LAKELAND 27216 6L Searing Slow Cooker Instruction Manual

: June 12, 2024
: LAKELAND

LAKELAND 27216 6L Searing Slow Cooker

LAKELAND 27216 6L Searing Slow Cooker

LAKELAND 6.5L SEARING SLOW COOKER

Thank you for choosing the Lakeland Searing Slow Cooker.
Please take a little time to read this booklet before getting started and keep it in a safe place for future reference.
This Searing Slow Cooker is fantastic for six people, with a silicone sealed glass lid for easy viewing, which you lock in place. Easy to use control panel and cooking functions for browning, sautéing, searing, slow cooking, steaming and yoghurt. There is a keep warm function for up to 4 hours.
Here at Lakeland, our award-winning family-owned business still offers the same excellent quality, value for money and exceptional customer service as when we founded the company back in the 1960s.
Our products are hand-picked and thoroughly tested so you can be sure that everything you purchase will be a pleasure to use for many years to come.

PRODUCT FEATURES

Glass lid with silicone seal and knob
Steam vent
Rack
Locking lid handles
Aluminium non-stick cooking pot
Control panel
Main unit
Anti-slip feet
Cord and plug

CONTROL PANEL

Power / start button
Menu button
Increase cooking time button
Decrease cooking time button
Cancel button
Keep warm button

When the appliance is switched on, it will beep and there will be 4 red dashes in the middle of the panel.
If nothing is pressed for 60 seconds the appliance will default back into a standby mode and nothing will be illuminated.
If this happens press the POWER/START button to reactivate the control panel.
Press the MENU button to select your desired function, it will start at the browning function in the top left corner and move through the functions in an anti-clockwise direction.
Once you have reached your desired function, the control panel will show the default time. Use the + and – buttons to increase or decrease the cooking time for the selected function, within the available time range.
The slow cooker allows 60 seconds for you to confirm the function and timing and to start cooking before it starts beeping. This indicates that the slow cooker is turned on but not yet cooking.
Select the POWER/START button to confirm the function and start cooking, the dot on the POWER/START button will be illuminated.
The CANCEL button can be pressed at any time to stop and cancel the function. The slow cooker will return to standby mode.
The KEEP WARM button when pressed will keep the appliance warm for 4 hours before going into standby MENU, the button will illuminate green.
To turn the slow cooker off, hold the POWER/ START button for 3 seconds. The slow cooker should also be switched off and unplugged from the mains socket.

