Slow Cookers

[NikNu]

Does anyone use a slow cooker - do they love it or hate it? What do you cook in it and do you have any recommendations for models or makes?

There is a huge difference between the cheapest and the dearest. Do you get what you pay for, what functions are essential?

Sorry lots of questions - any advice appreciated

[alexandra_c]

I have a Rival crock-pot that seems to do the job. I find the best thing is chicken casseroles eg: coq au vin. I sometimes uses the packet mixes as they are so easy. Best if you quickly brown the chicken first but you dont have to. Meat just falls off the bone and you can bung in as many veg as you like.

I did try a mince dish but it came out a bit fatty - personally I think they are better done on the hob.

Alexandra x

[Liz1967]

I keep thinking about getting a slow cooker so will watch this thread with interest, as like Nik says there is such a price difference between different models. I don't want to end up with yet another gadget that just sits in the cupboard never being used

Love
Liz
xx

[jue40]

I bought one a couple of months ago and its great! Ive only done beef stew in it though but was lovely and tender. Only trouble is you have to get organised early on in the day or the night before cos it takes 8 hours to cook.
I looked around for ages at sizes, makes and prices and then saw one in Tesco for a tenner and its just fine!

[loubylou]

I LOVE mine I have the very big Rival crock-pot, 6lt. I cook tons of things in it and even do joints of meats in it and they come out so tender. I find if you have fatty meats brown them well first and drain off the fat before tipping in then the dishs come out ok. We do stews, curry, meatballs, chilli, spag bol etc.

[Scout]

I have one as well but can't remember the make right now. I'm in Canada anyway so probably can't get my kind there. i use mine a lot and it is brilliant but you do have to be organised as you have to throw everything in early. I usually use mine on the weekends. jenna and I will make a 'bung it' in the morning then play all day and have a nice cooked meal at the end of the day. And no pans to wash up.

We do beef stews, soups, chili, chicken stew, all sorts of stuff. Definately worth the money I think.

Gillian xo

[vanessa]

We popped into Asda yesterday, while Jellie was at nursery and picked up a Morphy Richards oval slow cooker. Its huge (6.5 litre), and cost only £25 in the sale. Its lovely, it has a really heavy ceramic lift out pot (handy for serving at the table), and the outer part is stainless steel, the lid is glass so you can keep an eye on whats cooking without constantly lifting the lid off. Its really nice to look at, and I have steak and onions braising in it as I type. For the money, I think it was an absolute bargain!

Much Love

Vanessa
xx