Sturdy handles are a must, but slow cookers also offer features you might find useful, like roasting racks to let you roast meat and poultry or steam vegetables, wrap-around cord storage, and insulated carrying bags.
Pots
Most slow cookers we’ve tested have a ceramic pot that’s oval, a shape that accommodates roasts or other large cuts of meat better than a round slow cooker can.
Lids
A glass or clear plastic lid lets you watch your progress without removing the lid and releasing heat. Some slow cookers have a hinged lid—handy when serving up food—though none in our current ratings do. A lid that locks helps keep food from spilling while in transport to potlucks and parties, and some cookers have a handle on the lid that makes the slow cooker easier to carry.
Capacity
Capacities can range from 1.5 to 8.5 quarts. But some owner’s manuals say to fill the pot 1/2 to 3/4 full to avoid under- and over-cooking and to prevent spillovers. Most of the slow cookers in our ratings are 6-to-7 quart models, a popular size. Even slow cookers with similar capacities can vary in size. The bulky ones are more difficult to store and transport, and of course they eat up more counter space. Note that the tested models weigh between 7 and 17 pounds.
Temperature Probes
Slow cookers aren’t loaded with new features, but temperature probes pop up on some. Insert the probe into a large cut of meat, choose the temperature you want the meat to reach, and when it does, the slow cooker will switch to the keep-warm setting. The owner’s manual for theHamilton Beach Temp Trackerwe tested includes tips on using the temperature probe and hold-temp mode to cook using thesous videmethod.
Ease of Cleaning
An easy-to-clean pot and lid that can go into the dishwasher is handy. And keep in mind that touchpad controls are easier to clean than knobs and buttons.
FAQs
However, Crockpots generally have ceramic or porcelain pots, while most slow cookers have a metal pot. As with a lot of cooking appliances, the biggest difference comes from the distribution of heat.
Is a digital or manual Crockpot better? ›
For true set-it-and-forget-it functionality, spring for a programmable slow cooker. Unlike manual models, programmable cookers will automatically switch off once the cooking time is up and their start time can be delayed, so you won't have to worry about coming home to an overcooked stew.
Is there something better than a Crockpot? ›
A pressure cooker or Dutch oven is likely the better bet for most cooks.
How do I choose a slow cooker? ›
Features to Consider
- Pots. Most slow cookers we've tested have a ceramic pot that's oval, a shape that accommodates roasts or other large cuts of meat better than a round slow cooker can.
- Lids. ...
- Capacity. ...
- Temperature Probes. ...
- Ease of Cleaning.
Oval is often a better choice than round.
If you cook chicken pieces stacked together in a tall, round 4-quart slow cooker, rather than in a single layer in an oval 6-quart slow cooker, it will take longer.
What cannot be cooked in a slow cooker? ›
What not to put in a slow cooker
- Lean, tender cuts of meat. Lean, tender (and usually more expensive cuts) will actually become dry and tough if you cook them in a slow cooker! ...
- Meat with skin left on. ...
- Too much liquid. ...
- Delicate vegetables. ...
- Fresh herbs and spices. ...
- Milk and cream. ...
- Alcohol. ...
- Seafood.
However, if you are planning to leave your slow cooker on overnight, make sure it's on a low heat. You may wonder how long can you leave a slow cooker on low for? Well, the recommendation is a maximum of 8 hours on a low heat for most slow cookers.
What size slow cooker should I buy? ›
Whether your household includes three or four people, or you're a couple who actually loves leftovers, a 5-quart slow cooker is an ideal size for you. The moderate size accommodates everything from soups and stews to and chilis and casseroles.
What is the most popular size slow cooker? ›
⭐️ 5 to 7-quart slow cooker: The most common and popular size range. This capacity offers the most flexibility for most people. These pots accommodate large roasts or whole chickens. Find the best slow cooker for your needs and budget.
Do professional chefs use slow cookers? ›
Slow cookers remain at a low, consistent temperature while cooking. The lid traps much of the steam inside the pot and the condensation then helps bastes the food (note, you might want to prevent condensation dripping onto some dishes). Do chefs use slow cookers? Yes.
Opt for a heavy, oven-safe pot with a tight-fitting lid, like a Staub or Le Creuset Dutch oven, to mimic the moisture retention of a slow cooker. This ensures even heat distribution and prevents excessive drying out.
Which slow cooker is healthier? ›
While ceramic and nonstick coatings claim to be easy to use, those non-stick properties come with the risk of toxins being cooked into your food. On the other hand, a stainless steel slow cooker is the safest choice that you can make for your family's health.
Is it worth it to buy a slow cooker? ›
So, in conclusion, slow cookers are great. They're a convenient, cost-effective, and versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to make a wide range of delicious meals with minimal effort. Whether you're cooking for your partner or entertaining guests, a slow cooker is nice to have in any kitchen.
Which cooker is best in quality? ›
| Best Pressure Cooker Brands In India | Price In India |
|---|
| Pigeon by Stovekraft 12708 Aluminium Pressure Cooker | Rs 989 |
| Hawkins Contura 3L Aluminium Inner Lid Pressure Cooker | Rs 1,508 |
| Prestige Popular Virgin Aluminium Precision Weight Valve Outer Lid Pressure Cooker | Rs 1,395 |
5 more rowsFeb 15, 2024