SAFETY CAUTIONS

Carefully read all the instructions before using the appliance and keep in a safe place for future reference. Always follow these safety cautions when using the appliance to avoid personal injury or damage to the appliance. This appliance should be used only as described in this instruction book.
This appliance can be used by children aged from 8 years and above and persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities or lack of experience and knowledge if they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance in a safe way and understand the hazards involved. Children shall not play with the appliance. Cleaning and user maintenance shall not be done by children unless they are older than 8 and supervised.
Make sure your electricity supply matches the voltage shown on the appliance.
Ensure all packaging materials and any promotional labels or stickers are removed from the appliance before the first use.
Always inspect the appliance before use for noticeable signs of damage. Do not use if damaged or has been dropped. In the event of damage, or if the appliance develops a fault, contact the Lakeland customer care team on 015394 88100 or info@lakeland.co.uk
DO NOT use this appliance if the lead is damaged. Contact Lakeland customer care team on 015394 88100 or info@lakeland.co.uk
Always use the appliance on a dry, level, heat resistant surface.
Unplug from the mains when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before cleaning the appliance. To disconnect, turn the socket to ‘off‘ and remove the plug from the mains socket.
DO NOT use any accessories or attachments with this appliance other than those recommended by Lakeland.
To protect against fire, electric shock or personal injury, do not immerse cord, plug or outer unit in water or other liquids.
DO NOT leave the lead hanging over the edge of a kitchen table or worktop. Avoid contact between the lead and hot surfaces.
For indoor use only.
For domestic use only.
This appliance should be used for preparation of food as described within the instructions for use that accompany it.
Always ensure that your hands are dry before removing the plug from the mains socket. Never pull the plug out of the mains socket by its lead.
To avoid injury or possible fire, do not cover the appliance when in use.
Not recommended to be used with a plug in timer switch.
An extension cable may be used with care. The electrical rating of the cable should be at least as great as the appliance. Do not allow the cable to hang over the edge of the worktop or touch any hot surfaces.
This appliance complies with the basic requirements of Directives 2014/30/EU (Electromagnetic Compatibility) and 2014/35/EU (Low Voltage Directive).
WARNING: A cut off plug inserted into a 13 amp socket is a serious safety
(shock) hazard. Ensure the cut off plug is disposed of safely.
CAUTION: The plastic bags used to wrap this appliance or the packaging may be dangerous. To avoid risk of suffocation, keep these bags out of reach of babies and children. These bags are not toys.
Always switch off and unplug before lifting out the cooking pot, and when not in use. Let the Searing Slow Cooker cool down before moving or cleaning.
The Searing Slow Cooker should be unplugged from the mains supply before filling or emptying the cooking pot.
Never operate the slow cooker without food and liquid in the removable cooking pot. Ensure the cooking pot is at least ½ to ¾ full of food or liquid before switching on the slow cook functions or yoghurt function.
The cooking pot must be in place to use this appliance.
To avoid electric shock or damage, never put food directly into the Searing Slow Cooker main unit. Always use the cooking pot.
Be careful when putting the cooking pot on work surfaces, the bottom of the cooking pot may scratch and damage tables and worktops. Always place the cooking pot on a heat resistant mat or trivet.
DO NOT use a damaged or cracked cooking pot, making sure the exterior of which is clean and dry.
DO NOT use any other cooking pot or bowl inside the main unit other than the one provided.
Position the Searing Slow Cooker well away from walls, curtains and other heat or steam sensitive materials. When using the Searing Slow Cooker, provide adequate space above and on all sides for air circulation at least 20cm.
Always use plastic, wooden or silicone utensils, as metal utensils will damage the nonstick coating.
If using plastic utensils, do not leave inside the appliance when hot or on warm setting.
The glass lid has been specially treated to make it stronger, more durable and safer than ordinary glass, however it is not unbreakable, please use caution when handling the glass lid.
Always have the glass lid placed correctly into position on the cooking pot throughout operation of the appliance unless stated in the recipe to have it removed.
DO NOT move the appliance during cooking.
Avoid sudden temperature changes.
DO NOT place frozen or very cold foods into the removable cooking bowl when it is hot.
DO NOT put the cooking pot or glass lid in the oven.
DO NOT put the cooking pot or glass lid in the oven.
DO NOT put the cooking pot or glass lid in the microwave.
DO NOT use the cooking pot on any type of hob.
If you are not home during the slow cooking function and there is a power cut, throw away the food even if it looks cooked.
If you are at home during the slow cooking function and there is a power cut, finish cooking the ingredients immediately by some other means such as a gas stove, or elsewhere, where the power is on.
When you are at home, and if the food was completely cooked before the power cut, the food should remain safe up to two hours in the Searing Slow Cooker with

WARNING – HOT SURFACES

The surfaces marked with this symbol will get very hot during use. To prevent injury, DO NOT TOUCH. Let the product cool completely before touching these surfaces, and always use the handles to move the appliance or lift the lid.
Position the lid, with the steam vent directed away from you. Take care when removing the lid, tilt it away from you to prevent being scalded by hot steam.
Always use oven gloves. Take care when lifting the cooking pot out of the Searing Slow Cooker with hot food inside.

USING YOUR SEARING SLOW COOKER FOR THE FIRST TIME

Unpack the Searing Slow Cooker, remove all of the packaging materials.
Before first use, wipe the outside of the Searing Slow Cooker with a clean, damp cloth.
Wash the glass lid, cooking pot and trivet in hot, soapy water, rinse and dry thoroughly.
Make sure that all parts are clean and dry before putting the cooking pot inside the Searing Slow Cooker.
Always use plastic, wooden or silicone spatulas, as metal utensils will damage non-stick coatings.
Always use dry oven gloves or a cloth when handling the hot cooking pot, as this will get hot during and after cooking.
Be careful when moving the cooking pot containing hot oil or liquids.
WARNING: Product will become hot, always use oven gloves.
Ensure that the main unit and the exterior of the removable cooking pot are clean and clear of any debris before placing the cooking pot into the main unit.
Place the glass lid on the cooking pot so it is level and resting on the cooking pot lip. Push the lid locks on both handles towards the lid knob until they clip into place.
The lid is locked onto the cooking pot but the cooking pot can still be easily removed from the main unit using the cooking pot handles.
The removable cooking pot is aluminium with a non-stick coating, it is NOT suitable for use on any type of hob, a microwave or oven.
All cooking tasks must be completed with the cooking pot securely placed in the main unit.
DO NOT lift the removable cooking pot with the lid knob. Use the cooking pot handles on both sides.
DO NOT touch hot surfaces. Use the handles for lifting and carrying the slow cooker and use dry oven mitts to remove the lid and or removable cooking pot.
Lift and remove the lid carefully and angled away from you to avoid scalding from escaping steam. Allow the slow cooker to cool completely before moving or cleaning any parts.
The temperature of accessible surfaces will be high when the slow cooker is operating and for some time after use.
The temperature for all functions is preset and is not adjustable.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE

Place the Searing Slow Cooker on a flat heat resistant surface near a socket.
The Searing Slow Cooker must be used in a well ventilated area, at least 20cm away from walls and other surfaces to allow sufficient airflow.
When using the Searing Slow Cooker for the first time you may notice a slight burning smell. This is normal for a new heating element and will disappear after a few uses.
This Searing Slow Cooker has a working capacity of 6 litres, to allow for bubbling and simmering.
The Searing Slow Cooker should be at least half full, unless you are using the browning functions.
Prepare your ingredients. Put them inside the cooking pot and add the lid and push the lid locks on the cooking pot handles towards the knob on the glass lid until they clip into place.

