The Value Of Crockpot Stoneware In Today's Kitchens

Ever since the Rival company brought out its first crockpot in the 1970s, people have loved the convenience and excellent performance of this small kitchen appliance. Part of the success must be given to the crockpot stoneware which makes up the inner part of most slow cookers.

Some slow electric cookers are stainless steel, but the majority are a metal base and a stoneware liner. Stoneware has been known for centuries as a way to get even heat to the food being cooked, and the heaviness of the pottery enhances the effect of moderate electric heat.

Glazed stoneware has a smooth, durable surface which makes it easy to clean. It also does not impart any flavors to the food or leach impurities into it. The liners are removable, so no water needs to touch the electric base during washing, and they are often attractive enough to go right on the table or buffet.

Food stays hot longer in stoneware than it will in metal or glass, and the crock can be put into a conventional oven for reheating, although you can use the low setting on the crockpot itself for this purpose as well.

The lids of crockpots are not oven-safe, but the crocks themselves can withstand heats up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit with no problem. Foil can be substituted for the lid when heating in a conventional oven.

Crockpot stoneware now comes in many sizes, from 16 ounce dip or sauce cookers to big-family, 7 quart capacity pots. The outer and inner liners are often very elegant, with designs and bright colors, and both round and oval crocks look fine on a buffet or on the dining room table.

There are even divided inserts now, so two courses of a meal can be ready by the time everyone gets home in the evening.

Having a hot meal all ready is the charm of a crockpot. In these busy times when the whole family can be out all day, and everyone is too tired to cook a whole meal at night, having a crockpot dinner hot and ready to go is far better than sending out for pizza or bringing home fast food in a bag.

All meats and vegetables do well in a slow cooker - there are literally thousands of crockpot recipes out there in cookbook land and cyberspace - and creative cooks have even developed great desserts that can be made in this way.

Crockpot stoneware is great for cooking, pretty for serving, easy to clean, and can even go into the refrigerator to hold the left overs for tomorrow.

If you're looking for a better way to cook your meals? You will find stoneware crockpots your best bet.

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