SlowCooker

THE NEW
COMFORT CLASSICS REINVENTED

BRIGIT BINNS

SlowCooker
THE NEW
COMFORT CLASSICS REINVENTED
AUTHOR BRIGIT BINNS PHOTOGRAPHER KATE SEARS

The New Slow Cook

Slow cookers today remain as popular as they were at their debut some forty years ago, a testament to their versatility, their ease of use, and to the comforting dishes that have impressed home cooks for generations. But todays cooks also want healthy ingredients, fresh flavors, and crunchy textures to be a part of their slow-cooked meals.

When they first appeared in the 1970s, slow cookers were widely promoted as time-savers. The earliest models allowed home cooks to come home after a full days work and serve a delicious homemade meal that tasted as if they had spent hours stirring a pot on the stove top. Today, the latest generation of slow cookers offers that same appealing convenience, plus new options that expand their versatility beyond what was possible in those early days. Decades ago, cooks typically tossed a few ingredients into a slow cooker, switched it on, and were content with whatever emerged when the selected time had elapsed. And indeed, without fail, slow cookers still produce fork-tender meat just as they did in the past. But they can also turn out uniformly soft textures, watery flavors, and dull colors, qualities perhaps overlooked in the past in favor of the slow cookers convenience. Todays cooksand dinerswant more. In the following pages, you will discover how to ensure your slow-cooked dishes have bright, fresh flavors, colors, and textures. Not only will you understand the importance of selecting the best meats, fish, beans, grains, and vegetables for the slow cooker, but you will also learn how to prepare those ingredients to draw out the most flavor, as well as how to use aromatics, herbs,

and garnishes, salads, or other fresh components to heighten the flavor and appeal of everything you serve. You will also find tips on seasoning for maximum effect, on how to layer ingredients for even cooking, on why browning some ingredients before they go in the cooker contributes more complex flavors, and on how to choose the best slow cooker for your household. Many of the recipes that follow are innovative updates of classic slow-cooker dishes, such as a meltingly tender beef stew garnished with crisp frise dressed in a baconshallot vinaigrette. Others are brand new, such as a Mediterranean-inspired honey-braised pork loin dressed up with succulent fresh figs, spicy arugula, and crunchy pistachios. Slow cooking recipes often skip fish dishes, but here salmon is simmered with memorable results: the fish, perfumed with herbs, becomes tender and succulent. Vegetables, too, are often ignored, but not in these pages: French ratatouille cooks gently in the steady heat of the slow cooker and emerges with the colors of its summer vegetables still bright and appealing. All of the recipes in this book deliver the fork-tender texture and kitchen ease that were hallmarks of recipes for early slow cookers. But they are also deliciously contemporary, rich in the robust flavors, crunchy textures, and bright colors of the modern table.

The Basics
10

To get the most out of your slow cooker, you will need to spend a little time preparing,
the new slow cook

seasoning, and layering the ingredients; browning the meat or poultry; and reducing the flavorful braising juicesa handful of simple, quick steps that lead to memorable meals.

S e a S o n i n g The first thing that every slow-cooker

however, is a crucial flavor-building technique that can make the difference between an insipid result and a deeply flavored dish. Browning also contributes appealing color to a dish. Nowadays, you can saut directly in the insert of some slow cookers. If this is true of your model, go ahead and use that feature, instead of the separate pan called for in the recipes in this book. When you are browning the meat or poultry, watch it closely and adjust the heat so the food sizzles steadily but doesnt scorch. You want the entire surface to have a deep, caramelized golden brown hue. The same is true for aromatic vegetables, especially onions, carrots, and celery, which are usually sauted in the same pan after the protein has been removed.
L ay e r i n g If a recipe calls for dense, firm, or starchy

novice needs to know is that condensation forms on the underside of the lid while the food is cooking. This means that no liquid evaporates, as with many types of conventional cooking, and if not offset some way, it can result in a bland and watery dish. To compensate for the volume of liquid, start with flavorful stocks and/or wine and slightly increase the usual quantities of herbs and spices. If you are adapting a conventional recipe to the slow cooker, reduce the amount of liquid called for in the recipe by half and substitute a fullflavored stock for any water.
P r e Pa r i n g i n g r e d i e n t S Dense vegetables,

