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To Slow Cook or Not to Slow Cook?
by jillbcooks  10/22/2009 5:48:00 PM

There are some polemic topics that seem to divide people.  Are you a dog or cat person?  A vanilla or chocolate ice cream fan?  A slow cooker fan or a cook who scoffs at the  thought of cooking in one?

Slow cookers are often associated with homey comfort foods rather than gourmet meals.  One of my favorite cookbooks is Not Your Mother’s Slow Cooker Cookbook, which offers more innovative recipes than those that give slow cookers a bad rap.  While my husband has a fondness for stew meat, a packet of onion soup mix and water that cooks on low all day long, that is not my picture of a good dinner.  If you find yourself avoiding the slow cooker (and dining out or driving through for convenience’s sake), reconsider using one and finding recipes that appeal to you. 

Here are some of my favorites:
Slow Cooker Barbecued Pulled-Pork Fajitas
Slow Cooker Chunky Chicken Chili
Slow Cooker Roast Pork with Fruit
Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff for Two

Here’s dinner tonight: Tomato Pot Roast
A three pound beef roast, a can of diced tomatoes, sliced onion and a couple bay leaves.  We are going to have it over mashed potatoes.

What do you like to make in the slow cooker?

Tags:  easy dinners, beef roast, slow cooker

Comments (4)
4 Comments

cathycough said:
I just started working full time after being home with kids for years. I think I really need a slow cooker -- to avoid meals out -- but don't know what to buy. There are some that are inexpensive, but the reviews show that the expensive ($100+) machines are best. What do people out there use successfully? Thank you!
10/26/2009 7:44:53 PM
cbroy92 said:
Cathy, I have a really cheap one I bought at Wal-mart, and I also have another one that is really really old. They both work wonderfully. I prefer the ones that have the insert that comes out cause it's easier to clean. So no the more expensive ones dont work better, you're prob just paying for a name IMO. Hope this helps some
10/27/2009 9:46:08 AM
CateC_BettyCrocker_MOD said:
Cathy- I would buy one that has a self timer (and has three settings, high, low, and keep warm)... so you aren't worried if you are running late for dinner! Sincerely, Cate
10/28/2009 2:45:21 PM
jillbcooks said:
My crockpot is actually my husband's--a cheapie one had bought before we met, over 10 years ago now. Works well and we haven't had a need to upgrade.
10/28/2009 5:53:42 PM
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