Oh dear... slow cooker arriving today and there's loads of threads on here saying everything tastes bland and samey. Should I send it straight back???

[IHeartKingThistle]

I am a good cook. I like strong flavours. Bland and watery does not work for me.

I should send it back and save up for a pressure cooker, shouldn't I?

[FinallyHere]

Lots of great recipes here, and good advice to resist adding too much liquid, though I do love the effortless stock to be made with the remains of a chicken and frozen for risotto etc.

Best ever though is to find a shank of beef, add onions and small amount of red wine and leave overnight ( i use the auto setting). The meat will be very tender and any left over stock is basis of a truly brilliant onion soup. Enjoy.

[Statelychangers]

Not so keen on mine - but it's useful occasionally for slow cooking meat but stews are awful - the long cooking destroys flavours.