( 54 reviews )
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( 1 of 1 found this review helpful ) Posted: 08-12-2009
I purchased the Hamilton Beach 33141 4-Quart cooker in December 2006 here on Amazon, and have used it extensively ever since. For the price (which is the same now as then--$20), you just cannot get a better slow cooker. Today I came online to look for another slow cooker in a larger size and have decided to purchase another Hamilton Beach, based on my own experience plus the consistency of good customer reviews (versus other manufacturers such as KitchenAid, All-Clad and Rival). My 4-quart is still working perfectly but I've decided that based on my cooking needs, I could definitely use a larger cooker, in addition to this one. I recommend to anyone new to slow cooking that they start with this basic model. If you decide slow cooking is not for you, you have not invested a lot of money in a cooker. However, I believe most people will find the convenience and nutritional value of slow cooking advantageous. Even if you outgrow this cooker as I have, you will still find it useful for making up stocks or desserts, and again, the price is just unbelievable given its durability. It is a basic, stream lined cooker with no added bells and whistles which one doesn't really need for making many stocks, soups, stews, etc. It's simplicity, no doubt, contributes to its durability (fewer electronics to go awry). The ceramic insert does require some elbow grease and occasionally a little BonAmi to get it clean and shiny after cooking, otherwise, you might notice slight discoloration of the interior which in no way affects the insert itself. The lid sits on top of the insert and thus, will 'sweat' some liquid during cooking especially if the liquid level is close to the top. However, both of these things are minor issues--not even worthy of subtracting a star. I'm very pleased with this slow cooker and highly recommend it. I usually don't review appliances for some time after purchase because I think it's important to let people know if a product can stand the test of time. In this case, the Hamilton Beach 4-quart slow cooker has stood my test of 2-1/2+ years of continual use. That alone is worth five stars.
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Posted: 06-11-2009
I had been shopping for a slow cooker for months and finally purchased the Hamilton 4 Qt. because I liked the size, oval, and the easy knob temperatures it had (warm, low, high). The knobs I think are more flexible when it comes to cooking times because the crocks with the button control have a preset time. So if you have to cook something for 4 to 6 hrs. and you only have the button of 8 hrs. then it defeats the purpose. I haven't had any problems with the knob falling off but I figured buttons can also malfunction. This is a perfect size for me and my boyfriend and still have plenty of leftovers. The oval shape worked better for me because it gives me more room to fit things than the round one. Seems like the round one you would have to stack more. It is so easy to clean and works perfectly. I love the idea of being able to slow cook my meals while I am at work and ready to eat by the time I get home. I also slow cook meals overnight and ready by morning to take for my lunch. Like I said before, this size is perfect for couples because it is not too big or too small. You can find so many slow cooker recipes online so it's hard to run out of stuff to make. I have been experimenting with so many recipes and I haven't been disappointed yet.
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Posted: 06-06-2009
I wasn't sure if I'd use a slow-cooker, so I bought a cheap model -- this one. I've had it about a year. I find I use this about once a week (I'm single, just cooking for myself & friends). It's great for making stock (overnight -- throw in bones and water; when I wake up add aromatics and let it go for another 2 hours), beans (cold water + low heat; 4 - 6 hours later they're done), and the occasional meat dish. The handle is a little jiggly, but it hasn't come off. The knob is fine. It does tend to get a little hot on the outside but I haven't burned myself. I've had no problems with the knob. I do think it runs a little hot, so if I start something in the morning before I go to work, I always start with cold ingredients -- otherwise it cooks too quickly for a day at work.
