With the holiday season and someone's birthday coming up, I've been filling
my wishlist to the brim {and purging it of a few items I must have added after a cocktail or three}.
An item that won't fit on that wishlist {as it's not offered through anyone but Williams-Sonoma} is this beauty:
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| via Williams-Sonoma |
Now, I'm not one for overindulgence, but how can you say no to something that can make
Thomas Keller's cassoulet? You can sear/brown meat or toast breadcrumbs in the metal insert, slow cook the dish, then finish it in the oven {bubbling, crusty cheese, anyone?}. It's such a multi-tasker in comparison to my current version. With a model with a timer I could make dishes on my own schedule, and not have to worry about rushing home {or having Husband rush home} to turn something to 'warm'.
It was love at first sight. I've told Husband about it, but neither one of us can stomach the $250 price tag {which is reduced from the shelf price of $400!}. I wish it could be mine. I am, however, on the lookout for something similar within the sane price category.
I have a muuuuuch cheaper crock pot that has a removable stoneware insert, a 4,6, 8, and 10 hour "timer" and it automatically switches to the 'warm' setting when done. I think you can get an affordable upgrade without breaking the bank. Maybe not the slow cooker of your dreams, but better than the current situation?
ReplyDeleteI think the big difference I'm looking for is the cast-aluminum insert so I can brown meat prior to getting the cooker started. I have a handful of recipes that I use often that call for browning chicken thighs or a small roast before slow cooking. Also, the fact that it's oven safe is a huge bonus.
ReplyDeleteI've done some minimal research into other options, and it looks like Wolfgang Puck and Cuisinart both have similar options for at least $75 less than my dream slow cooker. It's just hard to give up a dream. :/
My friend and I both bought one a few years ago. Within one year they both broke. Luckily, it was covered by the warranty. Mine broke for the second time one year and a few weeks after purchasing it. The warranty only is for one year. The cast-aluminum started to bubble. They said that I could order a new insert, but the insert costs almost the same amount as the whole machine. My friend can no longer use hers after only a little more than a year of use because the electronics broke. I would not reccommend this product. I love my pots and pans from All-Clad, though. The sale is next weekend in Cannonsburg. If you decide you want a slow cooker, they are typically sold there for just around half price.
ReplyDeleteYou both bought this exact model? Hmm. I hadn't head anything negative about these until I read your comment. Thank you so much for your input. I'll definitely have to look into this more.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I knew about the Cannonsburg sale, but I hadn't considered they'd have these slow cookers. Thanks again!