Slow cooker and crockpot tips

[Julesong]

This thread is for posting tips on slow cooker and crockpot cooking.

[Julesong]

Oven to Crockpot Conversion General Information, from About.com

It's difficult to give exact conversion information on translating traditional oven recipes to the crockpot. Below you will find some general guidelines for converting your favorite recipes to the crockpot. Since crockpots vary, you should consult your owner's manual for instructions.

• Crockpots may vary but generally, the LOW setting is about 200 degrees F. and the HIGH setting is about 300 degrees F. One hour on HIGH is approximately equal to 2 to 2-1/2 hours on LOW. Most crockpot recipes recommend cooking 8-10 hours on LOW. Some recipes recommend the HIGH setting based on the nature and texture of the food. You will have to judge your recipe accordingly. For example, beef cuts will be better cooked on LOW for 8-10 hours to get a more tender texture, where chicken can be cooked on HIGH 2-1/2 to 3 hours.

Please click here for full article, including charts for: General Oven to Crockpot Cooking Time Conversions, and General Crockpot Cooking Times for Specific Foods.

[Julesong]

Basic Crock/Slow Cooker Tips, from About.com

The slow cooker is usually thought of as a way to make a fast meal by combining several ingredients, turning it on, and leaving it unattended for the whole day. This can result in an overcooked meal which, depending on the ingredients, might turn out good, but then again it might be barely edible. No wonder so many people keep theirs on a closet shelf or gathering cobwebs in the basement!

Tips for recipe success

Buy roasts and other large cuts of meat that will fit in your crock pot, or plan to trim them to fit.

Please click on article title above for the full article at About.com.

[Julesong]

Common questions about crockpots, answered by About.com

Crockery cooker or slow cooker - what's the difference?

The most common models have a crockery pot insert and the heating elements are housed in the sides, so the heat actually surrounds the food. The two heat settings are low (200 degrees) and high (300 degrees). The slow cooker, or "multi-cooker" usually cooks from the bottom and might have a thermostat allowing a wide range of temperatures. Even if your slow cooker has a crockery insert...

Please click on the article title above for the full information at About.com, including the following questions answered:

What are some advantages of slow cooking?

Does a slow cooker get hot enough to cook foods safely?

What foods are not suited to slow cooking?

Do I have to brown meats before adding them?

Why are my potatoes still hard after hours of cooking?

Can I use a timer on my slow cooker?

What size slow cooker should I buy?

Is it safe to leave my slow cooker unattended all day?

Can I start with frozen food?