Food and Fitness Fundamentals
Now that the holidays are over and we are back into our normal routines, I would like to share one of my favorite methods of cooking. It has helped make my meal preparations more enjoyable, less rushed and perhaps most important… relatively stress free. I would like to introduce you to slow cooking into your new year!
Decades ago when I was in college and just beginning to teach myself how to cook, I experimented with an old Crock Pot that was handed down to me by my grandmother. Unfortunately, I quickly realized that most of the dishes I prepared seemed to look and taste basically the same. This was quite disappointing, but I was able to recognize the potential for this style of cooking. Over the years, I have honed my culinary skills and finessed my cooking techniques; so that now each and every meal I prepare by slow cooking, is unique in taste, smell, texture and presentation being enjoyed by all who join our table. Needless to say, this is my favorite way of cooking.
There are many benefits to slow cooking. Most, if not all, of the prep work can be done well in advance; I’m talking hours, or even as long as a couple of days! On cooking day, all that is needed is to plug in the appliance and turn it on. The meal typically cooks at your choosing for approximately 4-8 hours. As mentioned in my last blog, I treasure my Hamilton Beach digital style slow cooker for several reasons. First, it allows me to select a high or low cooking temperature, which determines the time it will be ready. Secondly, it has the option of cooking with its built in timer, or a heat probe which determines the internal temperature of meat, fish and poultry. Thirdly, once either of the above settings is complete, the machine automatically switches to a warm mode, which is invaluable as it allows people to eat at their desired time rather than a set schedule. Lastly, use of a large oblong ceramic insert vs. circular, is better able to accommodate various food shapes and amounts.
Here are some basic recommendations for slow cooking:
1. Remove excess fat from meat, fish or poultry at prep stage.
2. Sear and brown meat/ poultry in a heavy skillet prior to slow cooking. This process is called the Maillard reaction which significantly increases the layers and depth in flavor of the meal.
3. Add flour to meat/poultry when searing to create a thicker sauce.
4. Do not fill insert more than 2/3 full in order to prevent boil over.
5. When adding herbs, do so during the last hour of cooking in order for the flavors to remain potent.
6. Add dairy products during the last 15 minutes of cooking in order for them not to break down.
So, next time you crave a delicious stress free meal that can be prepared well in advance, cooked by simply plugging in the appliance 4-8+ hours before serving and with the added bonus of creating an wonderful aroma that fills your house throughout the day, try slow cooking into the new year!!
If you have questions or ideas that you would like to share, please contact me via the comment section below.
