QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Q
“What if the food isn’t done after 8 hours…when the recipe
says 8 to 10 hours?”
A
This is due to voltage variations which are commonplace
everywhere; altitude;
or even extreme humidity. The slight fluctuations in power do not
have a noticeable effect on most appliances; however, it can
slightly alter the cooking times. Allow plenty of time, and
remember, it is practically impossible to overcook. You will learn
through experience whether to decrease or increase cooking times.
Q
“Must the slow cooker be covered? Is it necessary to stir?”
A
Cook with the cover on. The slow cooker will not recover heat
losses quickly when cooking on LOW setting. Significant amounts
of heat escape whenever the lid is removed; therefore the cooking
time must be extended. Avoid frequent removal of the cover for
checking cooking progress or stirring. Never remove cover during
the first 2 hours when baking breads or cakes.
It is not necessary to stir while cooking on LOW heat. While using
HIGH heat for short periods, occasional stirring improves the
distribution of flavors.
Q
“How about thickening the juices or making gravy?”
A
Add some quick-cooking tapioca to any recipe when you want to
make a thick gravy. Add the tapioca at the beginning and it will
thicken as it cooks! Or you may remove the solid foods, leaving the
juices. Prepare a smooth paste of approximately
1
⁄
2
cup flour or
cornstarch to
1
⁄
2
cup water or 4 tablespoons melted butter. Pour
mixture into liquid in the stoneware and stir well. Turn to HIGH
and when it comes to a boil (about 15 minutes) it’s ready.
-7-
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