Exploring Non-Traditional Slow Cooker Recipes: Beyond Roast and Pulled Pork

While slow cookers are famous for making tender roast and delicious pulled pork, there's so much more you can do with this versatile kitchen appliance. From savory lentils to rich soups and succulent pork chops, let's dive into some creative and delicious slow cooker recipes.

Lamb Shanks and Secret Ingredients

Lamb shanks are a delightful addition to your slow cooker repertoire. They become incredibly tender when cooked low and slow, making them perfect for a cozy dinner. Whether you're a fan of lamb or just looking to try something new, this recipe will impress your guests.

Ingredients

2 pounds lamb shanks 1 large onion, chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 2 cups beef broth 1 cup red wine (optional) 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)

Steps

Preheat your slow cooker to low. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper. In a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat and brown the lamb shanks on all sides. Transfer the browned lamb shanks to the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, and red wine (if using) to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. During the last hour, stir in the tomato paste if using. Serve the lamb shanks with a side of mashed potatoes or your favorite accompaniment.

Note: Don't rush the searing process; it's a crucial step in developing flavor and keeping your meat tender and juicy.

Chicken Enchilada Tortilla Soup: A Warm Comfort

Looking for something filling and comforting? Chicken enchilada tortilla soup is the perfect choice. The slow cooker's gentle heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and flavorful soup.

Ingredients

1 to 2 lbs skinless chicken breast, cut into strips 1 to 2 cups chicken broth 1/2 cup corn (undrained) 1 can (10.5 oz) crushed tomatoes 2 cups cooked corn tortilla strips 1/4 cup cumin 6 to 8 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons chipotle powder 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional) 1/4 cup cocoa powder 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 cup crumbled cotija cheese Sour cream and chopped cilantro, for serving

Steps

Preheat your slow cooker to low. Place the chicken strips, chicken broth, corn, crushed tomatoes, cumin, garlic, chipotle powder, Worcestershire sauce, and cocoa powder in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the coconut milk and cocoa powder. Stir in the corn tortilla strips in the last 5 to 10 minutes of cooking. Top each bowl of soup with tortilla strips, crumbled cotija cheese, sour cream, and chopped cilantro.

This hearty soup is sure to become a family favorite, especially on chilly evenings or during Lent.

Sausage and Bisque Chicken Pork Chops

Who says slow cooker recipes have to be vegetable and bean-based? These sausage and bisque chicken pork chops are a delicious twist on the classic. The combination of savory pork chops and rich bisque soup is hard to resist.

Ingredients

4 bone-in pork chops 1 can (14.5 oz) Campbell's bisque soup 1/2 can water (per can of soup, about 8 tbsp) 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 1/2 cup red wine (optional) 1 large onion, chopped 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Steps

Preheat your slow cooker to high. Sear the pork chops in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned on both sides. Add the pork chops, bisque soup, water, Worcestershire sauce, and red wine (if using) to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 3 hours, then reduce to low and continue cooking for an additional 3 hours. During the last hour, stir in the chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Serve the pork chops with the sauce over a bed of cooked rice or pasta.

The slow cooker handles all the simmering, allowing you to get it done without constant attention.

Discover More Slow Cooker Recipes

For more ideas and inspiration, check out my slow cooker cookbook or explore various Internet sites that specialize in slow cooker cooking. The possibilities are endless, from vegetable medleys to beef meatballs, and even desserts. With a little creativity, you can extend the range of recipes you make in your slow cooker.