such as potatoes, carrots, and other root vegetables, take a long time to become tender in a slow cooker. To ensure they cook through, always cut them into chunks of about 1 inch (2.5 cm) or smaller. Trim as much fat as possible from meat and poultry before you add them to the cooker. This will save you time later when you need to skim the fat off the top of the braising juices. To help them retain their color, blanch assertive greens, such as collards and kale, in boiling water before you add them to the slow cooker.
B r ow n i n g Most recipes that include meat or

vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or celery root, be sure to put them into the slow cookers insert first. Place meat or poultry and more tender vegetables on top. Occasionally, an ingredient will be added after an hour or more of cooking time has elapsed. Follow the recipe directions as to whether the ingredient should be stirred in or layered on top. Fish is often the last item added. In all cases, try to place pieces of the same ingredient in the slow cooker insert in an even layer, so they will cook through at the same rate. When meat, such as beef shanks, must be stacked, arrange them in as few layers as possible.

poultry call for sauting it in butter or oil to give it a well browned exterior. In the past, slow cooker recipes did not always specify this step, and some busy cooks resist this extra task now. Browning,

Short Rib Tacos

3 dried ancho chiles 1 12 tablespoons canola oil

Stem the chiles, slit lengthwise, and discard the seeds. Place in a heatproof bowl, cover with hot water, and let soak for 2030 minutes to rehydrate. Drain and set the chiles aside. Preheat the broiler. In a heavy frying pan over medium-high heat, warm the oil. Add the onion and bell pepper and saut until softened and lightly golden, about 6 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more. Pour in the beer and vinegar and stir to dislodge any browned bits on the pan bottom. Transfer the contents of the pan to a blender, add the rehydrated chiles, tomatoes, and cumin, and process until smooth. Season the short ribs all over with salt, pepper, and the oregano, and place on a rack set in a rimmed baking sheet. Broil, turning once, until nicely browned on all sides, 810 minutes on each side. Transfer the ribs to a slow cooker. Pour the chile mixture over the ribs, cover, and cook on the low setting for 8 hours. The meat should be very tender. Remove the ribs. Pull the meat from the bones, shred the meat, and set aside. Pour the braising liquid into a saucepan and, using a large spoon, skim off the fat from the liquid. Place the pan over medium-high heat, bring to a brisk simmer, and simmer until reduced by about one-third, about 10 minutes. Add the shredded meat to the sauce. Heat a nonstick frying pan or a griddle over medium heat. One at a time, warm the tortillas, turning once, for about 30 seconds on each side. Wrap in a kitchen towel to keep warm until all have been heated.

25

BEEF

1 yellow onion, finely chopped 1 green bell pepper, seeded and finely chopped 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
12

cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) lager-style beer

1 tablespoon sherry vinegar 2 plum tomatoes, seeded and coarsely chopped 1 12 teaspoons ground cumin

3 lb (1.5 kg) beef short ribs, English cut, trimmed of most fat Salt and freshly ground pepper
12

teaspoon dried oregano

12 corn tortillas, each about 6 inches (15 cm) in diameter Avocado-Tomatillo Salsa (see note) or purchased tomatillo salsa for serving cup ( 1 3 oz/10 g) coarsely chopped fresh cilantro leaves
MAKES 6 SERVINGS
14

Using a slotted spoon, top the tortillas with the warm beef, dividing it evenly. Top each with some of the salsa and cilantro, and serve at once.

A D D Z I N G W I T H AVO C A D O -T O M AT I L L O S A L S A In a blender or food processor, combine 12 lb (250 g) tomatillos,

husks removed and quartered, and 1 or 2 jalapeo chiles, seeded and coarsely chopped. Process until chunky. Add 14 cup (2 fl oz/60 ml) water; 12 small white onion, halved; 14 cup ( 13 oz/10 g) fresh cilantro leaves and cut-up stems; and 1 teaspoon salt. Process until smooth. (At this point, the salsa can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.) Stir in 1 avocado, halved, pitted, peeled, and diced, before serving. Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Classic Beef Stew

30

3 lb (1.5 kg) beef bottom round, trimmed of most fat and cut into 2-inch (5-cm) chunks Salt and freshly ground pepper
34

Season the beef generously with salt and pepper, then place in a plastic bag with the flour and shake the bag to coat the beef evenly. Remove from the bag and tap off the excess flour. In a large, heavy frying pan over mediumhigh heat, warm the oil. When the oil is hot, working in batches if necessary to avoid crowding, add the beef and sear, turning as needed, until golden on all sides, 810 minutes total. Transfer to a slow cooker. Pour off most of the fat from the frying pan and return to medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Pour in the wine and stir to dislodge any browned bits on the pan bottom. Add the stock, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves and pour the contents of the pan over the beef. Stir in the carrots, cover, and cook on the low setting for 6 hours. Stir in the mushrooms and pearl onions, re-cover, and cook for 1 hour more. The meat and vegetables should be very tender. Remove and discard the bay leaves and thyme, let the stew stand for a few minutes, and then skim the fat from the top with a large spoon. Ladle the stew into warm shallow bowls, top each serving with some of the salad, if using, and serve at once.

