The slow cooker is arguably the greatest invention for busy professionals and parents alike. It lets you have a delicious, home-cooked meal without hours of stirring, roasting, frying and sauteing. Here are some delicious recipes to put your slow cooker to good use:
Slow cookers can make almost any meal, including dinner classics like pot roasts.
Pot roast
Pot roast is a classic, especially during the holidays or when hosting a dinner party. This recipe from Food Network is a little more hands-on than your average slow cooker dinner - the gravy is cooked separately in a skillet. Still, the end result is all the more delicious, and your loved ones will definitely be impressed.
Tex-Mex chicken
Want a simple meal that kids will love? Try this Tex-Mex inspired dish from Canadian Family. The cilantro, garlic and chili powder give it a great flavor, while the chunky salsa, peppers and corn provide some attractive color.
French onion soup
This simple recipe, also from Canadian Family, requires minimal preparation. Just peel and slice the onions, then toss them in your slow cooker with olive oil, brown sugar, salt and butter. The bulk of cooking time this recipe - eight hours in all - can take place overnight or while you're at work. Afterwards, all you need to do is add thyme, sherry and beef stock, then cook for another 30 minutes. Finish with some toasted bread and cheese.
Eggplant Parmesan
This recipe from Delish is great for vegetarians. Vegans need only replace the mozzarella and Parmesan for a dairy-free alternative. Plus, this dish only takes about four hours to cook on a high setting. Just be aware that the prep is a little intensive - you have to slice the eggplant first, sprinkle it with salt then let it sit for half an hour.
Last-minute tips
- Thaw meat before adding it to the slow cooker, otherwise it'll take longer to finish and release too much water.
- Don't fill the cooker to capacity. It should be at least halfway full, but no greater than two-thirds.
- Don't peek before it's done. Opening the lid slows the cooking process by 15 to 20 minutes.
- If you have time, brown the meat and saute the vegetables before putting them in the slow cooker to intensify the flavor.
- Add fresh herbs at the end to retain their flavor. Similarly, stir in dairy during the last 15 minutes to prevent it from breaking down.