Hawkins Aluminium 5 Litre Classic Pressure Cooker, Best Inner Lid Cooker, Silver (Cl50)

Hawkins Aluminium 5 Litre Classic Pressure Cooker (CL50) – A Trusted Kitchen Companion

The Hawkins Aluminium 5 Litre Classic Pressure Cooker (model CL50) is one of the most popular and trusted cooking appliances in Indian kitchens. Built by Hawkins Cookers Ltd, a name that has stood for quality and innovation since 1959, this model exemplifies simplicity, efficiency, and safety in pressure cooking. With its 5-litre capacity, inner lid design, and sturdy aluminium construction, it is ideal for medium to large families and suitable for a wide variety of dishes, including rice, lentils, curries, biryanis, and steamed delicacies.

Design and Construction

The CL50 Classic model is made from virgin aluminium, known for its excellent heat conductivity. This ensures uniform cooking, reducing energy usage and saving time. The exterior has a polished silver finish, giving it a clean, classic, and practical look that fits both traditional and modern kitchens.

Its 5-litre capacity is ideal for cooking for 4 to 6 people, which makes it perfect for families, small gatherings, or meal prepping. The cooker is compact yet spacious enough to handle one-pot meals or bulk cooking tasks efficiently.

The inner lid mechanism, a distinctive feature of the Hawkins brand, offers enhanced safety. Unlike outer lid cookers, the inner lid gets locked in position due to pressure build-up, making it practically impossible to open the lid until the pressure has safely dropped.

Safety Features

One of the strongest reasons to trust the Hawkins CL50 Classic model is its attention to safety. The cooker includes multiple layers of safety measures:

1. Pressure-Locked Safety Lid: The inner lid is pressure-locked. This means the cooker cannot be opened unless the pressure inside has dropped to a safe level.

2. Fixed Sturdy Pivot: This is not just a handle connector—it also works as a pressure regulator. The pivot is designed to never put pressure on the plastic handle, thus enhancing the durability of the handles.

3. Gasket Release System (GRS): This is an important safety mechanism. If the vent tube is blocked due to food particles, the gasket bulges and releases steam sideways from beneath the lid. This prevents the build-up of excessive pressure.

4. Pressure Regulating System: The traditional Hawkins whistle-type pressure regulator maintains the correct cooking pressure and lets out steam intermittently. This helps in proper pressure build-up and prevents overcooking or undercooking.

5. Stay-Cool Handles: Ergonomically designed Bakelite handles stay cool to the touch and are fixed firmly with strong rivets. These handles are comfortable and allow a firm grip even with heavy contents.

Performance and Efficiency

The aluminium body ensures quick and even heat distribution, making cooking faster and more energy-efficient. Whether you are boiling lentils, making stews, or cooking rice, the Hawkins CL50 consistently delivers delicious results.

Thanks to its whistle-based mechanism and pressure-locking system, cooking times are reduced by up to 50% compared to traditional cooking methods, making it ideal for busy households.

Additionally, the pressure cooking method helps retain more nutrients and natural flavors in the food. It is especially useful for preserving the nutrients in vegetables and pulses.

Maintenance and Durability

The cooker’s simple, robust design makes it easy to clean and maintain. The mirror-polished aluminium surface does not easily retain food stains and resists corrosion when cleaned properly.

To ensure long life:

• Do not use harsh scrubbers or steel wool.

• Always dry the cooker thoroughly after washing.

• Replace the rubber gasket and safety valve periodically, which is easy and affordable.

Hawkins also offers excellent after-sales service with readily available spare parts like gaskets, handles, and valves in most markets.

Compatibility

This pressure cooker is best suited for gas stovetops and is not compatible with induction cooktops, as it lacks a ferromagnetic base. For induction-compatible models, Hawkins offers options under its Contura and Stainless Steel ranges.

Value for Money

The Hawkins CL50 Classic 5-litre cooker is priced reasonably, especially considering its quality and longevity. Most users find that it serves well for many years with basic care, offering unmatched value for money. It is often recommended by home cooks, culinary instructors, and professional chefs alike.

Moreover, it is ISI certified, ensuring that it meets Indian safety and performance standards.

Ideal Usage Scenarios

• Cooking dals, chole, rajma, and sambar in bulk

• Making biryani or khichdi for 4–6 people

• Boiling potatoes or steaming vegetables

• Preparing soups or broths

• Pressure-cooking meat or poultry

Its size and efficiency make it a versatile tool in Indian households where pressure cooking is a daily necessity.

Final Verdict

The Hawkins Aluminium 5 Litre Classic Pressure Cooker CL50 stands out for its time-tested design, safety-first construction, and reliable performance. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this model offers the ideal blend of efficiency, affordability, and longevity.

If you’re in search of a durable and safe pressure cooker with ample capacity for daily or occasional use, the CL50 Classic Inner Lid model is a top choice backed by decades of user trust and positive reviews.