Kathy’s Home & Garden Tips – New Slow Cooker Recipes

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Although it almost seems like spring these days around Chicago, we who are natives know there will be plenty of cold days left when a crockpot full of goodness with some fresh baked rolls will be very welcome. Here are three recipes guaranteed to satisfy you. They also work when the weather is warm and you don’t want to over-heat the kitchen. Replace the rolls with salad.

Beef Roast with Onions and Potatoes

Slice one sweet onion in half, then slice ¼ inch thick. Cover the bottom of the cooker with the onions. Place beef roast on top, removing any netting or strings. Around the roast, arrange three baking potatoes cubed about 2 inches, along with two cloves chopped garlic. Add 1 ¼ cups beef broth mixed with 1 envelope onion soup mix. Cook on low for 8-9 hours to desired doneness. We like it almost pull apart, but some like it less. Check at 7 hours, try not to open again or risk lengthening your cooking time. For gravy, remove the roast and vegetables. Turn heat to high. Mix an additional ½ cup beef broth and ¼ cup flour. Slowly whisk into the cooker. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, while stirring occasionally till thickened. Serve on the side. 

Easy Minestrone

Add to a slow cooker

1 can dark kidney beans, drained

1 can garbanzo beans, drained

1 can diced tomatoes with basil, oregano and garlic

1 small bag frozen mixed veggies

1 large vegetable bullion square

1 can V8

1 cup water

Cook on low for 6-7 hours. Add ¾ cup elbow macaroni, cook until it’s tender around 15 minutes.

Serve with rye toast and salad. I love soup and rye toast; real polish rye only please.

Chicken with Dumplings and Vegetables

Add to slow cooker

3 well browned boneless chicken thighs

1 lb small whole red potatoes

1 medium onion, ½ inch dice

5 ¼ cups chicken broth

Cook on low 8-9 hours. Make dumplings with Bisquik, following package directions. Drop onto chicken mixture in spoonfuls and cook for an additional 45 minutes, until dumplings are dry in the center.

Stick to your ribs food, suitable for any time of year!

KATHY WEAVER- ZECH & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO