Slow Cooker Favorites

It's that time of year again when the leaves turn color, it's getting nippy outside, and everyone is in full swing. And meals get left to the last minute. I can't tell you how many times a meal has been burnt around here because someone got caught up in something else. The smoke detector is usually the first sign that it's time to take the slow cooker down and get some hearty, filling meals ready.

BBQ Anything!

Our family just loves the taste of barbecue. When time is tight, and interests are elsewhere, we do a saucy barbecue. Stock up on your favorite brand of barbecue sauce. We often find deals at one of the warehouse stores. Keep your favorite meats on hand in the freezer - chicken, ribs, sausage, etc. Onions are a pantry staple. Sometime in the afternoon take out the frozen meat and defrost in the microwave. Cut up a couple of onions if your family likes those. Stack the defrosted meat in the slow cooker, top with onions and pour the sauce to just cover. Put on the lid and cook. If on high - go for about two and a half hours. If on low, four to six hours.

Note - you may want to take the skin off of the chicken. It doesn't add to the tenderness of the chicken, and some find that the fatty taste is a bit strong.

Hearty Breakfast Cereals

Did you know that you can have a hot breakfast ready when you wake up? Pick a hearty grain - barley for example. Read the directions for a large batch. Pour in the grain and add the water. Plug in and cook on low overnight. Small bits of dried fruit can make for a special treat. Don't forget to serve with brown sugar, butter, and milk.

Meat and Country Gravy

Want a juicy steak covered with thick, country-style gravy? It's very simple with a slow cooker. Get out your cheapest cut of meat. Cube steak does well, stew meat, or even an old chicken. Cut the meat up and put it in the slow cooker. If you like, add some potatoes or onions for a meal in a pot. Pour in a half a cup of water, one can of cream of mushroom soup, and a packet of powdered soup mix. It's a family classic! Serve with hot biscuits to dunk in the gravy and a salad and you'll be set.

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