I am finding it difficult to make a choice. I prefer browning on the stove top. Would I be better off with a regular slow cooker?
1384935
I find I like browning in this better then on the stove. Keeps a nice high heat. One less pan to clean. Cuisinart also has a non stick bottom which is easy to clean. After saying all that it would be cheaper buying one that doesn't brown.
1384936
When you brown in a separate pan and then move the meat to the slow cooker, you loose most of those luscious brown bits that add so much to the final product. Doing the whole cooking procedure in the same pot gives you flavor benefits as well as less clean-up. I'd say get the 3-in-1 and give it a try -- if you prefer your stove top browning, you can still do that and just use the regular slow cooker function of the 3-in-1, although having spent a bit more.
1384937
If you already have a good six quart crock pot that shifts to warm after the programmed time, then yes, I'd save my money. This is a decent cooker but at the end of the day, it's a glorified crock pot that browns and sautes. The only advantage I see about this one is the pot is lighter so it's easier to remove and clean than the heavier crocks, but at the same time, you have to be careful not to scratch the non-stick coating.
1384938
I really love my Cuisinart MSC-600. My husband and I live in our 5th wheel and it is the BEST for us. If you are just buying it just to brown foods that might be a good expensive. I bought it forthe slow cooker and love everything else it does. Our oven makes the trailer really hot when not in winter, so I use the cooker for everything, it steams beautifully and the browning is great. Good luck!
1384939
I always brown in a pan on the stove. No worries that I use my slow cooker. I don't have to clean another pan. I even sauté my vegetables for stews. I really like my slow cooker. Good luck with your choice
1384940
I loved this machine, but after 3 uses it broke, so I would not recommend it. It browned just fine. I was happy. And then.....I need to buy one, but can't find one I like. By the way, this is made in China. I think if you found one like this it would makelife easier by using the same pan to brown and cook, but like I said, don't buy this brand. Hope this helpf.
1588317
Honestly I have not used it for that long of a period of time, I generally use my slow cooker for longer cooking times. Otherwise it is the best table top burner set that I have ever used.
1788104
I am considering buying it myself, i got the IP-DUO60. Not sure why everyone thinks its to keep it warm, it might be that their electric pressure cooks do not have that option.I have been able to start the Sauteing and Slow cooking without any lids.In the user DUO60 manual it says under Slow cooking "1. Follow steps in the 'cooking preparation' section of this manual. the steam release can be at either Venting or Sealing positions. An optional glass lid can also be used"In the DUO60 user manual it says under Sauteing"1. Follow steps in the 'cooking preparation' section of this manual. Keep the lid open to avoid pressure from building up inside the cooker. An optional glass lid can also be used" I am considering buying it myself, i got the IP-DUO60. Not sure why everyone thinks its to keep it warm, it might be that their electric pressure cooks do not have that option.I have been able to start the Sauteing and Slow cooking without any lids.In the user DUO60 manual it says under Slow cooking "1. Follow steps in the 'cooking preparation' section of this manual. the steam release can be at either Venting or Sealing positions. An optional glass lid can also be used"In the DUO60 user manual it says under Sauteing"1. Follow... » Read More I am considering buying it myself, i got the IP-DUO60. Not sure why everyone thinks its to keep it warm, it might be that their electric pressure cooks do not have that option.I have been able to start the Sauteing and Slow cooking without any lids.In the user DUO60 manual it says under Slow cooking "1. Follow steps in the 'cooking preparation' section of this manual. the steam release can be at either Venting or Sealing positions. An optional glass lid can also be used"In the DUO60 user manual it says under Sauteing"1. Follow steps in the 'cooking preparation' section of this manual. Keep the lid open to avoid pressure from building up inside the cooker. An optional glass lid can also be used" « Show Less
1784177
I totally love this slow cooker, but have not tried to brown meat in it. I always brown it first then cook it in this cooker. But I use it 3x per week and love it!!
316919
Hello, I personally have never used low settings to cook. I am sorry I couldn't tell you if it can be used as a slow cooker.
2193184
You could use it as a regular slow cooker, but it may be harder to control the true temperature. I use mine mainly for heating things that will be eaten soon, such as vegetables, or just as a warmer for other items. It's very handy for the holiday's!
828526
It's really depends on food, how long you will slow cook by recipes. Remember, the temperature will reduce gradually --- due to this is a Non-Electric Thermal Slow Cooker. However, it does save energy and good for potluck (keep warm).
1215762
I had a 7qt slow cooker. Just two of us, so I ordered the 4 Qt and think it will be much better for us. The bigger size was just too big.
817284
I found this site: http://cookinfanatic.wordpress.com/2009/10/19/crock-pots-vs-slow-cookers-yep-theres-a-difference/
1746620
You need a slow cooker with MANUAL controls. I must tell you I returned my unit and instead I purchased the Anova unit, because it has a water circulator and can be used with any pot.
716177
yes it does not get as hot as other slow cookers on each setting. The high setting is what the low setting is on other brands.
2103055
Absolutely. I've owned different slow cookers over the years but I always come back to West Bend. It is without a doubt the best slow cooker I've ever owned.
1577770
The inner pot is not very sturdy and easily scratched. I gave my EZ Bean Cooker to one of my children and bought the SECURA for a little bit more. You can brown, steam, use as a slow cooker, etc. Much more versatile than the Bean Cooker. Has a heavy stainless pot, VERY sturdy. There are recipes all over the internet where you can learn how much time to give the beans, roasts, veggies, etc. you want to cook in your "electric" pressure cooker (which is what the EZ Bean Cooker is).
1215760
For the two of us, the 4 qt is perfect. Slow cookers need to be at least halfway full to produce the best results. I gave my 7 qt slow cooker to my daughter because I didn't want to always have to make that much food!
1129474
You can brown meats, sautéed onions in it first and then slow cook. It is larger than most of the crockpots we have had as well. The instructions say you can bake in it, though we have not tried that.
2108482
My slow cooker will reach a very gentle boil on high, though it takes a long time. I am not a particularly patient person so it's seems like a long time. If you are like me (impatient) do not use the slow cooker for reheating cooked foods after they were refrigerated. It takes forever :-( I put the food in a pot and put it on the stove. This is a slow cooker and does that well.
561347
I just use it to reheat food. I don't believe you're supposed to cook in it. It is different from a slow cooker.