Slow cooking was traditionally used as a way to tenderize tough meat and break down fibrous root vegetables. The meat and vegetables were put in a pot on the stove over low heat and cooked all day in a broth
or liquid. In the early 1970s Rival developed the Crock-pot slow cooker, and busy cooks everywhere started turning to the slow cooker as a way to decrease meal preparation time. The ease of combining ingredients and letting the cooker
do the rest of the work is just one of the many benefits of slow cooking.
Chicken cooked in a slow cooker over low heat for an extended period of time retains moisture, has a tender texture and melts in the mouth. There are many recipes for cooking chicken slow and low. Some call for a few simple ingredients that can be found
in the pantry while others call for a long list of vegetables, spices and liquids that combine to create a complexity of flavors and textures. Whether using a short list of ingredients or a more complex recipe, slow cooking can help simplify meal preparation
for busy weeknight meals or free up time that is better spent with guests when entertaining. The resulting meal will be both easy to make and delightful to eat. |
