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SLOW COOKER TIPS AND TECHNIQUES
SLOW COOKER TIPS AND TECHNIQUES
1. Little or no stirring is required when using the Low or Warm settings. In the High
setting, stirring can ensure even flavor distribution.
2. Always cook with the glass lid in place and the ceramic pot in position. The
glass lid of the Slow Cooker does not form a tight fit on the ceramic pot and
should be centered on the ceramic pot for best results. Remember that frequent
lifting of the glass lid will delay the cooking time.
3. The Slow Cooker should be at least half-filled for best results.
4. If cooking soups or stews, leave a 2-inch space between the
top of the ceramic pot and the food so that the food may be
allowed to simmer.
5. When cooking a meat and vegetable combination, place the meat in the
bottom of the ceramic pot.
6. Cooking times may differ according to the amount of ingredients, room
temperature and other factors.
7. Certain dishes may not cook if the room temperature is below 41°F or 5°C.
8.
DO NOT
use frozen meat or poultry in a Slow Cooker. Thaw any meat or poultry
before slow cooking.
9. Follow recommended cooking times.
10. When cooking is finished, you can serve the meal in the ceramic pot.
11. The sides of the metal housing of the Slow Cooker get very warm. The glass lid
and the ceramic pot are hot. Use oven mitts or pot holders to remove the
ceramic pot.
12. Always use a trivet or protective padding under ceramic pot before setting on
table or countertop.
13. When removing the glass lid, tilt it so that the opening faces away from you to
avoid being burned by the steam. Use a cloth or pot holder to hold the lid.
Exercise caution to avoid burns.
14. Unplug the Slow Cooker when the cooking process is complete. Allow ceramic pot
and glass lid to cool completely before cleaning.
The ceramic pot cannot
withstand the shock of sudden temperature changes.
15. Many recipes call for cooking all day. You can also prepare the recipe the night
before by placing all ingredients in the ceramic pot, covering and refrigerating
overnight. In the morning, simply place the ceramic pot in the Slow Cooker and
select the time and temperature setting.
16.
DO NOT
use the ceramic pot for storage of foods.
17. Always grasp the Slow Cooker by the handles on the outer housing when
moving it from one place to another.
GUIDE TO SLOW COOKING
Use the recommended guidelines offered in recipe being used to determine cooking
time and heating position. Dishes can be prepared well in advance of mealtime and
cooking time regulated so that food is ready to serve at a convenient time.
A general rule of thumb for most slow cooker meat-and-vegetable combos is:
Other favorite recipes may be adapted to the slow cooker. All times listed in the
following table are approximate and should serve only as cooking guidelines.
CAUTION:
Be careful when adding additional liquids to ceramic pot.
NEVER add cold liquids as this might cause the ceramic pot to crack.
Always warm the liquids before adding.
CAUTION:
When removing the glass lid, grasp the lid handle and lift
slightly to allow steam to escape before removing cover completely.
To avoid burns, always hold cover so that escaping steam flows away
from hands and face.
Cooking Time in Recipes
Recommended Temperature Setting
8-10 Hours
LOW
4-6 Hours
HIGH
Regular Oven Cooking Time
Slow Cooker Cooking Times
LOW
HIGH
30 minutes
6-8 hrs.
3-4 hrs.
35-60 minutes
8-10 hrs.
5-6 hrs.
1-3 hours
10-12 hrs.
7-8 hrs.