To have only just realised how awesome slow cookers are

[TraineeBabyCatcher]

I know I am. Very unreasonable, why did no one in my life tell me!
I was bought a slow cooker ages ago, used once or twice for stew.
Now I have a cook book to go along side it. I loves it! So many easy beautiful means.

Am I missing any other major life changing kitchen utensils? like finding a can opening than actually works and doesn't keep breaking

lamb shanks in the slow cooker with rosemary and gravy and whole shallot onions. Yum.

I put mine on Low for about 4 or so hours and high for cooking 8 or more hours. I never brown the meat first, I'm too lazy.
I wrote that completely backwards, Thanks to Dh he kept asking me for help outside and needing tea to stay warm (Men!)
It's High for fast cooking of about 4 hours and Low for slow cooking of about 8 hours! Isn't it?

Yes, California, your second post is right. I was a bit puzzled by your first!

Tiredmummy, yes, put it on low if you're looking at 7+ hours. (Others are welcome to disagree) And no, you really don't have to brown the meat before cooking. I understand your queasiness, but honestly, 7+ hours at simmering point will kill any nasties in either the meat or the veg.