BEEF

cup (4 oz/125 g) flour

2 tablespoons canola oil 4 cloves garlic, smashed 1 12 cups (12 fl oz/375 ml) dry red wine such as Pinot Noir or Zinfandel 1 cup (8 fl oz/250 ml) beef or chicken stock, homemade (page 214) or purchased 3 sprigs fresh thyme 3 bay leaves 3 large carrots, peeled, halved lengthwise, and cut into chunks
12 lb (250 g) cremini mushrooms, brushed clean and quartered

1 bag (10 oz/315 g) frozen pearl onions, thawed and drained Frise and Bacon Salad for serving (see note; optional)
MAKES 6 SERVINGS

A D D C R U N C H W I T H F R I S E A N D B AC O N S A L A D Cut 6 oz (185 g) thick-cut bacon slices crosswise into strips

1

4 inch (6 mm) wide. In a frying pan over medium heat, fry the bacon until crisp and golden, 35 minutes. Using a slotted

spoon, transfer to paper towels to drain. Place 1 head frise, torn into bite-size pieces, into a bowl with the bacon, drizzle with 13 12 cup (34 fl oz/80125 ml) Shallot Vinaigrette (page 216), and toss to coat evenly.

Mild-flavored pork and lamb share an affinity for pungent garlic, earthy rosemary, tangy citrus, sweet peppers, fruity olive oil, and more. Nearly every cut of these versatile meats, from lean chops to marbled shoulder roasts, meaty shanks to chewy ribs, can be left to braise leisurely in a slow cooker, emerging melt-in-your-mouth tender and succulent at suppertime.

Orange-Braised Pork Chops

54

6 bone-in pork loin chops, each about 1 12 inches (4 cm) thick Salt and freshly ground pepper 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 large shallots, halved and thinly sliced 4 cloves garlic, sliced
12

Season the pork chops generously on both sides with salt and pepper. In a large, heavy frying pan over medium-high heat, warm the oil. When the oil is hot, working in batches if necessary to avoid crowding, add the chops and sear, turning once, until golden brown on both sides, 810 minutes total. Transfer the chops to a plate. Pour off most of the fat from the pan and return it to medium-high heat. Add the shallots and garlic and saut until they begin to brown, about 6 minutes. Pour in the wine and stir to dislodge any browned bits from the pan bottom. Stir in the stock, vinegar, orange zest, 12 teaspoon salt, and several grinds of pepper. Transfer the contents of the pan to a slow cooker and stack the pork chops on top. Cover and cook on the low setting for 7 hours. The chops should be tender. Divide the pork chops among warm individual plates. Spoon the braising liquid over the chops, top with the salad, if using, and serve.

PORK & LAMB

cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) dry white wine

cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) chicken stock, homemade (page 214) or purchased 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar Finely grated zest of 2 oranges (reserve oranges if making salad; see note) Spinach and Orange Salad for serving (see note; optional)
MAKES 6 SERVINGS

12

A D D F R E S H N E S S W I T H S P I N AC H A N D O R A N G E S A L A D Trim the remaining peel and pith from the 2 oranges

and segment them as directed on page 217. Roughly chop the orange segments. In a bowl, whisk together 112 tablespoons white wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 14 teaspoon salt, and several grinds of pepper. Whisk in 14 cup (2 fl oz/60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil. Add 56 cups (56 oz/155185 g) baby spinach, the orange segments, and 2 tablespoons finely snipped fresh chives (optional) and toss to mix.

