What action should you take once the timer indicates that food is done cooking?

When the timer indicates that food is done cooking, the appropriate action is to turn the timer off, de-pressurize the cooking machine, and lift the lid slowly. This procedure is essential for safety and quality assurance in food preparation.

Turning off the timer acknowledges that the cooking cycle has finished, while de-pressurizing correctly ensures that any built-up pressure inside the machine is safely released. This step is crucial to prevent any potential accidents resulting from steam or splattering hot oil, which can occur if the lid is lifted prematurely. Lifting the lid slowly after de-pressurization allows for a gradual release of steam and minimizes the risk of burns.

This method not only prioritizes safety but also preserves the integrity of the food being prepared by allowing it to rest briefly and not be subjected to sudden temperature changes or exposure to the heat source.