Slow cookers use less energy than ovens, so they're cheaper to run. You can save even more money by using a slow cooker to cook cheaper cuts of meat.
If you're short on time or just hate cooking, a slow cooker can be a lifesaver. You can throw all your ingredients in, set it, and forget it. But are slow cookers really worth the money? The answer is yes and no. If you're the type of person who likes to be able to set it and forget it, then a slow cooker is definitely worth the investment. They're also great for making large batches of food that you can then freeze and eat later. However, if you're the type of person who likes to be able
You can put meat in the slow cooker raw, but it will take longer to cook. The meat will also be more likely to overcook if you don't brown it first.
4.6/5
Simple to clean. Stoneware crock & glass lid are dishwasher safe
Oval shape crock: oval-shaped stoneware enables you to fit longer cuts of meat.
Matte-black finish: The sleek finish puts a modern spin on the classic kitchen tool.
3 temperature settings. Cook on low or high and then switch to Warm when your meal is done cooking
3 quart capacity: perfect size for 3 lb. Chicken or 2 lb. Roast
$234
Large, exactly what I wanted! I've only used it twice to make enormous amounts of soup and once to cook an entire bird. It will be useful to bring to family gatherings since bringing a conventional crock pot was too tiny and an 18 litre electric roaster was too huge. I'm content so far. As opposed to computerised settings, it has basic controls, which makes it convenient to bring to parties because everybody will know how to configure it.
4.6/5
Simple to clean. Stoneware crock & glass lid are dishwasher safe
Oval shape crock: oval-shaped stoneware enables you to fit longer cuts of meat.
Matte-black finish: The sleek finish puts a modern spin on the classic kitchen tool.
3 temperature settings. Cook on low or high and then switch to Warm when your meal is done cooking
3 quart capacity: perfect size for 3 lb. Chicken or 2 lb. Roast
$234
What on earth did we do before slow cooker liners? I can't recall! These work well in my small cooker. One oddity is that, every time, a few drops of moisture appear to accumulate between them and the pan. I clean the pan every time, so that's not a problem, but I wonder if there's a way to stop it. I'm delighted to have found the tiny size on Amazon since I can't locate them locally.
4.5/5
Power supply: 120V – 60Hz
Replaces 10 common kitchen Appliances - pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice/porridge cooker, yogurt maker, cake maker, egg cooker, saute/searing, steamer, warmer, sterilizer and ultra
Developed with the latest 3rd generation technology with an embedded microprocessor
New features: automatic altitude adjustment, visual progress bar & steam release auto-reset. Up to 70% quicker. 16 microprocessor controlled programs take the guess-work out of your cooking
Ultra is the latest addition to the Instant Pot Family. Simple twist-and-click programming allows for easy access to preset cooking programs and provides ultimate user customization
Ul certified with 11 proven safety mechanisms gives you peace of mind. Highly energy efficient, This kitchen friendly cooker Emits no steam when cooking, contains all smells and automates your cooking
$234
Being a seasoned pressure cooker, my initial impression is WOW. I must admit that I used to own a stovetop pressure cooker, but I haven't used one in a while. I was unaware of the Instant Pot electric pressure cookers, which is a godsend in that I trusted my gut and purchased the Ultra rather than opting to save a little money for the Duo series.Think of the Instant Pot series of cookers in the same manner that you would buying a new automobile from a dealership. The Lux is the entry-level model, followed by the Duo, the Duo Plus, and finally the Ultra, which comes with all the bells and whistles. Like the auto salesman, greater features equate to a higher price. You can be patient and occasionally locate the Ultra on sale, with a street price of $149.00. In any case, $149.00 is a reasonable price considering all that this cooker can accomplish for you. If you utilize this cooker, you'll save enough money from fewer restaurant meals to cover the cost. That is how amazing the food you can make is.Since I got this Instant Pot, I've been using it to cook every day, sometimes twice a day. Additionally, I have made sure to prepare foods that call for more advanced techniques than the manual setting that may be used with Pressure Cook or Ultra. My pros and cons are listed here.Pros:• LCD display: "I pushed the button and it says "ON," but I don't know what is occurring," is a common complaint I hear in the discussion forums. The Ultra includes a cooking graph that shows how the preheat, cooking, and warming phases are progressing so you can see exactly where you are in the procedure. Compared to any control panel on any other Instant Pot model, the LCD display is light years ahead.