Balsamic-Braised Sausages
1 12 lb (750 g) fresh sweet or hot Italian pork sausages 1 large shallot, finely chopped
12

Preheat the broiler. Arrange the sausages on a rack set in a rimmed baking sheet. Broil, turning as needed, until golden brown all over, 89 minutes total. Transfer the sausages to a plate. In a slow cooker, stir together the shallot, fennel, celery, garlic, 12 teaspoon salt, and several grinds of pepper. Top with the broiled sausages and add the stock and balsamic and white wine vinegars. Cover and cook on the high setting for 2 12 hours or on the low setting for 5 12 hours, turning the sausages over halfway through if possible. The sausages should be tender and cooked through. In a bowl, combine the grapes and watercress, drizzle with enough of the vinaigrette to coat lightly, and toss to coat evenly. Divide the sausages among warm individual plates, spoon some of the braising liquid around the sausages, and top with the grapes and watercress. Serve at once.

73

PORK & LAMB

fennel bulb, cored and finely chopped

1 stalk celery, finely chopped 5 cloves garlic, smashed Salt and freshly ground pepper cup (5 fl oz/160 ml) chicken stock, homemade (page 214) or purchased 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons dry white wine 2 12 cups (15 oz/470 g) seedless red or green grapes, halved 1 bunch watercress, tough stems removed
1 3 2 3

cup (3 fl oz/80 ml) Shallot Vinaigrette (page 216)

MAKES 4 SERVINGS

Be sure to use fresh sausages, rather than smoked ones, for this recipe. Browning them first in a broiler highlights their meaty flavor, and the slow cooker transforms them, making them meltingly tender. The fresh, robust flavors of the saladtart-sweet grapes and peppery watercressare the perfect counterpoint to the braised sausages. Large, dark purple grapes, which should be quartered rather than halved, are also lovely in this salad.

Chicken-Tortilla Soup
100

1 can (15 oz/470 g) tomato pure or crushed tomatoes 1 yellow onion, coarsely chopped 3 cloves garlic, smashed 12 jalapeo chiles, seeded and chopped cups (44 fl oz/1.4 l) chicken stock, homemade (page 214) or purchased 2 lb (1 kg) skinless, bone-in chicken thighs, trimmed of excess fat 3 limes 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon ground cumin 3 bay leaves Salt and freshly ground pepper 2 12 cups (15 oz/470 g) corn kernels (from about 5 ears) 2 small avocados, halved, pitted, peeled, and diced 2 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh cilantro Tortilla chips for garnish
MAKES 6 SERVINGS

In a blender or food processor, combine the tomatoes, onion, garlic, jalape0 to taste, and 1 cup (8 fl oz/250 ml) of the stock and process until smooth. Pour into a slow cooker. Add the chicken thighs, the remaining 4 12 cups (36 fl oz/1.1 l) stock, the juice of 1 lime, the vinegar, cumin, bay leaves, 34 teaspoon salt, and several grinds of pepper. Cover and cook on the low setting for 5 hours. The chicken should be very tender. Transfer the chicken pieces to a plate. Remove the meat from the bones, and discard the bones. Chop or shred the meat. Using a large spoon, skim away the fat from the braising liquid. Return the chicken meat to the slow cooker. Add the corn kernels, cover, and cook on the low setting until tender, about 30 minutes more. Remove and discard the bay leaves. Cut the remaining 2 limes into wedges. Ladle the soup into warm shallow bowls, distributing all the ingredients evenly. Garnish each bowl with some of the avocados, cilantro, and tortilla chips. Serve at once. Pass the lime wedges at the table.

P O U LT R Y

5 12

Serve this zesty soup with a tossed green salad for an easy weeknight supper. The creamy avocado, sweet corn, and cilantro add a splash of color and fresh flavor and the tortilla chips deliver a pleasant salty crunch to the soup. If fresh summer corn is out of season, use thawed frozen corn kernels and reduce the cooking time to 15 minutes.

Spicy Buffalo-Style Chicken

114

5 lb (2.5 kg) chicken drumsticks, trimmed of excess fat Salt and freshly ground pepper 1 tablespoon olive oil
12

Pat the chicken thoroughly dry and season all over with salt and pepper. In a large, heavy frying pan over medium-high heat, warm the oil. When the oil is hot, working in batches to avoid crowding, add the chicken and sear, turning as needed, until golden brown, about 8 minutes total. Transfer the chicken to paper towels to drain briefly, then transfer to a slow cooker. Pour off some of the fat from the frying pan and return it to medium-high heat. Add the onion and celery and saut until just beginning to brown, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, chiles, and tomato paste and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes more. Pour in the beer, hot sauce, and vinegar and stir to dislodge any browned bits on the pan bottom. Transfer the contents of the pan to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on the low setting for about 5 hours. The chicken should be tender. Transfer the chicken to a plate. Using a large spoon, skim off the fat from the braising liquid. Transfer the liquid to a blender or food processor and process until smooth. Pour into a frying pan, place over medium heat, and stir in the brown sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened and glossy, about 10 minutes. Return the drumsticks to the sauce and simmer until heated through, 34 minutes. If using, divide the celery and blue cheese salad among individual plates. Arrange the drumsticks alongside the salad and serve at once, passing additional sauce at the table.

