Best Slow Cookers

WASHINGTON, DC (WUSA) -- On a hot day, the last thing Nancy Markhoff wants to do is crank up the oven.

She has the secret for easy, no stress dinners. They start with her slow cooker.

"It's an easy kitchen appliance to use. It's one pot. You throw everything in, and that's all you have to clean. And, it's dinner," she says.

If you are looking for a convenient way to put food on the table, this might be just the tool.

Consumer Reports tested 15 slow cookers that hold six to seven quarts. Simply put all of your ingredients in the cooker, and hours later, dinner is served.

Testers pulled out their favorite recipes, and gave beef stew, pulled pork and apple brown Betty the slow touch.

Then, they evaluated how long it took to reach the correct cooking temperature. Finally, the taste test.

"They all produced food that was tasty and had a nice texture. The real difference were in how convenient they were to use," says Celia Kuperszmid-Lehrman.

Cookers with electronic controls automatically switch to warm when cooking is done. But with four, you have to switch the button to warm yourself.

Celia says, "Also, think about the finishes. Stainless steel looks nice and shiny when you first buy it, but it's going to be a little harder to clean."

Oven safe pots that can be put in the oven for quick reheating are a plus. And, a locking lid keeps food from spilling. It's a nice touch if you're going to a potluck.

The Hamilton Beach Set 'N Forget has both features, and electronic controls for $70.

"If you want to save a little money, and are willing to lose some features like the locking lid, the Rival Crock Pot is a good choice at $50," says Celia.

Another handy feature in your slow cooker is an attached, hinged lid.

That way, you don't have to set the lid down on the counter when you mix or serve food.