• The Pressure Regulator, Quick release, and Venting are all enhanced. The Quick Release button now serves as a separate control for the vent/regulator. When the button is pushed into the locking position, the Vent rises to release the pressure; however, if the fast release knob is turned to the unlock position, the Vent falls back to prevent further pressure release.Program Ultra As low as 104 degrees and as high as 208 degrees can be selected as the exact temperature.• Set your altitude, and the Ultra's programming will adjust as necessary.• Aesthetics - Compared to other versions, it has a significantly more appealing LCD panel.Cons:• The silicone sealing ring on the lid, which gathers up all the scents of cooking, stinks. Running the silicone ring through the dishwasher on the top rack with it flat is the only way I could find to get the cooking scent out of it. Numerous Instant Pot owners appear to be complaining about this constantly.• The Manual lacks much detail. The user-familiar "Water Test" is referred to as the "Initial Test Run" on page 14 of the manual. The "Initial Test Run" instructions are not full. The instruction booklet omits to remind the user to hit the start button after directing them to turn the dial to steam and set the timer for two minutes. The user may not be aware that the explanations under numbers 6, 7, and 8 do not apply to the Initial Test, despite the fact that they are crucial for pressure cooking. Since users have started using the term "Water Test," Instant Pot might be better off revising the instructions in future guides to reflect this. More details on the preset programming would be helpful. The instruction discusses making yogurt; additional chapters on the other uses would be beneficial.This is actually not a drawback; it's merely a feature of pressure cooking. Due to the moist nature of pressure cookers, any meal that you would like to be crispy must be prepared outside of the Instant Pot. For instance, lasagna must be finished under the broiler to achieve a baked finish. The results of roasting chicken skin in the oven are not the same. These things are not a significant concern when compared to all the other things your Instant Pot can be used for.Here are a few things I've cooked in my Instant Pot Ultra along with the setting.Using dry split peas, pressure cook apple sauce, garlic mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, and slumgullion/American goulash soup broth.Crack chicken, honey garlic chicken, cranberry brisket, Dr Pepper ribs, beef bourguignon, and bratwurst are some examples of meat and stew dishes. Bean and chili dishes include black beans and smoked turkey sausage.For the dishes listed above, steam sweet potatoes and sauté veggies and meat.Porridge - Giant Pancake, Steel Cut Oats Cake, New York Cheese Cake, and Pumpkin CheesecakeEggs, Hard-BoiledGreek yogurt mixed with 2% milkUltra - Tempered Chocolate for Making Candy, Sous Vide Tuna Steaks.A lot of people try to determine which model is best for them. You'll want the versatility of the Ultra if you enjoy cooking or are a skilled cook who can prepare a variety of foods. It is not worth attempting to save a few dollars by purchasing the Duo model because it is worth every penny. The LCD panel definitely removes the mystery from the pressure cooking cycle, which is not accessible on the Duo or Lux models, even if you don't cook frequently or have a wide range of cooking skills. The additional settings can encourage inexperienced cooks to experiment.The fact that some are hesitant to use their Instant Pot is another issue I read in the forums. They either don't want to attempt because operating the Instant Pot is too difficult or they are terrified of pressure cooking in general.This automated pressure cooker has an outstanding venting and pressure-regulating system called the Ultra. If you adhere to a few simple guidelines, you can cook without stress for a very long time.1. Always include enough liquid in your recipes; otherwise, the Instant Pot won't be able to create pressure.2. Don't fill the pot to the brim. How much you can put in your Instant Pot Ultra is very clearly explained at the bottom of page 14 in the Ultra instructions.3. After each usage, make sure to clean the lid and look inside to see if any food particles have gotten stuck in the venting system.This pressure cooker is far superior than the one your mother or grandmother used because it is automated. This is one of the more adaptable cooking appliances you may have in your kitchen because of the versatility the programming allows the user to generate. Compared to a manual stove top pressure cooker, it is a safer cooking device thanks to computer programming.All that has changed thanks to the Instant Pot. The pressure cooking technique drastically reduces cook times. I also don't have to stand over the stove watching the food cook.
