GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cooker Review: Unleash Culinary Versatility

Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen, juggling multiple pots and pans just to get a decent meal on the table? Imagine a single appliance that could revolutionize your cooking, cutting down prep time, locking in flavor, and simplifying cleanup. This detailed review will dive into the GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cooker, a popular multi-functional kitchen companion designed to make your culinary life easier and more efficient. We’ll explore its features, performance, and user experience, helping you decide if this versatile cooker is the right fit for your home.

What is an Electric Pressure Cooker?

An electric pressure cooker is a modern kitchen appliance that combines the benefits of traditional stovetop pressure cooking with the convenience of electric programming. By creating a sealed, high-pressure environment, it significantly reduces cooking times for a wide array of foods, from tough meats to tender vegetables. Beyond just pressure cooking, many models, including the GoWISE USA, offer multiple functions like slow cooking, steaming, and sautéing, making them true multi-taskers in today’s busy kitchens.

A Glimpse into Pressure Cooker Evolution

The concept of cooking under pressure dates back to the 17th century with Denis Papin’s “digester.” Over centuries, this innovative cooking method evolved from bulky stovetop units to the sleek, smart electric pressure cookers we see today. The modern electric models emerged in the 21st century, bringing with them enhanced safety features, digital controls, and a myriad of preset programs, transforming them from niche tools into mainstream kitchen essentials that prioritize convenience and efficiency.

GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cooker: An Overview

The GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cooker has carved out a respectable space in the competitive electric cooker market, often noted for its blend of versatility and value. It’s designed to appeal to both seasoned home chefs and beginners seeking a simplified cooking experience. With various models offering different capacities and functionalities, GoWISE USA aims to provide a pressure cooking solution for nearly every household need.

One of its standout qualities is its multi-functionality, typically integrating 8-in-1 or even 10-in-1 capabilities in a single appliance. These functions often include pressure cooking, rice cooking, yogurt making, food warming, steaming, sautéing, slow cooking, and egg making. This broad range allows you to declutter your countertops by replacing several smaller appliances with one efficient unit.
A GoWISE USA electric pressure cooker on a kitchen countertop, showcasing its multi-functional capabilities.

“The GoWISE Electric Pressure Cooker is a practical choice for those seeking a versatile kitchen tool, offering a wide range of cooking options in one appliance.” – Pressure Cooker Guides Team, Seasoned Technicians.

Key Features and Specifications of GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cookers

GoWISE USA electric pressure cookers come packed with features designed for ease of use, safety, and flexible cooking. While specifications can vary slightly between models (like the GW22620 8-in-1 or the XL 10-in-1 series), here are the common highlights:

• Multi-Functional Design: Most GoWISE USA models offer an 8-in-1 or 10-in-1 design, functioning as a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker, steamer, sauté pan, yogurt maker, food warmer, and egg maker. Some larger models may even include additional programs for canning.
• Extensive Preset Options: You’ll find between 12 and 16 built-in smart programs for common dishes such as Rice, Multigrain, Porridge, Steam, Soup, Meat/Stew, Bean/Chili, Sauté, Poultry, Yogurt, Slow Cook, and Egg Maker. These presets aim to take the guesswork out of cooking by pre-setting optimal times and pressure levels.
• Manual Control: For those who prefer custom cooking, the appliances allow manual adjustment of cooking time and pressure levels (low and high), along with temperature settings for slow cook and sauté functions.
• Durable Construction: The exterior typically boasts a robust stainless steel body, making it scratch-resistant and durable. The inner cooking pot is often made from aluminum alloy with a ceramic non-stick coating, which is usually PTFE and PFOA-free, ensuring healthier cooking and easy cleanup.
• Variety of Capacities: GoWISE USA offers a broad spectrum of sizes to suit various family needs, from compact 3-quart models to large 14-quart options ideal for feeding a crowd. Common sizes include 6, 8, 10, 12, and 14 quarts.
• Power and Efficiency: Wattage varies with size, ranging from approximately 1000W for 6-quart models to 1600W for 14-quart units, providing ample power for efficient cooking.
• Convenience Features: Thoughtful design elements include a detachable power cord for easier storage, a dedicated pressure release button for safety, and sometimes a built-in spoon holder.
• Safety Mechanisms: Equipped with multiple safety features, such as a dual-lock system to prevent opening under pressure, a floater valve, lid-close detection, and automatic shut-off to ensure safe operation.
• Delay Timer & Keep Warm Function: A delay timer allows you to program cooking up to 24 hours in advance, while the automatic “Keep Warm” function maintains food temperature for extended periods after cooking is complete.
• Pressure Levels: Adjustable pressure settings typically include a Low pressure range (2.9-7.2 psi) and a High pressure range (7.2-13 psi), offering flexibility for different recipes.
• Included Accessories: Depending on the specific model, accessories may include a stainless steel steam rack, a steam basket, a rice scooper, a measuring cup, and a recipe book to get you started.

