Slow Cooker - Get The Best Results Every Time

Your slow cooker can be a terrific time saver in your kitchen.  You can clean up your kitchen long before you serve your meal. With some prep work, you can "set it and forget it". But like any type of cooking, you need to do a few things each time to get your best results.

Your slow cooker can be a terrific time saver in your kitchen.  You can clean up your kitchen long before you serve your meal. With some prep work, you can "set it and forget it". But like any type of cooking, you need to do a few things each time to get your best results.

Read on to learn more about choosing the properly sized slow cooker for your recipe, getting the right cut of meat, and how to add ingredients in the right order.

Slow Cooker Correct Size

One of the most important keys to successful slow cooking is using the properly sized slow cooker.  If the pot is overfilled, it may not cook everything thoroughly or evenly.  If the pot is not filled enough, the contents can easily burn or overcook. 

Ideally, the pot of your slow cooker should be filled one half to two thirds full.  You may be able to use two smaller cuts of meat to fill the pot to the right amount.  Once you've determined the right size of meat for your slow cooker, keep this amount in mind when you shop for meat. 

Use The Right Cut Of Meat

Some cuts of meat are actually better for dry (oven) roasting than a slow cooker.  Look for tougher cuts like shoulder and rump.  They come from the more heavily exercised part of the animal.  If you have a favorite recipe for braised meat, that should also work well for the slow cooker. 

When adapting braising recipes, be very aware of how much liquid is included.  Crock pots cook out a lot of liquid, even without adding liquid.  You must significantly reduce the amount of liquid to make the recipe turn out well. 

Layering and Adding Ingredients Properly

For best results, always layer pieces of meat on top of vegetables.  This helps to fill the crock pot to the proper level and provides additional flavor.  If you are doing a soup or stew, layering is not necessary. 

Pasta, rice, and cooked beans can often wait until the last half hour to keep them from getting mushy.  Also, cream and milk products are sometimes added at the end to keep them from separating or curdling.

Start Slow Cooking With Confidence

Slow cooking is an easy flexible cooking style.  With the tips you just read, you'll make a great slow cooker meals with confidence.

Article Tags: Slow Cooker, Best Results, Slow Cooker 

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