4.5/5
Dishwasher-safe stoneware and lid. Never immerse the heating base in water or other liquid
Measures approximately 12 by 9 by 12 inches
High, low and warm settings are perfect for making chilis, stews, sauces and more
Perfect for four or more people or a four pound roast
4-quart oval slow cooker
$234
One evening, my daughter made a casserole before going to bed. While we slept, she overnight-cooked it in this Crock Pot on low heat. The next day, after enjoying the delicious casserole, I questioned my daughter about its ingredients. She casually retorted that it included ingredients we enjoy, such potatoes, bacon, diced red and green bell peppers, onion, cheddar cheese, eggs, and more.OH. That explains why it was so ridiculously tasty!This Crock Pot belongs to my daughter. When she moved into a residence of her own, she left it here. She prepared tiny dinners exclusively for the two of us while she shared my apartment. Additionally, she prepared substantial dinners that easily fed our entire family.While looking for something in our storage closet, I came across this Crock Pot and remembered right away of the delicious meals my daughter has prepared in it.Here are some of this Crock Pot's primary advantages:-Perfect for preparing larger dinners for a family of five or smaller meals for two.-There's no need to tuck it away; it looks lovely sitting on the kitchen counter.It is a wonderful useful size, neither too huge and clunky or too small, and the stoneware inner bowl can be easily lifted out to be cleaned, even in the dishwasher. It fits perfectly.At the time of writing, I have no cons. I will update and report any changes if my daughter notifies me of any, for your consideration.Based on the numerous great dinners my daughter made in this Crock Pot, I highly suggest it.
4.5/5
120W
Cool-touch handles and knobs
Convenient LOW / HIGH / KEEP WARM settings
Attractive white finish
1.5 Qt removable inner stoneware pot
Tempered clear glass lid
Dishwasher safe glass lid and stoneware pot
$234
So, about six months ago, I purchased this cooker to use as a pickling pot for silversmithing. When my silver turned pink a couple of weeks ago, I knew there was some contamination in my pickle. I was a little disheartened and made the decision to switch the solution because I've always been extremely cautious and have only ever used copper tongs. I was shocked to discover that the heating element was rusted and that there was a significant amount of liquid in the bottom when I lifted the crock out of the pot. This was the source of my iron poisoning! I never drop things in there, so there is no way that fluid could have gotten in there accidentally. While I waited for a replacement, I cleaned it out, changed the solution, and dried the appliance. I kept using it and started to experience the same iron in pickle symptoms. There was liquid in the bottom of the crock once more when I lifted it out. All I can think of is a flaw in the crock itself. I searched for a different model because I needed a low-temperature operating unit, but this one is really the best size. I've made the decision to place an order for a second to see if it experiences the same problem in the same situation. The crock shouldn't have any problems holding fluid indefinitely if it is properly sealed. Only a jeweler would find any of this information valuable. I'm confident that this pot performs better than expected at its pricing point for routine cooking. The photo shows my old and new pots next to each other.
4.4/5
6-quart portable slow cooker serves 7+ people
High/Low/Warm settings
Handles make it easy to carry
Removable, dishwasher-safe stoneware insert, and dishwasher-safe locking glass lid
Sleek black exterior and plastic handles
$234
Due to some "exploding lid" reviews, I was apprehensive to purchase this, but I'm pleased I did.Since I recently got it, I've only used it once. My 30-year-old crockpot still functions perfectly, but it has a temperature control that reads in degrees, but this one has "low, high, and warm" settings. Nowadays, most recipes I come across ask for low or high settings, so I have to estimate, using the temperature dial, what the recipe's author considers to be "low."In the previous crockpot, I prepared chicken stroganoff; in this one, buffalo chicken. The chicken cooked in both at the same rate when both were set to low at the same time.I cooked without locking the cover as instructed. Therefore, I didn't experience lids breaking, leaks, or the exterior casing collapsing in.My old one is boringly brown and circular, whereas this one is scarlet and has an oval form that I love. And I appreciate that this one has the warm setting. A 6 quart portable crockpot only $25, so it's a fairly decent price.I cook most of the time in a crockpot; I'll update if anything changes.Update 10/10/2019: It is still functioning perfectly, with no issues, no bursting lid, and I continue to use it occasionally. It warms up as it should, cooks fully, and is rather simple to clean. However, I just lock the lid when moving and unlock it when I plug it back in. I've even transported it with the lid locked and it hasn't broken.
