Tips for Crock Pot Cooking
Do you want to know how to slow cook like a boss? This is one of my favorite ways to prepare meals when I want lots of flavor, especially when I have less expensive cuts of meat that are likely to be tough. Below you’ll see some tips to help you get the most out of your slow cooker.
Choose the Right Ingredients
I’ve found that slow cooking is best for cuts of meat that need extra time to become tender. That’s why I usually cook chuck roast and brisket in my Crock Pot. The slow cooker helps break down the connective tissue that can make the meat come out tough. I’ve also discovered that many cuts of pork and chicken come out great. Certain vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and celery hold up well during long cooking times.
Layer the Ingredients with Intent
I like to put vegetables that have a dense texture on the bottom so they’ll cook more thoroughly. Then I place the meat on top. Any vegetables that I add later, such as tomatoes or peppers go on top.
Add the Right Amount of Liquid
I’ve made the mistake of adding too much liquid to my slow cooker, and everything comes out mushy. Since liquids don’t evaporate as much as they would during another cooking process, use the liquids sparingly. Remember that many types of meat will add to the liquid as they cook.
Know When to Brown the Meat First
For extra depth of flavor, brown the meat before adding it to the slow cooker. However, there are times when you can slow cook meat and still get a crispy crunch on the outside, such as this 3-ingredient slow cooker chicken. I learned the hard way that if the meat isn’t covered, the top of it gets crispy from the dry heat.
Avoid the Urge to Lift the Lid
I do understand wanting to see how the food is coming along. But remember that each time you lift the lid, some of the moisture and heat escape. However, if you must open the Crock Pot to add vegetables later, do it quickly. Then replace the cover as quickly as possible.
Use Dried Herbs Instead of Fresh Herbs
I’ve discovered that fresh herbs often don’t handle long cooking times very well. They might lose their flavor or become bitter. That’s why I typically use dried herbs.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pot
In order to have even cooking, only fill the pot to about two-thirds full. When you are cooking a large piece of meat, do your best to avoid having it touch the sides or lid.
Grease the Pot or Use a Liner
One of the advantages of using a slow cooker is how easy it is to prepare a meal. Keep this in mind when it comes to cleanup. Some people like to use a liner for this reason. But I prefer greasing the pot with avocado oil.
Know the Correct Cooking Times and Settings
Read the instructions for cooking times and follow that, especially the first time you make a recipe. Also use the proper temperature settings. Most slow cookers have low and high settings, and some even have a medium setting.
A Few More Tips
- Don’t forget to plug your slow cooker in. This is another lesson I learned the hard way because I was in too big of a hurry to run out the door.
- If you start your slow cooker on high but need to leave the house for several hours, it’s probably best to turn it down to low. Otherwise, you run the risk of overcooking the food.
- Before adding vegetables, it’s best to cut them to a uniform size.
- Thaw your meat before putting it in the slow cooker.
- If the recipe calls for cheese, add it at the end of the cooking cycle to keep it from getting rubbery.
- Don’t be afraid of your slow cooker. You’ll be amazed by how many main dishes, side dishes, and desserts you can cook in that thing.
- Use the correct size slow cooker. I have 3 different sizes–one for large meals, one for 2-person meals, and another one for sauces and dips.
Delicious Slow Cooker Meals
Layered Hamburger Casserole – When you’re looking for a one-pot meal, this is a good one. All of the ingredients are easy to find at any grocery store.
Chicken Pepper Pot – This budget-friendly meal is super easy to prepare, and everyone will love all the flavor!
Hoisin Chicken – If you like lots of flavors, all blended together in one dish, you’ll love this hoisin chicken from Call Me PMc.
Chili Con Carne – Any time you and your family are in the mood for chili, this recipe is perfect. It only requires a few minutes of preparation. Then simply put everything in the pot and come home later to a dinner the whole family will love.
Beef Stew for Two – I love this meal for my husband and me at times when I don’t want a lot of leftovers. It’s delicious and hearty without overdoing the volume of food. Since my husband and I are empty nesters, I picked up a smaller slow cooker for meals like this one.
Crock Pot Lasagna – If you’re like me, you love lasagna but often don’t have time for all the traditional steps. I tried making it my slow cooker discovered that it’s just as good!
Enjoy Your Crock Pot
I hope you use your slow cooker often. Too many people let their Crock Pots sit on the shelf because they either forget about it or fall into a pattern of not using it. Remember that your slow cooker can make your life so much easier. And don’t be afraid to experiment with new recipes. You just might discover your new favorite food!