by Jennifer Sonntag on
Source: https://www.erieinsurance.com/blog/crock-pot-safety
Ahh…the go-to, easy-to-use appliance in our kitchens—crock-pots. They put the question, “What’s for dinner?” to rest and give our homes and apartments the home-cooked meal smell. Here are some trusted tips to consider when using your crock-pot:
Not everything is better with age
If you’re just starting out and you’ve been “gifted” your mom’s (or grandma’s) old crock-pot, there’s something to consider: age. While it might be in great working order, a vintage crock pot from the ‘70s or ‘80s with an insert firmly attached to the heating element might need to be upgraded. Newer crock-pots also offer the convenience of being able to lift out the insert (bonus, it’s dishwasher safe!).
Some older crock-pot models also had vent holes or a notch in the lid for a spoon. While these might’ve been convenient, the rule of thumb is that crock-pot lids should fit snugly. If the lid is warped or has one of the mentioned “features,” steam and heat will escape. Cooking times could be off and you could end up with dry or burnt food. Continue reading “Tips for Using Your Crock-Pot Safely”