P O U LT R Y

yellow onion, finely chopped

2 stalks celery, finely chopped 10 cloves garlic, chopped 2 chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, chopped 6 tablespoons (3 oz/90 g) tomato paste
12

cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) beer

12 cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) Crystal hot sauce, Franks Redhot sauce, or other medium-spicy hot sauce

2 teaspoons rice vinegar 1 tablespoon firmly packed light brown sugar CeleryBlue Cheese Salad for serving (see note; optional)
MAKES 6 SERVINGS

A D D F R E S H N E S S W I T H C E L E R Y B L U E C H E E S E S A L A D Using a sharp knife, very thinly slice 3 celery hearts

crosswise, including some of the leafy tops, and place in a bowl. Thinly slice 7 green onions, including the light green tops, and add to the bowl. Add the grated zest of 1 lemon, 112 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, and several grinds of pepper and toss well. Fold in 23 cup (3 12 oz/105 g) crumbled blue cheese.

Braised Salmon with Green Beans

126
12 cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) vegetable stock, homemade (page 215) or purchased

In a slow cooker, stir together 12 cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) water, the stock, wine, onion, tarragon sprigs, 12 teaspoon salt, and several grinds of pepper. Cover and cook on the low setting for 30 minutes. Add the salmon fillets (they can overlap), re-cover, and cook for 1 hour. The fish should be opaque throughout, firm, and very tender. About 10 minutes before the salmon is ready, bring a large saucepan three-fourths full of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook until tender-crisp, 45 minutes. Drain and hold under cold running water until cool. Spread on a kitchen towel to dry. In a frying pan over medium heat, melt the butter with the oil. Add the shallot and saut until slightly softened, 23 minutes. Add the beans and stir until hot throughout. Add the vinegar and minced tarragon and toss to mix. Transfer the salmon to warm individual plates. Discard the braising liquid or strain and reserve for another use. Arrange a mound of the green beans alongside each salmon fillet. Serve at once.

SEAFOOD

1 cup (8 fl oz/250 ml) dry white wine

12

small yellow onion, sliced 3 sprigs plus 1 teaspoon minced fresh tarragon

Salt and freshly ground pepper 6 salmon fillets, each about 5 oz (155 g) 1 lb (500 g) haricots verts or green beans, trimmed 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 large shallot, minced 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
MAKES 6 SERVINGS

Highly nutritious salmon becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after a short braise in the slow cooker. The haricots vertsslender green beansare cooked just until tender then tossed with shallot and fresh tarragon, providing a brightly flavored counterpoint to the meaty fish.

Winter Vegetable Stew

4 tablespoons (2 fl oz/60 ml) olive oil 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped 2 stalks celery, finely chopped 10 cloves garlic, smashed 2 tablespoons tomato paste
12

In a large, heavy frying pan over medium-high heat, warm 2 tablespoons of the oil. Add the onion and celery and saut until softened and beginning to brown, about 6 minutes. Add the garlic and tomato paste and stir for 1 minute. Pour in the sherry, stock, and vinegar and stir to dislodge any browned bits on the pan bottom. Transfer the contents of the frying pan to a slow cooker. Peel and seed the butternut squash and cut into chunks. Peel the parsnips and carrots and cut into chunks. Add the butternut squash, parsnips, carrots, and tarragon to the slow cooker, season with salt and pepper, and stir to blend evenly. Cover and cook on the low setting for 5 hours. The vegetables should be tender. Stir the lemon juice into the stew to taste, then transfer the stew to a warm serving bowl or shallow individual bowls. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil, top with the watercress and a sprinkle of lemon zest, and serve.

