 Slow cooker is dieter's best friend
I've rediscovered a great way to make healthful and inexpensive meals. I recently bought a slow cooker, and it has been a great investment. They've come a long way since my mom's 1970s crock pot. I did a bit of research online and asked friends for advice. They loaned me cookbooks and I soon was on my way to dinnertime bliss.
I bought a 5.5-quart, oval slow-cooker for $35. A friend recommended I choose an oval-shaped model because they fit whole chickens and roasts better than the round. There are only two of us to cook for, so that size works well and makes two to three meals with each recipe. If you have a larger family, they are available as large as 7 quarts.
Typical models come with high and low settings, so you don't have to plan on being home all day. Many recipes cook in two to three hours on high and then can be set to warm for up to four hours. One benefit is that they don't heat up the house like an oven does.
Inexpensive cuts of meat come out tender and flavorful. For just a small investment, you will save a lot over time. I've been able to add a whole new repertoire to my meal plans.
Cookbooks are widely available, including diet-specific (low-cal, low-carb, low-sodium, etc.) Recipes are also available on the Internet. Many recipes are very easy: Put in your meat, open a couple of cans, dump on top and turn it on.
If you don't have one, I strongly encourage you to get one. If you do have one, but it's buried in the pantry, take it out and try using it again. I think you'll be very glad you did.
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