How do I use my slow cooker?

[MissDallas]

I have a slow cooker I have used only once. The problem is, I don't know how to use it. For instance, I want to make a butternut squash curry, but don't know how long it will take in the slow cooker. I am worried that the squash will turn to mush if I leave it too long. Any ideas? Here's the recipe:

www.bbcgoodfoodme.com/recipes/17207-squash-coconut-curry#.V0WQI2eMcdU

Thanks.

www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/butternut-coconut-curry

This one suggests 4 hours.

Ooh, thanks for that! It looks nicer than the recipe I had. And it's good to know how long to cook it for.

And always use far less water than slow-cooker recipes state.

There is a Facebook page called slow cooked wonders :) you can add. Lots of nice recipes on there.

I found just messing about and experimenting helped me learn how it works best. There are also little tips like putting a dishcloth under the lid to help stop condensation forming, or leaving the lid off for an hour to thicken the sauce. You learn as you go.