slow cooker

It has been mentioned on another thread, annsixty - I'm determined to try it soon but keep forgetting...

Referring back to my OP, I bought a slow cooker today from Lakeland. It is a 1.5 litre size as I only want to cook for 1 or 2 servings.
I will use it tomorrow.
Thank you all for your advice.

Yep, I've done gammon and lamb shanks in mine as well as other meats. I've not used it much during the summer but out it will come again very soon. I've never regretted buying it as I have with other kitchen gadgets. Mine is a simple one - switch on / switch off; no heating levels or timer and it works just fine. Also I like to brown my meat just a bit before cooking, but it's more for appearance really.

I wish I'd had my slow cooker in the years when I was working. To come in to that delicious smell and to know that all you have to do is nice big pot of mash to go with it! ( can't you tell I've mainly only had boys to cook for!) I use mine mostly in the autumn/winter - I just get it started during the morning and then congratulate myself for the rest of the day. I also use my pressure cooker and my microwave. Anything to make life easier. So don't hesitate glitabo - you won't regret buying it.

I'm about to make the rice pudding . Re browning the stuff beforehand, I've got a protective cover for the hob (came with my slow cooker but I'm sure you an buy them, it looks like a cooling rack) that I put over the hob gas flame and that means I can brown anything that needs browning in the ceramic slow cooker pot [thumbs up] That's if I could be bothered.

My neighbour has given me 3 kilos of green tomatoes - has anyone made chutney in theirs?

I have just put in some lamb and veg. This is my first attempt so I am looking forward to eating it some time later today.

It will be wonderful, glitabo - just you wait!

I use mine quite a bit, mainly for beef and chicken. Everything is prepared the night before and then it's ready to switch on the following morning. If you put in extra liquid, this can be put aside as a gravy or base for another stew. The freezer comes in handy for extra portions.