Performance: Pros and Cons

Like any kitchen appliance, the GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cooker comes with its share of strengths and weaknesses based on user experiences and expert evaluations.

Pros:

• Exceptional Versatility: The multi-cooker functionality is a major advantage, allowing users to pressure cook, slow cook, sauté, steam, and more with one device.
• Large Capacity Options: GoWISE USA is particularly praised for offering larger capacities, such as 12-quart and 14-quart models, which are perfect for big families or entertaining.
• Efficient Cooking Times: Despite their size, many models demonstrate relatively fast cooking, such as making rice in about 23-24 minutes even in larger units.
• Easy Cleanup: The non-stick ceramic-coated inner pot is generally easy to clean, although it’s often recommended for hand washing rather than dishwashers.
• User-Friendly Interface: The controls are typically intuitive, with self-explanatory presets and manual adjustment options for precise cooking.
• Durable Build: The stainless steel exterior contributes to its sturdy and long-lasting appeal.
• Yogurt Functionality: The ability to make yogurt is a notable feature, adding to its multi-functional appeal.

Cons:

• Hot Lid Handle: Some users report that the lid handle can get very hot during operation, necessitating the use of oven mitts or pot holders for safe handling.
• Preset Accuracy: While convenient, some presets might not always yield perfect results, with dishes like beans occasionally requiring additional cooking time or pot roasts turning out dry or bland without pre-searing.
• Accessory Inclusions: Not all models consistently include a steamer rack, which can limit certain cooking possibilities unless purchased separately.
• Aesthetic Limitations: The aesthetic options are somewhat limited in terms of color and style, often sticking to more utilitarian designs.
• Perceived Durability: A few reviews have raised questions about its long-term durability compared to some premium brands, though this can also be influenced by usage and maintenance.

GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cooker vs. Other Cooking Methods

Comparing the GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cooker to traditional cooking methods highlights its distinct advantages:

• Speed: Electric pressure cookers dramatically reduce cooking times, often by 70% or more, compared to stovetop methods. This means quick weeknight meals and faster preparation of slow-cooked favorites.
• Nutrient Retention: By cooking quickly with minimal liquid and steam trapped inside, pressure cooking helps to retain more vitamins and minerals that might otherwise escape with longer cooking times or open-pot methods.
• Energy Efficiency: Because they cook faster and seal in heat, electric pressure cookers tend to be more energy-efficient than using multiple stovetop burners or an oven for extended periods.
• Convenience: With programmable settings, delay timers, and “keep warm” functions, these appliances offer a level of convenience unmatched by traditional pots and pans, allowing for set-it-and-forget-it cooking.

How to Use Your GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cooker Safely and Effectively

Operating your GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cooker correctly ensures both delicious results and safe kitchen practices.

1. Before First Use: Wipe the cooker unit with a damp cloth. Clean the lid and the stainless steel inner pot with warm, soapy water. Ensure the sealing ring is properly installed in the lid.
2. Adding Ingredients: Always add at least ½ cup of liquid when pressure cooking. Do not fill the pot more than 60% capacity. For foods that expand, like beans or grains, do not exceed 50% capacity.
3. Securing the Lid: Place the lid on the cooker so the lid handle aligns with the condensation cup, then turn it counter-clockwise until it locks securely and the small pin on the side of the lid goes in. Ensure the regulator knob is set to “Pressure” for pressure cooking.
4. Selecting Settings: Plug in the cooker. Choose a preset program or use the manual “Pressure Time +/-” buttons to set your desired cooking duration. Press “Adjust” to select Low or High pressure.
5. Cooking Process: The cooker will begin heating and pressurizing. The timer will only start counting down once the desired pressure level is reached.
6. Releasing Pressure: Once cooking is complete, you have two options:
   • Natural Release: Allow the pressure to dissipate gradually. This is ideal for foamy foods or large cuts of meat.
   • Quick Release: Carefully turn the regulator knob to “Steam.” Keep your face and hands clear of the steam vent as hot steam will be released. Only open the lid once the floater valve drops.
7. Cleaning and Maintenance: Always unplug and allow the cooker to cool. The inner pot, sealing ring, and condensation cup can be removed and cleaned with warm, soapy water. Wipe the exterior and lid with a damp cloth. Never immerse the main cooker unit in water. Regularly check the pressure release vent for clogs.
   A close-up of an electric pressure cooker with steam releasing from the vent, showing safe operation.