Let the main unit cool completely before moving.
DO NOT put the cooking pot or glass lid in the oven.
DO NOT put the cooking pot or glass lid in the microwave.
DO NOT use the cooking pot on any type of hob.

SEARING SLOW COOKER FUNCTIONS

BROWNING FUNCTIONS

The slow cooker has 5 browning functions for all sautéing, browning and searing tasks.
These functions are ideal for sealing meats and pre-cooking vegetables prior to slow cooking, allowing you to seal in flavours and juices creating more flavour some slow cooked dishes.
Place a small amount of oil in the bottom of the cooking pot and place on the lid.
Select the desired browning function using the MENU button.
Function| Temperature (Approx.)| Default time| Range
---|---|---|---
Gentle| 100°C| 15 minutes| 5-60 minutes
Low| 120°C| 15 minutes| 5-60 minutes
Medium| 150°C| 15 minutes| 5-60 minutes
Sauté| 170°C| 15 minutes| 5-60 minutes
High Sear| 180°C| 15 minutes| 5-60 minutes
The default time for all of the browning functions is 15 minutes, if more time is required, use the + and – buttons, the time will increase or decrease in 5 minute intervals from a range of 5-60 minutes.
Select the POWER/ START button to confirm the selection, the light next to the selected function will illuminate red.
The browning functions all enter into an automatic preheat.
The display will flash a rectangle and the slow cooker will start preheating.
When the slow cooker beeps and the timer starts counting down, the preheat is complete and ready to start the browning functions.
Place the ingredients in the cooking pot. This function works best with the lid placed on the appliance, removing occasionally to turn the ingredients with a non-stick utensil.
The high sear function works best without the lid on the cooking pot.
You can press the CANCEL button at any time.
When you have finished the browning function, use the MENU button to select the desired function for slow cooking.
Once the timer reaches zero, the unit will beep and switch into standby MENU.

SLOW COOK FUNCTION (LOW AND HIGH)

Ensure the cooking pot is securely placed into the main unit of the slow cooker.
Place the ingredients in the cooking pot, with them spread evenly across the base. Lock the lid on to the appliance.
Press MENU button to choose the correct slow cook function.
To adjust the cooking time, press the – and + buttons accordingly.
After you have chosen the function, press the POWER/START button to start the cooking. The control panel will show the time remaining in red in the middle and will count down.
When the cooking process has finished and the timer has reached zero, the appliance will beep 5 times.
When using this function after cooking has finished, the appliance will enter into the KEEP WARM function automatically and the red dot will appear on the KEEP WARM button to show it is using this function.
Use LOW: if you wish to extend the cooking time, ideal for simmering and slow cooking.
Use HIGH: if you wish to shorten the cooking time, ideal for faster cooking. Some ingredients may boil when cooked on this setting, so you may need to add extra liquid, depending on the recipe. Stirring, occasionally would be recommended.
All cooking times are approximate and will vary according to your recipe and choice of ingredients.

PLEASE NOTE: Lifting the lid of the Searing Slow Cooker during cooking results in temperature loss and adds about 25 minutes to the cooking time. Avoid lifting the lid except when stirring, or adding ingredients.

STEAM FUNCTION

Ensure the cooking pot is clean before steaming.
Place the rack inside the cooking pot, add 1 to 1.3 litres of water into the cooking pot, to ensure it sits just below the rack. It will take approximately 10 minutes for the water to start boiling.
Choose Steam function by pressing the MENU button.
Food to be steamed can either be placed on the rack and then the POWER/START button pressed or start the function and when the water is boiling, carefully remove the lid and add your ingredients.
Lock the lid in place whilst you are steaming.
The default time is 20 minutes, to change the time, press the – and + buttons to adjust accordingly. The time range is from 10 minutes to 2 hours in 1 minute increments.
After you have chosen the function, press the POWER/START button to start the cooking. The control panel will show the time remaining in red in the middle and will count down.
• Monitor the water levels during the cooking process, if more water is required, unlock the lid and remove using an oven glove, tilting the lid away for you.
• When the cooking process has finished and the timer has reached zero, the appliance will beep 5 times and 4 dashes will appear in the middle of the control panel.
Switch off at the socket and unplug the appliance.
Carefully unlock the lid and remove with oven gloves, tilting it away from you.
Remove the steamed food using tongs.
Allow the rack to cool completely before removing from the cooking pot.

