Here you go

/r/slowcooking

http://www.amazon.com/Crock-Pot-SCR300SS-3-Quart-Manual-Stainless/dp/B003UCG8II/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1395917298&sr=8-4&keywords=crock+pot

I've been using this one daily for five years. I honestly barely use my regular oven. I know that's not necessarily "BIFL," yet I hope it helps you.

Breville BOV800XL Smart Oven 1800-Watt Convection Toaster Oven with Element IQ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001L5TVGW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Y.NJyb0RBVZ2M

Doesn't that take longer than making one from scratch every day? I got this Hamilton Beach 25475A Breakfast Sandwich Maker as a joke for Christmas one year and it takes only minutes to make a fresh breakfast sandwich.

An Instant Pot (from the official brand, not an off-brand one) is kind of an all-in-one type of device. It can be a slow cooker, a rice cooker, or a pressure cooker based on the settings. It can cook thick meat quickly, but it's not too great for vegetables. Also, they are large so they're not great for a small kitchen with limited counterspace. Here's an article that goes into more details and also has links for where to buy one: https://www.delish.com/food/a51371/things-you-should-know-before-using-an-instant-pot/.

A slow cooker does not have as many functions, but they are often much cheaper than the Instant Pot and you can still cook a lot of dishes in them. This device doesn't really have the capability to cook things quickly though. The minimum time I've seen on a recipe is 2 hours. But this is ideal for putting stuff in before work and coming home to have dinner done. There are a variety of sizes so you can get one appropriate for the amount of food you want to create at once. That also makes it easier to keep in a small kitchen. This is a list of tips to make the most of the slow cooker and some things that recipes may not tell you: https://www.foodnetwork.com/how-to/articles/14-tips-for-slow-cooker-meals. Here is a great option for $25 on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Crock-Pot-SCCPVL600S-6-Quart-Portable-Stainless/dp/B003HF6PUO/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1549838488&sr=8-3&keywords=slow+cooker.

Other easy cooking methods include baking/broiling with sheet pan or casserole-type recipes. These are really great for meal prep or feeding a crowd. One problem is that the prep may take a long time. For example, lasagna requires many cooking steps before you throw it in the oven, which may not be ideal for a beginner. It may also be difficult to get the type of browning you want on meat or knowing when bone-in meat is done. I'd be careful with this cooking method and just make sure you feel confident about the instructions.

Overall, I would recommend slow cooker for a beginner, but focus on what your needs and preferences are. The cheapest option is probably baking/broiling while the easiest is probably slow cooker or Instant Pot.

Here's the same deal without the affiliate link.

https://www.amazon.com/Instant-Pot-Programmable-Pressure-Steamer/dp/B01B1VC13K/

I personally love my Hamilton Beach Set n Forget programmable slow cooker. The locking lid makes it great for traveling (on days at work where we'll all bring something in to share), and the programmable features are nice for me to set it in the morning, and know that it will cook for only the time I specify.

If you live near a Bed Bath and Beyond, you could use a 20% off coupon to purchase it for $40 + tax!

Perhaps you would like a alexa microwave to ease your pain about that thing...that happened, what was it again?


^^^^Your ^^^^microwave ^^^^is ^^^^actually ^^^^recording ^^^^you ^^^^now ^^^^please ^^^^forget ^^^^that ^^^^we ^^^^fucked ^^^^up ^^^^your ^^^^security ^^^^before. ^^^^buy ^^^^more ^^^^things ^^^^we ^^^^needlessly ^^^^crammed ^^^^alexa ^^^^in.

Immersion blender. Like this.

Rubbermaid 12 Qt Container

EVERIE Collapsible Hinged Sous Vide Container Lid

Anova Wifi/Bluetooth Sous Vide

BTW, 6 quart instant pots are the cheapest they've ever been on Amazon right now for anyone looking to pick one up!

https://camelcamelcamel.com/Instant-Pot-Multi-Use-Programmable-Pressure/product/B01MFEBQH1

Slow cooking is your friend. You can get one for $20 and because you have a kitchen it should be okay for residential policies. Throw in inexpensive meat and simple flavorings to get amazing results.
For example:

1. Pulled chicken or pork with BBQ sauce
   
2. Steak with tomato soup and worcester (sic) sauce
   
3. Chicken, beans, tex-mex canned corn, salsa
   
4. Stew

Must Have Kitchenware:

• Measuring cups. Until you get better at "eyeballing", stick with measuring cups. Additionally, it gives you a good starting point if you see a recipe online or such.
  
  
• A rice cooker. This one (EDIT: I lied, I meant this one. For $7 more than the above one, it has a slow cooker function) doubles as a crock pot as well, if you're smart about it. Leave some veggies and let the rice go, easy meal. Which leads into the next point:
  
  
• A crock pot. If you want something more extravagant than rice and beans, try learning how to use a crock pot. It's easy to make ribs or pulled pork: just leave some bbq and pork in the pot and go to class. I know I had some trust issues leaving a kitchen appliance going for hours at a time, but once you get past that it's a life saver.
  
  

  Places to Shop:
  

  
  

• The Meat Lab (scroll down to the bottom). Great prices, and great quality. It's food right from the farms at school. As the name might suggest, you can get meat and eggs from there.
  
  
• Far East Grocery. Fave place to get my oriental groceries and everything you could ever want. It's cramped, very confusing, and has sketchy lighting-- reminds me of home.
  
  

  General Tips:
  

  
  

• Clean while you cook.
  
  
• Don't buy ramen because it's "the college kid food." One cup of (filling) ramen is ~$1, maybe 60c if you're lucky, or 40-60 bucks assuming you eat 2 meals a day. In comparison, 20lbs of rice is $10, and a month's veggies+potatoes+eggs is $15, and soy sauce is $5.
  
  With all of that, you can make a month's supply of some really damn good fried rice.
  
  
• When shopping for a recipe, write out what you need. Nothing sucks more than coming home and realizing you forgot turmeric.
  
  When I'm super lazy, here's my go-to meal-- Rice, salt and pepper, cumin, with a tomato sitting at the top, and maybe some carrots. I just toss them all in the rice cooker and watch some TV.

We bought a new smart microwave. We need you to add it to the domain. Also it needs a service account. The CFO said so. AmazonBasics Microwave, Small, 0.7 Cu. Ft, 700W, Works with Alexa

Dude, EGG SANDWICH MACHINE, $25. Use it every day.

newegg, $24 with free shipping

amazon, $24+shipping

My wife and I just bought one of these - It's actually a lot of fund to use and you can make it as healthy as you want by varying the ingredients.

http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-25475A-Breakfast-Sandwich/dp/B00EI7DPOO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1393968702&sr=8-2&keywords=breakfast+maker

It's cute that you hid an Amazon affiliate referral link behind two URL shorteners.

Here's the link for anyone wanting to gawk but not give anyone the referral because fuck OP and their shill account:

https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Microwave-Compact-Works-Alexa/dp/B07894S727

Bearing in mind 97% of the meals I cook are for me and one other person, 100% yes. I have a Breville Smart Oven and use it in lieu of my oven all the time. It's large enough to cook a 14 inch pizza, a small-medium chicken, tenderloins, roasts, or a tray of veggies. It heats up fast, has a convection fan, and cooks very evenly. Worth every penny as it is the 2nd most used electric appliance in my kitchen (and was the first by a mile before I got an electric kettle). I do not own a microwave, nor do I feel like I'm ever in need of one with this thing.

I bought a spare rack and another 12x12 pan to use simultaneously with the first in order to do double duty when I need twice as many veggies, potatoes, or whatever else cooks on a rack/tray. Even though it was not designed to be used with multiple racks at once, it really works just as well on the bake setting as long as you stay mindful of tray rotation.

And I do imagine you could get away with a cheaper toaster oven as long as it is a big toaster oven.

This is the standard one that I recommend to people. Clips for sealing the lid for travel purposes, manual dial so it doesn't reset if there's a minor power fluctuation, big enough to make big batches but perfectly capable of cooking for two without any issues.

In my experience searching for similar things, the conclusion I reached was that to get anything better than the T962 (which is utter shit, to be clear) you need to spend several thousand dollars.

I took the plunge on building a reflow oven using this toaster and a Controleo 2, plus copious amounts of expensive tape and some ceramic blanket insulation from McMaster-Carr. Do NOT use the felt crap on Amazon that's intended for cars, the temperature ratings are horseshit and are for "radiant" heat, they won't actually stand up to 2,000deg or even 500.

It took about a week of 1-2 hours per day, but the result was well, well worth it. It's performed absolutely flawlessly the last 2 years and reflows beautifully every time. Lead-free BGAs are no problem, it's been stellar. I probably spent something like $500 on it but you can do it for less. The oven was $200, ceramic blanket roll about $40, extra reflective tape ~$100, plus other odds and ends.

One thing I did with that toaster was use thin aluminum sheet metal to make "shields" for the upper heating elements so there is no direct IR on the boards. Combined with a convection oven, this goes a long way towards ensuring even heating and no hot-spots. Much better than scorching a batch of boards you spent the entire day assembling as I've done with the T962.

The oven I got is probably overkill, it works well but due to the size the reflow cycle runs on the long side. Still within the IPC spec, however.

IMHO it's the only way to go unless you're willing to pony up for a proper commercial oven. The only thing that might be better is vapor-phase reflow which you can accomplish for relatively little (the fluid is extremely expensive however), but that method is also more labor intensive.

Keep in mind that with any oven you should profile it - really just do a test run - before putting in a batch of boards. The worst that will happen if you've done it right is that the solder might not reflow everywhere. When that happens I bump the peak temperature up by 5-10deg C and run it again, but it's better to get it the first time while the flux is still active. Profiling is simple, I take 2-3 random bare PCBs I have laying around, put a few blobs of whatever solder paste I'm using on the pads, and put them on opposite ends of the oven. Run a cycle and if it reflows you're pretty much good to go. Takes 5 minutes.

So yeah, not to pimp my oven too hard but for the situation you're in I'd say 100% build your own. Getting better results will require you spending 5-10x as much.

EDIT: Assembly pics for the curious! I threw them all in there, sorry they're out of order. That grey stuff was the "ULTRA OMG HIGH TEMP RACECAR" insulation from Amazon I used on the first attempt. Do not want. Only after I put it all in there I realized it shouldn't be in contact with a 500deg oven. Gets a little melty. I ended up getting this ceramic blanket from McMaster which is the white insulation you see later. I added it to the window after testing without because it cuts own on heat loss dramatically and makes it easier to hit the right profile. It gets everywhere though and is very itchy, similar to fiberglass insulation, so be warned. Once it's assembled then no worries.

You can also see the shields I added to the upper heating elements to eliminate direct IR.

This Ninja is all you need..

NINJA!

I make smoothies every morning, and have also used it for salsa, hot sauce, soup, and almond milk. If you rinse it out right after use then it's always ready to go.

I absolutely love this one by Hamilton Beach. I've used plenty of slow cookers over the past few decades and this is simply the best. It's large enough for every recipe I've ever made, programmable (by time/temperature), reliable, easy to transport and easy to clean.

Hamilton Beach 25475A Breakfast Sandwich Maker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EI7DPOO/

America.

Ehhhhhh I see what you area saying but you have to take into account that amazon is a conglomeration of things amazon has is in its warehouses and what other companies sell THROUGH amazon. A lot of the stuff that is shooting/hunting related is sold through amazon by someone else. I think this why, when we all look for shooting stuff there aren't crazy deals. Because outside sellers aren't motivated by prime day to drop prices. All that said you just have to know what to look for, amazon more deeply discounts things that are close under their umbrella. I was able score:

A second echo dot which was $15 off already then another $10 credit for voice ordering(with my current echo dot) = $25 Echo dot.

I took a CHANCE on the new amazon fire OS powered Element 55"4K tv for $399 (now OOS) saw it on slick deal slated for sale at 6pm PST sat at my computer and mashed refresh button at 6pm until price dropped from $649 to $399. I say took a "chance" because a number of crappy reviews have come out about this product, but for such a small price I'm willing to bet on amazons return policy and the extended warranty protection of the credit card that I used for purchase.

Link

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XDC9RBJ/ref=twister_B0711HCF25?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Then there was/is an Amex promo "amex17prime" with some loop holes (google it) but effectively $30 off $60 = 50% off I bought
-9mm collet for my hornady bullet puller
-Lee load all II 16 ga conversion
-Lee 7/8oz slug mold
For 471 Amex meme era hip rewards points and $30


details in link below

http://onemileatatime.boardingarea.com/2017/07/06/amazon-discount-amex/

Then I bought the Anova gen 2 wifi 900w sous vide for $129 regular was like $179 a couple days before. Just wanted to screw around with sous vide and this is a palatable price for me given the feature set. I'm going to try and make back my $130 in food prep savings vs buying lunch out at work.

link:

https://www.amazon.com/Anova-Culinary-Bluetooth-Precision-Cooker/dp/B01HHWSV1S/ref=pd_lpo_vtph_79_bs_t_2?_encoding=UTF8&refRID=CC3C1TYDD17HKNDPWP0Z&th=1

If you all are curious about the "Alexa deals" you can ask you echo dot "what are your deals?"


Or Visit

https://www.amazon.com/b?node=16924218011


TL;DR Buying shit that amazon is likely to make more money off of reaps better deals


EDIT: formatting, added links, TL;DR

I bought this container with this lid, really glad I did. Perfect size, fits the Anova perfectly, and keeps the water/heat in.

For breakfast sandwiches, I use this:

https://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-25475A-Breakfast-Sandwich/dp/B00EI7DPOO

I get up, take my shower, plug it in to heat it up while I walk my dog, build the sandwich, finish getting shit together and have a hot fresh sandwich easy peasy.

Have you tried the Hamilton Beach breakfast sandwich maker? I know Alton Brown hates it but I love mine and have used it for years.
Hamilton Beach 25475A Breakfast Sandwich Maker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EI7DPOO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_kfIYCb1QN21QG

I have this one, Hamilton Beach

It is really easy to use, simple to clean, and I literally set it and forget it. The programmable screen is pretty nifty and so far I have not had one problem (knock on wood). The price is a good and the reviews are plenty, which justified me buying it.

http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-25475A-Breakfast-Sandwich/dp/B00EI7DPOO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1449785968&sr=8-1&keywords=breakfast+sandwhich+maker

I got the Hamilton Beach programmable 6qt one at my roommate's recommendation, and have liked it so far. Being able to tell it to switch to "keep warm" after a given amount of time is nice.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00EZI26GO/

It's $50

Welcome to the future

This is the only one I use. I own two of them, and when our other manual slow cooker dies, we're getting a third one of these.

This cooker is nice because it will automatically shift to Warm when then timer is up, and Warm is actually "Warm" not "slightly less than hot"; I've left stews sitting on Warm for several hours when I couldn't get right home once it was done and never once have I returned to dried or burnt food. The temperature probe is also nice for cooking certain cuts of meat.

If you don't have one yet, I would recommend getting an Instant Pot. It makes broth making in general quick and easy. I only used it once so far to make pho (with great results), but have used it to make a number of different stocks and broth in the past.

If you sell it you can buy three pressure cookers.

Or did you mean buy some other speakers?

They pay for themselves quickly and they are not that expensive. I think mine came from Big Lots for $30. Here's one on Prime for $35 shipped (if you have Prime). I've had it and used it for probably 5 years now. The replacement rolls cost a few bucks, but you don't use it for everything. I find that I buy replacement rolls maybe three times a year. I probably made my money back from the sealer itself just on avocados in a summer.

It's a pressure cooker but with a few more bells and whistles.

It cooks stuff like a crock pot but in about 1/3 of the time, we made a pulled pork roast in about an 1 1/2 hours and it comes out exactly like it has been in a crock pot for 8 hours.

It can also saute. Like cook bacon in it, throw in your beans after and you have everything done in about 20 minutes.
*Oh shit and you can make your Rice and Oats and Yogurt in it too!

cause they're suckers that dont know about this baby?

http://www.amazon.com/Burnt-Impressions-The-Jesus-Toaster/dp/B0042QRYO8

I use this Hamilton Beach one. I like that it's programmable, so even if I have an 8 hour recipe, it goes from low to warm by the time I get home. I've had it for a few years, in fact, I just made chili in it today!

Yes you want a crockpot with a timer. It will keep your food warm until you can get to it. It works very well and I have no problem leaving it on while I am at work. An outlet timer will turn it off completely and you start getting into issues with foodborne illnesses.

I have this this crockpot and its great. It is very highly reviewed and usually recommended on here.

Breville convection/toaster oven.
But I'm fairly certain that I will need a dedicated circuit run to service it (older house) and that just seems like way too much trouble.

The Breville. It's attractive, durable, and large (inside). You can cook a medium pizza for christ sake.

http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW

I use this:

Breville BOV800XL Smart Oven

This thing is a champ and gets used daily for something, if only to warm up soup bowls and baguettes.

So, I guess, to answer your question directly, "air frying" is a wholly made-up marketing term to get one to buy a new single-purpose gadget.

This very popular, and common model weighs 12.8 lbs.

That's 205 ozs.

Gold is about $1200 per oz

TIL crock pots are worth $246,000.

Bah, assuming the older one passes visual inspection, I'm willing to bet it's of higher quality than the $20 off-the-shelf one. Sure there are some great new ones with extra features and such, but the bottom-of-the-line one is, in my estimate, going to be more shoddily built. Probably break within 6 months of the warranty expriring.

/cynic

Otoh, the pic makes it look a bit small. When you do crock, you want big. I'd offer $5 for it, or ... -- quickly checks amazon -- get something like this.

Maybe this?

Here's mine: https://www.amazon.ca/Zojirushi-NS-TSC10-Cooker-Uncooked-Stainless/dp/B0074CDG6C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1549311058&sr=8-1&keywords=zojirushi+rice+cooker

If you're going to do this, make sure you're using good quality freezer bags, otherwise air will just get in again.

Honestly though, an inexpensive vacuum sealer and bags run about $40. I bought both of these about a year and a half ago, and the vacuum sealer is still working great, and I've used less than half of each roll of bags.

Also if you're looking to meal prep, things like chili or soups can be frozen pretty effectively. This sauce also freezes beautifully, but freeze just the sauce, not the sauce already mixed with the pasta. You could also do mini lasagnas in disposable aluminum loaf pans, which would provide 2-4 servings each depending on your hunger levels and the size of pan you use.

I bought an Instant Pot for like $65. The one you’re looking at is “Smart” meaning it’ll probably listen to everything you say and sell it to every government on the planet and then kill you when you’re asleep.

I have this one

Instant Pot DUO80 8 Qt 7-in-1 Multi- Use Programmable Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Yogurt Maker and Warmer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B1VC13K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_cgilDbCNHVYV5

I'm about to blow your mind: You can use a lid!

