1. Slow Cooker Beef Stew
This classic beef stew gets even better when simmered low and slow. Tender chunks of beef, carrots, potatoes, and peas in a rich, savory broth develop deep layers of flavor over 12 hours in the slow cooker. Balsamic vinegar adds delicious brightness and complexity. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying, comforting meal any time of year.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
- 14 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, toss together the beef, carrots, celery, onion, garlic and potatoes with the flour until coated.
- Transfer vegetables and beef to a 5-6 quart slow cooker. Add broth, tomato paste, vinegar, thyme, bay leaf, 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 10-12 hours until beef is very tender.
- Skim excess fat from surface if desired. Stir in peas and let heat through for 5 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Ladle stew into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
2. Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Transform an inexpensive pork shoulder into tender, juicy BBQ pulled pork after 12 hours simmering in a tangy sauce. This versatile slow cooker pulled pork is perfect for sandwiches, tacos, nachos, or served simply over rice or potatoes.
Ingredients:
- 3 lb boneless pork shoulder (Boston butt), fat trimmed
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place pork, onion and garlic in a 5-6 quart slow cooker.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce and seasonings. Pour over pork and turn to coat.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 10-12 hours, until pork is very tender.
- Transfer pork to a cutting board and shred with two forks. Remove and discard any large pieces of fat.
- Return shredded pork to sauce in slow cooker and toss to coat. Adjust seasoning if needed.
3. Slow Cooker Lentil and Sweet Potato Stew
This hearty vegetarian stew is packed with protein and fiber from brown lentils and sweet potatoes. Curry powder and coconut milk add lovely warmth and creaminess. Toppings like toasted coconut flakes, cilantro and lime wedges make it feel special.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
- 3 large sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 12 tsp cinnamon
- 14 tsp cayenne (optional)
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 (14 oz) can petite diced tomatoes
- 1 (14 oz) can full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Kosher salt and black pepper
- Toppings: toasted coconut, chopped cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions:
- In a 5-6 quart slow cooker, combine lentils, sweet potatoes, onion, garlic, curry powder, cinnamon and cayenne if using. Stir in broth and tomatoes.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours until lentils and sweet potatoes are very tender.
- Stir in coconut milk and spinach. Let stand 5 minutes until spinach is wilted.
- Season stew with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm topped with toasted coconut, cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
4. Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Cozy up with a bowl of this comforting chicken and wild rice soup - no endless stirring required! The slow cooker makes light work of cooking the rice and chicken, while a final touch of cream makes the soup luxuriously rich and velvety.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled
FAQs
What are the benefits of using a slow cooker?
Slow cookers allow you to cook foods low and slow, developing richer flavors with minimal effort. They are very hands-off, energy efficient, and can turn inexpensive cuts of meat into tender, fall-off-the-bone dishes.
How long can I leave food in a slow cooker?
Most slow cooker recipes can be cooked on the LOW setting for 8-12 hours safely. This makes them ideal for cooking while you are away at work or overnight.
Do I need to brown meat before adding to a slow cooker?
Browning adds flavor but is not required for most slow cooker recipes. Simply add raw meat directly to the slow cooker with other ingredients.
Can I cook frozen meat in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook frozen meat in a slow cooker. However, it will extend the total cooking time needed.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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