YOGHURT FUNCTION

Ensure all the equipment and utensils used in yoghurt making should be sterilised before use.
Combine all ingredients in a separate pot before placing into the cooking pot.
Place the lid on the cooking pot and lock into place.
Select the YOGHURT function using the MENU button, then use the + and – buttons to adjust the required cooking time.
Do not attempt to use this function for anything else, for food safety reasons.
This function should only to be used for making yoghurt
For more information, refer to the Yoghurt Making Guide on page 23.

KEEP WARM FUNCTION

This slow cooker has both automatic and manual KEEP WARM functions. The automatic keep warm will activate after the LOW and HIGH SLOW COOK functions, once the timer has reached zero. The manual KEEP WARM can be selected, once the slow cooker has completed a browning, cooking or automatic keep warm function. When selected, the indicator light will illuminate and the display will commence counting up.
Both manual and automatic keep warm functions will operate for up to 4 hours before the slow cooker will switch to standby mode. Keep warm can be cancelled at any time by pressing the CANCEL button.
Do not place the removable cooking pot or glass lid into or under cold water while it is still hot.
Do not reheat food using the removable cooking pot.
If power is lost to the unit during a browning or cooking function, the slow cooker will remember the current program and timing for up to 15 minutes. Once power has returned to the unit, the slow cooker will continue the program. After the 15 minute period has lapsed, the slow cooker function and timing will need to be reselected.
Cooking| Default Time| Variable Time Range| Keep Warm
---|---|---|---
Low Slow Cook| 8 hours| 6-14 hours
(10 minute intervals)| Auto/Manual
High Slow Cook| 6 hours| 2-8 hours
(10 minute intervals)| Auto/Manual
Steam| 20 minutes| 10-120 minutes
(1 minute intervals)| Manual
Yoghurt| 8 hours| 6-12 hours
(10 minute intervals)| Manual

A GUIDE TO INGREDIENTS AND HINTS AND TIPS

To ensure even cooking, cut meat and vegetables into similar sized pieces so they cook evenly. Root vegetables often take longer to cook than meat, so they should be diced or chopped more finely.
When using frozen meat, poultry, fish or seafood, defrost thoroughly before adding to the Searing Slow Cooker. Never cook from frozen. Keep raw meat and poultry separate from cooked foods.
Add enough liquid e.g. stock, to cover the ingredients inside the cooking pot before switching on the Searing Slow Cooker, approximately 2cm up the cooking pot is best.
Slow cooking does not need stirring, but you may like to give your food an occasional stir if cooking on HIGH.
Put food which may need longer to cook in the bottom of the cooking pot. It will be nearer the heat source and will sit in the liquid, which will help it to cook.
Fish and seafood tend to dry out quickly, so they are best added to dishes near the end of cooking time.
If you find there is too much liquid at the end of cooking remove the lid and cook on high for about 30 minutes until the liquid reduces.
Fresh herbs are best added near the end of cooking; dried herbs can be added along with the main ingredients.

ADAPTING YOUR HOB TOP RECIPES FOR SLOW COOKING

Recipes will require far less liquid than their equivalents cooked on the hob: reduce the liquid in hob recipes by half, you can always top up during cooking if it seems too dry.
Reduce salt in recipes, as slow cooking and reduced liquid means flavours are more enhanced and less salt is required.
Recipes often say, ‘Bring to boil, and then turndown‘ with the Searing Slow Cooker this is not necessary. Simply set the cooker on low.

TIMINGS

If recipe suggests to cook for 15-30 minutes, it will need up to 2 hours on the high setting in the Searing Slow Cooker.
If recipe suggests to cook for 30-45 minutes, it will need up to 4 hours on the high setting in the Searing Slow Cooker.
If recipe suggests to cook for 2-3 hours, it will need up to 6 hours on the high setting in the Searing Slow Cooker.

PREPARING INGREDIENTS GUIDE

PREPARING MEAT

When purchasing meat for slow cooking, select leaner cuts and trim the meat or poultry of any visible fat.
For casserole type recipes, cut the meat into cubes, approximately 2cm. Slow cooking allows less tender cuts of meat to be used. The bones can be left on meat or poultry, if desired, and will help to keep meat tender during cooking but will increase the required cooking time.

PREPARING VEGETABLES

All vegetables should be cut into even-sized pieces, approximately 2cm to ensure even cooking. Frozen vegetables must be thawed before adding to other foods cooking in the slow cooker.

PREPARING DRIED BEANS AND PULSES

For best results, it is recommended to soak dried beans and pulses overnight. After soaking, drain, rinse and place into the slow cooker pot with sufficient water to allow the beans or pulses to double in volume. Cook on HIGH SLOW COOK for 2–4 hours.