4.4/5
Nonstick cooking pot resists stuck-on food and is dishwasher safe, simplifying your cleanup and making it great for one-pot cooking
Accessories include recipe book, steaming rack, and serving Spoon
Four-quart capacity lets you easily make a variety of healthy meals for 4+ people at a touch of a button, like chili, soups, grains, and more by using any of the convenient one-touch meal settings
Manual pressure function lets you set any cooking time at either high or low pressure, allowing you to customize recipes
All-in-one appliance with additional functions like pressure cook, slow cook, brown/sauté, steam, as well as boil and simmer.
Designed with an airtight locking lid that stays sealed under pressure for added safety, A delay start timer that offers you the flexibility to start at a later time, and Warm setting to keep your food at the ideal serving temperature
$234
Before the 8-quart version, which I really wanted, was available, I ordered the 4-quart version, so I though I'd make a compare and contrast review. In essence, the size is the only real distinction. Both variants perform identically and heat up almost simultaneously. See the images below. While the 8-quart can hold eight potatoes, the 4-quart can fit three huge potatoes. More potatoes can fit on a layer because to its greater diameter. I use the 8-quart pot to prepare food for my four-person family and bring the 4-quart to work for lunches.The bobber valve, which determines whether or not the cooker is under pressure, is the biggest drawback. Check out the pics of my pressure canner that are attached. There are no adorable jingles like with one other brand's lid closure, but it is not a huge concern.The adaptability of this cooker is its best feature. So far, I've cooked rice, pasta, a pot roast, baked potatoes, mashed potatoes, and pork ribs. Even when I'm exhausted after work, they have all turned out excellently and in a reasonable bit of time. I like that there are options for pressure on one side and alternatives for no pressure on the other. The non-pressure solutions aren't as quick as using a standard pan, but they aren't bad either, and they can prevent the need to wash more dishes.In conclusion, I use this multipurpose gadget almost every day. I heartily endorse it.
4.3/5
PATENTED TEMPERATURE PROBE: Place the temperature probe into large cuts of meat to cook to a precise temperature the control panel will display the food’s exact temperature as it cooks
NOT YOUR MOM’S SLOW COOKER: Smart technology allows you to cook a recipe to either a desired cooking time or specific temperature, before automatically switching to Warm when it’s done
CLIP-TIGHT GASKET LID: The lid clips securely in place, perfect for taking the slow cooker to a party, potluck or tailgate the tight seal helps prevent messy spills along the way
EASY TO CLEAN: Removable and dishwasher safe crock and glass lid make cleanup simple and power interrupt protection keeps slow cooker on during a brief power outage
6 QUART CAPACITY: Spacious size is perfect for a 6 pound chicken or 4 pound roast
$234
We made the decision to make our own food a few months ago in order to cut costs. (We had been eating Trader Joe's prepackaged dinners and eating out, which rapidly adds up in cost.) The truth is, neither my spouse nor I are very fond of cooking. So, I suppose it's not surprising that I'm bad at it. However, I did come upon a fantastic blog called a year of slow cooking that gave me a ton of quick and simple ideas to make. (Since then, I've discovered blogs with additional recipes, such as Get Crocked and 365 Days of Slow Cooking, but A Year of Slow Cooking remains my favorite.) After figuring out the recipe, I began preparing meals in my little, outdated, and really basic crockpot. And while using the crockpot was feasible, some recipes called for cooking on low for nine hours, while others called for six. In reality, all I want to do is toss the ingredients in the pot and forget about it.I was unable to do that with my old, simple crockpot. On the other hand, the Hamilton Beach does. And using it is so simple! Even though I despise electronics (ask my spouse), I can easily use this crockpot. You only need to hit the on button (the red circle on the left), choose the time by using the up and down arrows on the right, then press enter. After choosing the heat setting, press enter, and you're done. To prevent food spoilage, it switches to the Warm setting once it is finished. This implies that you are able to set it for a Friday night if you want to sleep in on Saturday morning. You shouldn't be concerned about getting up to turn the crockpot off. You can use the thermometer probe to adjust the temperature you wish to be maintained when cooking a whole chicken or another large object to ensure the meat is cooked through. I can now be one of "those" persons that uses the workplace kitchen when there is a potluck because it has a cover that locks shut with easy lever clamps at each end. Although the lid has a rubber seal, it should be kept upright because it has a hole for the probe to be put through the glass cover and tiny vent holes.Overall, this really is a crockpot that you can set and forget (as advertised). It's also important to note (since this has been in the news) that Wirecutter, a website that reviews gadgets in our lives, says that this crockpot "outperformed much more expensive models," and that Healing Gourmet, a website dedicated to food safety, lists Hamilton as one of the ten brands to look for when choosing a crockpot. I've seen a few unfavorable reviews where people complained that the glass would break. Only fasten down the cover when transporting food, according to the instructions. According to my husband, there is a fair risk that tightening the lid while cooking would put the glass under more strain, increasing the likelihood that it will break or shatter. So remember this.Since using a crockpot was originally intended to save money, I'll freely admit that I haven't tried the more expensive ones, but I still heartily suggest this one.
