The kitchen appliance of the moment is definitely the air fryer, with people going so crazy for the gadget that they pretty much sold out everywhere over the Christmas period. And air fryers ARE great, however the humble slow cooker is possibly an even better purchase for most people- especially at this time of year when hearty comfort food is a must. Whether you've never owned a slow cooker, or have one sitting in the back of the cupboard not getting the love it deserves, here are some of the benefits of using one.
Saves time and effort
One of the biggest advantages of using a slow cooker is that it saves you time and effort in the kitchen. With a slow cooker, you can simply chop up the ingredients, add them to the appliance, and let it do the rest. There's no need to keep an eye on the pot or stir the ingredients regularly. This makes slow cooking a great option for busy families who want to enjoy a healthy, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Perfect for busy weekdays
With a slow cooker, you can make healthy, home-cooked meals even on busy weekdays. Simply chop up the ingredients in the morning, put everything in the slow cooker, and you'll have a hot, delicious meal waiting for you when you get home. This makes slow cooking a great option for busy professionals who don't have time to spend in the kitchen during the week.
Retains nutrients
Unlike other cooking methods, slow cooking helps retain the nutrients in your food. This is because the low and slow cooking process allows the ingredients to cook evenly, preserving their flavor and nutrients. Slow cooking also helps to break down tough cuts of meat, making them tender and juicy.
Money-saver
Using a slow cooker can also help you save money. Since slow cooking is a gentle method, it's possible to use cheaper cuts of meat that would otherwise be tough and unappetizing. Slow cooking also makes it easy to turn leftovers into new meals, reducing food waste.
Easy to clean
Another great thing about slow cookers is that they're incredibly easy to clean. Most slow cookers have removable inserts that can be easily washed in the dishwasher, making cleanup a breeze. And since you don't have to watch the pot closely while it's cooking, you'll have more time to clean up after your meal.
Versatile
Slow cookers are incredibly versatile and can be used to make a wide variety of dishes. From stews and soups to roasts and casseroles, the possibilities are endless. You can also use a slow cooker to make side dishes, desserts, and even drinks. The options are virtually limitless!
Hands-free cooking
One of the best things about slow cooking is that it's hands-free. You can simply set it and forget it, allowing you to get on with your day. This makes slow cooking a great option for busy families who want to enjoy a healthy, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. And because the slow cooker does all the work for you, you won't have to worry about the food burning or sticking to the pot.
Whether you're a busy professional or a busy parent, a slow cooker is a great investment that can make your life easier, your meals healthier and trim your budget.