153

v e g e ta b l e s

cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) medium-dry sherry

cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) chicken or vegetable stock, homemade (page 214215) or purchased 1 teaspoon sherry vinegar or red wine vinegar 1 butternut squash, about 2 12 lb (1.25 kg) 3 parsnips 3 large carrots 1 teaspoon dried tarragon Salt and freshly ground pepper Grated zest and juice of 1 lemon 1 bunch watercress, tough stems removed and leaves chopped
Makes 6 servings

12

This classic cool-weather dish sparkles with color and appealing flavors. Adding the lemon zest to the warm vegetables releases its citrusy, fresh aroma, providing a fresh dimension for a traditionally hearty dish. Accompany with a green salad and crusty country bread.

Garlicky Leeks with Linguine

162

6 leeks, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter 8 cloves garlic, peeled but left whole
12

Trim off the root end and then cut off the dark green tops from each leek, leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) of light green tops attached. Halve the leeks lengthwise, rinse well, then cut crosswise into slices about
3 4

v e g e ta b l e s

inch (2 cm) thick. Transfer to a slow cooker.

small yellow onion, chopped

12

cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) dry white wine

Stir in the garlic, onion, wine, stock, 2 tablespoons of the oil, the vinegar, parsley sprigs, bay leaves, 12 teaspoon salt, and several grinds of pepper. Cover and cook on the low setting for 3 hours, stirring once halfway through if possible. The leeks should be very tender. Remove and discard the bay leaves and parsley sprigs. Keep warm. Bring a large pot three-fourths full of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine, stir well, and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large frying pan over medium heat, warm the remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Add the shallots and prosciutto and saut until barely softened, about 2 minutes. When the pasta is ready, drain and add to the frying pan. Add the leeks, including a little of their braising liquid (discard the remainder), and toss over medium heat for a minute or so to mix well. Transfer to a warm platter or individual plates, garnish with the basil, and serve at once.

12 cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) chicken stock, homemade (page 214) or purchased

3 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar 3 sprigs fresh flat-leaf parsley 3 bay leaves Salt and freshly ground pepper 12 oz (375 g) fresh linguine or 1 lb (500 g) dried linguine 2 large shallots, minced 3 oz (90 g) thinly sliced prosciutto, cut into narrow strips 3 tablespoons slivered fresh basil leaves
Makes 4 6 servings

In this light and elegant pasta, leeks take a star turn. The vinegar adds a tangy note that is often welcome in slow-braised recipes. Prosciutto delivers the rich flavor of cured pork and the basil a bright, herbal taste to the finished dish. Accompany with a salad of mixed greens, sliced pears, crumbled blue cheese, and toasted walnuts.

Cherry Tomato Rag with Polenta

2 tablespoons olive oil 2 large shallots, finely chopped 1 stalk celery, finely chopped 4 cloves garlic, smashed 2 sprigs fresh oregano 2 tablespoons dry white wine 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar 2 12 lb (1.25 kg) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved or left whole if small Salt and freshly ground pepper 2 cups (12 oz/375 g) instant polenta 3 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh basil leaves
Makes about 8 servings

In a large, heavy frying pan over medium heat, warm the oil. Add the shallots and celery and saut until lightly golden, about 6 minutes. Add the garlic and oregano sprigs and cook for 1 minute more. Pour in the wine, vinegar, and 2 tablespoons water and stir to dislodge any browned bits on the pan bottom. Transfer the contents of the pan to a slow cooker. Stir in the tomatoes, 12 teaspoon salt, and several grinds of pepper. Cover and cook on the low setting for 34 hours, stirring two or three times if possible. The tomatoes should be mostly broken down and the sauce should be juicy. Remove the oregano sprigs. Just before the sauce is ready, in a saucepan, bring 9 cups (72 fl oz/2.25 l) water and 1 tablespoon salt to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to low and add the polenta in a slow, steady stream while whisking constantly. Cook, stirring constantly, until the polenta thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan, about 5 minutes. Divide the soft polenta among warm shallow bowls, top each portion with a heaping spoonful of the rag, sprinkle with the basil, and serve at once.

175

v e g e ta b l e s

This chunky rag can also be spooned over grilled fish, chicken, or pork or simply tossed with pasta. The cherry tomatoes collapse in the slow cooker but are still identifiable, which contributes to the rustic charm of the dish. You can also scoop out one-fourth of the sauce, pure it in a food processor, then stir the pure back in, to create a more refined rag.

