3/22/2011

Cuisinart PSC-650 6-1/2-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker Review

Cuisinart PSC-650 6-1/2-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
My fiance and I have had in mind for awhile to buy a slow cooker. We received a $100 gift certificate for a retailer - known more for their smarminess than their affordable pricing -- and thought this would be the perfect thing to spend it on. This retailer in particular only had two models of slow cookers to choose from, this one and a 5 quart DeLonghi. I like the DeLonghi brand well enough -- but we thought the cooker was kind of ugly looking. So is the Cuisinart, truth be told.
There were only a handful of features that helped guide our choice. First was the extra quart-and-a-half capacity. The programmable heating settings also seemed like they could be useful. This slow cooker also comes with a cooking rack for when you're doing a roast. Ultimately what convinced us to go with this model was the fact that it's big enough TO do a roast -- you have room enough to do a whole chicken.
When we got home we immediately checked amazon to see how badly we'd been ripped off. Oddly enough -- it was the same price. However -- the reviews shocked us. How can a slow cooker get such horrible reviews when all it has to do is get hot and stay hot? We freaked out a bit and almost ran back to return it.
Like most people who bother to read reviews on amazon -- you're probably aware that typically some of the bad reviews are people just mouthing off, or rating the product based some other bad experience they've had, or they haven't read the user manual for their device and are in the process of breaking it themselves. There might be a bad review or two like this here, for the Cuisinart. But otherwise -- people are saying some frightening things -- namely, that the Cuisinart doesn't cook the food.
As for this slow cooker being badly engineered or made cheaply -- I'm not sure where that comes from. Look at it this way; this cooker holds a huge, thick, 6.5 quart ceramic bowl. The bowl itself can not be confused for cheap. The brushed stainless steel unit that it fits into likewise has to be huge. So, you have this huge steel unit and it's only function is to get hot. Do heating coils take up a lot of room? No, they don't. Are they heavy? No, they're not. If if the opinion of cheap is coming from the fact that the base is big and feels hollow -- then in my opinion they are not being very fair.
The only complaint I can make is that the programmable buttons are keypad type buttons. I would have preferred actual push-in surface buttons, but when you think about it -- the keypad style is much easier to clean up AND prevents moisture from any spilled liquids from getting inside.
Regarding the "permanent" fingerprints -- I'm not sure how that phenomenon can actually take place. I just wiped the unit down and it looks completely new again. Just because it's brushed stainless steel doesn't mean it won't get fingerprints.
Anyway, we decided to keep the cooker and we're glad we did. I threw together some chicken soup last night and we each had a delicious bowl of it this morning. Everything was cooked perfectly -- the carrots were soft and flavorful and the chicken melted away from the bone. I have no complaints or regrets. I would have given it five stars if it were just a tad prettier..


Click Here to see more reviews about: Cuisinart PSC-650 6-1/2-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker

Beautifully housed in brushed stainless steel with cool-touch chrome-plated handles and black accents, this programmable slow cooker offers more than just good looks. The exceptionally convenient countertop appliance makes it easier than ever to cook healthy homemade meals, delicious side dishes, and mouthwatering desserts for the family at home or to bring to a potluck or picnic. Simply add ingredients to the removable 6-1/2-quart oval-shaped ceramic cooking pot, set it in the base, and cover with the glass lid, which comes with a stainless-steel rim and chrome-plated knob. Then press "on" from the user-friendly touchpad control panel and choose from three cooking modes--simmer, low, or high. The cooker offers a 24-hour programmable cook time, an LCD countdown timer, and a keep-warm mode that the unit automatically shifts over to once the cooking time has ended. Other highlights include wrap-around heating elements for thorough heat distribution, nonslip rubber feet, retractable cord storage, and dishwasher-safe parts (lid and ceramic pot) for quick cleanup. Accessories include a cooking rack for use with ramekins or other bakeware, a spiral-bound recipe book with 70 basic to gourmet dishes, and an instruction book for getting started. The slow cooker measures approximately 18-4/5 by 15-2/3 by 10-8/9 inches and carries a three-year limited warranty.