I have this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071L6PRY8/

This Container with This Lid

I know people laugh at them but the dedicated Breakfast Sandwhich makers do a fantastic job, the muffin is toasted perfectly, the cheese melts all over the meat and the egg doneness can be adjusted pretty easily in a 1 minute window. 4 minutes for a bit runny and 5 minutes for fully cooked (like McDonalds)
http://www.amazon.ca/Hamilton-Beach-25475A-Breakfast-Sandwich/dp/B00EI7DPOO

You want a roaster. http://www.amazon.com/Oster-CKSTRS71-18-Quart-Roaster-Buffet/dp/B003V5GUZU/ref=sr_1_8?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1452174456&sr=1-8&keywords=roasters

Although, I don't know that I've ever seen one that goes as low as 130, at least on the temp gauge.

A little more googling got me this http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-33967A-Programmable-6-Quart/dp/B00EZI26DW/ref=sr_1_3?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1452174508&sr=1-3&keywords=crockpot+with+temperature+setting

There are recipes that specifically call for a 6 qt slow cooker, so if you want to follow the recipe to a T, the 4 qt might be limiting. I don't think you could go wrong with either, though.

Saw you're in Canada, so don't know if you have access, but I have this slow cooker and it works great:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EZI26GO/

They make an 8 quart IP now. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B1VC13K/ref=twister_B01DZM2UQ6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I have the 8 quart version - https://www.amazon.com/Instant-Pot-Programmable-Pressure-Steamer/dp/B01B1VC13K

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HHWSV1S/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Esp today, because its on sale.

or you could have got this lid and this container instead of hacking yours together which already has the hole cut for specific devices

Presuming we're talking at-home use,a slight variation of Fab1005's thoughts, I use a Cuisinart SmartStick (blade end-not the whip), slightly softened Ice Cream, a splash of milk and blueberries, cherries, chocolate (whatever flavor) then employ a piston-like top of cup to bottom motion and... wha-la! The best Milkshake(s) I've ever had.

Prep: splash of cold water

Soap: Phoenix artisan accoutrements coconut

Razor: standard

Blade: GSB (1)

Brush: drivenlegend synth

Post: extra lather, warm shower and chatillon lux catalan's prairie

The crock pot I ordered 3 months ago finally arrived today! I had totally forgotten about it until last night when I received a SMS asking me to come and collect it. Now I have a bit of a problem. Since we have 240V electricity here in SL I have to get a step down transformer. So can any of you guys please tell me whether [this](http://skyray.lk/products/electronics/adaptors-converters/voltage-converters-step-down-transformer/unitec-acac-converter-300watt-step-up-step-down/
) will work. This is the crock pot I bought.

Slow Cooker Soy Chorizo Chili

See full recipe with additional stovetop instructions at https://veggiechick.com/soy-chorizo-chili/

​

• 2 (15-ounce) cans diced tomatoes (Sometimes I might use flavored cans of diced tomatoes, such as “Garlic and Olive Oil”, “Fire Roasted”, etc.)
  
• 1 (15-ounce) can organic tomato sauce
  
• 1 medium white or yellow onion, diced
  
• 1 (4.5-ounce) can green chiles
  
• 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  
• 1 (15-ounce) can sweet corn (no need to drain)
  
• 15 cherry tomatoes, halved 
  
• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
  
• 1/2 package (6-ounces) Soy Chorizo, casing/outer wrapper removed*, I prefer Trader Joe’s brand but you can use other brands of Soy Chorizo.
  
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
  
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
  
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, or regular paprika
  
• 1 teaspoon cumin
  
• 1 cup water
  
  Optional Toppings:
  
  
• crackers
  
• chopped cilantro
  
• vegan sour cream
  
  

  INSTRUCTIONS
  

  
  

1. In a slow cooker, add all ingredients (the order doesn’t matter) and stir. Important: be sure to remove the outer casing of the chorizo before adding to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 4-5 hours or low for 6-7 hours. When ready, scoop out into a bowl and enjoy! Add crackers, chopped cilantro or even some vegan sour cream. Store this chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
   
2. Note: you can also cook this on your stovetop. See stovetop instructions in the Notes section below. 
   
   

   NOTES
   

   
   

• *I use only 1/2 of the 12-ounce Soy Chorizo package, as it’s very spicy and also high in sodium. If you want to add more, you can taste it when it’s almost done cooking and add more if necessary. The soy chorizo should be already cooked (check the package to make sure), so it’s ok to add in at the end of the cooking process. Or, use the remaining chorizo in other recipes, such as a topping for this Spicy Baked Potato with Broccoli and Vegan Queso recipe. 
  
• This recipe makes a lot of chili, around 13 cups total, so you’ll have plenty for leftovers during the week.
  
• If you can’t find Soy Chorizo, you can make it without. But if you do, be sure to double (or triple) up on the spices, as the soy chorizo adds a lot of flavor.

This is the one I have. You simply add the water, add some rice, add in the tray then put the meat in it and the seasoning from the meat will drop down and be enough to season the rice usually. You can also add broccoli/spinach with the meat on the tray and steam them at the same time for a meal with rice/meat and veggiesss

Zojirushi.

I've had many other rice cookers, from the target and Walmart brands to black and decker.

Zojirushi is just plain and simple worth it. It will consistently give you perfectly cooked rice...every...single... time.

The reason is it has this thing called fuzzy logic where it's computer can determine how to cook things depending on the weight and what not (not sure how it works exactly, but it works great!). The initial buy in is a bit more expensive than other rice cookers but it's worth the investment. It will last very long.

For steaming, you could use the vegi steamer tray for a pot. It's honestly 100x faster because you don't have to wait like 15 minutes for the water to boil.

This is as good one: http://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-NS-TSC10-Uncooked-Cooker-1-0-Liter/dp/B0074CDG6C/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1394815672&sr=8-2&keywords=zojirushi+rice+cooker


This is the one I have: http://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-NS-ZCC10-Uncooked-Premium-1-0-Liter/dp/B00007J5U7/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1394815672&sr=8-4&keywords=zojirushi+rice+cooker

I can't praise it enough.

Also, this for steaming veggies. Works amazing, I've had it for years:http://www.amazon.com/Amco-Collapsible-Steamer-Stainless-Steel/dp/B000Q4N2LO/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1394815756&sr=8-9&keywords=steamer+tray+for+pot

http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-Forget-6-Quart-Programmable/dp/B001AO2PXK/

I'm sorry, I don't know sizes, but I know it's a large one, and I'm going to guess 6 quart as it looks just like this one: https://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-Programmable-Temperature-33967/dp/B001AO2PXK

I have the same problem, and I addressed it with a Hamilton Beach 33967 Set 'n Forget 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker. ($50 USD on Amazon w/Prime.)

What I actually wanted was an old slow cooker (the kind that cooks at lower temps before the USDA changes) on some sort of intelligent timer/variable power device but I know my limits.

I half expected disappointment, but I've been extremely pleased with it.

My favourite kitchen tool is my Breville countertop convection oven. it's not cheap but it's small and reliable and I can cook and bake practically anything. You can even make a 13" pizza in it and it's NOT just a toaster oven: https://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW

That is a ridiculous example. However, I frequently run into products where the Canadian version actually costs less.

For example:

http://www.amazon.ca/Breville-Smart-Convection-Toaster-BOV800XL/dp/B001L5TVGW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1418319374&sr=8-1&keywords=breville+oven

http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1418319360&sr=8-1&keywords=breville+oven&pebp=1418319429859

America's Test Kitchen likes the Breville BOV800XL Smart Oven though it is expensive at around $250 USD.

The Hamilton Beach Set & Forget Toaster Oven with Convection Cooking was rated their best buy, and is significantly cheaper at $83 USD.

I've only used my roommate's cheapo toaster oven, and that one sucked, so I can't give any personal recommendations.

For the most part brand really doesn't matter end of the day it is a ceramic pot that sits on a heating element and they are all roughly equal.

Don't bother with fancy timers just look for something in the 6 quart range with a locking lid and removable insert/pot for around $20-30


One like this should be pretty much exactly what you need https://www.amazon.com/Crock-Pot-SCCPVL600S-6-Quart-Portable-Stainless/dp/B003HF6PUO/




If you have some extra cash I would HIGHLY recommend looking at an instant pot. They are a combo device that is a slow cooker, pressure cooker, and rice cooker for around $80.
https://www.amazon.com/Instant-Pot-Muti-Use-Programmable-Pressure/dp/B01MFEBQH1/


As much of a craze as it seems I love my pressure cooker and use it all the time and my slow cooker has been on the shelf since last Thanksgiving. Chili from scratch in about an hour, chicken stock in 2 hours, Ribs in 30 minutes, stew in an hour, pulled pork/carne asada in an hour, yadda yadda yadda AND it is also a slow cooker if you want to let it go all day for something.

For less messy amazon links you can extract the part after "/dp/" in

https://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-NS-TSC10-Uncooked-Cooker-1-0-Liter/dp/B0074CDG6C/ref=pd_sim_79_14?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=3FCH92VNZPVJ780X0D18

and make it:

https://amzn.com/B0074CDG6C

Or via smile link:

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0074CDG6C

BEEP BOP

Plz send any recommendations via PM

What's your budget? What size do you need?

Zojirushi rice cookers are excellent quality and sometimes they go on sale on Amazon with a deep discount. For example: https://ca.camelcamelcamel.com/Zojirushi-NS-TSC10/product/B0074CDG6C

shampbooze

rumrunner

seal-a-meal

These are the best

You will obviously have to remove the lid to get a reading, and doing so will allow some of the heat to escape, and slow cooking times, however doing this once or twice after 6 hours or so won't make a big difference. If you are cooking on High/Low will also change the duration of cooking.

Some cookers have a small hole in the lid to allow a temp probe to stick out. Like this one

This slow cooker. It changed my life. I use it multiple times a week and love /r/slowcooking for recipes. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EZI26GO?ref_=hit_wr_dt_vr_md_pt

Also, check out Sweethome. It's a blog that lists the best brands of certain products. I based a lot of my registry around what they said was best.

just went on sale on amazon for 81.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01B1VC13K/ref=od_aui_detailpages00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Great idea! Like this? https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B071L6PRY8/ref=pd_aw_sim_328_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=QPDFSMXVVG4NSSB2GD36&dpPl=1&dpID=51Nr3JO0SxL

I used to go to Deli Zone in Boulder when I was a student there and always got the Kong breakfast sandwich. It was damn fine. Looks like they have a DU location and a Tech Center location here in Denver.

Also, I have been using this thing of beauty on the weekends and it's hard to beat if you're willing to use an English muffin instead of bagel
http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-25475A-Breakfast-Sandwich/dp/B00EI7DPOO

Prep can be painless. If you plan of leaving for more than 5 hours, the only recipes I can think of that require less than 6-7 hours of cooking time is chicken breasts, so just don't use them.

Please keep in mind that most meats (with an exception of chicken) should be browned before cooking. Some crockpots can go from fridge to cooking, some can't. I would read the manual.

As far as doing the prep at night, yes. If you can't leave it in the crockpot, leave it in a sealed container and pour it in.

Yes, if you're worried about leaving it unattended, use it for the first time when you plan on being home most of the day on a weekend.

Again, don't use breasts if this is a problem. Unless you like breasts better then thighs, this won't make a huge difference anyway.

I have a 6 quart for just myself. It's useful when I want to make soups and chilis because I feel the thing up. I highly recommend this guy

1. nice graphing calculator (i'm an engineer and i couldn't imagine life without it).
   
2. BACtrak breathalyzer (the assurance is worth the cost).
   
3. Hamilton Beach 33969A Slow Cooker Made meals much easier to do during the week, and has a ton of party uses.
   
4. Photive CYREN Bluetooth speakers inexpensive and work surprisingly well. i take them everywhere and people are always appreciative.

Hamilton Beach Set 'n Forget Programmable Slow Cooker With Temperature Probe, 6-Quart (33969A)

10/10, would buy again. The temperature probe is great if you're unsure about how long a recipe should be cooked. Just set the safe temperature and the slow cooker will automatically switch to "warm" after.

Morning ladies! I just got to work myself and I'm trying to savor my morning cup of coffee. I've narrowed down my current favorite cup to include Community Coffee breakfast blend, 1 tbsp of heavy cream, 1 scoop of Vital Proteins unflavored collagen, and 1 tbsp Skinny Syrups sugar free chocolate caramel truffle (found on my last Marshalls run). It's pretty much my only caffeine for the day since my sleep suffers if I have any in the afternoons and I'm trying to kick my diet soda dependence.

I can't wait to get cooking this weekend, I scored an 8 qt Instant Pot for $80 on Black Friday and I don't know what I should make with it first! I've been eyeing the Instant Pots for the past two years when they go on sale and this year I finally pulled the trigger since I've only heard great things from people who have one.

Unrelated to Keto I've been trying to work on recognizing when I let my anxiety get the best of me, it happens a lot. I tend to do this thing where I implode when I've got something good going, whether it be professional or personal success (my anxiety doesn't discriminate). I usually don't know that's what's happening until the dust of my mini meltdown seems to settle and that's definitely what happened last week with me and the guy I was talking to, my brother called me out on that shit (like any good brother would). I'm not too proud to admit when I'm wrong so I had an honest as hell conversation with the dude and god bless him he's still willing to talk to me. I'm tired of letting my anxiety ruin things for me, at least I'm starting to realize when I've done something dumb so I can deal with it but I'd prefer to recognize that's what's happening before I self destruct... Also if my shark week could calm down with the crazy hormonal swings this week that would be great.

Not sure how good these deals are, but they're things I'd love as a vegan

Instapot for $90

Vegetable spiral slicer for $22

Cuisinart Food Processor for $180

Blendtec total blender classic for $400

* edit - it isn't amazon, but Fry's also has a 7/11 sale and has the Zojirushi Micom Rice Cooker & Warmer for $90 (after a promo code you get if you sign up on their website). I hear this is the best rice cooker out there.

Honestly, I never would have bought one for myself because I have all those tools already. It was a Christmas gift from my son and ohmygod I use the hell out of it! I haven't used my crockpot, pressure or rice cooker since Christmas and after sucessfully making yogurt in it in January, I'm convinced it's the greatest kitchen gadget ever invented.

I am shocked at how often I use the thing! It's seriously an all-in-one appliance. I can brown my roast right in the instantpot and then set it to slow cook all day. No extra pans necessary. It has a delay start timer too. It is soooo much easier to clean than my crockpot or rice cooker. No idea who came up with this invention but it is amazing! I finally understand all those gushing review blog posts I'd been scrolling by and ignoring for years.

This is the one they bought me. 8 qt.

Interesting. I have a lot of Monoprice cables and they're definitely good bang for buck. I'd personally still wait a while and see what reviewers say before buying an appliance from them since that's rather a different animal than a cheap cable or adapter. I'd be interested in the vacuum sealer depending on the price point.

This Monoprice/Strata Home pressure cooker most closely competes with InstantPot IP-LUX, not to be confused with the IP Duo or higher tiers. The LUX (currently in its 3rd iteration) is $79 on Amazon already so not sure I'd risk an unproven model to save ten bucks, but that's just me.

I would have expected MP to price more competitively since that's their whole thing, but maybe it'll drop down after launch. If not, might just be that electric pressure cookers are already pretty good value (which I kind of suspect, apart from the shiny Breville one).

Something to keep an eye on though! Interesting find.

And for $50 you can get one of these bad boys. For a little more you can even get a pressure cooker that takes like a fourth the time.

An Instant Pot would be useful.

I'll going to go in a different direction here and say "Insta-pot."

This is basically a pressure cooker combined with a Crock-Pot. You can cook fast or you can cook slow in the same pot. I do 2 workouts a day. The first one is in the morning before breakfast - the second one is after work.

I get home from work - I threw a bunch of meat and vegetables in the instapot and then I go train. The food is done by the time I finish exercising.

Nutritious Food is just as important as all the shit you throw on your bike.

Best of all, you can get it for $80 off Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01MFEBQH1/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1500579164&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=Instant+pot

Agreed... I use this lid on the pictured Rubbermaid container. I've done 24hours and didn't add a drop of water.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071L6PRY8/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

As a student on a budget/minimalist, this is what I own and use often when I cook.


Cookware:

• 
  Skillet (Use it for everything)
  
• 
  Saucepan + Cover (Sauces, soup for one, make rice)
  
• 
  Pot (More soup, boiling pasta)
  
• 
  Colander (Drain stuff)
  
• 
  Steamer basket (Steam veggies)
  
• 
  Baking dish (Bake stuff/serving dish)
  
• 
  Handheld blender (Blend sauces & soups, whip potatoes or parsnips)
  
• 
  Chef's knife (Cut everything)
  
• 
  Paring knife (With practice you can peel fruits or veggies)
  
• 
  Wooden spatula
  
• 
  Heavy wood cutting board
  
• 
  Plastic Spatula
  
• 
  Grater
  
• 
  Mixing bowl
  
• 
  Measuring cups/spoons
  
• 
  French press (Use to also brew tea)
  
• 
  Coffee grinder (Grind coffee beans and your own spices)
  
  
  
• 
  Mason jars: I use them for EVERYTHING. Store rice, spices, weed. Use as glasses, get the wide-mouth ones and stick the hand blender in there and make a smoothie or attached it to a normal blender. Use them as food containers to take to work/school, they are made to be spill-proof and microwave safe.
  
  Spices vary from person to person and what food they are comfortable with making, the one thing I do suggest is to buy kosher salt - none of that table salt crap. If you can find them whole and grind them yourself, even better!
  

I like this one. I love the handy probe that allows you to set the meat temperature. It's also large enough that you can fit just about anything.

The one I am constantly recommended is the Breville toaster oven.

http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW

Everyone seems to be asking all the wrong questions, and no one is giving you an answer.

For my wife and I, [this] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B008GS8R3K/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1495471094&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=1.5+quart+slow+cooker&dpPl=1&dpID=41A9X2qAIsL&ref=plSrch) makes enough soup for two servings (American, so consider large-ish servings), with one more serving for lunch the next day. We commonly use it for beans, small stews, and soups. It has about the same footprint as a toaster.

It's also great for making chicken or pork stock that we add to our dogs food.

Scaling up, [this] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003UCG8II/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1495471094&sr=8-1-spons&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=1.5+quart+slow+cooker&psc=1) is twice the size of the example above, and it's our workhorse. Everything from chicken tikka masala to soups to large amounts of stock. It works especially great if you prepare two weeks of meals ahead of time.

