Hours Later... Ding!
Written: May 07 '01 (Updated May 28 '01)
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Pros: Griddle base, 5 temperature controls, light weight, stores away easily
Cons: Pondering whether plastic lid is a con, Temperature knob gets hot to the touch
The Bottom Line: I would recommend this slow cooker for anyone interested in one. Easy to use, clean, store, light... I could go on and on!
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| KimmyKim's Full Review: West Bend 84654 Slow Cooker |
NOTE: This review is based on model 84600 which is not listed in Epinions. I found that this is the closest model listed. In fact, I can not find a single difference between the two models.
I purchased my West Bend 4qt Slow Cooker four years ago when I moved out on my own. Sadly, I have only used it a few times. I am in search of easy recipes so I can start to use it more often. (The thought of turning on my oven in a second floor apartment with no A/C in summer is one MAJOR reason)
Let's talk about the features of my West Bend 4qt Slow Cooker!
Non-stick Base
The non-stick base doubles as a griddle. I have used this portion of the slow cooker quiet a bit. Slam down two pieces of French Toast and a piece of bacon and I've got breakfast! There are five settings for temperature control which means you don't have to conform to the traditional "high" and "low". The electric plug comes out of the base for easier storage. The cord is kind of short, but I'm guessing that is a safety feature.
And for the love of God, don't immerse the base in water. Use a sponge instead if you'd like you're slow cooker to last for more than one meal!
Oh, but I have noticed that the temperature control knob does get hot to the touch. Be careful after having the slow cooker on for a while. I touch the knob quickly and lightly and have not been burned.
The Pot
My pot is oblong and white with a flowery design on one side. The pot is also non-stick but be careful because the coating can come off easily.
The pot can go in the oven. I liked this feature because, well, I don't have many pots and pans. Because of the non-stick coating it is very easy to clean but can be put in the dishwasher. Oh, and this versatile pot can be used on the stove top too!
The Lid
First off, the lid is clear which is good. But, the lid on my model is plastic. I'm not sure if this is good or not. The pot can go into the oven so the lid cannot. I guess you can use foil just as well. I've read reviews stating that the lid can be doubled as a serving dish on other slow cookers. I can't see the lid on the 84600 series being a serving dish. You could probably serve rolls on it though.
Everything Else
Unlike traditional round crockpots, I find this model very light. My mom borrowed my slow cooker for work where we held a birthday party for a co-worker. I was able to transport the slow cooker in a plastic grocery bag from a supermarket. I carried it with one hand and the bag didn't rip.
I also think this model is very easy to store. Pot on top of base, cord in pot, lid on top of pot. Bada bing!
I would recommend this slow cooker for anyone interested in buying one. It is very easy to use and maintain. It is a bit big for a single person like me, but I can always cut the recipe or freeze a portion for later on.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 22
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Epinions.com ID:
KimmyKim
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Location: NY
Reviews written: 98
Trusted by: 33 members
About Me:
I write on a variety of subjects - can't stick to just one!
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