7 Benefits of Using a Slow Cooker

The slow cooker is one of the most versatile and easy-to-use kitchen appliances, perfect for busy families or anyone who wants to come home to a hot meal that’s already prepared. But while the slow cooker has been around for decades, the technology has come a long way.

Today's slow cookers are more user-friendly than ever before, with features like programmable settings, automatic shut-off, and even Wi-Fi connectivity. Whether you're in the market for a new crock pot or you're just curious about the latest models, read on to learn more about the benefits of using a slow cooker.

Locking lids

Have you ever wished you could easily transport your slow-cooked meal to a holiday gathering, potluck or tailgate party? Thanks to a locking lid feature on some crock pots, now you can tote your piping-hot dish in the same container it was cooked in. Just lock down the latches on both sides of the lid and move the slow cooker to the car, show up at your event and you’re ready to go.

Automatic stirring attachments

The automatic stirring attachments available in some machines help to work flavors through the dish and promote even heating for perfect taste and texture. Most pots that offer automatic stirring include this feature attached to a second lid, which can be swapped out for an ordinary lid when stirring is not required for the recipe. And speaking of spoons, there are slow cookers with spoon rests built into the lid for added convenience.

Versatile settings

One of the benefits of slow cookers is that you can use them in different ways. Depending on the model, you can use a crock pot to sauté, steam, bake and sear. In fact, there are slow cookers that double as pressure cookers, steamers, and even yogurt makers. Being able to pack all those capabilities into one machine gives you a lot of versatility in your meal options without taking up valuable cabinet space.

Multi-pot arrangements for parties

Have you been faced with the dilemma of how to keep multiple buffet dips, sauces and appetizers consistently warm for the entire length of a party? With slow cookers that include multiple crocks in one device, you can do so with ease. These convenient small kitchen appliances even allow you to set separate temperatures for each crock. If you know someone who is the consummate hostess, these multi-cookers are a great gift idea for the frequent entertainer.

Built-in food thermometer

When your slow cooker has its own built-in food thermometer, (also called a temperature probe), you won’t have to worry about over- or under-cooking your meat. Instead of trying to estimate the perfect time and temperature combination, you can set your machine to reach the correct internal temperature for the dish you’re cooking. Then, the crock pot will turn off automatically or switch to the warming setting when the thermometer detects that your meat has reached the necessary degree of doneness.

Wi-Fi-connectivity

One of the newest and high-tech advancements in slow cooker technology is the ability to connect to a Wi-Fi network. This benefit allows you to control your crock pot remotely using an app on your smartphone. You can start your crock pot in the middle of the day while you’re at work and monitor the progress of your dinner to speed it up or slow it down as needed.

Plus, you can set timers and receive notifications on your phone, tablet or smartwatch to let you know how things are going. This is a great way to make sure that your food is cooked perfectly every time.

Slow cooker liners

If you’re wondering how to use a crock pot without having a big mess to clean up afterwards, slow cooker liners are the answer. These modern marvels are made of heat-resistant material and are designed to fit snugly in the slow cooker pot, making your clean-up effortless. They come in a variety of sizes to fit most slow cookers and some models are even reusable.

When you're finished cooking, simply lift the liner out of the pot and discard the contents. Slow cooker liners are great to use when for cooking messy dishes like stews, chili and oatmeal.

Start cooking with your crock pot

With all these benefits, making healthy and delicious dinners with your slow cooker has never been easier. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a whole dinner party, the latest slow cooker technology can make all the difference when it comes to spending the least amount of effort needed to achieve perfect results.