Finally, [this beast] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00S5HIN22/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1495471716&sr=8-7&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=7+quart+slow+cooker&dpPl=1&dpID=41UWiMWgVEL&ref=plSrch) is for huge family meals , and Chili cookouts.

There really is a slow cooker for every need, and they're not very expensive, incredibly energy efficient, and they make wonderful food

I believe this is the model I have, or the newer replacement model for it at any rate.

The super cheapo ones are just bimetalic strip controlled like straight out of the 60's, so if you go for a modern chip controlled one, it's a lot better quality. They use a fuzzy logic chip that looks for variables to match the condition of "done", so the timer on it is more a running estimate of time to completion, like a PC file copy.

They have different preset settings, for different types of rice, so it's looking for a different profile for brown rice vs white.
They even keep rice viable for hours, doubling as a vacuum flask/warmer. I have eaten rice 12-18hrs after it finished cooking, and it was still fine.

The feature set on any basic modern rice cooker is fantastic, because the super high end ones are nuts, and have been for long enough for features to trickle down to the base models.

NHK documentary for the curious.

I return things with nothing wrong with them for my work all the time. Not liking the product is sufficient enough reason in most cases. Worth a shot for sure. No need to spend a ton on a slow cooker; even if you only get a partial refund you can spend it on a cheaper one you'll likely be happier. I adore my $50 Hamilton Beach one.

I absolutely adore my Breville BOV800XL toaster oven.

http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW/ref=pd_sim_k_1

Costs a bit, but this was definitely my pick after searching around. Couldn't be happier. There's just two of us, and we do most of our baking/heating/broiling in this thing. Saves money, and doesn't heat up the whole kitchen when you just need a couple of chicken breasts or to broil a sandwich.

One caveat; If toast is important to you, this is not the greatest toaster in the world. It makes adequate toast at best. But as a small oven and a broiler, it absolutely rocks. Most powerful broiler you can buy in a toaster oven.

My dad called me once to say, "I got this thing called the Magic Bullet and I love it! You should get one!". It was an extremely uncomfortable couple of minutes before I realized that he meant this.

My recommendations from getting into cooking the past year or so. I'm not personally a stuffer but have accidentally gained weight with these two recipes, so figured I'd share.

For an actual meal- make broccoli cheddar soup. It has "soup" in the name, but good god. It's basically velveeta turned into a meal. If you don't have slow cooker... shame. Go buy one. They're cheap.

For dessert, or a meal (I'm an addict to this stuff)- pecan pie. It's basically just dark corn syrup, the pecans are just for flavor (and they have a ton of calories too). Use the classic recipe. The best part is that you only need to remember the corn syrup bit- the baking aisle of the grocery store, then the same recipe is on the corn syrup bottle.

This will do the trick, but is not healthy in any way at all.

I got this, it's dope:

Aroma Housewares 20 Cup Cooked (10 cup uncooked) Digital Rice Cooker

By the way, here is the rice cooker I have:

Zojirushi Rice Cooker

It's really pricey and I struggled to justify it at first, but it is one of my favorite kitchen gadgets. I used to hate making rice because it can be easy to mess up. This thing has what they call fuzzy logic and basically impossible to do wrong. Perfect rice every time.

Something like this?

https://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-25475A-Breakfast-Sandwich/dp/B00EI7DPOO

You should look into getting this. They also make a duel version that works just as good. Cleanup is really easy too.

I have a cheapie crock pot, it sucks in terms of temperature control unless the pot is nearly full. I think the cheap ones are completely open-loop (eg, don't have any temperature control at all).

It looks like you can buy some that do: https://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-Programmable-Temperature-33967A/dp/B00EZI26DW

You could try using a lamp-dimmer to control the power of it, maybe.

Failing that, keep the pot nearly full and don't use additional insulation on the pot like towels.

I have the Hamilton Beach Set it and Forget it 6 quart slow cooker.
I love it. I'd reccomend getting the 6 quart size even if you aren't cooking for a lot of people. It's very annoying to want to cook something in there and not have enough room, so 6 quarts has been pretty good for just about everything I want to put in there. I even once (barely) fit a whole chicken in that thing! Here's the amazon link:
http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-33969A-Programmable-6-Quart/dp/B00EZI26GO/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1404759563&sr=8-3&keywords=slow+cooker

I have a Hamilton Beach similar to lborloz's. I love the different settings and the temp probe. I highly recommend spending a few extra bucks!

I just ordered this instant pot model on amazon. Had been looking at one for awhile and prime day dropped the price below what I was going to spend on a lesser model.

Instant Pot DUO80 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker, 8 Quart/1200W https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B1VC13K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Tfnzzb670XC2C

You can scroll through them all day, literally.

This should show Amazon's pricing for the WiFi model over the last 6 months:
https://thetracktor.com/detail/B01HHWSV1S/us/

And the Bluetooth model:
https://thetracktor.com/detail/B00UKPBXM4/us/

The answer seems to be "somewhat often"?

(Edit: it shows 3 months of history by default, but you can change the amount of time shown in the graph. And sorry, I hadn't realized that your post title was a link to a similar site, so you already had the info that I linked to.)

I mean there is, but a dutch oven low and slow in the oven makes the house hot, requires the oven to be on the whole time, and still has an entry cost of the dutch oven.

The instant pot is a great appliance though, great idea. And right now the 6 quart is $49 on Amazon.

this instant pot is something I've been eyeing for a few months. I don't really NEED it, as I can just cook on the stove or oven easily , but I've heard they're really handy.

I've also been eyeing a kitchenaid stand mixer for years. I doubt I'll ever get it, but it would really be useful in all the frequent baking that I do. But hand mixers work too.... so not really a need lol.


That gif is... interesting.

Rubbermaid Commercial Space Saving Food Storage Container, 12 Quart, FG631200 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000R8JOUC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_e1XWzbAGQ9N55

EVERIE Collapsible Hinged Sous Vide Container Lid for Anova Culinary Precision Cookers, Fits 12,18,22 Quart Rubbermaid Container (Corner Mount) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071L6PRY8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_v2XWzb44FWEGD

I use this as container:

www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000R8JOUC/ref=ya_aw_oh_bia_dp?ie=UTF8&psc=1

And this as lid:

www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B071L6PRY8/ref=ya_aw_oh_bia_dp?ie=UTF8&psc=1

They work fine for me, and the price is good. I guess the lid could be a little thicker if I had to pick something but really I'm satisfied with my setup.

I lock the zipper part of my bag under the edge of the lid so I don't have to fish it out of the water.

Lol. Like Amazon did? (Which, to be clear, I think is also cool.)

I bought my parents one of the cheaper zojirushi cookers about 8 years ago now.


I would day it gets used at least once or twice a week and it's still working. So longevity is one thing.


The more important thing for my family, though, is just the quality of the rice. It's difficult to explain but the texture of the rice is better. I suppose it might depend on your specific preferences but for me, the rice is softer (and in a different way than just adding more water which would also make it musher and wetter) and fluffier. It might be similar to if you've had a frozen meal (i.e. frozen burrito) done in the microwave (cheap cooker) vs the oven (expensive cooker). The end product is similar and from the same thing but the one done in the oven isn't soggy with a bad texture.


In addition to the rice quality which, in my opinion, is worth it alone, there's a bunch of other bells and whistles to the cookers. There's usually a bunch of other cook settings like for different types of rice or grains or foods (i.e. brown rice, half and half, porridge, steamed vegetables). Also, the warm setting is done very well. A few of the other cheaper brands I've had with a warm button end up overcooking/hardening/drying out the rice (esp. On the bottom of the pot) after an hour or so but the zojirushi keeps it warm and still cooked well for 8+ hours after cooking.

One funny thing is that the rice cooker can play a few different songs when it's done cooking rather than just beeping.

There's probably a bunch of other things that I've forgotten but I know it was definitely worth the money for how much rice my parents eat.

I would say, if you have some extra money to spare and eat rice more than once a week, you should invest in one! When I told my parents about how much I spent on it, they were a little skeptical but I know they'd never go back now.


Edit: I got my parents basically a slightly older version of this model. It might be a bit small for a larger family but it's more than large enough for my parents + me. I believe I got it on sale for about $110 or something like that.

Yes, get the basic 7 gallon brew bucket. Drill a hole in the lid with their drill bit. Add the bulkhead. Add a TC to ball lock gas post. Now you can do closed transfers.

I also love my Tilt and TiltPi running on a Pi Zero.

With all that cash you won't mind a large grain storage bin perfect for 50 pound grain sacks.

You can break down your pound bags of hops into smaller bags with a vacuum sealer.

Try an RO system and upgrade it with a 14 gallon pressure tank (can't find the link).

I like to make about 2x as many ribs as we'll eat. I take the left overs and seal them up with a vacuum sealer, then toss them in the freezer. When it's time to reheat a slab I just put the sealed bag in a large pot of simmering water. In 10 minutes or so they're ready and almost as good the one fresh off the grill.

This sealer is no frills and is only $26. It has lasted me a long time and uses generic bag rolls.


https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008HMWC4A?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf


I still use ziplocks and silicon bags for fish and burgers and stuff that doesn’t like to get smashed.

I got this one for $30, and have been perfectly happy with it. It's not great with liquids, but I've made it work just fine for everything I've used it for so far. The drip tray is big enough that you'd have to really do something wrong for it to overflow, and if it doesn't get a perfect seal because of liquid I just seal the very end a second time.

The $30 Seal A Meal on amazon has served me well for 2+ years if you don't want to wait for a sale.

This egg-muffin maker was the best drunk purchase my housemate ever made: https://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-25475A-Breakfast-Sandwich/dp/B00EI7DPOO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1486519227&sr=8-2&keywords=egg+muffin+maker

https://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-25475A-Breakfast-Sandwich/dp/B00EI7DPOO

I bought one of these recently and just used it for the first time. It works surprisingly well and it isn’t that hard to clean because the metal pieces in between the two heaters are removable.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00EI7DPOO?psc=1&ref=yo_pop_mb_pd_title

These are amazing.

I just got this bad boy to replace the one that broke. Had the same exact one, older model before and had no problems with it until I dropped and cracked the crock. Cost more to replace and ship the old one than a whole new one.

This is the best!

This is the one I use and like.

i bought this guy after reading reviews online


http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-33967A-Programmable-6-Quart/dp/B00EZI26DW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1454209920&sr=8-1&keywords=hamilton+slow+cooker

I have this crockpot and I love it.

It locks the lid down tight.

You can program it. So, if you need to cook something on high for 4 hours, just program it as such. Once the 4 hours is up, if you have not kicked it off, it will switch over to warm. This feature I really enjoy, because I can cook while sleeping or at work. Other crockpots you just say High or Low, and you have to watch the clock on it. I've burned quite a few things like this before.

I've never had any problems with it.

As far as recipes, I really like the Betty Crocker website. It gives you a tidy category at the top so you can easily scroll through whatever you're in the mood to try.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EZI26DW is what I have.


You'd have trouble finding one above $100. They really don't get too expensive.

I have this one and it works just fine. I like the fact that it comes with a temperature probe - it's really great for when I cook chicken and don't want to overcook it - but the downside is that the programming only goes up to 180F. So for tough pork and beef cuts, which typically reach maximum tenderness at 190F, it doesn't really work at all and the one time I tried to use it for pork shoulder I almost wrecked my meal.

Crockpot has a model with temperature reading as well though it looks like it's not a probe, so I'm not sure how well it works. There's also this one but it doesn't have a temperature reading at all so I'm not sure why it's more expensive...

Hamilton Beach slow cookers have always served me well. This particular model has a probe you can use for stuff like roasts or whole chickens to get them perfect, as well as your standard Low/High and time settings. One thing to note, even though the picture on amazon shows the clamps locked down, never lock them while cooking! It can cause a dangerous buildup of pressure that could result in shattering the glass. The clamps are only meant to secure the lid after cooking for transportation.

This is the one I have and I love it! It's super light weight (except for what you put in it of course) and the lid locks so it's easier to transport for pot lucks and things. It takes up quite a bit of room but I usually store it when I'm not using it. I'm a huge fan of crockpots because I usually run out of energy in the evenings but I do love to cook.

I have the same one. It has a program mode that switches to warm after your food is done cooking.

Amazon has a newer version of the same thing for $50 with free shipping (currently out of stock, but if you can wait)...

Pressure cooker are usually sold by volume capacity (quarts) with the largest commercially available cookers being 8qts.

Instant Pot is usually the first to be recommended. I have used a Power Cooker from Walmart just as successfully. Both should have a pot height that meets your needs.

I've seen 10qt options on Amazon but am not familiar with the brands.

Buy an 8 quart Instant Pot Duo on Amazon.com. It'll cost about $130, but it'll save you money.

Don't have the patience for dried beans? With an Instant Pot, you just toss stuff in and set the timer and walk away. You can even leave the house and come back hours later and it'll still be warm.

Beans usually take about an hour to cook (ten minutes or so to come to pressure, about half an hour to cook, and about twenty minutes to depressurize).

You don't even have to soak the beans. And that includes kidney beans, which normally need to be soaked because of toxicity, because the Instant Pot gets hot enough to break down the phytohaemagglutinin. (If you use a slow cooker, it doesn't get hot enough and the beans need to be soaked first.)

It cooks rice better than a rice cooker. It has a slow cooker setting. It also has a yogurt setting for making your own vegan yogurt.

You can toss in water, pasta, some vegetable boullion, some tomatoes, some frozen veggies, some mushrooms, and set it to cook for 5 minutes on high pressure, and in a half an hour you've got a big batch of pasta.

Chickpeas, lentils, beans of all kinds, split peas, and quinoa are all super cheap if you buy them dried.

And pressure cooked beans and chickpeas are so much better than canned. Canned chickpeas especially, since they get really creamy and soft.

Also, for us Canucks, the Joule isn't available in Canada (yet), while the Anova can be found on Amazon.ca.

I use the Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker WIFI http://amzn.to/2CpjW6A . That and a pot of water and you are good to go.

My picking my favorite Nomad is like picking a favorite child. That said, lately is has been a tie between the Fin de los Mundos. Esteli Lot 8613, and the Martial Law.

There has been only one other time the 900W WiFi version has been this low on Amazon; last Black Friday.. In the last 6 months, the lowest price is $150 and the average price is $183.86. The 800W Bluetooth only version can be regularly found for around $130 on Amazon though with an average price of $141.10.

Buy an Instant Pot. This is the one I have (no affiliate link): https://www.amazon.com/Instant-Pot-Multi-Use-Programmable-Stainless/dp/B01MFEBQH1

Behold the wonder that is an Instant Pot


It's basically an electric pressure cooker/slow cooker/rice cooker that can also make some cheesecakes and other things. The only reason I got it was because I can put it on and walk away and don't have to worry about falling asleep while it's on. :/

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MFEBQH1/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

Amazon is matching the price now!

EVERIE Collapsible Hinged Sous Vide Container Lid Compatible with Anova Culinary Precision Cooker and 12,18,22 Quart Rubbermaid Container (Corner Mount) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071L6PRY8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_su04CbZ7NHM2A

I use that lid, no need for refilling the water. I invested in that a few months ago along with the container and it has made my life so much easier for sous vide. When I'm not using it as a water bath it also doubles as a great brining/marinating vessel.

I got this one and it is great!

EVERIE Collapsible Hinged Sous Vide Container Lid Compatible with Anova Culinary Precision Cooker and 12,18,22 Quart Rubbermaid Container (Corner Mount)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071L6PRY8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_lOUQDbP7ZKZEX

You need this one for the anova:

https://www.amazon.com/EVERIE-Collapsible-Container-Compatible-Rubbermaid/dp/B071L6PRY8

I got the hinged version for $11. No cutting and no removing the whole cooker with the lid.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071L6PRY8/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I can definitely see it having some benefit to a niche group of people, but considering IoT features often provide wireless functionality that is useful to more than a small subset of people, it feels a bit superfluous to the average person.

The Amazon page seems to be catering to the average person, so while it could be very useful to someone that's blind or disabled, it doesn't seem to be the focus of the product.

Just wait until your office has an Alexa enabled microwave.... then this might become a more common issue.

https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Microwave-700W-Works-Alexa/dp/B07894S727/

​

Nop

https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Microwave-700W-Works-Alexa/dp/B07894S727

And its 60$ only 😭

The Amazon product page says:
> When you make popcorn using your voice or the Popcorn button, AmazonBasics Microwave will reorder when you run low.

I guess it's true that it's just keeping track of how much you make popcorn. So, you must have to tell it how much popcorn you have when you get it. What if (God forbid) I don't buy my popcorn from Amazon though? Doesn't seem like a very practical feature, though it's one of the main features they list.

First this

https://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-CSB-76BC-SmartStick-200-Watt-Immersion/dp/B000EGA6QI

then this

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0761KNS2R/ref=sspa_dk_detail_0?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B0761KNS2R&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=21517efd-b385-405b-a405-9a37af61b5b4&pd_rd_wg=Pvf9U&pf_rd_r=ZFK9RJ09QR642J7HMERQ&pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_t=40701&pd_rd_w=PNa12&pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&pd_rd_r=1dd00d34-e14f-11e8-b60a-abe4f6597a9c

This looks amazing! If you do purees like this occasionally, I recommend looking into getting an immersion blender (example). Got one of these as a gift, and it's now one of my favorite kitchen gadgets. Makes large blend jobs way easier with less cleanup. Bonus: it's much smaller than a traditional blender.

For abs, I've found that the P90x "ab ripper x" workout is great. I've gotten a lot more ab definition after doing it for just one month. You can download all the videos on the pirate bay, then do the ab workout three times a week (every other day). It doesn't use weights, so you can just do it in your room. Also, if you want to change it up, doing static holds, or "planks," are really useful.

Yeah, for other stuff, push-ups, pull-ups, etc. are all great. You could try putting two chairs together back to back about a foot apart, and doing dips, keeping your legs raised behind you. Pull-ups with a wide grip are a great back workout. You can also look for things to curl for biceps, and do lying skull-crushers for triceps or the one where you put your feet up on something like your bed, hold a chair behind you, then dip your body down to the ground and back up for triceps.

Any time of day is great to work out. However, I find that I am able to lift heavier weights at night when my body has some food in it and I'm not tired and just woken up. Morning may be better for cardio if you want to do both (this becomes important when you start eating more food--otherwise you'll add muscle, but fat will come as well and you won't look ripped). Swimming is a great option for cardio. An added advantage for you is that swimming can help put on bulk all over, especially upper body. The fly stroke especially helps bulk up shoulders.

