Getting older, for me, means I look for convenience and simplicity!
Cooking can become a challenging task, especially when energy levels fluctuate or physical limitations make standing over the stove for long periods of time difficult.
That’s where my slow cooker comes to the rescue. This handy kitchen device is perfect for seniors, making cooking easier, safer, and more enjoyable.
Why Slow Cookers Are Perfect for Seniors
Take a look at the fabulous Instant Pot!
Ease of Use: Slow cookers are incredibly easy to operate. With a few simple steps – adding ingredients, setting the temperature, and turning it on, you can let the slow cooker work its magic while you go about other tasks or relax. It’s truly a “set it and forget it” appliance.
Time-Saving: Slow cooking allows for meals to be prepared hours in advance, freeing up time for other activities. You no longer need to rush around in the kitchen during mealtimes.
Nutrient Retention: The slow cooking process helps retain nutrients in food, as cooking at lower temperatures preserves vitamins and minerals better than other cooking methods like boiling or frying. Enjoy healthier meals with ease!
Safety: With its low heat and automatic shut-off, slow cookers offer a safer cooking method for those who may worry about leaving the stove unattended or accidentally forgetting about a meal.
Cost-Effective: Slow cookers are great for making meals in bulk, which can be portioned out and frozen for later use. This not only saves time but also helps reduce food waste and stretch grocery budgets.
3 Easy Slow Cooker Recipes for Seniors
Here are three of my fave slow cooker recipes that I love making on a cold winter’s day.
1. Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
A delicious, hearty meal for the family!
You Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 2 cups carrots, sliced
- 2 cups celery, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for creamier texture)
Follow These Steps:
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the chicken broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and vegetables are tender.
- Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker with two forks.
- For a creamy version, stir in the heavy cream just before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy a hearty, comforting stew!
2. Slow Cooker Beef and Vegetable Soup
Great for a cold winter’s evening!
You Need:
- 1 lb lean beef stew meat
- 4 cups beef broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned, no salt added)
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Follow These Steps:
- Add the beef stew meat, beef broth, diced tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, green beans, onion, garlic, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker.
- Stir everything to combine and cover with the lid.
- Cook on low for 7-8 hours or until the beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
- Serve in bowls with some crusty bread on the side if desired.
3. Slow Cooker Applesauce
A delicious and healthy dessert for everyone, including the grandkids!
You Need:
- 6 apples (such as Gala or Fuji), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
Follow These Steps:
- Place the chopped apples, water, cinnamon, and lemon juice (if using) in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Once the apples are soft, use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the apples to your desired consistency.
- Taste and add honey or maple syrup if a sweeter applesauce is preferred.
- Serve warm or chilled.
This simple treat is a great way to enjoy a naturally sweet snack or side dish.
The Wrap
A slow cooker has been a game-changer for me!
Whether it’s a cozy stew, a hearty soup, or a sweet applesauce, these recipes are super easy to make.
Plus, the convenience of setting it and forgetting it allows me to enjoy home-cooked meals without the stress of last-minute cooking.
So, if you’re looking for a way to make your cooking routine easier, consider giving a slow cooker a try! It’s a kitchen companion that does live up to its “set it and forget it” promise.
Here’s a great Magnifique Slow Cooker that’s so easy to use.
Hello There!
Hi! My name is Madlyn and I’m a modern tech-savvy Grandma with a passion for all-things-appliances.
If it has an On-Off switch, I want it! I have a job, a home, a husband, kids, grand kids, and pets – the whole nine yards. And, I have kitchen appliances …
My Appliance Journey
Over the years, my hubby and I have spent a fortune on appliances ranging from baby bottle warmers to large fancy fridges for a house full of growing teens.
Some were value for money and lasted for years, while others packed up in less than a month.
Over the years I have gained vast experience with appliances of all types and would love to share my insights with others.
Hopefully this will help you make informed decisions and not waste unnecessary time and your hard-earned money.
What I Do
I’ll be writing about must-have kitchen appliances like kettles, toasters, fridges and washing machines.
I’ll also chat about not-so-must-have kitchen appliances like coffee makers.
Okay! I get it – for coffee addicts like myself, a coffee maker is most definitely a must, and is certainly more important than a toaster.
Being familiar with the iconic brands, I will also give you comparisons, some history (for history lovers) and other insights that I have gained over the years spent in the kitchen.
Who Is This Website For?
Whether you are a single professional, a busy working Mom, a new home owner, or a retiree, I will keep you up to date with the perfect kitchen appliances and kitchen tips for your needs.
Being an elder person myself, I will also offer kitchen appliance tips, kitchen safety tips, cooking tips, and healthy eating tips for the elderly.