ROASTING IN THE SLOW COOKER

Roasting meats in the slow cooker creates tender, flavour some results. The long, slow, covered cooking process breaks down and softens the connective and muscle tissue within the meat, making it easier to slice. Cheaper cuts of meat can be used with this method.
Meat will not brown during the slow cooking process, for browner results, sear the meat using the HIGH SEAR function prior to slow cooking.
The addition of liquid is not required for roasting. Elevate the meat to be cooked on the trivet. This will assist in keeping the surface of the meat dry and free from any fat released while cooking.

POT ROASTING IN THE SLOW COOKER

The addition of liquid is required for pot roasting. Place sufficient liquid in the cooking pot, to cover up to a third of the meat. Meat will not brown during the pot-roasting process, so for browner results sear the meat first using the HIGH SEAR function.

STEAMING GUIDE

Steamed foods retain most of their nutritional value. Foods can be steamed by placing them on the provided trivet over stock or water in the cooking pot. Ensure that the food sits above the water level in the pot.
When steaming, it is important to keep the lid closed and locked in place, as opening it will allow the steam to escape, resulting in prolonged cooking times. Depending on the food and desired cooking result, the food to be steamed can either be placed on the steaming trivet before the function is selected or once water is boiling. The below cooking tables are based on using l.2L of tap water and include pre-heat time.

STEAMING VEGETABLES

Smaller pieces will steam faster than larger pieces.
Vegetables should be a uniform size to ensure a more consistent cooking result.
Fresh or frozen vegetables can be steamed, though frozen will take longer to cook but should not be thawed before cooking.
Size and shape of vegetables and personal preference may call for adjustments to the advised cooking times. For softer vegetables, allow extra cooking time.
Do not allow the water or stock in the removable cooking pot to reach the steaming trivet.
Ingredient| Quantity| Cooking Time (Approx.)
---|---|---
Asparagus| 2 bunches, trim, leave as spears| 12-16 minutes
Beans| 200g, top and tail, leave whole| 12-16 minutes
Broccoli| 250g, cut into florets| 12-15 minutes
Brussel Sprouts| 200g, cut a cross in the base| 17-20 minutes
Carrots| 3 medium (300g), cut into batons| 20-25 minutes
Cauliflower| 300g, cut into florets| 22-25 minutes
Corn| 2 small cobs, whole corn cobs| 20-25 minutes
Snow Peas| 250g, topped and tailed| 12-15 minutes
Fresh Peas| 250g, peeled,| 15-18 minutes
Frozen Peas| 250g| 12-15 minutes
Potatoes| 8 (50g each), new, whole| 40-50 minutes
Sweet Potatoes| 400g, cut into 3cm pieces| 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin| 400g, cut into 3cm pieces| 24-29 minutes
Spinach (English)| 1 bunch, cleaned, leaves and stems| 8-10 minutes
Spinach (Baby)| 350g, topped and tailed| 20-25 minutes
Turnips| 150g, peeled, cut into 3cm pieces| 20-25 minutes
Zucchini| 330g, cut into 3cm pieces| 17-20 minutes

STEAMING FISH

Season fish with fresh herbs, onions, lemon etc. before cooking.
Ensure fish fillets are in a single layer on the trivet and do not overlap.
Fish is cooked when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque in colour.
Steam until opaque and easy to flake.
A cutlet is cooked when the centre bone is able to be easily removed

Fish	Cooking Time (Approx.)
Fillets	20-24 minutes
Whole	25-30 minutes
Cutlets	22-25 minutes

RECIPES

PLEASE NOTE: That all spoon measurements are standard metric, so 1 tsp is 5ml and 1 tbsp is 15ml. We recommend using measuring spoons for accurate results

MEATBALLS IN TOMATO SAUCE – Serves 6

Ingredients	Quantity
White bread	2 slices (90g) crusts removed
Milk	125ml
Minced beef	1kg
Brown onion, medium	1, grated finely
Carrot, medium	1, grated finely
Garlic cloves	3, crushed
Egg	1
Tomato purée	2 tbsp
Dried oregano	½ tsp
Fresh basil	2 tbsp, chopped finely
Olive oil	1 tbsp
Brown onion, medium	1, chopped finely
Garlic cloves	2, crushed
Chopped tomatoes	400g can
Cherry tomatoes	400g
Tomato purée	2 tbsp
Beef stock	250ml
Fresh basil leaves	3 tbsp

LOW: 6 hours.

WHAT YOU DO
Combine bread and milk in a large bowl; stand for 10 minutes. Add beef, onion, carrot, garlic, egg, paste, oregano and chopped basil, season; mix well. Shape level tablespoons of mixture into balls.