As for food, make sure to eat a lot of protein at all times whenever you are working out. If you can't change your diet, try ordering protein powder or bars to supplement your protein intake from real food. I have found that ON, or Optimal Nutrition, has great whey protein powder. I like the banana cream flavor. Take one scoop as soon as you wake up, and another after working out. With bars, try to get ones that are natural--Organic Food Bar is a great option that I like. I try to stay away from ones that are packed with sugar or sugar alcohol (look on the nutrition facts), but some people just care about how many grams of protein it has. As for food, you can also get tons of protein from eggs--you can eat as many whites as you want, but not more than one or two yolks per day because of the cholesterol--chicken breast, tuna, whatever your school has available that is high in protein. Try to never go a couple hours without some protein intake.

Since you ask specifically about protein shakes, I'll tell you what I do that is really healthy and delicious in my opinion. I use a single serving blender, specifically this one. I put in a little skim milk, then a scoop of protein powder, a high protein fruit yogurt (ones that say "low carb" fit this category), then some frozen fruit, a little oatmeal to give it some texture (and it's healthy), and finally some egg whites.

The advantage of working out at your age is that your gains will remain as you get older. I think around age 18 or 19 your body kind of "sets," which is why skinny guys can start working out after that age and it's always an uphill battle, but people who did lifting in high school and got bulky and strong can stop lifting weights, and they'll still be strong years later. Getting in top shape right before and at that age, then, will really help give you a good body for years to come, especially if you keep up good habits.

Good luck!

We also got this little blender which is great. It's small so just enough for one glass and it's easy to make a 2nd for your spouse. It's also plastic and not much harder to clean than a cup. Much easier than a typical blender. I've used this one more in 2 weeks than all other blenders in my life combined. Good way to add fruit to diet too.

I just ordered a crock pot (this one if anyone else is thinking the same http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-Forget-6-Quart-Programmable/dp/B001AO2PXK/ref=sr_1_1?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1311702260&sr=1-1) just so I can make this. Once it arrives and I come some up I will report back, thanks for the recipe!

I have been very happy with my Hamilton Beach 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker


Edit I just saw the uk part of your post, this product is currently not available on amazon.co.uk :( sorry about that.

Came here to say the same, you need more tech in the kitchen... I just got this slow cooker and you can do so much more than just stews, soups, and chilis... this has a meat thermometer so you can do whole roast chickens, pot roasts etc. and it turns itself to 'warm' mode when it's done.

I also got this book to go with it and love it, but there are loads of recipes for free online.

http://allrecipes.com/Recipes/Main-Dish/Slow-Cooker/Main.aspx

http://www.slowandsimple.com/

I went to Amazon and ordered the cooker with the best reviews. It is awesome. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001AO2PXK/ref=wms_ohs_product

Here is the one I have:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001AO2PXK/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1374773312&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY190
It's kind of expensive but you could get a cheaper version without a timer and meat probe.
I like it because it has a timer that will cut the pot over to "warm" after however many hours you set it for. I am at work or commuting 11 hours a day so I need that, but you may not if you're not gone longer than 5-6 hours.
I also like that it has a meat probe. Sometimes I cook a whole chicken in it and set it to cut to "warm" once the chicken is at 165 degrees. Hope that helps!

Get yourself a Breville toaster oven - they're the best and completely replaced my electric oven for months when the one in our apartment died. They also have a mini one if you don't want to spend the full $250, I think the mini is $150. Here's the link to the full size http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1462903134&sr=8-2&keywords=breville+toaster+oven

How does this compare to the Breville? http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW/ref=zg_bs_289937_2

Other than the insane difference in price? Is it worth it?

One of my favorites is an electric griddle. I also have a cast iron one I enjoy, but I do like the fact I can cook "away" from the stove. There are a number of them out there, but the more real estate the better.

We also added a toaster oven like this http://amzn.com/B001L5TVGW I cannot speak to the BIFL, but it is built well and I use it for 95% of my baking (I can get a Calphalon 9x13 in there with no problem).

Speaking of Calphalon, I have been infinitely pleased with their cookware and bakeware. Their baking pans are amazing and should really last.

Yay! I'm so excited that you're getting your own place! That's such a good feeling!

/u/Pinalope4Real and /u/dnd1980

Startup an excel spreadsheet and make a budget for yourself. I find that once I have a budget setup I pay even more attention to my money and figure out new ways to save. I have helped my roommate and my boyfriend setup a budget. :o)

The meat market can save you sooo much money and make you more conscious about the items you are buying and motivate you to cook more.

Crockpots are awesome and help you save time during the week. I know you work from home, but ready-made food throughout the week is awesome!

The Magic Bullet or Nutribullet are both great to have in the home for smoothies! Of course you can blend other items in the cups as well.

I have this Himalayan Salt Lamp and I love it. I also have this Himalayan Salt Candle Holder....actually everything I'm linking you is something that I own and love, something I have experience with, or a similar model (the crock pot was a random model) lol


Oh and this tea because it's delicious.

I used a Magic Bullet blender.

• 2 scoops whey (46g), 1 cup Greek yogurt [twice the protein of normal yogurt] (17g), 1+ cup 2% milk (< 11g), few leaves off the chard [spinach is good too] out front, handful of strawberries n blueberries = 74g protein.
  
  
• 4 eggs (20g), 12 slices turkey lunch meat (24g), some cheese (6g), some milk = 50g+ protein. + salsa bravo. microwave ~3.5 min, stirring every minute.
  
  
• 1 big can-o-tuna[12oz] (~55g), 5oz can-salmon (20g), dijon mustard, creamy horseradish, lemon pepper, dill = 75g. + bread and salsa bravo.
  
  Those are my major protein sources. I highly recommend getting a Magic Bullet or a Nutri Bullet, they make it really quick and only 1 thing to clean.

My brain went to this one. I promise I don't do anything horrible to my SO's penis.

I dont add bananas or half & half usually because I use a Magic Bullet and there isn't much room. I put in a half cup of ground up oats, with a scoop of whey, honey, and 2 spoonfuls of peanut butter. Then fill the rest with milk. I have 2 of these 12 oz shakes a day. I think it ends up being around 600 calories per shake.

Magic Bullet MBR-1701 17-Piece Express Mixing Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001WAKFDY/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_bOC9ub1TZHJAA

Just in case someone was wondering what a magic bullet was

Gift one: I am trying to eat more fruits and vegetables because I have a horrible diet, so I could really use this [magic bullet blender] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001WAKFDY/ref=aw_ls_3_3?colid=ML6ULZUZETBP&coliid=I3JL5PPSXDMF5E). My sister gave me one for my wedding, but my friend, while drunkenly trying to make a mixed drink, broke it before I ever got to use it, and I am too nice to make her buy me a new one.


Gift two: [eyeshadow primer] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0028RC5N8/ref=aw_ls_3_6?colid=2VP6W0Y8EUYU&coliid=I114KYNRNCVO5V) would be awesome! C'mon...gimme.

Assuming you aren't drinking alcohol frequently, good job.

Use MyFitnessPal to start tracking EVERY piece of food that you eat. Fast food nutrition isn't going to be super accurate (Which is another reason why you shouldn't eat it) but definitely track it.

Consider buying a cooler box so that your lunch stays fresh in the car.

Use the cafeterias! I don't have any idea what they serve or the quality so you need to use your own judgement. Do they have healthy options? If so, load up there instead of at ChikFilA.

Grilling chicken is easy and delicious. I like to get a pack of chicken, soak them in worcester sauce with some salt, pepper, lemon, and garlic. Grill em and store the leftovers. Serve with rice or veggies. For the week throw em on a couple slices of whole wheat bread with some olive oil and salt or a little mustard/ketchup/mayo.

Check Amazon for crockpots (They are cheap). Here is the extremely simple chili recipe. I reccomend putting 2.5lbs of meat instead of 1.25lbs


I wish you the absolute best of luck on your fitness journey. If you have a long way to go, you didn't post your numbers, you definitely should take pictures of yourself now. You will not recognize yourself in a few months if you don't!

No soup for you!

we dont eat a lot of steak in our house. were more chicken people. so my favorite dish is chicken casserole with broccoli and rice.

/u/stillneverwrong ill have dinner with you since youre on the front page right now

a slow cooker is kitchen related

Thank you both for the contest, you are awesome! As always, looking like beautiful human beings. :)

1. I would love this crock-pot so I can cook meals while I'm away. It would make my evening meal time so much simpler. If I get into PA school in the fall, I'll need it to cook while I'm away at class and studying, but if I don't get in, I'll still need it to cook for me while I'm away at work.
   
   
2. C'mon...gimme these water filters for my aquarium. I placed my last filter in the tank a few weeks ago, and it could probably use a change by now.
   
   Thanks again for the contest! :D

Like a lot of people, I've been trying to eat healthier. There's a Crockpot on my apartment list that would be great for meal prepping. Right now I've been packing lunches to take to work, but being able to cook a big batch on weekends would be easier. Mostly, I see it being used for work day meals, so there's a home cooked meal waiting when I get back. It can be hard to find the energy to cook after a long day.

I've seen /u/mynthe around, and she is always so encouraging to everyone. Thanks!

This guy, but the digital one with the timer. Got a good deal on Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/Crock-Pot-SCCPVL600S-6-Quart-Portable-Stainless/dp/B003HF6PUO

Consider a 7 or 8 quart - because: I often get brisket or pork shoulder (pork butt) from Costco. I have a 6 quart and trying to stuff a 6-7 pound piece of meat into the 6 quart is difficult. With a 7 or 8 quart it would be easier.

• 6 Quart: http://www.amazon.com/Crock-Pot-SCCPVL600S-6-Quart-Portable-Stainless/dp/B003HF6PUO
  
• 7 Quart: http://www.amazon.com/Crock-Pot-SCV700SS-7-Quart-Manual-Stainless/dp/B003OAJGJO
  
• 8 Quart: http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-33182A-Cooker-8-Quart/dp/B00EZI26C8
  
   
  
  The above crock pots are manual. I've had my manual crockpot for 10+years. I'm sure the programmatic's are nice and have some cool features. With manual I think less moving parts, less chance of breakage, easily fixed if it broke. The other benefit to the manual is if you get into the latest cooking fashion: 'sous-vide', you can use your manual crock pot for it, you can't use a programmatic.
  
   
  
  For sous-vide you would adapt your crock pot with something like this:
  
  
• ($99) http://www.dorkfood.com/
  
• As opposed to a dedicated sous-vide device ($199): http://www.amazon.com/Anova-Sous-Vide-Immersion-Circulator/dp/B00GT753W8/
  
   
  
  What's Sous-Vide?
  
  
• http://www.citizensousvide.com/
  
• http://modernistcuisine.com/2013/01/why-cook-sous-vide/

I wouldn't recommend less than 4.5 Quart for size people like to cook for parties and have left overs. Anything less than 4.5 would be too small for me.

They have programmable slow cookers which cook for the time set and then automatically set to warm after the time is up good for someone who works all day and can't watch it. If your mom is typically home all day you could get away with a 3 setting one low high and warm.

Also if your mom goes over to friends houses often with food they sell the travel slow cookers with latching lids for transport.

The brand Slow Cooker are good also Hamilton beach is a good company.

locking lid NOT programmable

Locking lid and programmable

Standard slow cooker no frills comes with dipping sauce warmer

basic slow cooker

So basically you can purchase on what you think your moms needs are Its not a bad idea to go for the programmable locking one since its a gift but when I buy for myself I typically want to save the most money possible and get the cheaper one but they will all cook the food the same.

You can get one for about $20-30 off Amazon. This is the one I own

worth the investment. This should be good for you. It's 20 bucks. Tons of recipes for it. but for now I'll still hook you up.

Whole wheat pasta

can of diced tomatoes

fresh (little cannister) minced garlic

olive oil

red pepper flakes

italian seasoning.

parmesan.

Cook pasta until your desired tenderness I like mine chewy. Add a small amount of olive oil and garlic(1 tablespoon maybe) in a skillet. Let it start popping and then add diced tomatoes(draining is optional but that's what I do). Cook the tomatoes and add the pasta. I use red pepper flakes to taste because I like my things with a kick. Same with the italian seasoning.

Cheap meal and takes less than 20 minutes to make. Add chicken breast if you want some meat.

Calories:

under 300 if you measure your pasta correctly.

It's electric, no oven required.

It basically cooks food for a long time at a low temperature. Great for stews and soups, also rice pudding is pretty great. It required a lot of moisture, so you're limited to a certain type of dish, but it's awesome in that you dump in ingredients in the morning, and by the evening you have dinner. Also, they're cheap.

Ex: http://www.amazon.com/Crock-Pot-SCR300SS-3-Quart-Manual-Stainless/dp/B003UCG8II/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1426818483&sr=8-2&keywords=slow+cooker

Recipies: http://allrecipes.com/recipes/everyday-cooking/slow-cooker/

My boyfriend and I purchased a Ninja Prep Master set-up for around $30 at Walmart on Black Friday two years ago. Blades are still incredibly sharp after two years of heavy use although we accidently broke the smaller container somehow as the bottom as a small crack in it. I still use the larger container for blending for almost everything. Sauces come out velvety and smooth, chops very clean but leans toward more of a mince if blended too long (depends on your food item, too.) It does blend very quickly and evenly, so when using it I recommend in trying to use small bursts to get the consistency you want and plan ahead. It has one button, using one speed but if you are good with timing, it's worth the price. http://www.amazon.com/Ninja-QB900B-Master-Revolutionary-Drink/dp/B003XU3C7M/ref=sr_1_5?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1372350187&sr=1-5&keywords=blenders

If you are looking for something more variety, speed control and want a good value, Oster is very good quality for not a lot of money: http://www.amazon.com/Oster-BVCB07-Z-Counterforms-7-Speed-Stainless/dp/B002RBXHSC/ref=sr_1_4?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1372350187&sr=1-4&keywords=blenders I have used Oster in the past and no complaints save for the motor dying but that model was over 10 years old!

I hope this helps!

I got a ninja that has the blender part that goes on the top. No worry about it leaking or cracking from he heat build up. Had both happen and with a magic bullet having your bpc all over the floor and your uniform at 3am before going to work sucks balls big time.

This one is what I have

https://www.amazon.com/400-Watt-Processor-Blending-Chopping-QB900B/dp/B003XU3C7M/ref=mp_s_a_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1540992846&sr=8-12&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=ninja+blender

they are so easy to clean! this is what i got from walmart and i use almost every day

They probably have one of these toasters, that way they can affirm that they have seen him:

http://www.amazon.com/Burnt-Impressions-The-Jesus-Toaster/dp/B0042QRYO8

We want this one.

Don't get a set. Get individual pieces you'll reach for daily.

I live all by myself, but I like to make 3 - 4 servings of whatever I'm cooking at once, and then portion it out for the week, so that I don't spend a fortune eating out.

https://www.amazon.com/Simply-Calphalon-Nonstick-Jumbo-Deep/dp/B001ASBBSG/
This is my favourite pan. In this one, I make pasta (it holds enough water for 1 lb of pasta), I can make soup, I can make pilaf, I can do stir-fries, I can make crepes and pancakes, and it cheerfully handles it all with no problems. The nonstick is good, although you do need a bit of fat to get things moving. I never run it through the dishwasher. Only hand wash with a soft sponge, and some dawn, and everything is fine. I only use wood or silicon utensils. So far, it's been a year, and it's held up great.

https://www.amazon.com/Anolon-Nouvelle-Stainless-2-Quart-Covered/dp/B00H273JYI/
This is a saucier. On the rare off occasion that I want a pot of ramen, or to make a tiny quantity of something, this is perfect. It's also great as a bean pot. When I make a pot of beans, I don't need a giant quantity. I just need enough for me to each lunch a few times. This is just the right size for me.

With those two pots alone, you can cook the vast majority of what you need on a day to day basis. I would suggest getting a rice cooker.
https://www.amazon.com/Aroma-Housewares-uncooked-Exterior-ARC-150SB/dp/B0055FSN0Y/
This one is the best one I've used, and I've used a LOT of rice cookers.

If you want a small frying pan for breakfast dishes and the like, this one's good:
https://www.webstaurantstore.com/7-non-stick-aluminum-fry-pan/407FRYPANNS7.html
Very cheap, lasts long enough, and easy to use.

https://www.amazon.com/Equinox-Professional-Chefs-Knife-Protective/dp/B00ZHO50FY/
I have had this knife for 2 years, and it's still going strong. It feels a lot more expensive than it really is. For $15, the thing is super sharp, and does a great job on my chopping needs.

For cutting boards, size matters.

https://www.amazon.com/Premium-Organic-CONCEPT-Eco-Friendly-Kitchenware/dp/B01DUZMBP8/
It's solid, it's beautiful to look at, and a pleasure to use.

You two should invest $40 in a decent rice cooker and never have this problem again. (Also, no need to drain rice in a colander). I just saved your marriage, you’re welcome.

wtf? She needs to chill the fuck out.

If a white person asked me, or my SIL (who is also Asian) would we just laugh at the question and point to this Amazon link (https://www.amazon.com/Aroma-Housewares-uncooked-Exterior-ARC-150SB/dp/B0055FSN0Y)

This one has served me well.

i have a combo cooker (rice cooker and slow cooker) so saves you space and $

edit: this one https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0055FSN0Y/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This is what I have. Rice cooker and steamer. One of my best investments. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0055FSN0Y/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Seconding the Zojirushi. Lived in Japan where the rice cooker and water heater are everywhere. Saved up and purchased the rice cooker after going through 2 disappointing rice (not super cheap ones) and it's just heaven. It makes perfect rice every time. The one I have is not large and came with a steaming basket.

This is the model I purchased.

Base: Protein powder, milk, rolled oats

optionals: frozen blueberries, spoonfuls of peanut butter, bananas...dont be afraid to experiement.

Also, it helps that Syntha-6 tastes amazing all by itself...

Also, use a hand blender. Something like this It's my most used appliance.

Good point, sparxout. Everyone needs an Immersion Blender, especially a college student. They are cheap and very handy!

I like my Cuisinart (I have the older version of this one)

I’m going to be that guy and give you an answer that doesn’t actually address your question. We did the research too when moving to solids and found that nothing really replaced the price and peace of mind of making our own food at home.

I’d steam some peas, carrots, broccoli, whatever vegetable and mix it with a little bit of apple sauce or avocado and blitz the whole this with a hand blender like this one:

https://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-CSB-76BC-SmartStick-200-Watt-Immersion/dp/B000EGA6QI

Doesn’t take any time at all and you can make a couple of batches that will keep for about 5-days. Little dude loved it and it didn’t break the bank.

EDIT to add we also would do chicken or beans/lentils in the purée to make sure everything was balanced.

