Hawkins Miss Mary 4L (MM40) Aluminum Pressure Cooker Review

The Hawkins Miss Mary MM40 is a quintessential addition to the Indian kitchen, embodying the trust associated with the Hawkins brand since 1959. This 4-litre model is specifically crafted for medium-sized families of 4 to 6 members, making it the perfect vessel for daily staples like dal, rice, vegetable curries, and biryani. Made from high-quality virgin aluminum, it ensures rapid and even heat distribution, significantly reducing cooking times—turning a 45-minute open-pot dal into a quick 5-minute task. The inner-lid design is a hallmark of Hawkins, offering an inherent safety advantage as the lid cannot be opened until the pressure drops. This model is ISI-certified (IS 2347), meeting rigorous Indian safety standards. While it lacks a pressure indicator, it utilizes the classic whistling mechanism that Indian cooks rely on for timing dishes. The 1.7 kg lightweight body makes it easy to handle for elderly users or those with wrist issues, though it is exclusively compatible with LPG gas stoves and not induction. The Bakelite handles stay cool to the touch, preventing burns during heavy usage over a high gas flame. Maintenance is straightforward, with replacement gaskets and safety valves widely available across local Indian hardware stores. For those seeking an affordable yet durable pressure cooker for their 1BHK or nuclear family home, the Miss Mary MM40 offers a 5-year warranty on both the product and the lid, ensuring peace of mind for years. It is particularly suited for those who prefer the value and performance of aluminum over the heavier price tag of stainless steel, delivering consistent results for North Indian dal-roti or South Indian rice-sambar meals.