Slow cooker tips
Using a slow cooker is a great way to make healthy meals, reduce waste and save money, and it’s easier than you might think!
Most winter warmer type recipes can be adapted to suit a slow cooker – just follow these tips:
1. Prep it properly
Make sure you’re cooking whatever forms the base of the sauce (usually onions), with oil and whatever herbs/spices are required beforehand, to ensure you get maximum flavour.
2. Layer your ingredients right
The order in which you put veg in can also enhance a meal; make sure you put things that take longer, such as root veg, nearer the bottom of the pot.
3. Don't water it down
Due to the sealed lid of a slow cooker, any sauce will not evaporate, so consider reducing the amount of liquid you would typically include.
4. Cook slow and low
Getting all the flavours out of your ingredients is even easier with a low, slow cook, so try to stick to this setting when you have time. You can even prepare a meal the night before, if you’re pushed for time in the mornings.
5. Finishing touches
Finally, although you can add most things in one go, you might want to save things like pasta, rice, noodles, or fresh herbs until the very end!