You might feel like the humble slow cooker is a relatively new invention as they have risen again in popularity in the last decade. There are so many reasons to love your slow cooker now. But they have actually been around, in one guise or another, for almost 60 years. Originally created to provide an easy and convenient way to create slow-cooked meals, the slow cooker was overlooked for many years and often used for only a few basic meals. However, over the last decade the slow cooker has risen again in popularity. And with this has come experimenting with different types of dishes and recipes.
Gone are the days when the slow cooker was only used for meals like stews, soups and casseroles. There are hundreds of different recipes that can be cooked in the slow cooker, a selection of which you can find in my cookbook, The Ultimate Slow Cooker Cookbook. And also right here on my website.
Why I love the slow cooker
Its ability to gently cook a variety of dishes over extended periods not only preserves and enhances flavours but also frees up time for busy individuals and families. Knowing I can set a meal cooking and then come back to it several hours later with no worry or stress is invaluable to me. From tenderising tougher cuts of meat to creating nutrient-rich meals with minimal effort, the slow cooker offers an array of features and benefits that make it an essential tool in modern kitchens. Moreover, its adaptability to create unique and unconventional recipes, such as slow-cooked bread or cheesecake, showcases its versatility and innovative potential. My slow cooker is a kitchen gadget in frequent use, since discovering its true versatility there is no longer a risk of it just being a dust catcher in the corner.
Here are my 8 reasons why a slow cooker is a great addition to your kitchen.
Energy Efficiency
Slow cookers are not only convenient but also energy efficient which makes them a great addition to any kitchen. They consume significantly less power compared to conventional ovens or stovetops. A typical slow cooker uses about the same amount of energy as a standard light bulb. Making it a cost-effective option for long cooking times. This energy efficiency not only translates to lower electricity bills. But also aligns with environmentally conscious living by reducing overall energy consumption in the kitchen.
Temperature Control
One of the features I love about slow cookers is their temperature control. Most models come with low, medium, and high settings, allowing for versatile cooking options. This consistent, even heating is ideal for breaking down tougher cuts of meat, creating rich stews, and developing deep flavours over time. The controlled, gentle heat also reduces the risk of burning or overcooking. Ensuring that dishes are cooked to perfection every time.
Portability and Compact Size
Their relatively small footprint means they fit well in kitchens with limited counter space. And many models have locking lids for spill-free transportation. Further enhancing their practicality and convenience.
Versatile Cooking Options
Beyond soups and stews, slow cookers offer a surprising range of cooking possibilities. Modern slow cookers often come with additional features such as sautéing and browning functions. Allowing you to prepare ingredients in one pot. They can be used to bake bread, cook tender meat, make lasagne, and even create beverages such as mulled wine or hot chocolate. This versatility means you can explore a wide variety of recipes and cooking techniques, making the slow cooker a truly multifunctional appliance.
Timesaving
One of the most significant benefits of using a slow cooker is the time it saves. For busy individuals and families, preparing a home-cooked meal can be a daunting task. Slow cookers allow you to prepare ingredients in the morning, set the cooker, and have a meal ready by dinner time with minimal additional effort. Additionally, slow cookers are excellent for batch cooking. Enabling you to prepare large quantities of food at once, which can be stored and enjoyed throughout the week. This is one of the main reasons to love your slow cooker.
Enhanced Flavour Development
Slow cookers excel at enhancing the flavours of your dishes. The slow, steady cooking process allows ingredients to meld together. Creating rich, deep flavours that are difficult to achieve with faster cooking methods. This is particularly beneficial for dishes like stews, soups, and braised meats. Where the extended cooking time helps break down tough fibres and infuse the food with aromatic spices and herbs. The result is tender, flavourful meals that taste like they’ve been simmering all day.
Nutritional Advantages
Cooking at lower temperatures for longer periods helps preserve the nutritional content of the ingredients. Vitamins and minerals that might be lost in high-heat cooking methods are retained. Making your meals healthier. Additionally, slow cookers encourage the use of whole, unprocessed ingredients. You can easily prepare nutritious meals by adding a variety of vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains to your recipes. Ensuring a balanced diet with minimal effort.
Cost-Effective Cooking
Slow cookers are also cost-effective. They allow you to use less expensive cuts of meat, which become tender and flavourful after hours of slow cooking. This can significantly reduce your grocery bills. Moreover, slow cookers help minimize food waste by making it easy to prepare large meals that can be enjoyed over several days. The ability to cook in bulk means you can buy ingredients in larger quantities, often at a lower cost, and prepare meals in advance.
Unconventional recipes to make in your slow cooker
Looking to be inspired so that you can make the most of your slow cooker and not just make then same old recipes over and over again, here are just a few ideas:
1) Slow Cooker Bread
2) Slow Cooker Lasagna
3) Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding
4) Slow Cooker Whole Cooked Chicken
5) Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate
Originally developed to simplify the preparation of traditional dishes, the slow cooker has evolved into a multifunctional appliance capable of transforming a wide array of ingredients into delicious, nutritious meals with minimal effort. I love the practicality of the slow cooker and being able to set a meal cooking, leave it for several hours whilst I get on with other things, and then return to a house full of delicious aromas and a homecooked meal ready to go.