The cool temperatures of October are perfect for slow cooked meals, and also the perfect time to review the Vegan Slow Cooker by Kathy Hester!
The book starts with a few slow cooker basics, don’t skip these- they are good reminders for even the most frequent crock pot users. The most helpful entry, (in an obvious sort of way), “use common sense.” This is a reminder that the cooker gets hot on the outside, so make certain to keep it placed out of reach of children and to keep away from things that could melt or overheat. In case you wondered, a tub of Earth Balance will melt if left on the counter too close to your crock pot (in my defense, I didn’t realize it was there- hence the excellent reminder to double check!)
A great cookbook for busy Moms and/or families, most recipes include a section on what preparation pieces to complete the night before, and then the pieces that can be completed in the morning. Many of the recipes contain serving suggestions and ideas for variations in the recipe to suit your style.
The book is full of expected soups and stews, but it is the unexpected that is most exciting! Who knew that you could bake in your crock pot? The book has a chapter titled Decadent Desserts and Delightful Drinks that really surprised me! There are two excellent brownie recipes with a variety of variations for each that you can’t miss. The Make it Your Way Brownies with added chocolate chips are simple to make and delicious to come home to! I am excited to try the Berrylicious Biscuit-Topped Fruit Cobbler next.
If you have read any of my other reviews, you know that a Macaroni and Cheese recipe is important in my household! The Smoky Mac & Cheese is in one word- Amazing! It’s important to note that this is not a set it and forget it while at work type of recipe- total cooking time is actually only about 90 minutes. It is quick and easy to throw together, has minimal ingredients and turns out incredibly creamy and cheesy.
If you are wondering what to do with your late harvest of tomatoes, (or great market finds) try the Preserve the Harvest Diced Tomatoes. This is the easiest way ever to preserve your tomatoes I have ever tried! You will need to dice the tomatoes, but that is all the prep necessary! After 6-8 hours in your crock pot, you have stewed, diced tomatoes so much better than canned for your recipes! Simply store the tomatoes after in quality freezer bags so you can stack in your freezer and pull out a bag of fresh stewed tomatoes all winter long .
This cookbook will provide exciting new recipes to add to your repertoire, you won’t be disappointed!
