Instant Pot
I just wanted to buy a slow cooker, as mine had broken down. But the store had instant pots at a good price, and a slow cooker is one of the functions, so I bought it. And I never regretted it. It is impressive how many different kinds of foods one can prepare in the instant pot. From soups and grains to meats and yogurts. It can pressure cook, steam, slow cook, cook rice, sauté, make yogurt, keep food warm… really a miracle cooker. We have explored a number of these functions, but I am most impressed by how it cooks meat. Really, it is true: you can buy a cheap piece of meat and it will come out tender. I have made a leg of lamb, ribs, short ribs, pieces of beef of various quality and different cuts, pork, and every single time we ate a delicious meal with meat that would melt in our mouths. In fact, yesterday, after work a couple of friends came over to cross-country ski. Before we left, I put pieces of beef in the instant pot, with some nice spices. I set the timer for 45 minutes, pressed the “Cook” button and we left for the park. When we came back in an hour, the meat was ready, and the pot had de-pressurized itself. I quickly made a sauce in a pan and a salad, et voilà! I highly recommend this tool for busy people with discerning palates.