Add some oil to the cooking pot, select the sauté function, when up to heat add the extra onion and garlic, stirring, until the onion softens. Transfer the meatballs to the slow cooker. Stir in undrained tomatoes, extra purée and stock. Cook, covered, on low for 6 hours. Season to taste.
Serve with spaghetti, sprinkled with basil leaves.

RECIPE 2

ITALIAN BEEF CASSEROLE – Serves 6

Ingredients	Quantity
Beef braising steak	1.2kg, chopped coarsely
Plain flour	35g
Olive oil	1 tbsp
Brown onion, large	1, chopped coarsely
Garlic cloves	2, crushed
Dried chilli flakes	½, tsp
Dry red wine	125ml
Chopped tomatoes	400g, tin
Tomato purée	70g
Beef stock	625ml
Bay leaves	2, dried
Red pepper, large	1, chopped coarsely
Fresh oregano	1 tbsp, finely chopped
Fresh basil	4 tbsp, coarsely chopped
Courgette, large	1, halved lengthways, sliced thickly
Chestnut mushrooms	185g, halved
Fresh basil leaves	To serve

LOW: 8 hours.

WHAT YOU DO
Toss the beef in flour to coat, shake off excess. Add some oil to the cooking pot, select the sauté function, when up to heat add the onion, garlic and chilli, stirring, until softened. Add some more oil to the cooking pot, select the high sear function, when up to heat add the beef, in batches, until browned. Add wine; bring to the boil. Boil, uncovered, until liquid reduces by half.
Add back to the cooking pot the onion, garlic and chill. Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, stock, bay leaves, pepper, oregano and the chopped basil and stir. Place on the lid and lock with the locking lid handles on the cooking pot. Cook, on low, 8 hours.
Add courgette and mushrooms to cooker for last 30 minutes of cooking time. Discard bay leaves. Taste, season and server. Sprinkle casserole with basil leaves to serve. Serve casserole with creamy polenta, mashed potato or pasta.

RECIPE 3

SPINACH DHAL – Serves 6

Ingredients	Quantity
Yellow split peas	500g
Ghee	Ghee
Brown onion, medium	2, chopped finely
Garlic cloves	3, crushed
Fresh ginger	4cm piece, grated
Fresh long green chilli	1, chopped finely
Black mustard seeds	2 tbsp
Cumin seeds	1 tsp
Ground coriander	1 tbsp
Ground turmeric	2 tsp
Garam masala	1 tsp
Chopped tomatoes	2 x 400g tins
Vegetable stock	750ml
Water	375ml
Caster sugar	1 tsp
Baby spinach leaves	400g

LOW: 10 hours.
WHAT YOU DO
Rinse the split peas under cold water until water runs clear and then drain. Add some ghee to the cooking pot, select the sauté function, when up to heat add the onion, garlic, ginger and chilli, stirring until softened.
Add seeds and spices and cook, stirring, until fragrant. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, stock, water, sugar and peas. Place on the lid and lock with the locking lid handles on the cooking pot.
Cook, on low, 10 hours.
Add in the spinach and stir for last hour of the cooking time. Taste, season and serve.

RECIPE 4

CHOCOLATE SELF-SAUCING PUDDING – Serves 6

Ingredients	Quantity
Butter	90g
Milk	180ml
Vanilla extract	1 tsp
Caster sugar	220g
Self-raising flour	225g
Cocoa powder	2 tbsp
Egg	1, beaten lightly
Light brown sugar	220g
Cocoa powder	2 tbsp, extra
Boiling water	625ml

HIGH: 2½ hours.
WHAT YOU DO

Grease the cooking pot.
Melt the butter in milk over low heat in medium saucepan. Remove from heat and cool for 5 minutes.
Stir in the vanilla extract and caster sugar, then sifted flour and cocoa, add in the egg. Mix well until combined.
Spread mixture into cooking pot. Sift brown sugar and extra cocoa evenly over the mixture, gently pour boiling water evenly over the mixture. Place on the lid and lock with the locking lid handles on the cooking pot.
Cook, on high, about 2½ hours or until centre is firm.
Remove cooking pot from the slow cooker and place on a heat resistant surface. Leave to stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve, hot or warm, with cream and/or ice-cream.

MAKING HOME-MADE YOGHURT

Yoghurt makes yoghurt! Yoghurt is a live milk product, which can reproduce itself in warm conditions. Easy and inexpensive to make at home, all you need is some natural live yoghurt and milk to get started.

GUIDE TO TIMINGS
Different types of milk take different amounts of time to turn into yoghurt. You will need to set the time on the appliance according to the milk you use.
Whole milk = 8 hours
Semi skimmed milk = 10 hours
Skimmed milk = 12 hours Non-dairy milks will require more time.

