Slow cookers perfect for fall weather
05.10.11
The possibility of the four-letter "s" word has finally returned
to the Wyoming weather forecast, and the first full week of October
is a perfect time to take the slow cooker out of the pantry.
Warm, hearty one-dish meals -- or side courses to accompany a
quick meat main course -- are super easy when you use a slow
cooker.
Here are some recipes you might want to try.
Fresh Pumpkin Soup
8 cups chopped fresh pumpkin (about 3 pounds)
4 cups chicken broth
3 small tart apples, peeled and chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger or 2 tablespoons minced fresh
gingerroot
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
Toasted Pumpkin Seeds:
1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
1 teaspoon canola oil
1/8 teaspoon salt
In a 5-quart slow cooker, combine the first eight ingredients;
mix well. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or until the
pumpkin and apples are tender. Meanwhile, toss the pumpkin seeds
with oil and salt. Spread in an ungreased 15 by 10-inch baking pan.
Bake at 250 for 50 to 60 minutes or until golden brown. Set
aside.
Source: Casper Star-Tribune Online
Savvy Consumer: Best slow cookers for delicious dinners
02.10.11
As winter draws near, it’s time for you and your family to warm up with some delicious home cooking. But before you prepare that pot roast, take a tip from the Good Housekeeping Research Institute: The secret to a hearty winter meal is a great slow cooker. A great slow cooker keeps food simmering without overcooking. GHRI tested on High to Low to find the ones that perform best. Bon appetit!
Best overall
All-Clad 6.5-Quart 1500632304 ($180)
Our top performer, the All-Clad, maintained the most even simmer on both high and low heat, turning out a perfectly cooked beef stew and a tender (not stringy) pot roast. A well-lit digital control panel allows you to program cooking times up to 26 hours.
Plus: It has the sleekest look of all tested. The insert and lid are designed to be used only in the cooker (not in the oven); both are dishwasher safe.
Versatile
West Bend 6-Qt. 84966 ($80)
This compact West Bend may be a godsend to anyone with a small kitchen. As a slow cooker, it simmers nicely on low heat, producing a moist roast. The dishwasher-safe nonstick pot can be used on the stove or in the oven, and the base doubles as a griddle and a warming tray.
Source: In-Forum