Buy NowGet 50% OFF

Click here for more information about Cuisinart PSC-650 6-1/2-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker

3/21/2011

Hamilton Beach 6-Quart Slow cooker Review

Hamilton Beach 6-Quart Slow cooker
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
With only two reviews to go by, it was somewhat hard to decide to purchase this product; however, I'm glad that I did. The handles make it very easy to carry, especially when the pot is full, and the secured lid is wonderful - no spills or losing of the lid while in transport! Something that one should know if purchasing this product is that the handles do get warm.
If you're one that does the potluck dinners, then this is a good traveling pot. It is not as awkward to carry, especially when it has food in it (as apposed to the other crock pots, where your knuckles brush against the side and you get burned while carrying it).
Personally I can only find one fault with this product and that is with the handles getting warm, but if I can carry/hold it for about 5 mins. without dropping it or setting it down, then it's not all that bad.
I bought mine at a store, so the price was under $30. Needless to say, I'm pleased with this product.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Hamilton Beach 6-Quart Slow cooker

Make delicious home-cooked meals for the family or to take along to pot lucks, banquets, or other fun gatherings with this 6-quart oval-shaped slow cooker. Its roomy interior offers enough space to accommodate a 6-pound chicken or two 3-pound roasts, or a range of other delicious recipe ideas--from jambalaya or vegetarian chili to a batch of maple baked beans, hot wings, or meat balls. The appliance comes equipped with an "on" indicator light and a user-friendly control dial for choosing low or high heat settings; for selecting the keep-warm mode, which maintains an ideal serving temperature without over-cooking; and for switching the unit off. Designed for at home or on-the-go convenience, the slow cooker comes with an array of built-in travel features. The unit provides large, full-grip, stay-cool side handles; a tight-sealing glass lid with canister-style clips and a gasket to prevent messy spills when transporting; and a serving spoon that clips into the lid handle. Even more, the slow cooker offers a lid rest for easy stirring and serving and a recipe name slot with removable paper labels for quickly identifying what's inside (party recipes come included with matching name tags). Back home, the removable stoneware pot and lid clean up easily by hand or in the dishwasher. Attractively housed in beautiful stainless steel, the slow cooker measures 14 by 10-1/2 by 10 inches. Product is model number 33162, but may be listed as 33162H or 33162R.

Buy NowGet 20% OFF

Click here for more information about Hamilton Beach 6-Quart Slow cooker

Crock-Pot 5025WG 2.5-Quart Slow Cooker Review

Crock-Pot 5025WG 2.5-Quart Slow Cooker
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I have this Crock Pot but my crock insert is white instead of black. I bought this slow cooker probably in the late 1990s. I own three slow cookers (the Rival 3-1/2-quart oval and the Rival 6-quart), and this is the best one and the one I use the most. It is 2-1/2 quarts and is perfect for two people. It cooks the best out of all three of my slow cookers as it does not overcook the food as the other two will. I find that the cooking times listed in most slow cooker cookbooks are very accurate for this Crock Pot, but for my other two larger models, I must reduce the cooking time. I have never had overcooked food in this slow cooker. Everything has always cooked to perfection. Most recipes in slow cooker cookbooks are written for 6 to 8 servings. If I cut the recipes in half, they will fit perfectly in this Crock Pot and fill it 3/4 full. That is just enough food for my husband and me and will usually leave leftovers for one or two more meals for one person. This slow cooker also looks very nice as it is all white and matches my kitchen, so it is always out on the counter. I use it many times a week and I am very happy with it. Since it cooks at such a low temperature, whenever I cook meat, I use the high setting for the first hour and then reduce it to low and cook for one hour less than the stated recipe (since one hour on high is equal to two hours on low). Everything turns out perfectly this way. The potatoes and carrots are perfectly tender and have not cooked down to mush as has happened in my larger, more powerful Crock Pots.
I highly recommend this model if the size is big enough for you because it works the way slow cookers are supposed to work - cooking the food slowly and gently.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Crock-Pot 5025WG 2.5-Quart Slow Cooker

073056011344 Features: -2.5 Quart capacity -Glass lid for easy viewing -Removable stoneware -Rinse-Cleancoating for easy clean up -2 Heat settings -Ideal for 1-2 people -Limited one year warranty Please Note: This item cannot ship to Puerto Rico. We apologize for the inconvenience. If you would like assistance finding an item that can ship to Puerto Rico, please contact our customer service team.

