Slow Cookers Make Holidays Easier

Holidays are the perfect time to get your slow cooker out of storage. Fall and winter create cravings for soups and stews that are typical Crockpot fare. But don't underestimate the uses of a slow cooker, especially during a big dinner party like the holiday dinner.

One great way to use slow cookers is when you are doing holidays pot luck style. Of course, you know who's bringing what on a big day like this. But you may not know when the food may show up, or how that will effect your cooking space. If you have even 4 side dishes on their way - do you have room for them on your stove? Even while you make the other tasty treats you need to finish? I have to admit that I'm a little jealous if you do! Until my dream kitchen becomes a reality, slow cookers give me more "burners".

It's easy to add a table near an outlet strip. Then have your guests set up their contribution to the meal there. It's a huge bonus if you are serving buffet style. Depending on the number of people at your house it can be a blessing, if you don't have to pass each dish yourself. Also, some things don't lend themselves as well to be passed, like soup. One wrong move and someone will be wearing pumpkin bisque instead of eating it.

Think about cooking some of your dishes in a slow cooker too. Many recipes can even be made the night before. Can you imagine waking up to an already cooked turkey for the big day? If you are cooking for a small crowd try the Crockpot Lady's slow cooked turkey breast. And try making her gluten-free Corn Bread Stuffing. The stuffing will still need to be made that day, but you can keep it warm for a few hours - so no reheating.

Try googling your favorite side dish plus the words 'slow cooker'. You can usually find an existing recipe that you can change a little to be just like grandma's. Don't forget the soup, or even a pumpkin white bean lasagna for your vegetarian friends.

I admit I have more slow cookers than most, but you can cheaply pick up extras at a thrift store. Sometimes you can find new ones for less than twenty dollars. I have a 4 quart, 6 quart, 2 little dippers, and the holy grail of slow cookers- the Crockpot trio. It's a buffet all by its self! But you don't have to be slow cooker obsessed like me to try a few things out. I would recommend having at least one Crockpot in your kitchen arsenal. This way you can one day be the gracious guest that brings the food in its own warming dish. I promise you'll be a hit, and it's the perfect way to impress the in laws.

About the Author:
Kathy Hester loves to cook healthy, throw parties, and use her slow cookers as much as possible. And of course, she shows off her meals on Noritake dinnerware.

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