Black & Decker Stainless Steel Slow Cooker

The Black & Decker Stainless Steel Slow Cooker, model SL5470C, has made quite an impact in my kitchen, and not just because of its sleek and modern design. This 7-quart slow cooker has proven to be a versatile and reliable addition to my cooking arsenal, offering a range of features that cater to both novice and experienced cooks alike.

One of the first things that struck me about this slow cooker is its build quality. The ceramic crock is not only removable but also impressively sturdy. This durability gives me confidence that it will withstand frequent use over time. The stainless steel exterior is both attractive and functional, allowing the cooker to seamlessly blend into any kitchen decor. It's a piece of equipment that I don't mind leaving out on the counter, which is saying something given my limited kitchen space.

Setting up the slow cooker was straightforward, thanks to the clear and concise instructions provided. As someone who is relatively new to sous vide cooking, I appreciated the manual's guidance on how to use this feature effectively. The slow cooker comes with four sous vide sealable bags, which is a nice touch, although I found myself wishing for more or at least information on where to purchase additional bags.

In terms of functionality, the Black & Decker slow cooker does not disappoint. The manual controls for temperature settings are intuitive, and the keep warm function is incredibly useful for maintaining the temperature of meals that aren't served immediately. This feature has come in handy on several occasions, particularly during family gatherings where timing can be unpredictable.

One of the standout features of this slow cooker is its sous vide capability. While it does take some time to warm up—sometimes up to an hour—the results are worth the wait. I tried cooking chicken using the sous vide method, and the meat turned out incredibly tender and juicy, with the flavors locked in perfectly. The appliance maintains a consistent temperature, which is crucial for sous vide cooking, and the timer is loud and clear, ensuring that I never miss a beat.

However, the sous vide function isn't without its quirks. The lack of water flow to ensure even temperature distribution means it may not perform at the top tier level that some dedicated sous vide machines offer. But for occasional use, it gets the job done satisfactorily. The preheating phase alternates between the current temperature and the desired temperature, which is a helpful feature for planning and preparation.

The slow cooker mode is equally impressive. I made a pot roast that was cooked to perfection—tender, flavorful, and enough to feed my family of five with leftovers to spare. The large 7-quart capacity is ideal for big meals, making it a perfect choice for families or those who enjoy hosting dinner parties. The stoneware pot and tempered glass lid are dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze.

One of the more innovative features of this slow cooker is the temperature probe. This allows for precise cooking, particularly useful for meats where internal temperature is crucial. The probe can be inserted through the lid, minimizing the need to open the cooker and disrupt the cooking process. This feature has been a game-changer for me, especially when cooking roasts and other large cuts of meat.

Despite its many strengths, the Black & Decker slow cooker is not without its drawbacks. Some users have reported issues with the heating element failing after extended use, which is concerning for long-term reliability. Additionally, the ceramic insert has been known to crack in some instances, which can be frustrating and potentially hazardous. Finding replacement parts has also proven to be a challenge, which is something to consider if you plan on using this cooker frequently.

Another minor gripe is the slow cooker's tendency to shut off prematurely in some cases. While this hasn't been a consistent issue for me, it's something to be aware of, especially if you're planning to leave the cooker unattended for long periods.

Overall, the Black & Decker Stainless Steel Slow Cooker offers a robust set of features that make it a valuable addition to any kitchen. Its versatility, from traditional slow cooking to sous vide, combined with its large capacity and intuitive controls, make it a standout choice for those looking to simplify their cooking process while still achieving delicious results.

Would I recommend this slow cooker? Yes, with some reservations. If you're looking for a multi-functional appliance that can handle a variety of cooking tasks, this slow cooker is a solid choice. However, if long-term durability and ease of finding replacement parts are your primary concerns, you might want to consider other options. For its price and range of features, though, the Black & Decker Stainless Steel Slow Cooker offers excellent value and convenience.