Exploring the Kitchen Battle:
Slow Cooker VS Thermomix
In the cooking world, innovation is constant, and kitchen gadgets are no exception. Among the myriad of appliances that promise to revolutionise your cooking experience, two stand out: the slow cooker and the Thermomix. Both have their devoted followings, but which one reigns supreme?
I was and will be a Thermomix all the way, HOWEVER, I do not find that a Thermomix can do as well as a Slow Cooker. As an ex Consultant for Thermomix, I wanted so badly for the Thermomix to be the leader. Let’s look at the differences.
**THE THERMOMIX:**
Enter the Thermomix, the Swiss Army knife of kitchen appliances. This all-in-one wonder combines the functions of multiple gadgets in a single sleek machine. With its ability to chop, blend, cook, steam, and more, the Thermomix is a culinary powerhouse and I just ADORE mine. Both of them – no I am not greedy, I bought a second when I could for my son – for when he is ready for it and that won’t be far away!
Thermomix Pros
Precision Temperature Control: Unlike traditional slow cookers, which typically offer limited temperature settings – High | Low | Warm, the Thermomix allows you to precisely control the cooking temperature, ensuring perfect results every time.
Multitasking Capabilities: With the Thermomix, you’re not limited to just slow cooking. Take advantage of its chopping, blending, and cooking functions to streamline meal prep.
Time Savings: While slow cooking is inherently time-consuming, the Thermomix’s efficiency can help cut down on overall cooking time, allowing you to enjoy delicious, slow-cooked meals without the long wait.
Thermomix Cons
Limited Capacity: Thermomix machines typically have a smaller capacity compared to traditional slow cookers. This means you may not be able to cook large batches of food in one go, which can be a limitation if you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.
Risk of Overcooking: While the Thermomix offers precise temperature control, there’s still a risk of overcooking delicate ingredients, especially if left unattended for too long. When you pause a Thermomix to check on the food, it will start everything turning again. A real pitfall as far as I am concerned. Some dishes, like certain vegetables or seafood, may become mushy or overcooked if subjected to prolonged slow cooking.
Learning Curve: Mastering slow cooking in a Thermomix may require some experimentation and familiarisation with its functions. Unlike traditional slow cookers, which are relatively straightforward to use, the Thermomix’s advanced features and settings may have a steeper learning curve for some users. No matter how many times I try, it still mushes my food.
**THE SLOW COOKER:**
Ah, the slow cooker, a beloved staple in many kitchens. Its charm lies in its simplicity: just dump in your ingredients, set the timer, and let it work its magic. Slow cookers are perfect for busy individuals who crave hearty, comforting meals with minimal effort. From soups and stews to roasts and even desserts, the slow cooker can do it all.
Slow Cooker Pros
Convenience:Â Set it and forget it. Slow cookers are perfect for those with hectic schedules.
Tenderises tough cuts of meat:Â Slow cooking breaks down collagen in meat, resulting in fork-tender dishes.
Versatility:Â From breakfast to dinner, slow cookers can handle a wide range of recipes.
Slow Cooker Cons
Limited precision: Slow cookers typically have low, medium, and high settings, or just low and high, offering less control over cooking temperature.
Long cooking times: While great for hands-off cooking, slow cookers aren’t ideal for last-minute meals.
**THE VERDICT:**
So, when it comes down to it, the choice between the slow cooker and the Thermomix hinges on your personal cooking style, preferences, and budget.
In my opinion, the slow cooker takes the crown for slow cooking. While I do appreciate the convenience of my Thermomix and its blade guard (which, yes, I do use most of the time), I’ve found that it tends to turn everything into mush. If I wanted mushy food, I’d have my own techniques for that! Oops!
Now, don’t get me wrong—I adore my Thermomix and wouldn’t dream of parting with it. 1000 times no, but for slow cooking? Not my first choice.
Just tonight, I’m whipping up a WW recipe Butter Chicken in my brand-new slow cooker. Meanwhile, I’ve used my trusty Thermomix to prepare the accompanying rice, which turned out absolutely divine—light, fluffy, perfection.
Not wanting to be an Indian giver (ooh is that politically correct thing to say now – I don’t know), I gave mine to my son many years ago when I got my Thermomix. In the interest of full disclosure, I must admit that I recently purchased a new slow cooker from Russell Hobbs via Amazon, and it’s been nothing short of impressive. I specifically sought out one that allowed me to sear meats directly in the cooker (on the stove top) before slow cooking—an absolute game-changer!
I placed the order just yesterday, and it arrived at my doorstep bright and early this morning. Talk about speedy service!
Let me know what you think of my choice below. I would love to hear YOUR thoughts.
I can now have another go at Anna’s two recipes below without the meat being torn apart.
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