When buying a slow cooker there are quite a number of things to look through. First, decide whether you need a programmable one or a mechanical control appliance. Programmable slow cookers are provided with timers, to help you cook within a specified time. When the cooking time exceeds, then the cooker automatically turns into the keep-warm mode. This mode maintains the food at a specific temperature. With a slow-cooker you can also preset the cooking time and cook your food. So even if you are out on work, you need not worry about going home and cooking the food.
In a mechanical model cooker, temperatures are adjustable but there are no timers. So you will have to keep watching the food until it is finished and plug it off.
If your family is more than four, then go for a 6 quart model slow-cooker. A 4-quart model is enough if your family is not less than two. Large capacity appliance can cook enough amount food for a small family and also when there are remains you need not throw it away. You can just freeze up and save it. However, they need more space for storage and are too heavy to carry. It is also important to see what you need to cook the most with a slow cooker. When you want to cook large pieces of meat or an entire chicken, then you may consider a large cooker that has an oval shaped crock. Round shaped crocks are good for cooking soups and stews.
Usually, this appliance comes with stoneware inserts. Though they are a bit heavy, they are tough for normal use. Some models come with inserts that can be reheated in a microwave or an oven. With aluminium or a stainless-steel insert you can brown the meat directly in the crock. Some inserts come with non-stick coating, but they need to be handled carefully to prevent from any damage.
Make sure to check the replacement costs for a cooker, because in some models the replacement costs are really too high when the parts are broken or damaged. Do not allow the slow cooker to get extremely heated up or cooled down. To avoid this, always set them on high temperature at least for few hours of cooking. To make cleaning easier, select the removable insert that is dishwasher safe. Also go for the one which has a disposable liner made of nylon resins. They help in keeping your food clean and safe all the time.
