After turning off the stove, you should wait for the pressure cooker to release its pressure naturally before attempting to open it. The amount of time required for this natural release will depend on the type of pressure cooker you are using and the contents inside.
There are two common methods for releasing pressure in a pressure cooker:
Natural Release (also known as Natural Pressure Release or NPR): With this method, you turn off the stove, and the pressure cooker is left untouched. The pressure inside the cooker will gradually decrease as the contents continue to cook in the residual heat. This process can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes or more, depending on the pressure level and the volume of food inside the cooker.
Quick Release (also known as Manual Pressure Release or MPR): Some pressure cookers come with a quick-release valve or a pressure release button. After turning off the stove, you can use this quick-release method to rapidly release the pressure. However, this method is typically only used for certain recipes or when the recipe specifically instructs you to do so. Be cautious with this method, as it can cause hot steam to rapidly escape, and it may affect the texture and quality of certain dishes.
Always refer to the specific instructions provided with your pressure cooker, as different models and brands may have slightly different guidelines. The key is to be patient and let the pressure decrease naturally to ensure safe and proper opening of the pressure cooker. Safety should always be a priority when dealing with pressure cookers to avoid accidents or burns.