If your meat is turning out dry despite adding water or broth according to a slow cooker recipe, there are a few suggestions you can try to improve the moisture and tenderness of the meat:
Use a fattier cut of meat: Lean cuts of meat, like some types of roasts, can become dry during slow cooking. Opt for cuts with more marbling or connective tissue, like chuck roast, pork shoulder, or chicken thighs, as they tend to stay moist and tender during longer cooking times.
Don't overcook: Cooking meat for too long in a slow cooker can lead to dryness. Slow cookers vary in temperature, so it's essential to follow the recommended cooking times in your specific recipe. If your slow cooker has a timer or the option to switch to a "warm" setting after cooking, consider using it to avoid overcooking.
Reduce the cooking time: If the recipe suggests a longer cooking time, try reducing it slightly and monitor the meat's tenderness throughout the cooking process. This way, you can prevent overcooking and keep the meat juicy.
Add more liquid: Increasing the amount of water or broth can help retain moisture and prevent the meat from drying out. However, be cautious not to add too much liquid, as slow cookers already trap moisture well, and excessive liquid can dilute flavors.
Use a lid: Ensure that your slow cooker's lid is fitted tightly during cooking. The lid helps trap steam and moisture, preventing the meat from drying out.
Add vegetables: Including vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery can help add moisture to the cooking environment and keep the meat moist.
Brown the meat first: Before placing the meat in the slow cooker, you can sear it in a hot pan with some oil. This step locks in the juices and enhances the flavor.
Consider using a meat thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. Different types of meat have different safe internal temperatures, and cooking until just done will help maintain juiciness.
Remember that slow cookers can vary in performance, so it might take some trial and error to find the right combination of ingredients and cooking times that work best for your specific slow cooker and the cut of meat you are using.