4.2/5
6 quart Cook & Carry Slow Cooker serves 7+ people
All Crock Pot Slow Cooker removable stone inserts (without lid) may be used safely in the microwave and the oven set up to 400 degree F. If you own another slow cooker brand, please refer to your owner’s manual for specific crockery cooking medium tolerances
Easy to use locking lid featuring lid gasket provides extra seal for less mess on the go
Digital countdown control lets you program cook times anywhere from 30 minutes up to 20 hours; shifts to Warm setting automatically once cook time completes
Works on 240 Watts at 120V A.C. and 60Hz
$234
ADVANCE: February 17, 2015. Since posting my review, I've used this Crock-Pot a dozen times, and it just keeps getting better! I've made a variety of items, including casseroles, breakfast foods, beans, roasts, ribs, and Mexican fare, all of which were excellent (even the chicken and rice recipe with Crock-Pot-cooked rice). Food does not stick to the edges or bottom of the stoneware liner, and cleaning it is simple. The warmer feature is fantastic and doesn't seem to be excessively hot. When a cooking time range, such as 6-8 hours, is specified, I've discovered that I should probably choose the lower or middle end of the range. I actually HATE to cook, but now that I have this equipment, I'm becoming a regular Betty Crocker and even experimenting. I'm so happy I bought this! Now, return to your regularly scheduled programming with the initial review.————————My old Crock-Pot is still functional, but it's too tiny for a roast or other large meals. Thus, I purchased this one for two reasons: 1) More spacious; 2) Programmable temperature and time settings. I've just used it twice, but I'm already really happy with it. If anything changes, I will update without a doubt.The cooking temperature may be adjusted on LOW or HIGH, and the cooking time can be set in 30-minute increments up to 20 hours, thanks to the programmable feature. Other "programmable" slow cookers have a limited number of time/temperature combo options; this one allows you complete control. The Crock-Pot automatically switches to "warm" after the cooking time specified by the user is complete. Touch controls that are highly intuitive to operate are used in place of turn dials. The user guide is brief yet comprehensive and contains a few recipes.Breakfast casserole was my first creation (photo attached). Excellent flavor, and the Crock-Pot performed flawlessly. There was some additional browning on the edges, so I could definitely shorten the cook time. This is true for all slow cookers. Hot sausage stew is the second course. Once more, the gadget was flawless, and its "warm" feature is fantastic because it allowed the meal to finish cooking before I was ready to eat. Just keep in mind that it's the government regulations, not the Crock-Pot, that are to blame if you find the "warm" temperature to be higher than you anticipated.There is A LOT of food in this Crock-Pot! When I cook alone, I store some of the food in the refrigerator and the remainder in smaller containers in the freezer. This is the best approach to keep me out of the kitchen while yet providing us with wholesome food because I genuinely detest cooking.The stoneware was incredibly easy to clean and the meal I prepared didn't stick to it. Rinse with with hot, soapy water. The glass lid and stoneware may both go in the dishwasher. Although I'm not likely to ever utilize the "carry" feature, I did test the secured lid and found that the rubber seal is firm, making it simple to transport your meal to a potluck or other event. Just remember not to lock the lid while cooking!The "warm" function plus the ability to truly customize the cooking time and temperature make this, in the end, my favorite kitchen appliance (right along side my George Foreman grill). I can't believe I'm actually looking for recipes to attempt in a slow cooker! I decided to go with this brand because my previous Crock-Pot is at least 15 years old. The "computer" that enables the programming, which lets me know that the likelihood of it lasting that long is probably slim because the fancier something is, the higher the likelihood that something will go wrong. However, the pricing is reasonable, and I'm pleased with my purchase thus far. The slow cooker was well-protected and shipped quickly by Amazon in its original box.
