by Mona Gallagher

Created on: July 11, 2008   Last Updated: October 27, 2008

Imagine the exquisite aroma of roast pork, chicken, or pot roast gently simmering in the crockpot as you walk in the door exhausted from a hard day of work. The children are hungry and grumpy, but as soon as they get a whiff of that heavenly aroma, whines turn to smiles as they anticipate a home cooked meal and satisfied apetites. If you're lucky, and they're hungry enough, they might even set the table.

We tend to use our crock pots more in the cooler months than we do in the summer, but you can avoid the summer kitchen heat by using your slow cooker in the summer too.

Pulled barbecue pork served on buns is welcome in any season. It couldn't be any easier to prepare and it doesn't require the best cuts of pork.

Barbecue Pork

1 three to four pound pork roast shoulder 1/4 cup of water 1 full 8 oz jar of barbecue sauce 2 medium garlic cloves Salt and pepper to taste Hamburger buns or rolls

Directions

Wash and prepare the roast and place in the crock pot. Combine all other ingredients and turn the crock pot to the low setting.

Go to work and return home to a tender roast that you can pull apart with a fork. Serve on toasted buns and add a salad or instant mashed potatoes.

Cooking time: 7 to 8 hours. Preparation time: 5 minutes. Serves 6 to 8 and leftovers can be stored for lunch.

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Succulent Chicken and vegetables

Whole chicken 4 peeled and quartered potatoes 1/2 bag of baby carrots (already peeled) 1 medium onion peeled and coarsely chopped 1/4 teaspoon of paprika (optional) 1/4 cup of water Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Wash and salt and pepper chicken, and place in crock pot. Prepare potatoes, carrots, onion and add to slow cooker, then add the water. Turn the crock pot setting to low and allow the chicken to cook while you're at work.

Serve with fresh bread and a salad.

Cooking time: 7 to 8 hours. Preparation time: 15 minutes. Serves 4 to 5 and leftovers can be taken to work for a full and satisfying lunch.

Cooking with a crock pot is a great way to serve a full nutritious meal without having to rush through the process of making dinner when you'd rather chill after working all day. Serving healthy dinners benefit you and your family. The time saved gives everyone a chance to eat and relax before heading off to school activities or homework.

Clean-up is a breeze when your crock pots lifts out of its holder. You can cook and store food for later use using your crockpot also.

A satisfying meal can soothe frazzled nerves and bring the family together at the dinner table and you can concentrate on being mom or dad instead of the cook.

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