Take the starter yoghurt (natural plain live yoghurt) from the fridge so it has time to warm up closer to room temperature while you are preparing the milk.
Start with 1,250ml of milk. Add this to a saucepan and bring to the boil. Use a whisk to mix the milk occasionally, this helps make a thicker yoghurt. Then leave to cool down to 32°C to 43°C, check it with a cooking thermometer to make sure it has cooled to the correct temperature.
Add 125ml of your starter yoghurt to the cooled milk and whisk to mix. The fresher the better, so check the ‘Use By’ date. Take care not to whip or beat the mixture too vigorously, the consistency should be smooth with no lumps of yoghurt.
Pour the mixture into the cooking pot. Place the lid on the appliance make sure it is properly fitted on top.
Press and hold the ‘START/CANCEL’ button to stop the appliance.
Leave the appliance undisturbed until the end of the cycle. Many people find it convenient to make yoghurt overnight, switching on the machine before they go to bed.
At the end of the cycle, switch off and unplug the appliance. DO NOT leave yoghurt in the appliance after the timer has finished. Remove the lid slowly as condensation forms during heating. Use an oven glove or cloth when removing the cooking pot from the main unit.
There may be a small amount of liquid (whey) on top of the yoghurt. This is normal. Stir the yoghurt in the cooking pot. Transfer into an airtight container and in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours.
Enjoy as a plain yoghurt or flavour with our serving suggestions.
WARNING: Do not keep yoghurt in the refrigerator for more than 4 days after you have made it. Do not use expired milk or expired yoghurt in the appliance, only use fresh ingredients.

A GUIDE TO YOGHURT INGREDIENTS AND HINTS AND TIPS

THE STARTER

Use unflavoured plain natural yoghurt, the freshest available with a long ‘Use By’ date. The probiotics in the starter yoghurt are what helps turn the milk into yoghurt.
If you make yoghurt regularly, save 125ml of unflavoured yoghurt from your last batch to start your next. If you do this, ensure you don’t save it too long or the probiotics can weaken and the yoghurt won’t set. We only recommend doing this for 2-3 batches in a row. Then use a fresh starter.
Yoghurt with flavouring or fruit in it, or a liquid yoghurt will not work as a starter.

THE MILK

After boiling your milk, check with a cooking thermometer to make sure it has cooled to the correct temperature.
To make thicker yoghurt you can try adding 2 tablespoons of powdered milk to the milk before boiling. Add more if you would like your yoghurt thicker.
You can experiment with making yoghurt between 39°C to 45°C.
Yoghurt made with semi skimmed or skimmed milk will have a thinner consistency.
Yoghurt can be made with other types of milk. You can experiment with evaporated, goat’s, ewe’s, soya, almond or coconut milk instead of pasturised dairy milk. These milks will take a longer time to make into yoghurt. Calories, fat content and flavour will vary with the type of milk chosen.
If experimenting with raw milk (e.g. cow’s, goat’s or ewe’s), bring to the boil in advance, in order to kill germs and bacteria. Simmer for 7 minutes before cooling.
Long-life UHT, evaporated and powdered milk have already been treated and do not need boiling. Use at room temperature, not straight from the fridge.

THE LOCATION

Yoghurt will take longer to make in a cool, draughty room. If possible, choose a draught-free position.
Movement will cause separation and uneven texture so avoid moving the appliance when in use and do not place it on top of a source of vibration e.g. fridge or washing machine.
Keep the appliance away from heat sources such as ovens and stovetops. Do not place it on a shelf above a radiator.
Tempting as it may be, do not lift the cover or disturb the appliance until it has finished, this will disturb the yoghurt making process.

BAKING WITH YOGHURT

You can experiment using yoghurt as a healthy substitute when baking. Low-fat yoghurt (made with semi skimmed or skimmed milk) can be used to reduce or replace shortening, oil, butter or sour cream. It adds a creamy texture to your recipes.
When a recipe calls for butter, replace ½ the butter with half as much yoghurt. For instance, instead of 1 cup of butter, use ½ cup of butter and ¼ cup of yoghurt.
When a recipe calls for shortening or oil, replace half the oil with ¾ the amount of yoghurt. For example, instead of 1 cup oil, use ½ cup of oil and ¾ cup of yoghurt.
Substitute yoghurt cup for cup for sour cream in recipes.
Yoghurt can even replace some of the water or milk in a recipe. Start by substituting ¼ of the liquid with yoghurt. The result will be creamier.

USING YOGHURT IN OTHER RECIPES

Spoon over muesli and drizzle with runny honey.
Try flavourings such as puréed tinned fruit, chopped nuts, maple syrup or vanilla extract. Liquid flavourings will dilute the yoghurt.
Yoghurt makes a cool, creamy accompaniment to savoury dishes like curries and chilli con carne. Add fresh chopped herbs, garlic, chilli or ground spices such as cumin, turmeric or coriander.
Fresh yoghurt makes a smooth base for salad dressings, dips, seafood sauce, cucumber raita and toppings for jacket potatoes.