Stuffed Artichokes
1 lemon, halved 4 globe artichokes 3 tablespoons olive oil
12

Fill a large bowl three-fourths full of cold water, squeeze in the juice of the lemon, and add the spent lemon halves. Working with 1 artichoke at a time, and using a sharp knife, trim off the base of the stem, and then cut off the top one-third of the artichoke. Pull off and discard the tough, dark green outer leaves. Using scissors, snip off any prickly leaf tips that remain. Using the knife, trim any remnants of the tough, dark leaves from the base of the artichoke, and then peel the stem, removing the tough outer layer. Halve the artichoke lengthwise, and scoop out the pale, hairy choke with a spoon. Drop the artichoke halves into the lemon water to prevent browning. Repeat with the remaining 3 artichokes. In a large, heavy frying pan over medium heat, warm the oil. Add the onion, chard stems, and rosemary and saut until starting to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and chard leaves and stir until the leaves are wilted, 57 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the tomatoes, feta cheese, 12 teaspoon salt, and several grinds of pepper. Retrieve the artichoke halves from the lemon water (reserve the water), and place cut side up on a work surface. Mound the filling high in the center of each half, packing it firmly. Place the artichokes, stuffing side up, in a slow cooker. Drizzle the wine, stock, vinegar, and about 1 cup (8 fl oz/250 ml) of the lemon water around the edges to reach to just below the cut surface of the artichokes. Cover and cook on the low setting for 56 hours. The artichokes are ready when the bases are tender. Using a slotted spoon, carefully lift the artichoke halves from the braising liquid and divide evenly among individual plates. Discard the braising liquid. If using, scatter the bread crumbs over the artichokes and serve.

181

v e g e ta b l e s

yellow onion, finely chopped

1 small bunch Swiss chard, stems removed and finely chopped and leaves thinly sliced 1 12 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary 4 cloves garlic, sliced 3 tomatoes, seeded and diced 3 oz (90 g) feta cheese, diced Salt and freshly ground pepper
12

cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) dry white wine

cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) chicken stock, homemade (page 214) or purchased 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar Garlicky Bread Crumbs for serving (see note; optional)
Makes 4 servings

12

A D D c r u n c h W I T h G A r L I c K Y B r E A D c r u M B S Turn on a food processor, drop 3 cloves garlic through the feed

tube, and process until finely chopped, about 10 seconds. Add 3 thick slices country bread, crusts removed and torn into large pieces; 14 teaspoon salt; and several grinds of pepper. Process until coarse crumbs form. Drizzle in 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil and process until well mixed. Transfer the mixture to a large frying pan over medium heat and cook, stirring, until golden, 23 minutes. Remove from the pan and toss with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley.

Split Pea Soup

192

1 tablespoon olive oil 1 yellow onion, finely chopped

In a heavy frying pan over medium heat, warm the oil. Add the onion and celery and saut until softened, about 5 minutes. Pour in the wine and stir to dislodge any browned bits on the pan bottom. Transfer the contents of the pan to a slow cooker. Add the split peas, stock, and ham hock, cover, and cook on the low setting for 9 hours. The split peas should be very tender. Remove the ham hock, pull off the meat, and discard the skin, bone, and cartilage. Shred the meat and set aside. Transfer about one-third of the soup to a blender or food processor and process until smooth. Return the soup to the slow cooker, add the reserved meat, and stir well. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Re-warm the soup on the low setting. Ladle the soup into warm bowls and top with the fennel-bacon salad, if using. Serve at once.

LEGUMES & GRAINS

2 stalks celery, finely chopped 2 tablespoons dry white wine 2 14 cups (1 lb/500 g) green split peas, picked over and rinsed 6 cups (48 fl oz/1.5 l) chicken stock, homemade (page 214) or purchased 1 smoked ham hock, about 1 12 lb (750 g) Salt and freshly ground pepper Fennel-Bacon Salad for serving (see note; optional)
MAKES 4 6 SERVINGS

A D D C R U N C H W I T H F E N N E L - B AC O N S A L A D In a frying pan over medium heat, cook 46 thick-cut bacon slices

until browned and crisp, about 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels, then crumble. Cut off the stem and feathery tops and any bruised outer parts from 1 small fennel bulb. Coarsely chop the feathery tops to yield 2 tablespoons and set aside. Halve the fennel bulb lengthwise, then core and cut crosswise into paper-thin slices. In a bowl, combine the fennel slices, reserved fennel tops, crumbled bacon, and the grated zest of 1 lemon. Toss to mix well.

