The Stainless Steel SCVT650-PS 6 1/2 Quart Programmable Touchscreen Slow Cooker from Crock-Pot is one in a long line of attractive slow cookers manufactured by the company that introduced this simple cooking process back in 1970.
Employing just one pot and a low heat, slow cooking process, preparation time is minimal and cleanup is a snap. Portability for a large quantity of food is also a pleasant benefit of slow cookers and this particular model by Crock-Pot has a few other really nice features and functions which need a closer look.
All slow cookers can save you valuable time in the kitchen and the Crock-Pot SCVT650-PS works well in that regard. It offers several additional nice features that elevate this above your basic entry-level slow cooker. These features include an extra half-quart capacity (over traditional 6-quart models), an attractive stainless steel outer shell, and dishwasher-safe parts.
One of the most notable upgrades is the touchscreen control panel that allows you to customize your cooking, as well as meet specific recipe requirements. For easier transportation, you can also pick up the Crock-Pot SCBAG Travel Bag for 7 Quart Slow Cookers, which protects your slow cooker and minimizes messes.
This model has earned a respectable 4.1 (our to 5.0) stars from nearly 600 customers on Amazon. Many reviewers really like the programmable timer, which makes the Crock-Pot SCVT650-PS 6 1/2 Quart Programmable Touchscreen Slow Cooker more versatile than standard models. Simply pop in your ingredients, set your time requirements, and go about your day.
Another nice benefit is the ability to set cooking time from as low as 30 minutes, or as high as 20 hours. And if you are not home when the cook time is up, this intelligent Crock-Pot cooker automatically shifts to a warming mode. This means never burning, overcooking or drying out your meals.
This quality unit was showcased on the September 15, 2013 episode of America’s Test Kitchen on NPR and it is attractive for a lot of reasons. It isn’t perfect, however. For example, it is so extremely well insulated that it is a bit on the heavy side. In addition, the exterior can get warm to the touch after cooking for extended periods of time. You’ll need to weigh these downsides against the versatility of its touchscreen programming, durable stainless steel and stoneware crock construction, and large 6 1/2 quart capacity before making a purchase.
Bottom Line:
If you are looking for a fashionable slow cooker from a highly regarded company and you also want more features than a standard model, the mid-level price point makes the Crock-Pot Stainless Steel SCVT650-PS 6 1/2-Quart Programmable Touchscreen Slow Cooker a worthwhile investment.
If you are looking for a higher end unit, with maximum features and programmability backed by a well-known chef, then you might find the Emeril SD500050 6 Quart Dishwasher Safe Ceramic Bowl Slow Cooker with Automatic Temperature Control Technology manufactured by T-fal better suits your needs.