YOGHURT SERVING SUGGESTIONS

PLEASE NOTE that all spoon measurements are standard metric, so 1tsp is 5ml and 1 tbsp is 15ml. We recommend using measuring spoons for accurate results. Flavourings should be added after the yoghurt is made, never before. For the freshest flavours add the fruit or flavouring just before you eat the yoghurt. Flavoured yoghurt will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
The recipes below are for a single cup of yoghurt. Sweeten your yoghurt as required using honey, maple syrup or sugar.

Yoghurt	Ingredients
Apple	¼ small apple
Blueberry	1 tbsp blueberry preserve
Chocolate	2 tbsp chocolate syrup or 1 tbsp chocolate milk powder. 1 tsp

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Question: Why are no indicator lights illuminated?
Answer: Check that there is no debris underneath the cooking pot on top of the heating plate, if so remove the debris. Replace the cooking pot. There may be damage to the heating plate or the power cable. Make sure that the appliance is properly connected to the cable, plugged in and switched on at the wall socket.
Question: Why does the finished recipe have so much liquid?
Answer: Slow cooking keeps in liquid. Remove the lid from the Searing Slow Cooker and cook on the high setting for 30 minutes. Next time reduce the liquid in your recipe by half.
Question: Why do the vegetables seem crunchy but the meat is well cooked?
Answer: The vegetable pieces are too large. Next time cut the vegetables into smaller pieces. Place them on the bottom of the Searing Slow Cooker and the meat on top.
Question: Why does the meat seem colourless?
Answer: The meat has been cooked from raw with the other ingredients in the Searing Slow Cooker. Brown the meat off before adding to the Searing Slow Cooker to enhance appearance and flavour.
Question: Why does a favourite hob top recipe seem very salty when cooked in the Searing Slow Cooker?
Answer: Reduced liquid and the long slow cooking time can make dish flavours develop more and seem saltier. Reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe.
Question: Why do the herb flavours not come through in the recipe?
Answer: Fresh herbs can overcook because of the long cooking time. Use dried herbs at the beginning of the cooking process. Add fresh herbs near the end to retain flavour.
Question: Why is my rice too dry and hard after cooking?
Answer: There is not enough water in the cooking pot to start.
Question: Why is my rice too moist and soggy after cooking?
Answer: There is too much water in the cooking pot to start.
Question: Why is the bottom layer of rice browned or crispy at the bottom?
Answer: The rice is not cleaned, wash the rice in water before you add it to the cooking pot.

CARE AND CLEANING

Switch off the appliance by holding the POWER/START button for 3 seconds, then switch off and unplug at the mains socket and allow to cool completely before cleaning.
Clean thoroughly before using for the first use and after every use.
Check the parts for wear or damage after every few uses.
Do not use abrasive cleaners or steel wool.
Always use plastic, wooden or silicone spatulas, as metal utensils will damage nonstick coatings.
Never immerse the main unit in water or any other liquid.
To clean the outer surfaces, wipe with a clean damp cloth and dry thoroughly before storing.
Wash the glass lid, cooking pot and trivet in hot, soapy water. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
We do not recommend washing in the dishwasher as this can damage the nonstick coating on the cooking pot.
If ingredients are stuck to the cooking pot, glass lid or trivet, soak for 10 minutes before cleaning and use a sponge or soft bristled brush to dislodge.
Store the Searing Slow Cooker with the power cable loosely coiled. Never wrap it tightly around the unit, ensure that the glass lid is locked onto the cooking pot.

TECHINCAL INFORMATION

Power: 1350W.
Voltage: 220-240V.
Frequency: 50-60Hz.
Flex length approx. 95cm (37½”).
Product weight approx. 6kg.

ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS

THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE EARTHED
The appliance is fitted with a fused three-pin plug to BS1363 which is suitable for use in all homes fitted with sockets to current specifications.
CHANGING THE 10 AMP FUSE
Use a 10 amp BS1362 fuse. Only BSI or ASTA approved fuses should be used. If you are unsure which plug or fuse to use, always refer to a qualified electrician.
Note: After replacing or changing a fuse on a moulded plug which has a fuse cover, the cover must be refitted to the plug; the appliance must not be used without a fuse cover. If lost, replacement fuse covers can be obtained from an electrical shop. This appliance complies with the following EU Directives: 2014/35/EU (Low Voltage Directive) and 2014/30/EU (EMC Directive).

RECYCLING YOUR ELECTRICALS

The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive requires UK distributors to maximise separate collection and environmentally friendly processing of WEEE. UK distributors (including retailers) are required to provide a system which allows all customers buying new electrical equipment the opportunity to recycle their old items free of charge. As a responsible retailer, we have met these requirements by offering all customers buying new electrical and electronic equipment free takeback of their old electricals on a like-for-like basis.