Crockpots Are Not Created Equal, The Right Slow Cooker Makes A Big Difference

Author: Tony Buel

If you really want the best results from your crockpot recipes then you don’t want to go too cheap on your spending. But on the other hand, you also don’t need the deluxe super model either. You’ll need to do a little bit of research here as I’m not in the business of endorsing any particular brand. But you may be pleasantly surprised that all you may need to spend is around $40.

If you decide on any of these brand names- brand names like Rival, Hamilton Beach, Kitchen-Aid, Cuisinart or Proctor Silex - you won’t go wrong. Don’t go cheap since you will get what you pay for -you will want your slow cooker to last for quite a few years.

Don’t skimp on the quality and features in your search for a good deal. You will want an automatic shut-off and warm feature which means you don’t have to make it home by the time the meal is finished cooking. The slow cooker will automatically switch to a gentle warming mode. This helps when you are serving a large meal by keeping stews, soups, and other dishes ready to serve.

Once you have settled on the brand and model, now pick the size. Some of the most popular sizes for slow cookers are the 3.5 and 4 quart models. Smaller and larger are available to suit your needs as well, depending on the size of your family.

Now as for what you should put into it, you can be as creative as you want. There is no ‘perfect’ recipe when it comes to slow cooking. The blended flavors of a few choice ingredients is what the slow cooker is good at. There is no end to the types of foods you can cook in a crockpot. From sauces and soups, stews and roasts, it does them all well.

Remember, fast food is out and slow cooked meals are in. A delicious meal can be as simple as tossing some ingredients into the pot before everyone leaves for the day.