasive kitchen cleaners. Do not immerse Control Master® heat control or magnetic cord in water or let either come in contact with any liquid.
In time, the nonstick finish may darken over the heating element. To remove this discoloration, use a solution of two tablespoons of automatic dishwasher detergent powder and two cups of water. Bring the water to a boil in the multi-cooker and then reduce the heat to simmer level (between WARM and 200º) by turning the heat control down until the pilot light goes out. Slowly stir in the dishwasher detergent. Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
Drain the solution and wash the multi-cooker in warm, soapy water. Rinse and dry thoroughly. After treating the multi-cooker, it is recommended that the cooking surface be wiped lightly with vegetable oil before the next use.
Periodically check the screws on the handles and legs for looseness. Retighten, if necessary, with a Phillips screwdriver.
NOTICE: Continuing to tighten, once secure, can result in the stripping of screws or the cracking of handles and legs.
Any maintenance required for this appliance, other than normal household care and cleaning, should be performed by the Presto Factory Service Department.
The glass cover may break for no apparent reason if you fail to follow these instructions. Broken glass can cause personal injury or property damage.
Handle the cover carefully. Do not scrape or gouge the glass with hard or sharp utensils. Do not handle a hot cover with a wet towel or place it on a cold or wet surface. Sudden, extreme changes in temperature may cause glass to break. Do not use cover if it is chipped or cracked. Avoid rough handling in use and storage.
Keep the cover clean. Allow cover to cool before washing. This cover is dishwasher safe. Do not use steel wool cleaning pads or abrasive powders which can scratch or weaken the glass. Nonabrasive pads or powders may be used if necessary.
The multi-cooker makes preparing your favorite soups and stews so easy. In your multi-cooker, foods will simmer at some point between WARM and 200°. Heat the multi-cooker at 250° until the food boils. Then place cover on multi-cooker and reduce the heat to the simmer level by turning the heat control down until the pilot light goes out.
6 to 8 servings
1½ tablespoons vegetable oil
2 pounds beef soup meat
8 cups water
1 cup sliced onion
1 cup celery, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup carrot, cut into 1-inch pieces
½ tablespoon parsley flakes
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon pepper
Preheat multi-cooker at 375°. Add oil and brown meat. Add water, onion, celery, carrot, parsley, bay leaf, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
Turn heat control down until pilot light goes out. Cover and simmer 2 to 3 hours. Strain stock
Vegetable Soup: Add 2 cups cooked, diced vegetables of your choice. Salt and pepper to taste and heat through.
Beef Tomato Soup: Add 2 cups tomato juice, ¾ cup rice, ½ cup chopped onion, and 1 teaspoon salt. Cover and simmer 30 minutes or until rice is done.
6 to 8 servings
1½ tablespoons vegetable oil
2 pounds beef stew meat
4 cups beef stock or broth
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
1 small onion, diced
3 carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 cup peas
1 cup sliced celery
Preheat multi-cooker at 375°. Add oil and brown meat. Add stock, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil. Turn heat control down until pilot light goes out. Cover and simmer 1 to 2 hours. Add onions, carrots, mushrooms, peas, and celery. Cover and simmer 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender. If desired, thicken with a paste made of cornstarch and water.
8 to 10 servings
3 cups beef stock or broth
1½ cups tomato juice
4 ounces beef soup meat
4 ounces sausage
2 cups shredded cabbage
¾ cup chopped onion
¾ cup sliced carrot
¾ cup green beans
½ cup sliced celery 1
can (14- to 15-ounce) diced tomatoes
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 can (14- to 15-ounce) cannelloni or navy beans, drained
1 ounce spaghetti, broken in half
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Add beef stock, tomato juice, soup meat, sausage, cabbage, onion, carrots, green beans, celery, tomatoes, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to multi-cooker. Set heat control at 250° and bring to a boil. Turn heat control down until pilot light goes out. Cover and cook for 30 minutes. Add beans and spaghetti; cook until spaghetti is tender, about 20 minutes. Top with Parmesan with cheese.
