the handles on the side of my pressure cooker get way too hot to touch during use, is that supposed to happen?

— asked by Alex

DIAGNOSIS Yes, this is normal for many all-stainless steel pressure cookers, especially larger ones like this 13-quart model. The handles are attached directly to the metal pot, which conducts heat from the burner up the sides and into them.

FIX You need to treat them like any other pot handle on a stove. Always use a dry potholder or oven mitt to grip the side handles when moving the pot or adjusting it on the burner during cooking. Do not rely on the stay-cool lid handle alone.

IF THAT DIDN'T WORK If the heat seems excessive (e.g., you can't briefly touch them even after a short time on medium heat), check that your burner flame or element isn't flaring up around the sides of the pot. The pot's diameter should match or slightly exceed the burner size to concentrate heat on the bottom.

HEADS UP This is a safety feature in a way. Those hot handles are a constant reminder that you're dealing with a vessel under pressure and high heat. It prevents you from casually grabbing it. Always assume the side handles are hot during and immediately after cooking.

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