Hawkins Contura 5 Litre Aluminum Pressure Cooker

The Hawkins Contura HC50 5-Litre Aluminum Pressure Cooker is a modern evolution of the classic Hawkins design that has dominated Indian kitchens since 1959. With a 5L capacity, this cooker is specifically tailored for medium-to-large Indian households of 4 to 6 members, making it the primary vessel for daily essentials like dal-chawal, sambar, or a weekend chicken biryani. The body is manufactured from virgin aluminum, which is the most popular material in India due to its lightweight nature and exceptional heat conductivity; it heats up much faster than stainless steel, saving precious LPG cylinder gas. The 'Contura' shape is not just aesthetic; the rounded sides are engineered for the Indian style of cooking where 'bhuna' (sautéing) of spices and onions is required before pressure is applied. It prevents food from sticking in sharp corners, making cleaning much easier after a heavy meal of oily rajma or chole. As an inner-lid cooker, it provides an extra layer of safety because the lid is held in place by the internal pressure, preventing accidental openings. This model is a 'whistling' cooker, allowing Indian home cooks to follow the traditional method of timing dishes by the number of whistles—typically 2 for rice and 5 for dal. While it lack induction compatibility, its flat base remains stable on standard 3-4 burner Indian gas stoves. Backed by a 5-year warranty and the widest service network in India, ensuring that ISI-certified gaskets and safety valves are available in almost every local hardware store, the HC50 remains a top-tier value-for-money choice for the budget-conscious but quality-seeking Indian consumer.