4 servings
1 cup dry great northern beans
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into ¾-inch pieces
½ cup chopped onion
½ cup sliced carrot
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded, minced
4 cups chicken stock or broth
1½ teaspoons packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon ground allspice
Clean and rinse beans. Soak beans overnight in 4 cups of water or by using the quick soak method. To soak beans using quick method, place beans in multi-cooker and cover with 4 cups of water. Set heat control at 250° and bring to a boil. Boil for 1 to 2 minutes and then turn off heat control. Cover, and let stand for at least 1 hour. Drain off soaking water and remove beans. Dry multi-cooker.
Preheat multi-cooker at 375°. Add oil and brown chicken. Add onion, carrot, garlic, and jalapeño; sauté 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in beans, chicken stock, brown sugar, vinegar, chili powder, oregano, and allspice. Bring to a boil. Turn heat control down until pilot light goes out. Cover and simmer until beans are tender, about 1 hour.
6 servings
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
½ cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped red pepper
1 can chopped green chilies
2 tablespoons flour
½ teaspoon cumin
2 cups chicken stock or broth
2 cups peeled, cubed red potatoes
2 cups frozen whole kernel corn, thawed
1 cup low-fat milk
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
Preheat multi-cooker at 350°. Add oil and sauté onion, pepper, and chilies 2 minutes or until tender. Stir in the flour and the cumin; cook 1 minute. Add stock and potatoes; bring to a boil. Turn heat control down until pilot light goes out. Cover and simmer 10 minutes or until potatoes are tender and liquid is thickened. Add corn, milk, salt, and pepper; cook 5 minutes or until heated through.
6 servings
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 green bell pepper, cut into ¾-inch pieces
1 red bell pepper, cut into ¾-inch pieces
1 jalapeño pepper, chopped
1 cup coarsely chopped purple onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14- to 15-ounce) pinto beans
1 can (14- to 15-ounce) stewed tomatoes
1 cup whole kernel corn
1 cup salsa, desired level of spiciness
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons ground cumin
½ teaspoon salt Fresh cilantro (optional)
Preheat multi-cooker at 375°. Add oil and brown chicken. Add peppers, onion, and garlic and cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Add beans, tomatoes, corn, salsa, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Bring to a boil. Turn heat control down until pilot light goes out. Cover and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
6 to 8 servings
1 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ginger
⅛ teaspoon pepper
1 (2- to 3-pound) beef pot or chuck roast 1
tablespoon vegetable oil
½ cup brown sugar
1 cup red wine
1 cup water
2 small onions, sliced
1 clove garlic, minced
4 bay leaves
Combine nutmeg, cinnamon, salt, ginger, and pepper; rub into all surfaces of the meat. Preheat multi-cooker at 375°. Add oil and brown meat. Dissolve brown sugar in wine and water and pour into multi-cooker. Add onions, garlic, and bay leaves. Bring liquid to a boil. Turn heat control down until pilot light goes out. Cover and simmer 1 to 3 hours or until tender.
Braise your favorite piece of meat or poultry. Combine the following ingredients, picking ones with compatible flavors. Figure two to four servings per pound of meat or poultry.
Start with 1½ to 3 pounds of beef, pork, or poultry.
Blade Roast Boston Butt Brisket Chuck Roast | English Cut Flank Steak Fore Shank Pot Roast | Rib Roast Round Roast Rump Roast (boneless) Rump Roast (standing) | Sirloin Roast Turkey Breast Whole Chicken |
Preheat multi-cooker at 375°. Brown meat in vegetable oil.
Add up to a total of 2 cups of any of these liquids.
Beer Broth | Carbonated Beverage Coffee | Fruit Juice Red Wine | Tomato Juice Water |
Add a pinch or two of spices of your choice.
Basil Bay Leaf Celery Dill | Dry Soup Mix Garlic Marjoram Mustard | Onion Oregano Pepper Rosemary | Sage Salt Thyme |
Bring liquid to a boil and then turn heat control down until pilot light goes out. Cover and simmer 1 to 3 hours or until tender. Add additional liquid as necessary.
