Questions And Answers - Crock-Pot 3850 Manual

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Q "What if the food isn't done after 8 hours... when the recipe says 8 to 10
hours?"
A This is due to voltage variations which are commonplace everywhere; altitude
or even extreme humidity. The slight fluctuations in power do not have a
noticeable effect on most appliances' however, it can slightly alter the cooking
times. Allow plenty of time, and remember, it is practically impossible to overcook.
You will learn through experience whether to decrease or increase cooking
times.
Q "Must the slow cooker be covered? Is it necessary to stir?"
A Cook with the cover on. The slow cooker will not recover heat losses quikly
when cooking on LOW setting. Significant amounts of heat escape whenever
the lid is removed; therefore the cooking time must be extended. Avoid frecuent
removal of the cover for checking cooking progress or stirring. Never remove
cover during teh first 2 hours when baking breads or cakes. It is not necesary
to stir while cooking on LOW heat. While using HIGH heat for short periods,
occasional stirring improves the distribution of flavor.
Q "How about thickening the juices or making gravy?"
A Add some quik-cooking tapioca to any recipe when you want to make a
thick gravy. Add the tapioca at the beginning and it will thicken as it cooks! Or
you may remove the solid foods, leaving the juices. Prepare a smooth paste of
approximately 1/2 cup flour or cornstarch to 1/2 cup water or 4 tablespoons
melted butter. Pour mixture into liquid in the stoneware and stir well. Turn to
HIGH and when it comes to a boil (about 15 minutes) it's ready.
Q "Can I cook a roast without adding water?"
A Yes- if cooked on LOW. We recommend a small amount because the gravies
are especially tasty. The more fat or "marbling" the meat has, the less liquid
you need. The liquid is needed to properly soften and cook vegetables.
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