How can air be removed from a self-contained kettle?

Removing air from a self-contained kettle is essential for ensuring efficient steam cooking and preventing air pockets that can interfere with heating. One effective method to achieve this is by bleeding out steam through the relief valve.

The relief valve is designed to relieve excess pressure within the kettle and can also be used to expel air when steam is first introduced into the system. When steam is generated, it can push air out, but the relief valve allows for a controlled release of steam, ensuring that any trapped air can exit the system. This process helps to create a proper steam environment for cooking.

In contrast, simply adding more water does not facilitate the removal of air; it may even lead to more air being trapped. Running the kettle for an extended period also doesn't directly address the air removal process, as the air may remain trapped within the kettle until systematically removed. Lastly, evacuating the kettle completely would be impractical and unnecessary as a solution for air removal, particularly in a self-contained kettle designed to function with steam.