Unless you have reason to specifically want a blender, I'd opt for an immersionn blender. This is the one I have and other than being crap at smoothies (it doesn't do so well with ice) it's powered through everything I've put it to.

https://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-CSB-76BC-SmartStick-200-Watt-Immersion/dp/B000EGA6QI

One big advantage of a stick blender over a blender is that you can just stick it into the pot you're making the soup in and blend. Then to clean it just repeat in a bowl of soapy water. No dealing with having to blend hot liquids in a blender jug - that never goes well for me.

best thing I have found is an immersion/hand blender.

Then mix it with whatever you want.

• Crystal light
  
• Instant Coffee
  
• Gatorade mix

I was looking into getting one for myself.
Consumer Search seems to think highly of the Cuisinart. Amazon Link.
I haven't bought it yet, so I can't tell you much about it.

I've had this since the beginning of June and use it at least a couple times a week without issue.

I've been using this for almost 2 years now
http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-51101B-Personal-Blender/dp/B0017XHSAE/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1404787665&sr=8-4&keywords=blender

cheap, off amazon, has never had issues, small and portable, and works on the go too.

disclaimer: I only use this to mix milk, protein powder, and creatine.

I cannot comment on its success in mixing ice cubes, fruit, veggies, etc. but I'm sure in the thousands of reviews someone has an opinion.

I like to eat. XD I know, I know. But I'm trying to eat healthy in college. SO This blender can help me do just that!

ZOMG We Need this! Really, we need it for smoothies. Me because my blender is evil and it hurts my hands, you because smoothies are delicious.

Edit: I looked quickly since the time was approaching, but I looked again and I really do need this. I didn't even know it was a thing. Geez, I can't look at kitchen things without finding something I need.

You should check out something like this since it's small, cheap (but has good reviews), and doubles as a cup. Since you're a student, you're eligible for free Amazon prime if you're not already signed up for it.

My recommendation

Woohoo, congratulations to you! Start packing anything you don't need, it's super helpful. Also, maybe I'm just OCD but I label all the boxes for what room they're supposed to go in: bathroom/kitchen/BR1/BR2 etc...it helps, a lot!

I would love this personal blender. Helps me eat healthy on the run!

Home Sweet Home

Thanks for the contest!

I have a "Getting Healthy" wishlist!

The personal blender and infuser bottle would probably be the most help for me in the immediate future. :) Great contest!

I have this blender and have to say it rocks! I never wanted to do shakes because I just had a normal blender here, and they're too annoying to clean. With that thing I just put some soapy water in it right after I'm done and pulse it for a little.

As for cooking, it really isn't hard. Just get your protein in and stick with it. I've been eating 6 eggs scrambled with ham and cheese with 4 pieces of toast everyday for 2 weeks now, and equally large lunches and dinners but I still weigh the same. So just stick with it, and eat a lot of peanut butter.

It looks lame, but trust me, you'll be happy you got one.

If you have an Iphone 4 or 4S

A little big, but can store a lot

For when friends come over

Because sometimes you need to take a break

For whipping up healthy drinks

The obvious accessory to most college dorms

Retractable extension cord

A little expensive, but c'mon...

Make lots of friends in the most childish way possible

And finally, the most important thing of all...

Would you like a falafel with that?

I firmly feel that when I'm on the actual date, I should pay for everything. It's just a personal satisfaction that I get knowing she doesn't need to worry about spending her money to have a good time with me.

However, if I had a girlfriend that had a source of money (hell, even if she didn't), then I would make her buy stuff that she wants on her own.

Like I said, if we were on a date or shopping together and she found something she liked, I would probably buy it for her. But I would not just hand her a wad of cash so she can go splurge out in Von Mar with her friends, and I sure as hell wouldn't like it if she expected me to buy her something just because she needed it. Like a blender on Amazon, for example.

It's a little shitty that she doesn't buy you any little gifts too. Even though guys won't ever admit it, we like those little gifts coming from a girl we really like. Even if we won't ever use it, it's still a nice thought.

From what you're saying, it doesn't seem to be a deal-breaker issue, but more of an annoyance (and a potential money problem). I would just tell her that you don't mind spending money on her, but you only have so much. Tell her that you love to buy her lunches and dinners and stuff like that, but you can't continue to buy her mundane stuff like blenders and microwaves just because yours broke. Say that you don't mind finding her a good deal, but it's going to have to be her cash that buys it, simply because you don't have it.

Also, about the blender. I don't know how exquisite it needs to be, but this one looks pretty good, and you can get it for under ten bucks. It even travel sized!

Your'e gonna want some awesome new knives.

this to keep all your cords in place.

this so you don't have trouble plugging in all your stuff.

this can be used to keep track of all the tiny pieces (e.g. batteries, screws, etc.).

I personally use this everyday, it's the best.

these to keep you clean.

everyone needs one of these.

gotta put all the shoes somewhere.

something like this will come in handy.

It's the small details that count.

this could help when moving everything in.

And then get one of these bad boys for you!

okay I think I put enough for now, hope it helps.

I would suggest getting a Crock-Pot if you are up for it. I currently have http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-Forget-6-Quart-Programmable/dp/B001AO2PXK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1312332306&sr=8-1 and it is definitely one of my best kitchen investments. There are tons of cheap and healthy meals that you can cook in a large batch. I tend to freeze half and eat the rest over the course of a week and it's perfect.

This could be your problem. I had the same problem when I bought a Crock Pot branded slow cooker from a pretty well named store. Took it back and spend 30 bucks more for a nice Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker/pressure cooker with latches. Everything comes out perfect now!

I have heard that some of the newer ones do tend to run "hot," but I haven't had that problem. I also always cook my food on low for 7-9 hours instead of on high.

I recently bought a new one that I absolutely love, off Amazon.
Mine is $49, with the lid that clamps down so you can travel with it: http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-33967-6-Quart-Programmable/dp/B001AO2PXK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1345472575&sr=8-1&keywords=Hamilton+Beach+33967+Set+%27n+Forget+6-Quart+Programmable+Slow+Cooker

But they also make one that isn't for travel that's only $40:
http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-33966-6-Quart-Programmable/dp/B000GHGKXS/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1345472575&sr=8-3&keywords=Hamilton+Beach+33967+Set+%27n+Forget+6-Quart+Programmable+Slow+Cooker

It's programmable and super easy to use. I love mine.

Just a word of caution...

I have this one, but it sometimes turns off without my approval. I've ruined stuff with it, so I only use it when I am home. More recently, I have been experimenting with my sous vide for my slow cooking fix.

edit: after d12anoel's reply, I checked with amazon. visit amazon and select the negative reviews.

I absolutely can post a grocery list… because I need one or I forget things/buy too much/buy too little. I made this list awhile back to keep track of what (and how much of it) gets used in an average week.

Making a list is a very good habit to get into (IMO), especially if you’re buying a lot of perishable foods. Some items are sold in quantities that will easily carry over and last into the following week, so I adjust as needed.

A few things to keep in mind:

My focus is high volume (ultradistance) endurance training, not strength training, so my diet is heavy in the carbs department (oats, bread, pasta, potatoes).

I have myself, two kids (one teen w/adult appetite) and my husband to feed. I’ve struck out the few items that are strictly for my kids/husband. Half of the soup & bread plus some of the eggs is for them, too.

My kids are picky eaters and I don’t like making two meals (one for adults, one for kids). I can usually only get vegetables into them in the form of soup, chili and pasta sauce, so those get heavy rotation.

The list is not tight-budget-friendly and because I have the time for prepping everyting in advance, I do so. You can save a lot of time by buying frozen veggies or even pre-cooked frozen meat (chicken/beef strips), but it’s more expensive that way.

To give you an idea of where all of that food goes… mostly into me. My husband is content to have the same damned thing for breakfast every morning and he buys his lunch Mon-Fri. He is currently dieting to lose weight, so I have a somewhat different list now (and my kids hate me because I make them eat green things).

Breakfast: Some combination of oatmeal, cream of wheat, French toast or egg omelet w/bagel + yogurt + fruit (which I also snack on through the day or blend into smoothies).

Lunch: Sandwich (w/shredded chicken, lots of veggies, pressed cottage cheese or cheddar) + salad (topped with yogurt or cottage cheese, non-junky trail mix and berries/pomegranate). Alternatively soup + salad... sometimes all 3.

Dinner: 2x Chili (once with Tortilla chips topped with cheese, onion, green pepper; broiled to melt), 2x pasta (with salad on the side), 1-2x stir fry (sometimes vegetarian, usually with chicken) and rice, 1-2x chicken with baked, broiled or mashed potatoes + veggies.

How I make my chili (slow cooker):

Brown 2lbs lean ground beef, slice/dice 3 stalks celery, 1 green pepper, 1 white onion, add 2 tins Alymer’s tomatoes (do not drain water), 1 can red kidney beans (do not drain water), 2 tins mushrooms (fresh mushrooms fall apart; DO drain water), garlic, salt, pepper, 2 packages chili seasoning (Old El Paso/Clubhouse), stir. High to prepare in 4 hours, low to set and forget (8-10hrs). Takes about 20 min to prepare to cook. I store leftovers in the removable cooking pot.

How I make spaghetti sauce (slow cooker):

2lbs lean ground beef, 3 stalks celery, 2 tins Alymer’s tomatoes (drain about 3 quarters of the water), 1 sm can tomato paste, 2 tins canned pasta sauce, 1 diced green pepper, 1 diced onion, 4-5 lg fresh mushrooms, 5 cloves garlic, salt, pepper, basil, oregano, 1 tsp sugar, stir. Same cooking/storage instructions as above. Yeah… I have 2 slow cookers (one was a gift when we already had one).

Handy/helpful appliances: Kitchen grill with removable/reversible plates, rice cooker, BIG slow cooker.

Prep work:

Veggies:

This is the most time consuming prep (1-2hrs). It also requires a fair amount of tupperware. I make sure I have plenty of counter space, I wash my sinks/counter and rinse/wash everything thoroughly. I chop everything up to the appropriate size and use a lettuce spinner to dry off anything that doesn't last long when wet (mushrooms, lettuce, fruit). I add a fair amount of lemon juice (I transfer it to a spray bottle) to any sliced fruit to keep it from turning brown (also works on cucumber; added before spinning).

I store it all by meal/dish with lettuce kept separate to keep it dry. If lettuce is kept dry, it will last through the week. If it’s moist, three days, tops. You can mix most veggies together by meal with the exception of sliced tomatoes.

Same with fruit, which I usually sort by berries, grapes and "other" – other requiring lemon juice to keep.

I didn't include it under breakfast groceries, but I also tend to mix some finely chopped green pepper, green onion, tomato and mushrooms for omelets. I don't use the whole tomato, though. I just use the solid pieces, mixing the wet part with more green onion, chives and some olive oil to use as a topping on souvlaki (stored in its own small container).

Meat/poultry:

I rarely stray from chicken/turkey. I sort of suck at cooking anything else.

I tend not to cook most of it in advance these days as I have more time than I used to, but I was much more pressed for time a few years back. It can be a little dry after a few days in the fridge, so it's best to put any pre-cooked chicken into a dish that moistens it up. As a standalone, it takes less than 10 minutes to grill (because the kitchen grill cooks from the top and bottom) and a whole chicken can be put in a slow cooker if you feel for it or roasted if you've got the time.

I use the serrated plate of the kitchen grill or barbecue to cook it and keep it in two separate tupperware containers: One is for shredded chicken (sandwiches). The other is for strips/cubes (destined for stir fry or chicken caesar salad). It’s much easier to shred/slice when cold.

I've found for all the things that sit on your counter Amazon is a good resource. For each thing you could want there is typically a fairly decently priced set that is very highly reviewed. Such as these knives and this slow cooker.

I can't help you much with "healthy" food choices, I like meat :)

cheapest would be the happiest little country bumpkin to get this new/used. Thanks for the contest ;-)

This thing is great: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001AO2PXK/ref=wms_ohs_product?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I just bought this slow cooker. If you use the timer, it will cook for the time you set, and then switch to "warm."

I've been doing a lot of bread baking lately which ties up the oven for a solid hour right as we want other dishes cooking, so bought a standalone 'super toaster oven' as a second baking / roasting zone. Just a thought: http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW

Hi and thank you.

If you mean utensil like a spoon or spatula I can hold in my hand, it would be this silicone spatula. It's just the perfect size and shape to fit nicely in my hand and be useful for many dishes, from mixing to cooking. Not so much serving, but it is really good at what it does.

But if you meant anything I use in the kitchen that is not actual food, it would be the Breville Convection Oven. It is the perfect little oven, turning out great muffins, pizza, chicken, toast, leftovers... Truly, it is a powerhouse of awesome that we use constantly, and by constantly, I mean more than once every single day. And it doesn't heat up the whole kitchen. I can find no down sides to this thing, and that makes me happy.

I use a convection toaster oven. Line the pan with foil, put the bacon and italian sausage link on, and cook at 425 for 12 minutes.

http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW

Big stoves are great when you're trying to cook a turkey but if you just want to cook bacon this is way more efficient.

Glad I could help! If you're curious, the oven I'm using for this (and all my keto needs) is the Breville BOV800XL Smart Oven and a good set of Lodge Logic cast iron skillets (specifically the 5-inch version that can fit one or two steaks at a time, but the oven will hold the 10-inch model just fine).

I'm going to sound like a salesman here, but that oven honestly changed the way I eat. It's crazy expensive next to the swarm of other "toaster ovens", but without questions its the best and most used item in my kitchen. It's been a keto lifesaver for me (and uses a ton less energy than my normal oven).

I am afraid to get that because of the sizable number of 1-star reviews it got on Amazon.

The fact that there are so many 5-star reviews makes me think that the manufacturer has major problems with consistency.

I strongly suggest getting the Magic Bullet. I had jaw repositioning surgery about a year ago so I also went through several weeks on a no-solids diet and this thing was awesome. As for food, my doctos gave me this booklet of high protein blended recipes.

Here are two of my own mixes that I enjoyed pretty often.

• Vanilla Ensure + chocolate ice cream + couple spoonfuls of peanut butter
  
  
• Cream of chicken soup + 1 cup of mixed veggies like broccoli, carrots, cauliflower. Strain before eating.
  
  

A Danish dough whisk. Great for mixing, easy to scrape the sides of the bowl as you mix, and they clean up in a few seconds.

A Progressive silicon bowl scraper. Stiff o one side, flexible on the other.

Covermate stretch to fit food covers. Great for covering bowls while the dough rises. You don't have to mess with plastic wrap, and they're reusable. I found mine at Albertson's.

A large ceramic bowl. I got mine at Kohl's for about 20 bucks.

An Anchor Measuring Glass. I use these to test for my dough doubling in volume. Just tear off a pinch, push it into the glass, and its easy to tell when the volume's doubled.

A Maverick Oven Thermometer. Unless you're entirely sure your oven is near 100% accurate.

A Magic Bullet mixer is great for chopping small amounts of herbs and zests without a lot of cleanup.

I've just started using silicone bread pans I got on line at 13deals for stupid cheap, 5 bucks apiece i think. Keep watching, they show up fairly regularly.

Scotch-Brite Stay Clean scrubbers. They claim they'll clean up eggs and melted cheese without fouling up.. I figured they'd also clean up dough without gunking up on the first use, and I was right. They're great for cleaning out your bowls.

Parchment paper. A good dutch oven. baking stones.

That's about it. Some of my favorite things for making things easier.

Nice comprehensive review but sorry to hear about your preparation woes.

As a longterm Hol Food user, I've found what I consider to be the single best preparation method that is super easy, but also creates a texture that is just about as smooth as chocolate milk:

• Mix 1.5 scoops of Hol Food with 1.5 cups of water or milk in a small blender (e.g., a Magic Bullet) for about 30 seconds. The resulting mixture will be super smooth, and as you stated in your review, tastes amazing.
  
  You can almost always find Magic Bullets on sale somewhere (I think I got mine at Canadian Tire for around 20 dollars) and I now have one at the office and one at home for this exact purpose.
  
  As for the stomach/bloating issues, I have to admit that I've never experienced them nor have a I heard of such issues from any of my friends who I've convinced to try (several people at my office also use Hol Food). However, as was the case for a lot of DIY recipes back in the day, I find that if you have it for a couple more days, you will become used to it and the bloating will stop. For the record, if you are sensitive to lactose, that could cause the bloating and gas. But again, it will probably subside in a couple days of use.
  
  

I use this one. It's simple and not digital. I can't think of many instances where I would've benefited a digital one since slow cooking is fairly forgiving when it comes to cooking time.

http://www.amazon.com/Crock-Pot-SCCPVL600S-6-Quart-Portable-Stainless/dp/B003HF6PUO/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1407697456&sr=8-9&keywords=slow+cooker

The price difference between a 6 quart and a smaller one is negligible, and I find it to be more versatile.

Lots of good suggestions in here, but I'm going to add two things: canned soup for a cheap meal in 3 minutes, and getting a slow cooker for some of the easiest recipes you'll ever make.

In terms of simply making a super-quick, cheap, hot meal, keep some canned soup in the pantry. Not the condensed stuff (the kind that needs to have water added); get Campbell's Chunky or some other such canned soup. They usually run under $3 a can, and you can get them under $2 on sale. I stock up on about a dozen anytime they're on sale, and anytime I need a quick meal, it's ready in 3 minutes (or a little longer on the stovetop). Most soups are going to have meat, vegetables, starches...a good well-rounded meal. If you want something solid to go with it, add a grilled cheese (two slices of bread, slice of cheese, and butter on the outside--to make it a little tastier, spread a little mayo on the inside of the bread; cook over low/medium heat, a couple minutes each side).

Now, if you want some easy home-cooking, buy yourself a slow cooker (aka a Crock Pot). [Here's a perfectly good one for $30] (http://www.amazon.com/Crock-Pot-SCCPVL600S-6-Quart-Portable-Stainless/dp/B003HF6PUO/ref=lp_694666_1_1?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1407627658&sr=1-1). Crock Pot recipes are the easiest thing you'll ever make -- basically throw some chicken or beef in the pot with some broth, add vegetables and/or potatoes, and then let it simmer all day while you're at work. When you get home, you've got a hot meal ready to go, and you'll have leftovers for a couple days.

Just with some googling, here's [a simple pot roast] (http://allrecipes.com/recipe/maries-easy-slow-cooker-pot-roast/), here's [one for chicken noodle soup] (http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/browse-all-recipes/chicken-pasta-soup-00000000039971/index.html). Best thing about a slow cooker is you really can't screw it up -- it's just putting your ingredients in broth and letting it simmer all day. You can also buy seasoning packets at the market that help with more complicated things like pulled pork by mixing all the spices you need -- all you do is add it to a couple ingredients and put the meat in the pot.

Well, I already have one that I use and one that was given to me as a present that I'm still trying to figure out what I'm going to do with, so please don't gift it to me haha, but you definitely need a crock pot.