Farro with Spring Vegetables

3 tablespoons olive oil
12

In a large, heavy frying pan over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of the oil. Add the onion, celery, and pancetta and saut until the onion is softened and the pancetta has rendered most of its fat, about 5 minutes. Add the farro and stir to coat with the oil. Cook, stirring, until lightly toasted, 12 minutes. Add the wine and stir until it has evaporated, about 5 minutes. Pour in 1 cup (8 fl oz/250 ml) of the stock and stir to dislodge any browned bits on the pan bottom. Transfer the contents of the pan to a slow cooker. Stir in the remaining 3 cups (24 fl oz/750 ml) stock, 14 teaspoon salt, and several grinds of pepper. Cover and cook on the low setting for 22 12 hours. The farro should be tender. While the farro is cooking, trim the tough stem ends from the asparagus and then cut the spears into 2-inch (5-cm) lengths. Bring a saucepan three-fourths full of salted water to a boil, add all the asparagus pieces except the tips, and cook for 4 minutes. Add the asparagus tips and cook until all the pieces are tender-crisp, about 2 minutes longer. Drain and run under cold running water until cool. Spread on a kitchen towel to dry. About 5 minutes before the farro is ready, in a large, heavy frying pan over medium heat, melt the butter with the remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Add the leeks and saut for 1 minute. Add the peas and saut for 1 minute. Add the asparagus and saut until all the vegetables are just tender and heated through, 12 minutes. Stir in the lemon juice. Stir the vegetables into the farro and transfer to a warm serving dish. Garnish with the lemon zest and parsley. Using a vegetable peeler, shave the Parmesan over the top. Serve at once.

209

yellow onion, finely chopped

LEGUMES & GRAINS

2 stalks celery, finely chopped 1 oz (30 g) pancetta, finely chopped 1 12 cups (10 12 oz/330 g) farro, rinsed
12

cup (4 fl oz/125 ml) dry white wine

4 cups (32 fl oz/1 l) chicken stock, homemade (page 214) or purchased Salt and freshly ground pepper 1 bunch asparagus, about 1 lb (500 g) 1 tablespoon unsalted butter 2 leeks, including the light green tops, cut into matchsticks 2 cups (10 oz/315 g) fresh or thawed, frozen English peas Grated zest and juice of 12 lemon 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley 3-oz (90-g) piece Parmesan cheese
MAKES 6 SERVINGS

Farro, an ancient strain of wheat popular in Italian kitchens, holds its shape beautifully as it cooks, making it ideal for salads, side dishes, and soups. Here, it is tossed together with peas, leeks, and asparagus in a colorful and healthy dish that is perfect with grilled poultry or meat.

415 Jackson Street, Suite 200, San Francisco, CA 94111 Telephone: 415 291 0100 Fax: 415 291 8841 www.weldonowen.com A DIVISION OF

WELDON OWEN, INC. CEO and President Terry Newell VP, Sales and Marketing Amy Kaneko Director of Finance Mark Perrigo VP and Publisher Hannah Rahill Executive Editor Kim Laidlaw Associate Editor Julia Nelson Editorial Assistant Becky Duffett Associate Creative Director Emma Boys Art Director Kara Church Junior Designer Anna Grace Production Director Chris Hemesath Production Manager Michelle Duggan Color Manager Teri Bell Photographer Kate Sears Food Stylist Robyn Valarik Prop Stylist Sara Slavin

THE NEW SLOW COOKER Conceived and produced by Weldon Owen, Inc. in collaboration with Williams-Sonoma, Inc. 3250 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94109 Copyright 2010 Weldon Owen, Inc. and Williams-Sonoma, Inc. All rights reserved, including the right of reproduction in whole or in part in any form. Color separations by Embassy Graphics in Canada Printed and bound by Toppan Leefung Printing Limited in China First printed in 2010 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication data is available. ISBN-13: 978-1-61628-020-8 ISBN-10: 1-61628-020-4 Additional photography: Ray Kachatorian, page 11; Petrina Tinslay, page 7; Tucker and Hossler, pages 7, 16

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Weldon Owen would like to thank the following people for their generous support in making this book: Leslie Evans, Lauren Grant, Elizabeth Parson, Sharon Silva, Victoria Wall, Jason Wheeler, and Tracy White.