Place one to two cups of water, wine, or herb-flavored broth into multi-cooker. Set heat control at 250°. Remove handle from basket.
Place one layer of fish fillets in basket and, using tongs, attach basket to multi-cooker rim with steam hook. Cover and steam 5 to 10 minutes or until the fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.
Place two cups water in the multi-cooker. Set heat control at 250°. Remove handle from basket. Place vegetables in basket and, using tongs, attach basket to rim of the multi-cooker with steam hook. Cover and steam as indicated below. Steaming time begins once water starts to boil. Add additional water as necessary.
Type of Vegetable | Steaming Time |
Asparagus, thin spears | 3–4 minutes |
Asparagus, thick spears | 4–5 minutes |
Beans, whole | 7–8 minutes |
Beans, 1-inch pieces | 7–8 minutes |
Beets, 2½- to 3-inch diameter | 35–40 minutes |
Broccoli, spears | 5–7 minutes |
Broccoli, florets | 5–7 minutes |
Brussels Sprouts, 1- to 1½-inch diameter | 9–11 minutes |
Cabbage, 2-inch wedges | 15–20 minutes |
Carrots, whole | 18–22 minutes |
Carrots, ¼-inch slices | 6–7 minutes |
Carrots, baby-cut | 11–14 minutes |
Cauliflower, whole head | 18–20 minutes |
Cauliflower, florets | 7–9 minutes |
Corn, on cob | 10–15 minutes |
Kale, cut into strips | 6–7 minutes |
Parsnips, ¼-inch slices | 6–7 minutes |
Potatoes (white), small (1 to 2 ounces each) whole | 13–15 minutes |
Potatoes (white), medium, quartered | 13–15 minutes |
Potatoes (sweet), 1-inch slices | 17–19 minutes |
Rutabaga, ¾- to 1-inch slices | 20–22 minutes |
Spinach, whole leaves | 3–4 minutes |
Squash (yellow, crookneck, zucchini), ¼-inch slices | 5–7 minutes |
Turnips, ¾- to 1-inch slices | 10–12 minutes |
Following package directions, place water and salt into multi-cooker. Set heat control at 250°. Bring water to a rolling boil. Add pasta gradually so that the boiling is not disturbed. Continue to boil uncovered until pasta is tender. Drain. Basket may be used for draining cooked pasta.
Place two cups rice, one teaspoon salt (optional), and specified amount of water in multi-cooker. Set heat control at 250°. Cover and bring to a vigorous boil, stirring once. Turn heat control down until pilot light goes out and simmer for the specified amount of time. Turn heat control to OFF and let stand, covered, for five minutes. Fluff with fork.
Type | Liquid | Cooking Time |
White, long-grain | 4 cups | 15–18 minutes |
White, medium-grain | 3½ cups | 15–18 minutes |
White, short-grain | 3½ cups | 18–23 minutes |
Brown | 4 cups | 45–50 minutes |
When using the multi-cooker for deep frying, you will need to attach the handle to the basket as instructed. Prior to each use, make sure the lock bar on the basket handle is in the down (locked) position; see Fig. C.
After frying foods, allow the oil to cool. To strain oil for reuse, place a funnel into the original oil container or other airtight container and line the funnel with a filter or a double thickness of cheesecloth. Slowly pour the oil into funnel. Store the oil in a cool, dark area.
The number of times the oil can be reused will depend on the type of oil used and the food that is fried in it. For example, the oil will need to be replaced more often if fish or food coated with bread or cracker crumbs is fried frequently. Replace the oil if it is dark in color, has an unpleasant odor, smokes when heated, or foams excessively during frying.
Type of Food | Frying Time |
Chicken, raw, breaded | 13–18 minutes |
Fish, raw, battered or breaded | 3–4 minutes |
Fish, frozen | 7–8 minutes |
French fries, frozen | 11–12 minutes |
French fries, homemade (see recipe) | 10–12 minutes |
Onion rings, frozen | 2–3 minutes |
Onion rings, raw, battered | 1½–2½ minutes |
Shrimp, raw, breaded or battered | 3–5 minutes |
Peel medium potatoes, if desired, and cut into ¼- to ½-inch thick strips. Place into large bowl and cover with hot tap water. Soak potato strips for 15 minutes or until ready to fry. Rinse, drain, and pat dry with paper towels.