There are thousands of recipes all over the internet to suit your needs, along with /r/slowcooking and having a crock pot will seriously change how you eat. You can make soups, dips, meat, veggies, cakes, breakfast... the possibilities are honestly endless. And if you're not a recipe kind of guy, you can just go to the store, get your preferred 2 to 5 pound hunk of meat, get whatever seasonings you like, whatever vegetables you want, some potatoes, and some kind of stock. Season the meat, put it in the pot, pour in about 1/4 cup of stock, cut up the potatoes and vegetables however you want and season them with salt and pepper, throw those in, put the lid on and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Do this in the morning before work or class, and you come home in the evening to a hot, tasty meal every time. You don't have to watch it and it won't burn down your house.

I think yours may be faulty. I just bought a new one at Christmas, with warm, low & high. I also have one that is about 8 yrs old, same temp setting They both work beautifully. I think I saw mine on Amazon for 35 bucks. http://www.amazon.com/Crock-Pot-SCCPVL600S-6-Quart-Portable-Stainless/dp/B003HF6PUO/ref=sr_1_2?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1463065420&sr=1-2&keywords=crock+pot+slow+cooker&refinements=p_89%3ACrock-Pot

I have the same problem, 2 crazy kittens that destroy my house. This works great.
Crock-Pot SCCPVL600S Cook' N Carry 6-Quart Oval Manual Portable Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003HF6PUO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_AnY6wb88R8EYT

On sale for $30

Recipes will normally suggest a 5 qt cooker, which is a decent size. Choose a size that you need and scale the recipe as best you can. Also, there is no reason to spend over $40 unless you plan on getting something adjustable or a large cooker, neither of which you probably need. Hope that helps.

http://www.amazon.com/Crock-Pot-SCCPVL600S-6-Quart-Portable-Stainless/dp/B003HF6PUO/ref=lp_289940_1_2?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1453831485&sr=1-2

40 slow cooker freezer meals

To use, pull out of the freezer and put into the fridge the night before to allow the meal to defrost. The next morning or afternoon (depending on cooking time), throw it in the slow cooker (to anyone reading that doesn't have one, something like this or this will be perfectly adequate, no need to get a fancy $100 model).

You can get a really cheap Crock Pot on Amazon for less than $25.

Agree with this. You can also get a new one for $18. If one needs to save up for this, there may need to be other priorities. https://www.amazon.com/Crock-Pot-SCR300-SS-3-Quart-Manual-Cooker/dp/B003UCG8II/ref=sr_1_14?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1540572958&sr=1-14&keywords=crock+pot

Do you have a crock pot? If you don't, that's likely the best way to spend these $15 for long-term easier cheaper food. Amazon Warehouse Deals is the best place to look (imo). The Crock-Pot SCR300-SS 3-Quart Manual Slow Cooker, Silver is $15.67 right now but there are a bunch of other options too. It makes cooking dry beans a lot easier, and is just overall a great kitchen tool for spending less money on food and making cooking simpler.

If food is the thing you need most, here's what I'd buy personally (I don't live anywhere near a whole foods, and Amazon Fresh is not available in my area). I'm focusing on convenience foods for this because the real basics- rice, beans, oats, flour, are at least twice as expensive on Amazon (for me) in comparison to local options. The three items listed below are the same price or cheaper on Amazon as they are locally, and total $14.02 .

• Maruchan Instant Lunch Chicken Flavor, 2.25 Ounce (Pack of 12) $3.84
  
• Tasty Bite Indian Entree Madras Lentils 10 Ounce (Pack of 6) $9.00
  
• Frank's RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Hot Sauce, 5 fl oz $1.18
  
  ​
  
  (Those aren't referral links, I don't have that kind of thing set up cause I've got other stuff to do.)

This is super cool! I don't sleep, so this will keep me entertained for a bit!

1.) Something that is grey.

Well, it's more silver-ish, but it'll do! (WL)

2.) Something reminiscent of rain.

Because the sound of the rain is so peaceful :)


3.) Something food related that is unusual.

I know, it is unusual! We will be using it for liquid sugar that we make, to make our homemade Starbucks green tea :) (WL)


4.) Something on your list that is for someone other than yourself. Tell me who it's for and why. (Yes, pets count!)

It's for my boyfriend, and for the aforementioned green teas we make :) I have one, and he's pretty jealous of it. Not to mention he spills so! (WL)


5.) A book I should read! I am an avid reader, so take your best shot and tell me why I need to read it!

It's called Jesus' Son. It is really...interesting to say the least, and I can guarantee not at all what you'd expect! (Unless you're expecting drugs, and the main character to be called Fuckhead!)


6.) An item that is less than a dollar, including shipping... that is not jewelry, nail polish, and or hair related!

Clever? Or wrong. Lol.


7.) Something related to cats. I love cats! (keep this SFW, you know who you are...)

Because who doesn't miss these guys?


8.) Something that is not useful, but so beautiful you must have it.

I mean...he's beautiful, so.... <3

9.) A movie everyone should watch at least once in their life. Why?

My username is a big hint to what this movie is! It's just so happy, and makes me laugh every time I watch it (and I've been watching it multiple times every year since it came out, and I was only 5!). It's just a genuinely happy, feel-good movie, with great music :)

10.) Something that would be useful when the zombies attack. Explain.

You know, for heat/fire when there's no electricity! (WL)


11.) Something that would have a profound impact on your life and help you to achieve your current goals.

It might not be the norm, but it's a gift card. Reason being instead of something specific, is with a gift card I can buy food through Amazon. Times have been a little tough around here, and we barely make it through the month money, and food wise. To know I had a little money to spend on groceries somewhere would be a major relief, and put both my boyfriend and I out of stress. I know it's not a "goal goal", but our happiness is a goal of mine, and it's been a little shakey as of late :/(WL)


12.) One of those pesky Add-On items.

Because ours is torn, oops! (WL)


13.) The most expensive thing on your list. Your dream item. Why?

A nice, damn vacuum. Our current one sucks (bad pun), and I am really picky about a clean carpet. It would just be really nice to have a nice one, and that'll last instead of having to buy a new one every so often. (WL)


14.) Something bigger than a bread box. EDIT A bread box is typically similar in size to a microwave.

Because it never occurred to me you could buy this on Amazon!

15.) Something smaller than a golf ball.

Individually, smaller than a golfball!


16.) Something that smells wonderful.

I love, love, loooooove this perfume. I've had samples, but never the whole bottle! (WL)


17.) A (SFW) toy.

Not a toy per say, but it's definitely fun, and entertaining for hours! (WL)


18.) Something that would be helpful for going back to school.

Pens! Believe it or not, these have always been my favorite, and despite the fact there's a bunch in a box, I always ended up with none! That's why people should have their own!


19.) Something related to your current obsession, whatever that may be.

Because I...I'm...I'm a woman possessed. Normally I'm obsessed with Sherlock but since it's not out yet, I'm catching up on Doctor Who, and I can't. Just can't stop. Been talking in a British accent on accident for days! I also freaking love hoodies so it's the best of both worlds. (WL)


20.) Something that is just so amazing and awe-inspiring that I simply must see it. Explain why it is so grand.

BECAUSE LOOK AT IT! Making tasty foods on it for the belly! (WL)

Hey, this was a lot of fun! Regardless of the outcome, thank you. Thoroughly enjoyed myself :)

EDIT: BONUS: Anything made in Oregon.

It's a whole gift set! It's like it knew! I actually added it to my WL. My favorite jam was taken off the shelves, so I'm always up for trying new ones :)


fear cuts deeper than swords

There are slow cookers that are very rudimentary with analog knobs. This one, for example, could be set but will never cook if not plugged in.

Are you in the US? There's one for $20 on Amazon Prime. Sorry for the ugly link I'm on mobile

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003UCG8II/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1494443847&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=3+qt+slow+cooker&dpPl=1&dpID=51253%2Bqq9AL&ref=plSrch

Yep! Just need an outlet. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003UCG8II/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1426820983&sr=8-2&keywords=slow+cooker&dpPl=1&dpID=51253%2Bqq9AL&ref=plSrch&pi=AC_SY200_QL40

Here is a newer model of the one that was given to me ( I am also a poor college student)

But if you are looking to make nut butters, maybe a magic bullet?

I have a Ninja blender, and my only complaint is that the blades are so sharp that I sometimes cut myself washing it. It has blended everything really well. Ice, cashews, almonds, smoothies, even Science Diet dry cat food, which is possibly the hardest substance that has ever been in my kitchen. My brother has a Vitamix and loves it, but you can't beat the Ninja price.

If you ever want to replace, I have a ninja food prep system which is a blender pitcher and a food processor bowl thing that uses the same motor on the top. Think like a magic bullet but full blender sized. I use it allllll the time from everything from frozen margs to homemade salsa. I think this is the same one $35

Ninja 400-Watt Blender/Food Processor for Frozen Blending, Chopping and Food Prep with 48-Ounce Pitcher and 16-Ounce Chopper Bowl (QB900B), Silver https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003XU3C7M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_gs5tDb6BY0N7A

Probably this Garmin. I'm getting more serious about running, and racing, and feel that this will help with tracking my pace, gauging my distance, and keeping track of calories burned. I can also upload my runs to my laptop to keep records of distance/pace, which will help even more as I'm training for a race. It is pricey though :/

Second most-wanted item would probably be this Ninja Master Prep, so that I can start making smoothies for myself and the boys, plus use it as a food processor that doesn't smell like onion - protein pancakes with an onion aftertaste really aren't all that yummy.

Third would be Winter's Heart. book 9 in the series that I'm currently reading.

Fourth? This foam roller to help soothe my sore muscles after the numerous workouts I do throughout the week.

Last is Yoshi's New Island because Yoshi is awesome, and it's the perfect game to sit and relax with :)

Thanks for the discussion/maybesupersecretcontest!

*Edit - totally didn't see the whole "highest priority on each of your lists" part :/

This one works(6 months usage so far, Bulletproof coffee most mornings

This one broke one me due to hot liquids(Don't Buy)

Just got this one and it is worth every penny. Kale is turned completely into liquid. If you can swing it!!($90)

I was using a Ninja blender as well (this one https://www.amazon.com/SharkNinja-QB900B-Ninja-Master-Prep/dp/B003XU3C7M/ref=sr_1_8?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1500088390&sr=1-8&keywords=ninja+blender) and actually ran into the same problem, the gasket on the lid was bad and just the way the lid itself was designed meant I could never really clean it properly. I used to soak it to try and get the places a brush wouldn't touch, such a hassle every time. Plus it just wasn't powerful enough when I started making my own protein bars, it would struggle to move the blades when the ingredients got to be more dough-like.

Now I'm using a Vitamix. Was turned off by the price initially but the thing is rock solid, comes with a 5 year warranty, super easy to clean and blends the hell out of everything. I will say it sounds like a jet engine taking off but I usually make my shakes in advance anyway so I'll just blend once everyone is awake because it will 100% wake up the house. Only real gripe I have is with the protein bars. It mixes fine but since the blades aren't detachable I gotta use a spatula to get as much as I can from the bottom since the consistency is too thick to pour so I end up not getting EVERYTHING out that I'd like but it's really not a deal breaker at all..

I bought a certified reconditioned one

https://www.vitamix.com/shop/certified-reconditioned-series

and also put it on a no interest payment plan so I didn't come out of pocket all at once.

https://www.vitamix.com/payment-plans

Great question because I have my smoothie game down to a science. First of all, my blender is this blender.

You don't want water and ice because they just water down your flavors. I cut up my fruit and portion it on Sunday so I have 7 zip lock bags with 4 oz strawberries, 4 oz banana, and 4 oz cantaloupe and then I put these in the freezer. Frozen fruit gives you the smoothie consistency of ice without the watering down affect. Then, in the morning empty the bag in the blender and add 1.5 cups milk and 0.25 cup plain yogurt and blend it all for 2 minutes or so. Drink half for breakfast and put the other half in a tumbler or something airtight (to keep the consistency) for lunch. I like it just like that but you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract if you'd like (though you're adding unnecessary calories, though admittedly minimal).

On cleaning, firstly as described above, I only use/clean it once a day, but I just rinse it in water as soon as I use it. Rinse thoroughly, let it dry then use it the next day. Then once a week run it through the dishwasher.

Get a smaller Ninja - $35, makes great smoothies and it fairly compact, convenient and lightweight.

I've had mine for about 3 years. The main issue seems to be durability but as long as you are careful and smart about what you toss in there, you shouldn't have any problems.

Love that advice! Thanks for making me feel a little less guilty about my food aversion! :)

As for blenders, I bought this Ninja: https://www.amazon.com/SharkNinja-QB900B-Ninja-Master-Prep/dp/B003XU3C7M/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1501778136&sr=8-7&keywords=ninja+blender, over four years ago and it's still going strong (best $35 I've ever spent). We may upgrade to a different model because we plan on making baby food too.

Amazon.ca does carry ninja blenders depending on which options you prefer.

Here is a good one for smoothies that is reasonably priced. Not fancy but gets the job done.

http://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B003XU3C7M/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1404828607&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40

I have two items in my kitchen that I cant live without. My kitchenaide stand mixer which I use my meat grinder attachment for all the time and love baking cookies in it. Some girl I met got it for Christmas and said she hated it because it was the wrong shade of pink. So she sold it to me basically new for 100 dollars!!!!!!


The other item is my ninja! Never have to cut veggies again or stir up scrambled eggs. Also perfect for fresh fruit smoothies. These two items make my life healthier and better!!!!!

Let's do it in the kitchen.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003XU3C7M/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B003XU3C7M&linkCode=as2&tag=foodandcookingbest-20

IDK what your budget for one would be, but I got this one a little over two years ago that's currently at $35. I use it a lot, pretty much daily for the past 6 months (ever since discovering banana ice cream lol). Also I boil the vegetables for a really long time so they are super mushy and easier to blend, because althought it's pretty good, it's no Vitamix.

Relevant?

Relevant

http://www.amazon.com/Daily-Bread-Toaster-Company-jesus247/dp/B0042QRYO8

here you go

I'll just leave this here.

Get her a rice cooker and some rice, one with a good recipie book and a steamer basket. It's really, really hard to screw up with a rice cooker.

This one is similar to mine. It's a bit large for a rice cooker - but it's just the right size for a soup pot. And it makes the most amazing soups and stews.

So as long as she can cut up an onion and some potatoes without a trip to emergency...

Had this one for a year or two. It works perfectly
http://www.amazon.com/Aroma-ARC-150SB-Uncooked-Digital-Steamer/dp/B0055FSN0Y

It works. Source: I own one.

Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/Aroma-Housewares-uncooked-Exterior-ARC-150SB/dp/B0055FSN0Y/ref=sr_1_3?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1473739002&sr=1-3&keywords=rice+cooker
Best Selling one on Amazon is $37 new with 4.4 stars. Your price may be a little high.

Rather than just a crockpot I would suggest an aroma
It's a crockpot but it also works as a rice cooker and steamer. It will give you a lot more functionality. There are entire cookbooks dedicated to recipes for aroma cookers. These things are so cheap it would hard for it to not be a decent investment.

And yes, you can make food in the cooker and freeze it or keep it in the fridge and heat it up later.

I use the Aroma ARC-150SB. Tiger rice cookers are supposed to be the Rolls Royces if you really want to ball out but my cheap little Aroma works for me.

Here's what you do for each of these problems:

> Rice constantly sticks

Get one with a non-stick pot. Don't ever scrape it with something metal, always use a wooden or plastic spoon to remove the rice. Add enough water so it doesn't burn on the bottom. Usually this will be enough, but some high end cookers allow you to control the exact temperature they cook at, in which case, you'd use a lower temperature and cook for longer.

> it leaks

Hinge-top cookers tend to leak less than lid-top ones all else the same, but the big problem here is using too much water when cooking. Ideally, you want to use as little water as possible, just enough to cook the rice through. Maybe even a little less, leaving a tiny "bite" in the middle, like al dente pasta. So experiment by using: the same amount of rice, the same brand and type of rice, and the same cooker- but reduce the amount of water you use until you reach that "just cooked through point". This should 1) Use a bit less water 2) Cook a bit faster 3) Leak a little to a lot less 4) Make rice with a little more interesting texture

> it's difficult to clean

Knowing which are easy to clean or not really requires looking at the inside of the cooker and seeing where water and steam are allowed to go. Hinge top can control what happens more, but you also look for large overflow inserts. (You also clean out the overflow insert thingys every time you cook). In the cooker I linked, it's hard to see, but it's a clear, plastic, thin "cup" on the right side of the first and second last pictures. They pop out of the side of the cooker for easy cleaning, and their purpose is to catch overflowing water/steam.

> only makes 2 cups of rice (uncooked)

Buy a larger cooker.

-----

I recommend Aroma cookers for this price range. I've had a lot of success with them over the years.

8-cup capacity is probably what you want, but if you need to cook really large quantities of rice every day and counter space isn't an issue, they also have a 20-cup capacity one for not much more money.

They have: the capacities you're looking for, non-stick pots that work, overflow insert cups for if you do add too much water, and two different settings for white and brown rice, which is nice.

Anything under 100$ doesn't really do anything better than this. If you really want a cheaper option than the Aroma, go with the cheapest glass lid one you can find, and really work on getting the water added right (minimized), would be my only advice.

And if instead you wanted a more expensive one, you could spring for a Zojirushi, which have a really good reputation for consistent cooking, and have some neat features and stuff (I don't know I haven't used many of them), but are usually quite a bit above 100$.

Yeah-- I have one that you'd like.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0055FSN0Y/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_awdb_dv-mybV54WBKW

It's $32 on Amazon. It's a rice cooker, but it comes with a steaming attachment to put veggies in while you cook rice. I've done it 3 times-- steamed veggies at the same time as making rice. But I mainly just use the Slow Cook setting and make recipes I find on this subreddit. It's fucking incredible and I don't know how I would cook without it.
Pros: everything is fucking delicious and perfectly cooked, white rice especially. Has a steaming attachment. Has a measuring cup and lines on the inside of the bowl. Bowl material is quite durable. Locking mechanism. Excellently designed. Has a keep warm setting for 12 hours. Digital display is super helpful.

Cons: The slow cook setting is High and you can't set it to low. Life is fleeting and we're all gonna die someday.

I have this one that does rice, steam, and slow cooking! I love it, it cooks rice perfectly and slow cooks everything. Only bummer is that is really doesn't have any settings or temp gauges for slow cooking. I had to figure out on my own that it cooks on low, and always make sure to temperature check my meats to make sure they are up to temp. Other than that, it's really handy if you don't have a lot of space. Not quite sure how steamed foods will come out, as I haven't gotten around to it yet.

