Hints For Slow Cooking; Converting Standard Recipes To Slow Cooking - Toastmaster TSC6W Use And Care Manual

Hints For Slow Cooking

Meats will not brown during the cooking process. If you desire
browning the meat first, heat a small amount of oil in a skillet on
the stove and brown meats prior to putting into Stoneware Liner.
Whole herbs and spices flavor better in slow cooking than crushed
or ground.
When cooking in the Slow Cooker, remember that liquids do not
boil away like they do in conventional cooking. Reduce the
amount of liquid in any recipe that is not designed for a Slow
Cooker. The exceptions to this rule are rice and soups. Remember,
liquids can always be added at a later time if necessary. If a recipe
results in too much liquid at the end of the cooking time, remove
the Glass Cover and turn the Control Knob to High. After about
30-45 minutes the amount of liquid should be reduced.
Most recipes that call for uncooked meat and vegetables require
about 6-8 hours on Low temperature.
High fat meats can result in dishes with less flavor. Pre-cooking or
browning will help reduce the amount of fat and help to preserve
the color. The higher the fat content, the less liquid needed. If
cooking meat with a high fat content, use thick onion slices under
it so that the meat will not set in and absorb the fat. If necessary,
use a slice of bread, a spoon, or a straining spoon to skim off
excess fat from top of foods before serving.
Foods cut into uniform pieces will cook faster and more evenly
than foods left whole such as roast or poultry.
Converting Standard Recipes
To Slow Cooking
Vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, turnips, and beets require
longer cooking times than most meats. Place them on the bottom
of the Stoneware Liner and cover them with liquid.
If adding fresh milk or yogurt, it should be done during the last
2 hours. Evaporated milk may be added at the start of cooking. If
possible, substitute condensed soups for fresh milk or yogurt.
Rice and pasta are not recommended for long cooking periods.
Cook them separately and then add to the Slow Cooker during the
last 30 minutes, or follow Slow Cooker recipe directions.
7.