Slow Cookers - Tips For Using a Slow Cooker

Slow cooker or "crock pot" cooking can offer many benefits, from not heating up the kitchen during summer days to enjoying appetizing stews on a cold winter evening. Retention a few tips in mind, anyone can produce extraordinary one-pot meals that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.

For best results when using a Slow Cooker, keep the following in mind:

Programmable Slow Cookers

Breads and Cakes: A slow cooker can cook yeast breads or scratch cakes, but you should be aware that they may not look the same as when baked using more accepted oven methods. The texture will be coarser; and the accomplished ensue may not dome.

Dairy Products: Dairy products do not fare well during long cooking times. After a short period, they will break down. It is best to add any dairy products (milk, cheese, etc) during the last hour of cooking.

Meats: A slow cooker is ideal for cooking less tender cuts of meat. The long cooking times and high moisture cooking help to break down tough cuts, producing a very tender result. Meat should be defrosted before cooking, and ground beef should be scramble-fried prior to adding to the cooker.

Pasta: If you intend to assemble formula ingredients into your crock pot the night before, do not add the pasta as it can become mushy. Pasta is best added to dishes that are ready to be cooked right away. If your cooking time is quite lengthy and your formula allows for it, reconsider adding pasta during the last half of the total cooking time.

Rice: The best type of rice to use in your slow cooker is 'converted rice'. It is less likely to become sticky or mushy during long cooking. Instant rice will not tolerate the long cooking times required.

Vegetables: Fresh, raw vegetables will take longer than whether frosty or canned veggies to cook. They should be cut into small pieces and settled at the lowest of the cooker for best results. frosty and canned vegetables are best added to the top of the dish. Canned veggies should be added in the final stages of cooking, and cooked only until heated through.

Being aware of these tips will ensure that your slow cooked meals are a success.

All you need are a few recipes to try out, and you're well on your way to appreciating the convenience and deliciousness of slow-cooked meals.

Slow Cookers - Tips For Using a Slow Cooker