Yes, you can put raw meat in a slow cooker with vegetables. Slow cookers are designed to cook food slowly at low temperatures over an extended period, which is perfect for tenderizing tough cuts of meat and allowing flavors to meld together.
Here are some tips for using raw meat and vegetables in a slow cooker:
Choose the right cuts of meat: Tougher cuts of meat with more connective tissue, such as beef chuck, pork shoulder, or lamb shanks, work well in slow cookers. These cuts benefit from the long, slow cooking process and become tender and flavorful.
Cut meat into chunks: To ensure even cooking and better flavor distribution, cut the meat into bite-sized chunks before adding it to the slow cooker.
Layer the ingredients: Place the raw meat at the bottom of the slow cooker and then add your vegetables on top. This arrangement ensures that the meat juices will infuse the vegetables as they cook.
Add some liquid: For best results, add some liquid to the slow cooker, such as broth, water, wine, or your favorite sauce. This helps keep the ingredients moist during the long cooking process and prevents them from drying out.
Season and spice: Don't forget to season the meat and vegetables with your preferred herbs, spices, and seasonings to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Cooking times: Slow cooking times vary depending on the recipe and the type of meat and vegetables used. As a general guideline, most slow-cooked dishes take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours on low heat or 2 to 4 hours on high heat.
Safety precautions: Make sure the slow cooker reaches a safe cooking temperature relatively quickly to avoid bacterial growth. Start cooking on the high setting for the first hour, and then reduce the heat to low if the recipe calls for a longer cooking time.
Remember that slow cookers are very forgiving and can accommodate various ingredients. Just be mindful of food safety practices and ensure the meat reaches a safe internal temperature before serving. Enjoy your delicious and tender slow-cooked meal!