Because uncooked potatoes contain a high percentage of moisture, extreme care must be used when deep frying. Thoroughly dry potato strips before deep frying. Fill basket only ½ full. Slowly lower filled basket into oil. Do not use cover.
If the oil starts to boil up too quickly, lift the basket out of the oil for a couple of seconds, then lower it again. Repeat as necessary until the basket is completely lowered into the multi-cooker.
Fry for 3 to 4 minutes until fries are cooked through but not browned. Drain; let stand to cool for at least 10 minutes, but not more than 2 hours. Just before serving, fry potatoes at 400° for 7 to 8 minutes or until golden brown.
½ cup milk
1 egg
Flour
Salt and Pepper
Whisk milk and egg together in a small bowl. Mix flour and seasonings together in a medium bowl. Dip food into milk-egg mixture, then coat in seasoned flour. Fry according to timetable.
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
⅔ cup milk, minus 1 tablespoon
1 tablespoon brandy
1 egg yolk
1 tablespoon butter, melted
¼ cup sugar
½ tablespoon ground cinnamon
4–5 apples, peeled, cored, sliced ¼ inch thick
2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
2 egg whites
Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt together in a medium bowl. Whisk milk, brandy, egg yolk, and melted butter together in a small bowl. Gradually stir wet ingredients into dry ingredients until smooth. Set aside. Mix sugar and cinnamon together. Sprinkle mixture over both sides of apple slices, saving remainder to dust over finished fritters. Then sprinkle slices lightly with nutmeg.
Beat egg whites in a small bowl until they are stiff, but not dry. Fold into reserved batter. Dip several apple slices into batter to coat evenly, letting the excess drip off. Carefully place 3 to 4 slices at a time into preheated oil. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes, turning once. Drain on paper towels. Sprinkle both sides of fried slices with reserved cinnamon and sugar mixture. Serve warm.
Makes about 1½ cups.
4 ounces fresh sausage (chorizo, Italian, etc.)
1 cup refried beans
¼ cup finely chopped onion
¼ cup diced canned green chiles, drained
4 ounces jalapeño jack cheese, shredded (1 cup)
8 (7-inch) flour tortillas
1 tablespoon flour
2 tablespoons cold water
Cook sausage in a small skillet until done, breaking it up as it cooks. Mix sausage, beans, onion, chiles, and cheese together.
Cut tortillas into quarters. Place about 1 teaspoon of bean mixture in center. Brush edges with mixture of flour and water. Fold tortilla in half and press to seal; keep covered as you work. Continue until all are made. Makes 32.
Let stand 5 minutes before frying to allow edges to stick together. Fry 3 or 4 at a time for 2 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
If you have any questions regarding the operation of your Presto® appliance or need parts for your appliance, contact us by any of these methods:
Inquiries will be answered promptly by telephone, email, or letter. When emailing or writing, please include a phone number and a time when you can be reached during weekdays When contacting the Consumer Service Department, please indicate the model and series numbers of the multi-cooker. These numbers can be found on the bottom of the plug guard. Please record this information.
This is a Listed appliance. The following important safeguards are recommended by most portable appliance manufacturers.
To reduce the risk of personal injury or property damage, when using electrical appliances basic safety precautions should always be followed, including the following:
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
THIS APPLIANCE IS FOR HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY.
This appliance has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). To reduce the risk of electric shock, this plug is intended to fit into a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully into the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician. Do not attempt to modify the plug in any way.
A short power supply cord is provided to reduce the risk of becoming entangled in or tripping over a longer cord. DO NOT USE WITH AN EXTENSION CORD. Do not allow the cord to run underneath or around the unit. The magnetic cord may not detach easily if the cord is positioned in this fashion.
Connect the power supply cord to a 120VAC electrical outlet only.
Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.
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