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What Is A Slow Cooker?

If you’re looking to simplify your cooking routine and create delicious, hearty meals with minimal effort, a slow cooker might just be the kitchen appliance you’ve been searching for. Let’s dive into the world of slow cookers and explore why they’ve become a staple in many kitchens across the UK.

What Is A Slow Cooker?

The Basics of Slow Cookers

A slow cooker, also known as a crock-pot in some regions, is an electric countertop appliance designed for simmering food at low temperatures over long periods. This method of cooking allows flavours to develop and tenderises tougher cuts of meat, resulting in rich, flavourful dishes with minimal hands-on time.

How Slow Cookers Work

Slow cookers typically consist of three main components:

  • An outer heating element
  • A ceramic or porcelain pot
  • A glass lid

The heating element surrounds the pot, providing consistent, low heat. The heavy pot distributes this heat evenly, while the tight-fitting lid traps moisture, creating a moist cooking environment. Most slow cookers offer multiple heat settings:

  • Low: Usually around 85°C (185°F)
  • High: Typically about 100°C (212°F)
  • Warm: Keeps food at a safe serving temperature

Cooking times can range from 4 to 12 hours, depending on the recipe and setting used.

Why You Should Consider Getting a Slow Cooker

Slow cookers offer numerous benefits that make them a valuable addition to any kitchen:

  1. Time-Saving

One of the biggest advantages of slow cookers is their ability to save time. You can prep your ingredients in the morning, set the cooker, and return home to a fully cooked meal1. This is particularly useful for busy professionals or parents who want to minimise time spent in the kitchen after a long day.

  1. Energy Efficient

Slow cookers use less electricity than conventional ovens, making them an energy-efficient option for cooking. They typically use between 70 and 250 watts of electricity, compared to an electric oven which can use up to 2000 watts2.

  1. Healthier Cooking

The low, slow cooking method helps retain nutrients in food that might be lost with other cooking methods. It also allows you to use less oil, as the moist cooking environment prevents food from drying out.

  1. Versatility

Slow cookers aren’t just for stews and soups. They can be used to make a wide variety of dishes, including:

  • Roasts and joints of meat
  • Curries and chillies
  • Pasta dishes
  • Desserts and cakes
  • Breakfast dishes like porridge
  1. Cost-Effective

Slow cookers allow you to use cheaper cuts of meat, which become tender and flavourful when cooked slowly. They’re also great for batch cooking, which can help reduce your overall food costs.

  1. Easy to Clean

Many slow cookers have removable pots that are dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. The low cooking temperature also means food is less likely to stick or burn.

Choosing the Right Slow Cooker

When selecting a slow cooker, consider the following factors:

Size

Slow cookers come in various sizes, typically ranging from 1.5 to 7 litres. Consider how many people you’ll be cooking for regularly:

  • 1.5-3 litres: Ideal for 1-2 people
  • 3.5-4.5 litres: Suitable for 3-4 people
  • 5-7 litres: Great for families of 5+ or batch cooking

Features

While basic models offer simple low, high, and warm settings, more advanced slow cookers may include:

  • Digital timers
  • Programmable settings
  • Auto shut-off
  • Keep warm function
  • Removable, hob-safe cooking pots for searing

Shape

Oval slow cookers are versatile and can accommodate larger cuts of meat, while round models are great for soups and stews.

Recommended Slow Cooker Brands

Here are some reliable slow cooker brands available in the UK:

  1. Morphy Richards

Morphy Richards offers a range of affordable, high-quality slow cookers. Their Sear and Stew model is particularly popular, allowing you to sear meat directly in the cooking pot before slow cooking.

  1. Crock-Pot

The original slow cooker brand, Crock-Pot offers a wide range of models to suit different needs and budgets. Their digital slow cookers with timers are particularly convenient.

  1. Russell Hobbs

Known for their reliable kitchen appliances, Russell Hobbs produces several slow cooker models, including some with multiple cooking functions.

  1. Ninja

While pricier, Ninja’s multi-cookers offer slow cooking alongside other functions like pressure cooking and searing, making them versatile kitchen tools.

  1. Swan

Swan offers stylish, retro-designed slow cookers that perform well and look great on your countertop.

Where to Buy a Slow Cooker

Slow cookers are widely available in the UK. Here are some places to consider:

  • Department stores: John Lewis, Debenhams, and Argos offer a good selection of slow cookers.
  • Supermarkets: Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Asda often stock affordable slow cookers.
  • Online retailers: Amazon, Currys, and AO.com have a wide range of options and often offer competitive prices.
  • Kitchenware specialists: Lakeland and Robert Dyas stock a variety of slow cookers, including more specialised models.
  • Manufacturer websites: Buying directly from brands like Morphy Richards or Crock-Pot can sometimes offer better deals or extended warranties.

Tips for Using Your Slow Cooker

To get the most out of your slow cooker, keep these tips in mind:

  • Don’t overfill: Fill your slow cooker no more than two-thirds full to ensure even cooking.
  • Layer wisely: Place harder vegetables at the bottom, followed by meat, then softer vegetables on top.
  • Avoid lifting the lid: Each time you lift the lid, heat escapes and can add 15-20 minutes to your cooking time.
  • Trim excess fat: While slow cooking is great for tough cuts, excess fat can make dishes greasy.
  • Add dairy products late: Milk, cream, and cheese can curdle if cooked for too long. Add these in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  • Use less liquid: Slow cookers retain moisture, so you’ll need less liquid than in traditional recipes.
  • Prep the night before: You can prepare your ingredients and store them in the fridge overnight, ready to pop in the slow cooker in the morning.

Happy Cooking!

A slow cooker is a versatile, time-saving appliance that can revolutionise your approach to home cooking. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent juggling multiple responsibilities, or simply someone who loves coming home to a ready-made meal, a slow cooker could be the perfect addition to your kitchen.

With the ability to create everything from hearty stews to tender roasts, flavourful curries, and even desserts, a slow cooker offers endless possibilities. It’s energy-efficient, cost-effective, and can help you create healthier meals with minimal effort. When choosing a slow cooker, consider your household size, desired features, and budget. Brands like Morphy Richards, Crock-Pot, and Russell Hobbs offer reliable options to suit various needs.

Remember, the key to successful slow cooking is preparation. Take the time to understand your appliance, follow recipes carefully, and don’t be afraid to experiment. With a little practice, you’ll soon be creating delicious, fuss-free meals that will have everyone asking for seconds. So why not give slow cooking a try? It might just change the way you think about home-cooked meals, making the process easier, more enjoyable, and infinitely more delicious. 

 

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