How to Buy the Best Slow Cooker for Your Needs

Your Guide to buying the best Slow cookers

Overview

A slow cooker is an essential kitchen appliance that enables you to cook delicious meals with minimal effort. With a slow cooker, you can easily cook hearty stews, soups, and roasts without spending hours in the kitchen. In this buying guide, we'll explain the features to consider when selecting a slow cooker that fits your needs. We'll also provide tips to help you make the most out of your slow cooking experience. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you find the perfect slow cooker.

Key features

  1. Type of Slow Cooker: Consider the size and shape of the slow cooker. Slow cookers come in various sizes, ranging from one quart to eight quarts. If you have a large family, then you may want to get a larger model. You can also choose from different shapes, such as oval, round, or square.
  2. Settings/Features: Look for slow cookers that offer several cooking settings, including High, Low, and Warm. Look for additional features such as timers and digital readouts to make setting and maintaining temperatures easy.
  3. Durability: Consider the material the slow cooker is made from. Choose one that is made from a durable material such as stainless steel or cast iron, as these will last longer than plastic or ceramic models.
  4. Ease of Cleaning: Look for models that are easy to clean, such as those with a removable crock pot and non-stick surfaces. Some models may have dishwasher-safe parts that make cleaning even easier.
  5. Price: Consider the price of the slow cooker. Prices can vary greatly, so make sure to compare the features and prices of several different models.

See the most popular Slow cookers on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Convenience: Slow cookers are convenient and easy to use. They require minimal effort to prepare meals, and they can be left unattended while cooking, allowing you to get on with other tasks.
  • Saves Time: Slow cookers save time by allowing you to prepare meals in advance and store them in the refrigerator until needed. This reduces the amount of time needed to prepare dinner on busy nights.
  • Cost-Efficient: Slow cookers use less energy than conventional ovens and stovetops, making them more cost-efficient. Additionally, the low cooking temperature and long cooking time allow for inexpensive cuts of meat to be used.
  • Keeps Food Moist: By slow cooking food at a low temperature, the moisture is sealed in, resulting in a more flavorful and tender meal.
  • Variety of Dishes: Slow cookers can be used to make a wide range of dishes, including stews, soups, casseroles, and even desserts.

Cons

  • Safety Concerns: Slow cookers can pose a risk of food poisoning if not used correctly. Slow cookers need to reach a certain temperature to make food safe to eat, and the temperature needs to stay consistent throughout the cooking process.
  • Space: Slow cookers can take up a lot of counter or cupboard space when not in use, which can be inconvenient for those with smaller kitchens.
  • Time: Slow cookers often require several hours of cooking time before food is ready to eat. This may not be feasible for those on a tight schedule.
  • Limitations: Slow cookers have limitations when it comes to what types of foods they can cook. Certain dishes may not turn out as desired, especially if they require higher heat.

Best alternatives

  1. Instant Pot – A multi-functional pressure cooker that can replace multiple kitchen appliances, from a slow cooker to a yogurt maker.
  2. Rice Cooker – An automated cooking appliance designed to boil or steam rice.
  3. Electric Skillet – A cooking device with an electric heating element for frying, baking, and other cooking techniques.
  4. Sous Vide Machine – A device that uses precise temperature control for slow cooking, resulting in tender and juicy products.
  5. Dutch Oven – A heavy pot with sides and lid that is used for slow cooking at lower temperatures.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Measuring Cup - Used to measure ingredients for slow cooker recipes.
  • Spatula - Used to stir ingredients in the slow cooker.
  • Timer - Used to set the amount of time for the slow cooker to cook.
  • Ladle - Used to serve food from the slow cooker.
  • Serving Spoon - Used to scoop food from the slow cooker.
  • Slow cooker Liners - Made from plastic, these liners are used to line the slow cooker, making clean up easier.
  • Slow cooker Rack - Used to raise food off the bottom of the slow cooker for even cooking.
  • Trivet - Used to place in the bottom of the slow cooker to prevent food from burning.

Common questions

  1. What types of Slow cookers are there?
    Slow cookers come in a variety of sizes, designs, and features. The main types are traditional, multi-cooker, and programmable. Traditional slow cookers are the most basic and typically hold 6-7 quarts. Multi-cookers, such as the Instant Pot, are popular for their versatility, as they can cook multiple dishes at once. Programmable slow cookers allow you to set a cooking time and will switch from high to low temperature automatically.
  2. How much should I expect to spend on a Slow cooker?
    Slow cookers can range in price from $20 to $200 or more. Generally, prices depend on size, features, and brand. A basic slow cooker may cost as little as $20, while larger, more advanced slow cookers can cost upwards of $200.
  3. What should I look for when buying a Slow cooker?
    When shopping for a slow cooker, consider the size, features, and price. For larger households, look for a slow cooker with a capacity of 6-7 quarts. If you’re looking for a versatile slow cooker, a multi-cooker or programmable slow cooker may be a better option. Additionally, make sure to consider your budget and look for features such as digital timers, automatic shut offs, and LCD displays.
  4. Are there any safety considerations to keep in mind when using a Slow cooker?
    Yes, there are a few safety considerations to keep in mind when using a slow cooker. First, always use the slow cooker on a flat, level surface. Additionally, never leave the slow cooker unattended while cooking, and avoid lifting the lid while the slow cooker is in use, as this can reduce the temperature and affect the cooking time. Finally, always unplug the slow cooker after use and before cleaning.

Trivia

A funny fact about slow cookers is that they are sometimes referred to as 'Crock-Pots' or 'Crockpots'! The name came about after the Rival Manufacturing Company introduced the product in 1971. The slow cooker was made of stoneware and was actually shaped like a potbelly stove, so they named it a 'Crock-Pot'. The name stuck and is still used interchangeably to this day. Sources: https://www.thespruceeats.com/what-is-a-slow-cooker-1328885.

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.