Buy NowGet 11% OFF

Click here for more information about Crock-Pot 5025WG 2.5-Quart Slow Cooker

3/20/2011

Hamilton Beach 33135 3-in-1 Slow Cooker with 2-, 4-, and 6-Quart Crocks, Stainless Steel Review

Hamilton Beach 33135 3-in-1 Slow Cooker with 2-, 4-, and 6-Quart Crocks, Stainless Steel
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I just got the 3-in-1 a few days ago and have only used it once, but I'm so impressed! I almost got a single-crock six-quart slow cooker before I discovered this one, and I'm so pleased that I purchased this one instead.
Like others, I really appreciate the three crocks, the clever way they nest and that one lid fits all. The two- and four-quart crocks are easier to handle than the six, especially in the sink, so I expect to get a lot more use out of this than if I had gone with a single-crock six. Also, the two smaller crocks fit in my microwave, and the six would not -- very handy for heating the leftovers. I'm glad to have the six-quart crock as well as the other two, though.
The unit seems more sturdily constructed than some I saw in stores. I personally prefer the simple knob over the programmable touchpads. As at least one other reviewer mentioned, the high and low settings really do seem to work.
I wish you could use the lid in the microwave, but you can't, probably because it has a metal rim. A 10-1/4" dinner plate served as a nicely fitting substitute, but it was more difficult to remove from the steaming crock than it would have been using the crock's lid with its knob. This one complaint is a minor one and not important enough to downgrade to four stars in light of the unit's great assets.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Hamilton Beach 33135 3-in-1 Slow Cooker with 2-, 4-, and 6-Quart Crocks, Stainless Steel

Easily prepare soups, casseroles, pot roasts, curries, and more with this three-in-one slow cooker. The versatile appliance offers three different heat settings and three different size stoneware vessels. Choose from a 2-quart, 4-quart, or 6-quart crock--all of which fit inside the unit's attractive stainless-steel electric base. The included glass lid can be used with all three vessel sizes and functions to keep in heat, nutrients, and moisture for great tasting results. Providing added convenience, the crockery and lid clean up quickly by hand or in the dishwasher, and all three cooking vessels nest into the base for simple, compact storage. Ideal for entertaining or everyday use, the slow cooker measures approximately 15 by 9 by 15 inches and carries a one-year warranty.

Buy NowGet 17% OFF

Click here for more information about Hamilton Beach 33135 3-in-1 Slow Cooker with 2-, 4-, and 6-Quart Crocks, Stainless Steel

Crock-Pot 3060-W 6-Quart Round Slow Cooker, White Review

Crock-Pot 3060-W 6-Quart Round Slow Cooker, White
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
This is a great value and enduring product. I've had my Rival crock pot for over 10 years, and have used it literally HUNDREDS of times. This is another one of those very low cost but high value kitchen tools.
The low setting allows for slow (12 hour+) cooking overnight or all day. I love to put on a pot of chili before I go to bed or work, and let the house soak up the aroma!
Just be careful with the countertop placement, as the sides get very hot!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Crock-Pot 3060-W 6-Quart Round Slow Cooker, White

Ideal for 5 to 6 People Rival's 6 Quart Round CrockPot/Slow Cooker for the busy family

Buy NowGet 13% OFF

Click here for more information about Crock-Pot 3060-W 6-Quart Round Slow Cooker, White

3/19/2011

Crock-Pot SCCPBP600S 6-Quart Oval Programmable Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel Review

Crock-Pot SCCPBP600S 6-Quart Oval Programmable Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I've used this Crock-Pot several times in the few weeks that I've owned it, and I can say that I am truly more than pleased with this purchase! My previous slow cooker was a Rival Brand crockpot which tended to boil my food on low. I never felt comfortable leaving my old slow cooker on while I was at work for 9+ hours each day. For any recipe that called for 8 hours of low cooking time, the meal would be ready within 3-4 hours and would start to scortch the sides shortly after!
When I started my search for a new crockpot, I considered all options, including high end ranges like All Clad and Breville. I'm MORE than thrilled that I went the route of this Crock-Pot. Yes, it isn't as "programmable" as some (it's options for cooking are ONLY low: 8 or 10 hours and high: 4 or 6 hours - it also has a WARM setting).
For my very first use, I decided that I would try it on a Saturday, when I could monitor how the slow cooker actually cooked the food. I didn't really want to leave the house using an appliance for the first time. I noticed that it cooked the chicken very slowly. I was thrilled with the results. An 8 hour recipe really did take 8 hours, which was SO unlike my other slow cooker! It really does cook on low - barely a simmer - which is exactly how a slow cooker should be! After the cook time is up, it automatically switches to the WARM feature, and remains on WARM for up to 6 hours (which is a nice safety feature in case you forget to turn off the pot).
Clean up is a breeze! The insert is dishwasher safe, and the brushed stainless steel wipes up perfectly. It is a very large appliance, so be sure you have the counterspace or the storage space for it! The lid fits snuggly on to the pot - it has a rubber seal, which really helps at preventing a sliding or bubbling lid.
Overall, I'm thrilled with this purchase - I'm so glad that I decided to take a chance on this slow cooker instead of spending 3-4 times the amount on a high-end one!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Crock-Pot SCCPBP600S 6-Quart Oval Programmable Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel

Attractive. Sophisticated. Smart. Just like you. The Crock-Pot Designer Series Slow Cooker is entertaining elevated. From Wednesday night dinner at home to the neighborhood progressive dinner, the Designer Series turns meals into moments to remember. Now you can enjoy more time with family and friends while your Crock-Pot Slow Cooker does the work. The stunningly beautiful design withstainless steel and black accents fits perfectly into kitchens everywhere. Its understated elegance turns heads and defies expectations. Modern, programmable cooking controls provide one-touch versatility so you can manage your meals while you\'re away. Simply set the cooking time on \'High" for 4 or 6 hours or on \'Low" for 8 or 10 hours and go about your day. And, there\'s no need to worry when you\'re running a few minutes late. After the pre-selected cooking time is complete, your Crock-Pot Designer Series Slow Cooker will automatically shift to the \'Warm" setting, preserving the flavor of your meal. The large, 6-quart capacity can handle large parties and intimate gatherings alike. With a new, secure-fitting lid design you are sure to have a quieter and more enjoyable cooking experience, every time. The removable stoneware turns into attractive serve ware when you transfer your flavorful meals elegantly from the counter to the table. And it\'s dishwasher safe, making clean up a breeze.When the meal is over, convenient cord storage and sleek, hide-away handles reduces the Crock-Pot Designer Series footprint for easy storage. But, its great looks may just inspire you to leave it on your countertop. Your meals have never been easier. Your countertop has never looked better. Style is served.

Buy NowGet 8% OFF

Click here for more information about Crock-Pot SCCPBP600S 6-Quart Oval Programmable Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel

Crock-Pot SCV400B 4-Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Black Review

Crock-Pot SCV400B 4-Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Black
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Overall, this is a great crock-pot. I felt the black color was very stylish when I ordered it. However, it is the black coloring which makes it more difficult to clean, as it is hard see any remnants of food stuck to the side while washing by hand. If you own a dishwasher, this is a non-issue.
My only true gripe with it is that there are only 3 pegs at the base to hold this crock-pot upright. This leaves it prone to leaning when bumped. I've yet to have any spills or other unfortunate incidents, so it hasn't been an issue. The threat is always there though.
I like the simple dial on the front: Off, Low, High, Warm. Those are the only options I need on a crock-pot. It heats up quickly, and cooks perfectly every time. Overall, I would give this product 4 1/2 out of 5 stars, losing half a star only for its lack of sturdiness.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Crock-Pot SCV400B 4-Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Black

Simply perfect. Simply delicious.Crock-Pot Slow Cookers make mealtime and entertaining more flavorful. Turn the dial to \'High" and get a hot meal, snack, appetizer or dip in no time. Set it on \'Low" and tonight\'s dinner can cook while you\'re at work. Or use the \'Warm" setting during a get together with friends so your dish stays ready to eat until the party is over. No matter the recipe or the occasion, your Crock-Pot Slow Cooker keeps the temperature steady so your food is cooked to perfection, full of flavor and delicious. To keep clean up easy, the 4-quart removable oval stoneware slides right out of the base for easy transport to the table or storage in the fridge. And both the stoneware and lid are dishwasher safe. Crock-Pot Slow Cookers are available in a modern finish, perfect for your modern kitchen. Crock-Pot Slow Cookers simplify your day with slow-cooking solutions that fit your lifestyle.Crock-Pot The Original Slow Cooker

Buy NowGet 28% OFF

Click here for more information about Crock-Pot SCV400B 4-Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Black