Mine is almost the same. https://amzn.com/B0055FSN0Y
We use it several times per week. Main thing missing: Porridge Mode.
Other than that minor feature, we're very happy with it.

https://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-NS-TSC10-Uncooked-Cooker-1-0-Liter/dp/B0074CDG6C/ref=pd_sim_79_14?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=3FCH92VNZPVJ780X0D18

I never have a problem here or elsewhere when shortening amazon links by just removing the part starting with "ref" (that isn't needed anyway). So for this link I'd have used:
https://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-NS-TSC10-Uncooked-Cooker-1-0-Liter/dp/B0074CDG6C

Some advice: Wash your rice. It gets gummy and sticky when you don't rinse it first. Rinse and drain until the water is clear when you stir it about with your hands.

Second: Get a rice cooker. Seriously. You won't regret it.

I have this one: https://smile.amazon.com/Zojirushi-NS-TSC10-Uncooked-Cooker-1-0-Liter/dp/B0074CDG6C/

But there are cheaper ones. The key words are "fuzzy logic." That's the tech that keeps the rice from getting burned to the bottom of the pot. Most will even cook different kinds of rice... Because white rice cooks differently than brown, etc. You can even make oatmeal and mixed meals in 'em.

It's great. There's a reason why any asian kitchen has one. Even if you can cook great rice on the stove, these things make it 100x easier.

Hard boiled eggs. Honestly I’m super depressed and can rarely make food for myself. I live on hard boiled eggs, PB& J, and bread and cheese. Here’s how to do the bread and cheese: buy a 2-4lb block of cheese. Buy a $1 French or Italian baguette at your local Walmart or other bakery. All the better if it’s already seasoned. Slice 1/4in off of your cheese block. Cut 1” slice of bread. Eat. If you need more flavor add pesto or mustard under the cheese. If you need veggies, put half a handful of lettuce on top. Boom depressed breakfast or lunch served in less than 3 minutes.
Get a rice cooker. Make rice by throwing water and rice in the cooker. You can eat it for any meal over the next 3 days if you can get out of bed. Or take it back to bed with you. Whatever. We have [this one](Zojirushi NS-TSC10 5-1/2-Cup (Uncooked) Micom Rice Cooker and Warmer, 1.0-Liter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0074CDG6C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_9MlDAb6M6QHKY) pretty spendy but it keeps rice edible for literally 100 hours after you make it. You can probably find a more reasonable priced one out there. If you want to get really fancy: hard boil eggs and eat them with the rice and soy sauce. Then give yourself a gold star for feeding yourself.

I have an NS-TGC10, which isn't being made anymore, but this looks like the updated version with a microchip.

It's a great cooker - I've had it since... 2008? Brown rice setting, timer option (to have freshly cooked rice in the morning when I wake up or after work). Flawless cooking, does jasmine and basmati fine (white rice setting, I use a little less water). Looks like it's about $175.

No exaggeration, I am IN LOVE with this rice cooker. I have this one which is maybe a bit excessive for some but I think it's great. Also, I was totally selling it short when I said it beeps, because it actually plays a little song when it's done and it will brighten any day.

PAT MART at bloor and Christie, Tap Phoung at spadina and dundas.

Amazon.ca had way better prices when I got mine. Spend the dough and get a "neuro fuzzy" one, it's worth it. Get this one: https://www.amazon.ca/Zojirushi-NS-TSC10-Cooker-Uncooked-Stainless/dp/B0074CDG6C/ref=pd_sbs_79_3?_encoding=UTF8&refRID=74GRWDD84QY53AFR1MW8&th=1

Well now you have:

Zojirushi NS-TSC10 5-1/2-Cup (Uncooked) Micom Rice Cooker and Warmer, 1.0-Liter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0074CDG6C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_tJEPAbX5GQKQ5

Here ya go: Seal-a-Meal Manual Vacuum Sealer with compact design, hands-free, seal indicator lights, FSSMSL0160-000 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008HMWC4A/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_mWbZxbSPSREMC

Currently $31.44 and works great!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008HMWC4A/ref=psdc_1090768_t1_B008R9I4WW

bought this over a year ago, went through a 100 pack of bags, and about half way through my second and it still works good.

Doesn't do liquids, but IF I want to add liquid to something I just freeze it and and it as ice. but that is rare anyway.

The next step up from foodsaver is the cheapest chamber sealer, nothing in between worth spending money on. I would suggest using a displacement method, finding a used foodsaver or a generic channel sealer. There is one on Amazon for $40.

Edit. The "generic" food saver is called "Seal-a-Meal" and it is now on Amazon for $30. Not worth spending any more for a channel sealer. Amazon also sells giant rolls of bags that are a lot cheaper than the foodsaver brand.

Also, while I bought the chamber vac for sous vide, I am hyped over it for other reasons. I use it almost on daily basis to cook ahead or save leftovers. We used to cook for the week on the weekend, but would get tired of the same food during the week. Now I cook and freeze individual portions and have a collection of a dozen different meals in the freezer to choose from. Moreover, when I cook dinner now, I almost always double the recipe and freeze the leftovers. This really reduced my overall cooking time and gives me more choices for daily meals.

This is about $50 and generally has positive reviews.

This vacuum sealer is usually around $30 bucks. It obviously takes more space up but it can be used with hop bags. Also the bags that come with can be cut down and you can make your own smaller bags. I have one and like it.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008HMWC4A/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 this one is cheap and works great. You can use amazon brand bags that also work great and make it so much cheaper

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008HMWC4A/ seems like a pretty good deal. I haven't used it since I have a bunch of FoodSavers and soon to be a chamber vac, but if I were starting out I'd be considering that especially since it's $30.

I've had really good luck with this unit! I've had it over 2 year with no problem yet and it's currently under $30.

Also pick up a foodsaver. If you get a foodsaver you don't have to use the whole bag or worry about AA decay. I picked up this one and it works awesome: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008HMWC4A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Sidenote: Works for medicinal plants related to hops as well.

There's supposed to be a 'useful stuff' link in the sidebar, but it looks like it's blank to me. /u/revolution486 is there still a wiki type thing for products?

OP, I bought a cheapo food sealer on amazon that's worked great for me. Ziplocks always leaked. This is the one I have, but I paid $17.59 on 10/31/18:

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B008HMWC4A/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I've used stock pots for the most part, but they're clunky and waste a lot of heat (which wears your SV device a lot) I'm looking at upgrading to the plastic bins now, but if you don't have a ton of funds right this second, it's a good component to hold off on to make sure you'll use enough to justify.

Searing in an oven is going to be possible but difficult. You need to keep applying heat while you're searing so you can't just take the pan out and toss the meat in, but you often want to baste or flip, so you also can't just drop the meat in and close the oven. The general advice I've heard is that enameled cast iron is "approved" for use on glass tops but (and I'm quoting someone else here):

>I wonder whether this whole issue is real at all. I've been using my heavy Le Creuset stuff for five years now with not a hint of a scratch anywhere (yes, I know it's coated but it's still darn heavy). So I just did a google search on the subject and found dozens of similar threads on all sorts of other chat sites, and you know what they all had in common? Despite the manufacturers' recommendations against using cast iron on glass cooktops, I was unable to find a single report of anyone ever actually getting any scratches! On the contrary, there were LOTS of postings from people saying they'd been using cast iron on glass for years and years with no problems at all.
>
> I'm starting to think that warning is just the manufacturers' lawyers playing CYA.

You can also buy a butane burner for ~$20 if you have the urge.

Another common tool is a straight up blow torch. If you have trouble with evenness, a searzall attachment helps spread the heat.

Try one of these McMuffin Makers: https://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-25475A-Breakfast-Sandwich/dp/B00EI7DPOO

I have one, super easy to use and clean. Takes two minutes, just toss in the ingredients, cook, open up the separater and enjoy!

If you're not into prepping, a breakfast sandwhich maker is really easy to use.

There's this one that isn't attached to a toaster. Hamilton Beach 25475A Breakfast Sandwich Maker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EI7DPOO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_hO7kxbWT0H9EZ

This is the best invention ever: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EI7DPOO/

the only thing you need for a kitchen reno

Instead of a big spiralizer I got a Vagetti - it's got fewer options, but it's small and quick and easy to use. It's nice to be able to have noodly things again. Zuchiini noodles fried in butter and a couple tablespoons of salsa is fantastic, and my kids love it too!

My husband got a breakfast sandwich maker for Christmas, and I've discovered it's a quick and easy way to make eggs. I just use the top well section, lay in a slice of ham on the bottom and crack a couple of eggs into it, close and walk away. It's quicker and easier than getting out the frying pan and takes 2 seconds to clean.

A lot of my meals are meat of some sort + veg of some sort + fat (dressing, butter, cheese), so it's easy to get the right serving sizes just by putting my plate on the scale and zerioing it out after I put each thing on. Measuring out soups and such is a lot harder, but I figure if I'm accurate 80% of the time then the 20% I might be off isn't a huge deal. When in doubt, over estimate ;)

Get a new crockpot https://www.smile.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-Programmable-Temperature-6-Quart/dp/B00EZI26DW

No, that actually seems like you had a bad crock-pot. I use mine in a more or less unventilated room, and it doesn't give off much heat at all.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EZI26DW/ref=asc_df_B00EZI26DW4995795/

Not sure if you consider ceramic to be the same as what's called "stonewear", but I've used this one in the past and I'm totally satisfied.

http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-33967A-Programmable-6-Quart/dp/B00EZI26DW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1420016823&sr=8-1&keywords=hamilton+beach+slow+cooker

You really cannot do any better than the Hamilton beach set n forget slow cooker. But a good slow cooker should be programable and heat through evenly and this one does the job really well. And it is around 40 bucks. You might be able to spend a little more for a better one but this one has served me well for 3 years.

Link

• This one says is the #1 Best Seller on Amazon.
  
  
• This one had great recommendations on reddit.
  
  
• This one is a bit cheaper and you can select how much you filled it.

No, sorry. I don't know what people know or don't know, so I err on don't know. So I just went up on Amazon and figure I'm gonna get one. It is programmable!!!

https://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-33969A-Programmable-Temperature/dp/B00EZI26GO/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=14EQ3DGGT030R&keywords=hamilton+beach+set+and+forget+slow+cooker&qid=1563885397&s=gateway&sprefix=hamilton+beach+set+and%2Caps%2C129&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1

You should get the biggest toaster oven your budget/apartment will allow, cross referenced with Amazon reviews.

But honestly? If you're looking to meal prep, you're probably better off with an instant-pot.
[Instant Pot](Instant Pot IP-DUO80 7-in-1 Programmable Electric Pressure Cooker https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B1VC13K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_1VYJxbZQ399JG)

They make them in 5, 6 and 8 qt, and you can make stew, chilies and rice. Then grab one of those $5 steamer baskets and a big pot and steam vegetables. If you already have a slow cooker or a rice pot, I'd say get a George foreman, and you can "grill" chicken, pork, lean burgers, steaks, vegetables, fish (maybe don't eat these at work, thanks).

Mi-am facut un cadou de craciun.

https://imgur.com/a/eZ1hk

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B1VC13K/ref=twister_B01DZM2UQ6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

In weekend vreau sa incerc : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aoAzF8fiA2w sa vad unde gasesc un umar de porc.

Apropo, /u/nustiuboss a venit cu ups in 2 zile diferite (accesorrile/pot-ul) si am fost chiar impresionat de ei. Conform trakingului la 6:30 era in otopeni, la 14 au ajuns la mine in bv. uk -> germania -> romania transport cu avionul, de pe amazon.co.uk

As stated, all your links are the same pot.

[Here] (https://www.amazon.com/Instant-Pot-IP-DUO60-Multi-Functional-Pressure/dp/B01B1VC13K/ref=sr_1_1?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1486881326&sr=1-1&keywords=instant%2Bpot&th=1) is a link to the DUO pot, and a choice between 5, 6 or 8 qts.

[Here] (https://www.amazon.com/Instant-Pot-IP-LUX60-Programmable-Electric/dp/B0073GIN08/ref=sr_1_2?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1486881326&sr=1-2&keywords=instant%2Bpot&th=1) is a link to the LUX. The main difference here is there isn't a yogurt function.

How large you want it is really your preference and how much kitchen space you want to use up. Whether or not you would like to spend a little extra for the yogurt function is also your preference. You can fit a chicken in both the 6 or 8 qt, obviously depends on the size of the chicken.

I personally have the 8 qt, with a 4 year protection plan, and couldn't be happier. I'm positive I'd be just as happy with the 6 qt. I'm pretty sure they stand by their product based on the many stories I've read of random issues, even some that seem user caused.

There's not real wrong answer here. I believe you may have a longer wait for the 6qt DUO, I've heard people are waiting 8-10 weeks or so for them.

Same thing without hidden affiliate link:

https://www.amazon.com/Instant-Pot-Programmable-Pressure-Steamer/dp/B01B1VC13K

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B1VC13K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_iCxyCbNY07B30

Here’s the one I bought. Spending $100 saved me much more down the line from eating out or buying junk food.

Instant Pot FTW.

Don't follow the directions without testing first though, the manufacturer didn't account for different elevations. In Peking a chicken might cook in 20 minutes but in Florida it would end up a desiccated brick.

I bought an Anova Sous Vide and it has been a game changer for my weekly meal prep. It is set it, through whatever meat you want to cook and walk away. You can cook a weeks worth of meat and leave it in the fridge and pull it as you need.

For meal ideas you can check out r/sousvide

You don't even need an instant pot... Any stock pot works great.
Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker WIFI, Immersion Circulator (2nd Gen), 900 Watts, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HHWSV1S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_I30gAbWQQVXDM

Yeah I actually bought a different sous vide with the Instant Pot because it was on sale but i'm returning it tomorrow.

I'll probably end up getting the new Anova with WiFi at some point as the only complaint with sous vide in the instant pot is the space (You can't do giant roasts like you can with the Anova where you don't have to worry about the container size).

But as a starter, or if it's just smaller stuff you're cooking, the Instant Pot Ultra is absolutely great for Sous Vide.

To expand on /u/barchueetadonai's reply, Kenji Lopez-Alt writes recipes tested via scientific method. His recipes are available on www.seriouseats.com or in his book The Food Lab.

Also, invest in a basic slow cooker. Start it before work and you'll come home to pot roast, pulled pork, buffalo chicken, meatballs, pretty much anything.

And lastly, the sous vide cooker. Check out /r/sousvide, but you can make anything from steaks to lamb to duck. But most importantly, long cooks will leave the toughest cuts of beef or pork tender and juicy.

Yessir.

Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker | WI-FI + Bluetooth | 900W | Anova App Included https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HHWSV1S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_2XoWDb5WDTB60

This us the one I have. But you can get them for far cheaper. A friend got one for like $50 and it works as well as mine. Just doesn't have the wireless abilities.

> Every price listed as marked down on prime day is falsely inflated

This is certainly true for some "deals". However, the normal price for this product is not $140 to $150. It has been on sale in the last 6 months for about $170, but $129 is the lowest price since Black Friday.

I think using a price tracking site like camelcamelcamel.com is warranted before buying anything.

rice cooker and or crock pot (I mean not every moment of my life has to an [instant pot] (https://www.amazon.com/Instant-Pot-Multi-Use-Programmable-Pressure/dp/B01MFEBQH1/ref=asc_df_B01MFEBQH1/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=167155690034&hvpos=1o2&hvnetw=g&hvrand=17234452769957758817&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1019404&hvtargid=aud-799711277694:pla-362941723327&psc=1)add), cooler, can opener, sleds if you live somewhere cold (can always get them in winter but it's a dam smooth date or fun bros idea), also depends on how you like to live but I never could've survived school without charcoal and grill tongs or stuff to play wiffleball. As long as you're not in a dorm fuckin live it up and be the cool apartment

https://www.amazon.com/Instant-Pot-Multi-Use-Programmable-Pressure/dp/B01MFEBQH1/ref=asc_df_B01MFEBQH1/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=167155690034&hvpos=1o2&hvnetw=g&hvrand=5967074576245059627&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9013454&hvtargid=pla-362941723327&psc=1

I got this shit thanks to a vietnamese cooking group i joined to figure out how to make pho. shit rules

12 quart rubbermaid with a lid like this
EVERIE Collapsible Hinged Sous Vide Container Lid Compatible with Anova Culinary Precision Cooker and 12,18,22 Quart Rubbermaid Container (Corner Mount) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071L6PRY8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_CczrDb26H558C

wow it looked so cheap.... but then i check on amazon canada T.T

the container is $33
lid is a nutty 50$
and the anova is 160+35 shipping
so it's a total of $278 :(

I have both a center mount and a corner mount models from this vendor.
I prefer the corner mount because you can lift it up and spin it around for full access to the container.
Use the BT Precision Cooker.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071L6PRY8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B071L6PRY8/ref=pd_aw_fbt_328_img_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=9WSZDY8TYCK61ZQSVW6A

Most of the time you can close the lid on the edge of the bag.

AmazonBasics Microwave, Small, 0.7 Cu. Ft, 700W, Works with Alexa https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07894S727/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CmtGDbRV56MEK

Bought it for $40.

It’s really fucked up that you can actually buy an Alexa microwave now. It makes that whole meme more sad than funny.

This causes OP to contact Amazon in frustration. They are then sent a [new one] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07894S727/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_cOk6BbSP2P43K) as a replacement, thus allowing OP's true intent of the wish to be granted.

Wait, the Alexa microwave doesn’t integrate with Home Assistant yet?! Haha

https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Microwave-700W-Works-Alexa/dp/B07894S727/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?_encoding=UTF8&ref_=ods_gw_dg6_ha_sr_092018

now i have alexa to yell at when i cook something for too long in the microwave

https://store.meater.com
https://smarter.am/ikettle/
https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Microwave-700W-Works-Alexa/dp/B07894S727/

https://getdrop.com/appliances/drop-scale/
https://www.amazon.com/LG-GR-X247CSAV-Refrigerator-220-240-Export/dp/B07DPV29ZZ/

:)

Get a rice cooker with a steamer tray: Cooks perfect rice and also steams the veggies and you can put pieces of precooked chicken in the water with the raw rice. Close lid, push on, have a complete meal 25-30mins later. Chicken can then be cooked whenever, or buy one of those rotisserie chickens from the store.

https://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-NS-TSC10-Uncooked-Cooker-1-0-Liter/dp/B0074CDG6C/

https://www.amazon.com/Tiger-JAZ-A10U-FH-5-5-Cup-Uncooked-Cooker/dp/B000AOJ9W6/

2nd one you have to get the water level more precise since it doesn't have the "Micom fuzzy logic" but it still does a very good job. (I had a 'Wolfgang Puck' rebadge of the Tiger one in the past)

Not only does the first one have dynamic cook times, but also a retractable power cord like a vacuum cleaner, so you can easily move it to the dining room table.