Delicious Meals with Your GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cooker

The versatility of the GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cooker opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Here are just a few ideas for meals you can prepare:

• Hearty Stews and Meats: Perfect for tenderizing tough cuts of beef, making flavorful chicken stews, or preparing succulent pot roasts in a fraction of the time.
• Soups and Broths: Create rich, deeply flavored stocks and soups, from classic chicken noodle to hearty lentil chili.
• Grains and Legumes: Cook perfect rice, quinoa, or multigrain dishes, and significantly reduce the soaking and cooking time for various beans and lentils.
• Breakfast Staples: Use the egg maker function for perfectly boiled eggs, or prepare creamy porridge and oatmeal.
• Desserts: Even sweet treats like cheesecakes or custards can be made with surprising ease in a pressure cooker.
• Everyday Favorites: Try cooking chicken wings, collard greens, or rutabagas for quick, delicious sides or main dishes.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Encountering a problem with your pressure cooker can be frustrating, but many common issues have simple solutions.

• Difficulty Closing/Opening the Lid: Check if the seal gasket is properly seated or if the floater valve is stuck. Ensure the unit has completely depressurized before attempting to open the lid.
• Steam Leaking Around the Lid/Floater Valve: This often indicates a misplaced, dirty, or damaged sealing gasket. Clean the gasket thoroughly or replace it if worn. Also, ensure no food debris is blocking the floater valve.
• Error Codes (e.g., E1, E2, E3, E4):
  • E1 (Abnormal Sensor): Contact customer service.
  • E2 (Sensor Malfunction): Contact customer service.
  • E3 (Overheating): Unplug, remove the hot pot, let the cooker cool for 30-60 minutes, and add more water if needed before restarting.
  • E4 (Pressure Switch Cut Off): Unplug the cooker for 30-60 seconds to reset, then plug it back in. If the issue persists, contact support.

For persistent issues, always refer to your specific model’s instruction manual or contact GoWISE USA customer service.

Conclusion

The GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cooker stands out as a highly versatile and convenient kitchen appliance, offering a wide range of cooking functions, generous capacity options, and user-friendly controls. While minor drawbacks like a hot lid handle or occasional preset adjustments exist, its ability to significantly cut down cooking time, preserve nutrients, and simplify meal preparation makes it a valuable addition to any home. If you’re looking for an efficient multi-cooker to streamline your kitchen routine and explore new culinary horizons, a GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cooker is certainly a strong contender. Are you ready to transform your cooking experience?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cooker a good purchase?

Yes, the GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cooker is generally considered a good purchase, especially for those seeking a multi-functional appliance with a wide range of capacities at a competitive price point. It offers excellent versatility and efficient cooking.

What sizes of Electric Pressure Cookers does GoWISE USA offer?

GoWISE USA offers a comprehensive range of electric pressure cooker capacities, typically including 3-quart, 4-quart, 6-quart, 8-quart, 10-quart, 12-quart, and even extra-large 14-quart models, catering to diverse household sizes and cooking needs.

How do you clean the GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cooker?

To clean, unplug the cooker and let it cool. Hand wash the ceramic non-stick inner pot, sealing ring, and condensation cup with warm, soapy water. Wipe the exterior and lid with a damp cloth, being careful not to immerse the main unit in water.

Can you make yogurt in a GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cooker?

Yes, many GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cooker models, particularly the 8-in-1 and 10-in-1 versions, include a dedicated “Yogurt” preset, allowing you to easily prepare homemade yogurt.

What are the main safety features of GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cookers?

GoWISE USA Electric Pressure Cookers are equipped with multiple safety features, including a dual-lock system that prevents opening under pressure, a special pressure release button, a floater valve, lid-close detection, and automatic shut-off mechanisms.