4.2/5
Crock-Pot features removable, dishwasher-safe stoneware insert
High/Low cook settings, and convenient Warm setting
8-quart oval manual Slow Cooker Serves 10+ people
Polished, brushed stainless steel exterior with black accents and plastic handles
Dishwasher-safe glass lid
$234
I have had MANY slow cookers over the years...Like rice cookers, the best ones are from thrift stores, because the old ones never die. When the stoneware on my thrift-find finally cracked in half (after 8-years I owned it) I was on the hunt for a replacement. Every new one I got (to replace my old-trusty) self-destructed in a year or less. The "low" setting stops working so everything is boiling on high, regardless of what the dial says, you know...slow death malfunction... Just enough time passes that even Wal-new Mart's return policy won't replace that piece of junk.I know, I haven't owned this one for a year yet, BUT it is already ahead of the curve on all the other new ones I have had in the past.Yes - the outside gets hot, but that's normal for metal surrounding heated stoneware.Yes - the "low" is a true low temp (I don't use high).Yes - the lid fits flush and the stoneware does not have pits (smooth), uses "air flow vents" pre-formed and glazed for steam.No - the glass did not shatter (seeing this on reviews for other crock pots) and it's FAR CHEAPER in price (paid $27.99) while being the biggest! YAY, anything and everything you want to slow cook WILL FIT!.Is it fancy? Yes - if you make it "fancy" it will be BETTER THAN THE EXPENSIVE DIGITAL ones!!! YUP!How? The dial will not short like a digital screen will, so don't worry about silly fancy things like that. Plug it into a $7 (got it on Amazon too) 24-hour timer and cover the light sensor with paper and tape. Now you can truly "set it and forget it" because at the end of the 6-hour mark on the timer plug, the power to the cooker is cut and your food WILL NOT OVERCOOK while you are stuck at work. I made a fantastic Black Bean Soup on low in 6-hours using this method...but I was gone for 10-hours - that functionality is better than any high-end slowcooker you find!!!You don't have to pay a lot for perfection, you just have to be creative. ;)
Yes, you can put the ceramic part of a slow cooker in the dishwasher. Just make sure to put it on the top rack to avoid any damage.
You can put tin foil in a slow cooker, but it's not necessary. The foil will help deflect some of the heat and prevent the food from overcooking on one side, but it's not necessary. If you're using a slow cooker liner, there's no need for foil.
A slow cooker is a countertop appliance that cooks food slowly over a period of several hours. Slow cookers are also known by the brand names Crock-Pot and Instant Pot. Most slow cookers have a ceramic pot that sits inside a metal housing. The pot is heated by an element inside the housing. The food is placed in the pot, and the pot is covered with a lid. The slow cooker is turned on, and the food cooks slowly over several hours. Slow cookers can be set to cook for a specific amount of time, or they can
A slow cooker uses very little electricity, about as much as a light bulb. So if you're looking to save on your energy bill, a slow cooker is a great option.
A slow cooker, also known as a crock-pot, is a countertop appliance that is used to simmer food at a low temperature for a long period of time. The size of a slow cooker can range from 1.5 quarts to 7 quarts. The size that you need will depend on how much food you want to cook at one time. If you are cooking for a family of four, then a 4-quart slow cooker should be sufficient.
A slow cooker is a great way to cook a meal without having to watch it constantly. However, you can't just set it and forget it. There is a limit to how long you can leave something in a slow cooker. Ideally, you should only leave food in a slow cooker for four to six hours. After that, the food will start to break down and become mushy. If you need to leave the food in the slow cooker for longer than that, it's best to turn it off and then turn it back on when you're ready to eat.
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