Meet my Slow Cooker
Here's why I chose this model:
It's simple to operate
There are no fancy settings to contend with. This slow cooker has just one dial at the front, which provides you with four different options: Off, High, Low, and Auto.
Not ready to eat yet? You can use the Low temperature as a 'keep warm' setting. It will keep your meal at the perfect temperature for serving.
What's the 'Auto' function?
The temperature starts on high, and automatically shifts down to low. Swan reckons that this is the setting you'll use the most.
It has a glass lid
Just the ticket when you want to keep an eye on your dinner as it cooks! You shouldn't lift the lid during cooking unless the recipe specifically tells you to.
No faffing about with timers
We work from home, so we rarely need a timer. But maybe you are out all day and need to start a meal off while you're out. If that's the case, I recommend getting a smart plug. You can turn them on with your phone. It will probably work out cheaper than buying a fancy slow cooker!
No digital interfaces
I don't like digital interfaces on cooking appliances. They add an unnecessary level of complication and an extra layer of stuff that can go wrong.
It's a sensible size
I like the 3.5 litre pot. It's an average size for a slow cooker, perfect for a couple like us, or a small family.
It has a crockery interior pot
The interior pot easily lifts out of the slow cooker making it convenient to serve meals at the table, and quick and easy to clean.
There's a recipe book
It's only a little 32 page booklet, but it's great to have one. It gives you a head start with some general tips (especially on making soups). It's good to get an idea of the typical timings for your particular model. Unfortunately it is VERY meat oriented.
A proper guarantee
The slow cooker comes with a 2-year manufacturer's guarantee, protecting you from any issues you find.
It comes in gorgeous colours
The Swan Retro comes in an array of pretty colours to match almost any kitchen: grey, cream, sky blue, and green. If you want a white one instead, the Swan Nordic model is similar and rather stylish.
If you want a pink one (I was tempted!) the closest in style is this Salter model.
