CrockPots

[RichyPS]

What brand of crock pot do you recommend? I am just moving into my first apt and need some input.

[Kerri]

I think you might have gotten lost with the server problem yesterday. I don't know what brand you should get, but definately get one that the crockery part can be taken out and put back in. It helps with washing!

[RichyPS]

Thanks so much, I am getting nervous about all of this, and I figured cooking a crock pot would be the easiest and safest way to make my meals while I am at work

[Danielle]

I have a West Bend three quart crock pot, and I love it. It has the removeable crockery part, which makes it really easy to clean. I use it at least once a week because it's so conveninet.

[Tally]

RichyPSfirst off, congrats on moving into your first apartment! Wow, I can't believe it's been 12 years since I moved into my first home away from home.

A crock pot is a great kitchen tool. As Kerry and Danielle have mentioned, having one with a removable crockery bowl is the easiest one to clean. One word of caution - be sure to let it cool down before you immerse it in cool water to clean it out.

You can find great deals at Target and Wal-Mart for a good crock-pot under $30.00.

Your crockpot should come with a small book of recipes, but to get you started, here's a link to a Google.com search of slow cooker recipe sites:
http://www.google.com/search?q=crock+pot+slow+cooker+recipes&btnG=Google+Search

Here's a couple of quick ideas:

Crockpot Chicken Stroganoff:

1 llb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 (16 oz) container of sour cream
1 envelope Lipton Cream of Mushroom Soup mix (dried)
1 can mushroom pieces (optional)

Place chicken breasts at bottom of crock pot. Mix remaining ingredients, pour over chicken. Cook on low for 7 -8 hours. Serve over rice, noodles or pasta. (Note: you can substitute low fat or fat free sour cream and mushroom soup)

[RichyPS]

Wow, thanks eveyone! You have been so kind!

[comabri]

I just bought a new crockpot by CorningWare. The crock itself not only is removable for easy cleaning, but it can go in the oven and on the stove as well, and it's dishwasher safe. I love it. And, it's absolutely attractive enough to serve from. I make dinner with my crock pot once a week and it is by far the least stressful way to cook if you have a very busy schedule... and it smells soooo good when you walk in your door.
Good luck and have fun.

Oh, BTW, the crockpot I got was only about $30. Well worth it.

[laden]

I think mine is a Rival. It's a round one, my only advice would be to get an oval one. That way you can cook a roast or chicken comfortably without cutting it to fit the crock pot.