We know it’s tempting but keep your hands off the lid. Unless the recipe instructs you to stir halfway through the cooking time or toward the end, don’t lift the lid. Lifting the lid to peek or stir can add 10 to 20 minutes to the cooking time.
If you have to lift the lid of the slow cooker, lift it straight up so the condensation on the lid doesn’t run back into the dish.
Be aware of where your foods are in the slow cooker. Generally, vegetables cook slower than meat so they should be near the bottom of the slow cooker.
The ideal fill level for a slow cooker is between one-half and two-thirds full.
Certain ingredients tend to break down during the long cooking times of slow cookers. When possible, add milk, cream, sour cream and seafood toward the end of the cooking time.
If you prefer your meats to have a browned look to them, we recommend browning them in a little hot oil before placing them in the slow cooker.
Don’t own a slow cooker? Visit the housewares department at Wal-Mart for a complete selection of top-of-the-line slow cookers.
Need an extra set of hands while entertaining? Keep your side dishes warm this holiday season and free up your stove for the main course.
Serve hot chocolate, mulled wine or spiced apple cider right from your slow cooker.
Serve cheese fondues from your slow cooker and say goodbye to burnt on cheese dishes forever.
