Chef shares her slow cooker tips

  • By Judyrae Kruse Herald Columnist
  • Friday, February 11, 2011 12:01am
  • Life

It’s finally Friday, which in this case means that, come Monday, the Forum will offer a savory, satisfying, comfy and heartwarming, if not necessarily romantic, crockpot recipe.

Between now and then, should you choose to accept this culinary mission designed, I think, as a perfectly sum

ptuous Valentine’s Day supper, you will need: 2-pound (or larger) beef round roast, taco seasoning, chili powder, dried oregano, cumin, onion, garlic, 24 ounces (1 BIG) bottle beer, 8 ounces tomato sauce and 2 pounds of red potatoes.

Plus the usual kitchen/pantry standbys such as flour, butter, olive oil, seasoned salt and pepper.

You will also need, of course, a crockpot and the following how-to, all of which are provided by Heather Hunsaker, chef and graduate of Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts.

“Since the slow cooker typically cooks meats in a liquid over a long period of time,’’ she says, “it is great to use for the cheaper and tougher cuts of meat. Due to this cooking process, the end result of the meat will be tender, rich and flavorful. To make sure you are getting the most from your slow cooker, follow these simple tips:

“When buying a slow cooker, look for one with a removable liner. This makes cleanup easier since the liner is dishwasher safe. If you already own a slow cooker without a liner, use disposable cooking bags. These bags are inexpensive and allow you to throw out the used bag after your dinner is ready!

“When prepping your food, remove skin from poultry and trim excess fat from meat. Fats melt with long cooking times, and too much fat will result in a greasy and unpleasant texture in the final meal.

“Also, most meats do not need to be browned before adding to the slow cooker. However, browning your meat or poultry in a skillet before adding them to the cooker will add color and give the meat a more developed texture and taste.

“For best results, ground meat should definitely be precooked before adding to the slow cooker. Ground meats may develop an unappetizing gray color and chewy texture if not precooked.

“Most vegetables such as carrots, potatoes and bell peppers take longer to cook than meat and should be placed at the bottom of the slow cooker. However, tender vegetables like tomatoes, mushrooms and zucchini should be added during the last 45 minutes of cooking so they don’t overcook.

“And whatever you do, don’t peek! Don’t lift the lid to stir, unless the recipe calls for it. Each time you lift the lid, enough heat will escape that the cooking time will need to be extended by 20 minutes.’’

The next Forum will appear in Monday’s Good Life section.

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Life

IONIQ 6 side-view photo provided by Hyundai Newsroom
2025 Hyundai IONIQ 6 Electric Range Increases To 342 Miles

Stylish, Sleek Exterior Adds To Appeal And Aerodynamics

The 2025 Kia K4 compact sedan (Provided by Kia).
2025 Kia K4 delivers a new choice in affordable compact sedans

The recent arrival offers bold design, a spacious cabin, and lots of tech.

David Austin English Roses (Image from Sunnyside Nursery website).
Where greenery thrives: The most delightful nurseries in Snohomish County

Looking to add life to your space? These nurseries have just what you need!

The previous Volvo XC Recharge is now the 2025 Volvo EX40 (Provided by Volvo).
2025 Volvo EX40 is the new XC Recharge

The compact SUV is still electric and still resplendent.

Work And Play With Confidence. Photo Provided by Chevy Newsroom.
2025 Chevy Silverado 1500 Turbo-Diesel Delivers 25 MPG

ZR2 4WD Package Adds Off-Road Weekend Versatility

(Image from pexels.com)
Find your flow: The most inspiring yoga studios in Snohomish County

Looking for a place to stretch, strengthen, and find your zen? Herald readers have you covered.

Relax Mind & Body Massage (Photo provided by Sharon Ingrum)
Unwind, relax, and recharge at these top massage spots

Need a break? Discover where to find the most soothing and rejuvenating massages in Snhomish County

(Image from the website).
Finding comfort and care: Top assisted living communities in Snohomish County

Which assisted living communities offer the best care and quality of life? Let’s find out.

Since 1957, Sherwood Community Services has been a place where people with disabilities have the opportunity to live full, independent lives as part of their community.
The top three local nonprofits making a real impact in our community

Which local organizations are leading the way in impact and service? Let’s find out.

2025 Toyota GR Corolla four-door hatchback sports car (Provided by Toyota).
2025 Toyota GR Corolla available with an automatic transmission

For the first two years, a six-speed manual was its only gearbox.

Whidbey Clay Center instructor Jordan Jones demonstrates shaping a lump of clay into a gumdrop shape and centering the hole during her class at the Whidbey Clay Center in Freeland. Centering the holes is an important first step to turn clumps of mud into art, whether it be a mug, bowl, spoon rest, dragon, wagon or farm animal. (Patricia Guthrie / Special to The Herald)
Whidbey Island clay artists mucking in mud more than ever

Instructor to class: “Clay is very humbling. But you can remake it. It’s just mud. We’re just having fun.”

Photo provided by Mercedes-Benz USA Online Newsroom
2024 Mercedes GLC 43 Offers Luxury, Style And Performance

On- Or Off-Road, This Versatile Coupe Excels

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.