Hawkins Contura Black CB50 5 Litre Pressure Cooker Review

The Hawkins Contura Black CB50 5L is a masterclass in combining traditional Indian cooking needs with modern material science. In an Indian kitchen, where a pressure cooker is used at least twice a day for everything from morning dal to evening biryani, durability is paramount. This 5-litre model is the ideal capacity for a medium-sized family of 4 to 6 people, allowing you to cook up to 750g of legumes like chole or rajma comfortably. The hard-anodized aluminium body offers a distinct advantage over standard aluminium; it is chemically non-reactive, meaning your spicy tomato-based curries won't develop a metallic taste, and it absorbs heat far more efficiently than stainless steel, saving valuable LPG fuel. The iconic inner-lid design is a favorite in Indian homes because it is inherently safer—the internal pressure actually helps seal the lid tighter. Indian cooks who rely on 'whistle-count' cooking will find this model very reliable, as the whistle mechanism is consistent and loud enough to be heard from another room. Weighing 1.8 kg, the cooker is well-balanced for daily handling, though the Bakelite handles should be positioned carefully over gas flames to ensure longevity. While this specific model is not induction-compatible, its flat base ensures even heat distribution on all Indian gas stoves, from 2-burner glass tops to traditional 4-burner steel stoves. Backed by a 5-year warranty and Hawkins' legendary service network, which spans almost every pincode in India, the CB50 is a future-proof choice for those upgrading from basic aluminium cookers. It fits easily into standard 60-120 sq ft Indian kitchens and can be stored by inverting the lid to protect the sealing ring.