Are you like me, looking for that elusive perfect day to where I can get my life in order. Still waiting, LOL. Look, life can be hectic. Between work, errands, and social obligations, finding time to cook a nutritious meal can be tough especially with the holiday season is barreling towards us.
Enter the crockpot, (aka slow cooker) This humble kitchen appliance is the help you need to prepare a delicious, healthy meal when your days threaten to get out of control.
4 Reasons To Try A Crockpot
#1 - Set it and Forget it Convenience: One of the best things about using a crockpot is that you can set it and forget it. Simply add your ingredients to the pot, set the timer, and go about your day.
#2 - Versatile Cooking Method: Crockpots can be used to make recipes from hearty stews and soups to quinoa dishes and vegetable medleys. They're great for throwing together a quick and easy dinner, but they can also be used for breakfast, lunch, and even dessert!
#3 - Hands-free Cooking: Crockpot cooking is also great for those who don’t enjoy spending a lot of time in the kitchen. With this type of cooking, you simply add your ingredients to the pot and let the machine do its job.
#4 - It'll make your house smell amazing! Don't underestimate the power of smell - it can trigger positive emotions and anticipation at the end of your day. There's nothing like coming home to the mouthwatering smell of a home-cooked meal waiting for you—and your family will love it too!
Check out this video to learn to cook a simple Slow Cooker Italian Herb Chicken.
My Favorite Crockpot Recipes
Here are some of my favorite easy recipes from my meal plans for hands-free cooking:
Go Recipe-Free With This Simple Formula
While there are tons of recipes for crockpots, I also love to give my clients a simple formula to give them the confidence to create recipe-less crockpot meals around family favorites.
Season the meat or protein of your choice (like chicken, turkey, beef, beans, etc) with salt, pepper, or your favorite spices and add it to the crockpot (browning optional)
Add plenty of vegetables, cut to about the same size
Pour in a sauce or broth to cover the ingredients
Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours
Once cooking is finished, stir in some fresh herbs and canned beans
Crockpot settings vary, but typically there is a high heat setting, which can cook dishes in as little as 4 hours, and a low heat setting, ideal for overnight or daytime cooking.
I hope I’ve helped to you to find crockpot cooking more approachable.
If you would like more recipes like these or if you are interested in becoming a client click here.