Slow cookers. A must have?

[danniellabella]

I got one a few months ago but due to the summer it's only been used 3 times so far. DH isn't a fan of the meals from the SC so far...I have it on while I'm at work so it's about 10 hours and I've been finding that things have always been dry. I know everyone says to not use as much liquid but I'm finding that I need to play around and increase the liquid. I haven't found the balance yet.

I do think they're a wonderful invention though - especially as a mother who works full-time.

[AnyDream]

I recently bought a much bigger (5L) oval shaped slowcooker and I'm totally in love with it. I love to throw everything into a single pot and this replaces all the oven-cooking that I was doing (and I'm sure I'm saving a mint in electricity too) and I save the oven for when I want more of a baked effect.

I have found it great during summer because it doesn't heat the kitchen up like cooking on the stove does. Also, looking forward to lots of hale and hearty meals as the weather gets cooler. In fact I'm trying a chicken soup in it tomorrow. Mmmm yummy

[~Hestia~]

Alright, I'm convinced They do sound rather convenient & easy to use.
Any brand recommendations?

[AnyDream]

Not so much brands but these are the features you want:

High low and "auto" settings. Auto heats up quicker if you've forgotten to put something on but then switches to the low setting which cooks nicer.
Think about the size you want. I used to have a 3.5L old-style "crockpot" - it did 1 meal but I could never cook an extra large batch & freeze. I have a 5 L and it's just the right size (but I cook with loads of veggies) - think oval if you want to be able to do bigger joints of meat in it.
Glass lid. Plastic lids are crap.

[Visitor7]

Not so much brands but these are the features you want:

High low and "auto" settings. Auto heats up quicker if you've forgotten to put something on but then switches to the low setting which cooks nicer.
Think about the size you want. I used to have a 3.5L old-style "crockpot" - it did 1 meal but I could never cook an extra large batch & freeze. I have a 5 L and it's just the right size (but I cook with loads of veggies) - think oval if you want to be able to do bigger joints of meat in it.
Glass lid. Plastic lids are crap.

Yep, exactly what Marydean said. Mine has all of that, and I use it probably 3-4 times a week.
I use mine all throughout summer. It doesn't heat up the kitchen like an oven would.

[FabFiona]

I have a kambrook one which is around 6.5L. It too is oval and with a glass lid.

I find it perfect for when people are coming over. I've done all the prep earlier in the day so when they arrive it is ready to serve. No cooking or fiddling required.

I still haven't worked out to convert recipes so I just use slow cooker cookbooks and all works perfectly.

[LionsandBears]

I haven't used mine much cos DH does most of the cooking here. It is great though. Last week I did baked potatoes. Washed potatoes and threw them in the slow cooker on low. 9 hours later, came home and served up with all the yummy condiments. So easy!

We're doing it again tomorrow night.

I have a 6.5L rectangular cooker. It's a bit big for just 2 people, but is good for cooking extra and freezing left overs.