I have a different model, but I guarantee this Zojirushi Rice Cooker is worth every penny. I buy sushi and hybrid brown rice at a local Asian market, ~$20-25 per 15lb bag. Wash 4 cups of rice (sushi rice needs to be washed to have some of the starch removed, or it gets really gooey, but this isn't necessary for all rice types), fill the pot to the indicated fill line, close and push "start". In roughly 40 minutes you'll have perfect rice, and the cooker will keep it warm for days. After 90 hours, it can get soggy on the bottom and dry on the top if you don't stir it up, but it still tastes fine. Plus, you can use it for things other than rice, like [cake] (http://www.zojirushi.com/app/recipe/black-sesame-cake), no lies.

I make rice about once a week, and several months ago I sprung for an expensive (to me) model. I'm so glad I did. The rice that comes out is beautifully cooked and it couldn't be any easier.

I'm also in the process of buying a new Zojirushi rice cooker, but I'm a little confused. Can someone please explain to me why the the NS-TSC10 5 1/2 cup model is a good $20+ cheaper than the NS-ZCC model? To me it looks like it ought to be the other way around.

I heard the NS-TSC model is made in China while the NS-ZCC model is made in Japan, but is that really the only reason the ZCC model is more expensive? I know the ZCC features "neuro-fuzzy" technology, while the TSC model is only one of the Micom models, but it features "fuzzy logic" technology, too! Is neuro-fuzzy better than fuzzy logic?

I'm thoroughly confused by all these different kinds of fuzzy.

Kitchen Equipment used.

I used a lot of foodsaver bags for the sole reason I was spending a lot of time and money and didn’t want to risk freezer burn because I was prepping so far in advanced. Food storage first – not including things like Ziploc freezer bags, foil, parchment… and then kitchen equipment:

Foodsaver V4400 2-in-1 Vacuum Sealer Machine with Automatic Bag Detection and Starter Kit | Safety Certified | Black & Silver : Mine is like 9 years old… I don’t know if I would recommend this one exactly had I bought again. I works good.. but the auto bag detection can be finicky… YMMV

https://www.amazon.com/FoodSaver-V4440-Automatic-Detection-Certified/dp/B00DI342B4/ref=sxin_3_osp64-9923e9b1_cov?ascsubtag=9923e9b1-6183-477e-aa56-8a4dfc4129ac&creativeASIN=B00DI342B4&cv_ct_id=amzn1.osp.9923e9b1-6183-477e-aa56-8a4dfc4129ac&cv_ct_pg=search&cv_ct_wn=osp-search&keywords=food+saver&linkCode=oas&pd_rd_i=B00DI342B4&pd_rd_r=88594738-3101-4d09-bd53-96278ca4d2e7&pd_rd_w=UhZe4&pd_rd_wg=ac2zF&pf_rd_p=a23a388c-add5-49df-b293-a31ade89c6bf&pf_rd_r=3YDACSK6QW44JXQA1GTP&qid=1573057908&tag=fsmag_os-20

FoodSaver B005SIQKR6 Special Value Vacuum Seal Combo Pack 1-8" 4-11" Rolls 36 Pre-Cut Bags, 1Pack, Clear : 1st : I bought at Costco when there was $10 off savings. I know the meal prep community can recommend off brand ones. The premade bags are a time saver so I in the future I would only by those in bulk and keep the rolls for random sized things. I know I know, one time use… but I do wash the bags if I can get a second use out of them / depends what I stored in there / do not use for sous vide

https://www.amazon.com/FoodSaver-B005SIQKR6-Special-Vacuum-Pre-Cut/dp/B005SIQKR6/ref=sr_1_7?keywords=food+saver+bags&qid=1573057990&s=home-garden&sr=1-7

Plastic Deli Food Storage Containers with Airtight Lids (12 oz. - 48 Sets) :

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075CSH8Q7/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

55 Pack - 2.25 LB Aluminum Pan/Containers with Lids/To Go Containers/Aluminum Pans with Lids/Take Out Containers/Aluminum Foil Food Containers From Spare - 2.25Lb Capacity 8.5" x 6" x 1.5" :

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071CLMVRD/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Cuisinart DFP-14BCNY 14-Cup Food Processor, Brushed Stainless Steel – Silver : I think mine is only the 11 cup size…I have had it mine for.. oh 15 years? Maybe longer? and FYI: NOTE: Cuisinart has announced a recall of the older riveted S-blade of our winning food processor, which was included in models sold from 1996 through December 2015. Cuisinart will replace the blade free of charge, and the new blade will fit old machines. Anyone with this older blade should contact Cuisinart at https://recall.cuisinart.com (or call 1-877-339-2534).

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01AXM4WV2/?tag=ccoequippilot-20

KitchenAid KSM75SL Classic Plus 4.5-Qt. Tilt-Head Stand Mixer, Silver : I won’t get into the long story.. but I’m using my OLD (I got for my 16th birthday, so this bad boy has lasted over 16 years!!) Kitchen Aid 4.5 qt tilt head mixer….

https://www.amazon.com/KitchenAid-KSM75SL-Classic-4-5-Qt-Tilt-Head/dp/B00BU27HYO/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=kitchenaid+stand+mixer+4.5&qid=1573058334&sr=8-3

but if you love to bake and have been on Santa’s good girl list like me.. I’m hoping I get this one for Christmas this year!

KitchenAid KSM7586PSR 7-Quart Pro Line Stand Mixer Sugar Pearl Silver :

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008XF7926/?tag=ccoequippilot-20

Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 7-1/4-Quart Round French (Dutch) Oven, Caribbean : If you live near a Le Creuset outlet.. check there… I got this model (in like an eggplant color) for $180 and there were 0 flaws… It made me wonder why I waited 15 years to get one!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0076NOHTO/ref=twister_B007BA034A?_encoding=UTF8&th=1

Cuisinart WAF-F20 Double Belgian Waffle Maker, Stainless Steel : https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IA3HJGG/?tag=ccoequippilot-20

Cuisinart GR-300WS Griddler, Elite, Stainless Steel : https://www.amazon.com/b?node=14552177011&pd_rd_w=Z09x2&pf_rd_p=d3e725e5-9820-431a-824a-b2cb56851b67&pf_rd_r=MV3GQEMZFAYM1344C9M3&pd_rd_r=03f94bd5-9e41-4d7c-a7b7-0de5e8ee0295&pd_rd_wg=d2h15

Zojirushi NS-TSC10 5-1/2-Cup (Uncooked) Micom Rice Cooker and Warmer, 1.0-Liter : Mine is 10 years old—so it doesn’t look exactly like this. I won’t be prepping any rice because this is so easy to make:

https://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-NS-TSC10-Uncooked-Cooker-1-0-Liter/dp/B0074CDG6C/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3GWEIFTDW8TUQ&keywords=zuroshi+rice+cooker&qid=1573064673&sprefix=zuroshi%2Caps%2C162&sr=8-3

The rest of the equipment is either old, I don’t like it, or I am preparing to replace with much higher quality. I’m also planning to add an instant pot come black Friday/ Cyber Monday.

I love our Japanese rice cooker and definitely recommend getting one (24 hour hold setting is so useful) but I don't think you need to buy it in Japan and bring it back.

Looks like Amazon has it and the buttons are even in English!
(https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0074CDG6C/ref=psdcmw_678540011_t1_B00007J5U7)

We did buy ours in Japan but we're also going to be living here for a few years.

I've had this model for a few years now, used between 1-3 times a week and I've had zero issues with it. Made in China but I would still highly recommend it.

I don’t really measure, but I add so that the water comes up to x1.5-x2 the height of the soaked beans. If the beans are submerged and then some, it should be ok. Set cooker on regular white rice mode.

Rice cookers are great to cook with because it steams and cooks. I’ve even successfully cooked oxtail with it too!

Here’s the one that looks like mine. I’ve had it for 7 years now and everything is as good as new.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0074CDG6C/ref=psdcmw_678540011_t1_B01EVHWNVG

I have this one, and it works perfectly. I've sealed maybe 7 lbs of hops in 1-2 oz increments without a hitch.

I own the Seal a Meal and am totally happy with it. I use Ziploc vacuum bags of various size.

your correct, but I think kungfujohn1 has a point in the way amazon likes to carry the history of how you got to the product in the URL makes it easy to mistake if you copy that entire URL. IE a non affiliation link without any ref string at all: https://smile.amazon.com/Manual-Vacuum-Sealer-System-Starter/dp/B008HMWC4A would have been more obvious, but in the end no different.

I just have a cheap 30$ vacuum sealer off amazon. I will probably upgrade to a better one, but it gets the job done.

http://www.amazon.com/Seal-a-Meal-FSSMSL0160-000-Vacuum-Sealer/dp/B008HMWC4A/ref=sr_1_1?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1415822569&sr=1-1&keywords=vacuum+sealer

This was cooked with a reverse sear, 50 mins @ 250 degrees, then pan seared 45-60 seconds per side.

I defrost them in the fridge for 2-3 days in the vacuum sealed bag.

This one is way cheaper than the costco one. Ive had mine for almost 2 years and it has been great. Certainly saved me money on cheeses and meats that I can buy in bulk.

The bags are safe for immersion cooking, according to the package.

I heard that all vacuum sealers eventually go, so buy a cheap one.

Seal-a-Meal FSSMSL0160-000 Vacuum Sealer https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008HMWC4A/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_FJSIwbD17PJER

I mean this is $30 on Amazon and it's worked flawlessly for about a year so far for me.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008HMWC4A

Make and model? How long have you had it/actively used it? The vacuum pumps do eventually seem to go out.

This is the first vac sealer I had gotten. Lasted 2 and a 1/2 years with very moderate use: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008HMWC4A

Last year I bought this FoodSaver vac sealer which I've been more happy with. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0044XDA3S

Part of my problem was that I was attempting to vac seal brines on my first one. Now I would probably just settle for having a little bit of air in there so that I could guarantee a good seal

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008HMWC4A/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

That's the one I got a few years ago and it has been fine. I haven't used it anywhere close to weekly or even monthly, so perhaps it's lasted so long because of sparing use.

I've been using this one and it's done pretty well for me. It's a bit finicky about having the bag placed just right, but that's probably a given with vacuum sealers. I originally bought this Seal-a-Meal, which worked exactly once before something shorted out and it refused to turn on anymore, so I'd advise against going too cheap

I do a better job at eating healthy at the office compared to my work from home days. When I WFH, I am able to graze all day and truly cave when the afternoon munchies strike. At work, I can only eat what I pack. I focus on protein since it is filling and keeps me from getting too hungry.

I stock up on Lean Cuisine and Healthy Choice frozen meals when they are one sale. Not the healthiest choice, but decent calorie control and many of them have 20g+ of protein. Works great when you are in a pinch. And even though they are supposed to be frozen, they survive quite well in the fridge or insulated lunch bag from morning until lunch time.

I buy large packs of chicken breast, grill it, divide it into 4 oz quantities and freeze. Pull out a bag, mix with salad greens and a little bit of dressing, and I have a salad for lunch. I use a Rubbermaid Lunch Blox Salad Container.

I also have a lot of Greek yogurt, string cheese (6g of protein for 70 calories), and baby carrots.

I also bring my breakfast to work and eat it while checking my morning emails (and Reddit haha). For breakfast I will make an omelet (using this or a breakfast sandwich with this

I bought this a few month ago and it's freaking great and eery.

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00EI7DPOO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_DqxmDbXX8S572

https://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-25475A-Breakfast-Sandwich/dp/B00EI7DPOO

As long as you’re not buying a gift card and the gift shows that you know something about him (his favorite things, etc.) I think you’ll be fine. Does he complain about cold feet? Fuzzy socks with his favorite superhero on them. Complains about spending too much money on breakfast? Get a breakfast maker!

http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-25475A-Breakfast-Sandwich/dp/B00EI7DPOO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1415048546&sr=8-1&keywords=breakfast+sandwich+maker

As I said, though, I saw it at my local grocery store (Ralph's/Kroger) for $9.

If I had to give some advice on this then I would recommend:

• Focus on your needs before your wants.
  
  Just because you make that much doesn't mean you should spend that much. Be kind to yourself and to your wallet. Everyone wants nice things but you should be nice to yourself first.
  
  
• Focus on Happiness itself.
  
  You already do what you love. So, why not focus on what makes you happy outside of that. Life is about happiness. This is different to everyone so it's hard for me to talk about. If you love snowboarding and bike riding and they make you feel great then awesome. Shop around first.
  
  
• Credit Cards are your worst enemy.
  
  We need them for some bigger purchases but Credit Cards are your enemy. Always remember that those companies make it seem like it's just some plastic card but it's not. You're not handing over that money, that's not money in your hand, you're handing over a plastic card. Would you still be as willing to do it if you were holding $500 in cash? what about $2,500? Don't nickel and dime yourself over these quick fast food purchases. Please never, ever just say to yourself, "YOLO" and impulse buy. Buyer's Remorse from Impulse Buying, yeah it really upsets me.
  
  
• Be in the business of saving money.
  
  I won't go into details about myself but, I'm 30 from California and I'm very happy and I love saving money. I love jogging / running, riding my bike and being a huge computer nerd. Anyways, I save money by:
  
  A) Thrift Stores. They are an absolute gold mine, I just got some pants, jogging pants/shirt and my Sandwich Maker for $21 the other day. Talk about a lucky find. :)
  
  B) I don't eat out a lot, and I drink water/eat before I go grocery shopping because it makes me buy less junk food. I buy lots of 'filler' foods like fruits/vegetables, things with fiber (granola bars <3), Rice, etc. Go to the 99 cent store!
  
  C) I rent from a place that's below my means because I save money. I don't like the town I live in but I can't do much about that right now.
  
  D) I don't drive both because I have a fear of driving and some problems with my depth perception. If I did drive, then I definitely would never buy a brand new car/truck. So, I save money by working on my health and having a bus pass.
  
  E) I don't have a smart phone and I don't have any desires to have the internet on my phone when I have it right in front of me. There is no way I'm paying like $40 / month for some stupid smart phone plan (IMO).
  
  
• Take a visit on over to /r/personalfinance
  
  Because it's a pretty sweet subreddit, don't be intimidated.

A breakfast sandwich maker? As for grilling, you could get a shish kabob holder.

Breakfast sandwiches are a staple in my house, but I love our gadget:

http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-25475A-Breakfast-Sandwich/dp/B00EI7DPOO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1420559786&sr=8-2&keywords=breakfast+sandwich+maker

It will make me a tasty sandwich for 350 calories:

http://i.imgur.com/WM4Vom6.png
(disregard the applesauce, that's not IN my sandwich)

It cooks the egg in 5 minutes after preheating. I add in a frozen English muffin, frozen bacon, and cheese--and yum!

You need one of these. Best invention of the new millennium.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00EI7DPOO?cache=501ecc0a62393eae0f7b279f17bd010a&pi=SY200_QL40&qid=1407347110&sr=8-1#ref=mp_s_a_1_1

I have Hamilton Beach, you can get a big one for under 50 bucks https://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-Programmable-Temperature-33967A/dp/B00EZI26DW/ref=sr_1_1?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1483919075&sr=1-1&keywords=hamilton+beach+slow+cooker+6+quart

Crockpot lets you throw in a bunch of food and it does cooking overnight/workday.

The low temperature helps break down connective tissue on cheaper cuts of meat and makes it easy to not overcook your food.

You can get a Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker for $50. Forgot to point out that the programmable means you can set a duration or specific temperature for the food to get to. After the time/temp, it maintains a WARM setting that keeps your food at a safe temp, so you don't have to rush to get to it. Also, get the liners that make clean up a matter of seconds and no dishes to wash.

The size of a slowcooker, normally means that you make meals and have a TON to divvy up into containers to have handy for whenever you want to reheat them. It seems almost all crockpot recipes that I have encountered, also do well being frozen/reheated.

As an owner of every paleo recipe book that is highly rated/popular, let me know if you want some great starter recipes and what you THINK your favorite types of meat/foods are.

Which effectively makes it 45. If I put 5 more I’ll get this

$90 is craziness. I got a 5qt for $30, albeit not digital, but i don't think digital helps much.

I've seen quite a few folk using these on here. $50 6qt

I think the prices get ran up before thanksgiving/xmas.

> Get one with a timer this way you can place your crock in the cooker in the morning and it can be set to turn on at noon at low and be ready for dinner at 6.

Is that how the timer works on that one? Actually been looking at that model and this Hamilton Beach 33967A and from what I see the timer is only counting down from the time you set it to, not the way you said. Maybe im misunderstanding you, this would be my first slow cooker.

If you want to use that approach, this sub heartily recommends http://www.myfitnesspal.com/. It has a smartphone app and a website you can use to enter all your foods. I've been using it for about 3 weeks so far, and it's great. It will help you set a goal for calories and divide it up by protein/fat/carbs etc.

Once you start tracking that, the calorie differences in things will blow your mind. For example, the other night my wife made this beef stew. I had small bowl of that and it was 286 calories, it felt like a good meal and had 32 grams of protein.

During the meal I drank 2 Coors lights, they were 204 calories (and 1g protein, who knew?) and certainly didn't feel as filling as the hearty bowl of stew.

After dinner I had 4 mini kit kat's b/c we have our damn Halloween candy sitting out, they were 280 calories. They CERTAINLY weren't more filling than the stew, or even the beers.

So out of 688 calories, less than half was that stew, and that stew pretty much offered 10x the nutritional benefit of the other garbage I consumed.

Slightly related, I've been pre-making and freezing this Chicken Chili for months now and quite enjoy it. Not only is it healthy, easy and tasty, it only uses canned ingredients so it's also easy to stock up for and pretty damn cheap. A $50 slow cooker and a $15 digital scale will be invaluable tools for you if you go this route.

Edit: While I'm going over diet highlights, for me a protein shake is another easy/lazy way to get a pretty filling and healthy snack in. Lots of people have their favorite, mine is this. It seems to be marketed mainly to women, but it tastes delicious either way when mixed with low fat milk. The $35 seems a bit pricey, but it works out to about $1 a serving which isn't too bad. If price is an issue there are definitely other cheaper brands that are fine. I tried protein shakes years ago and hated them. I probably wasn't mixing them well. One or two of these $7 mixer cups solves that problem easily. Getting two is nice so you don't have to religiously clean a used one.

Lots of people will say to look at the Instant Pot which is a combination electric pressure cooker/slow cooker/rice cooker ("multi cooker"). I had a bluetooth enabled "IP-SMART" 6qt model of theirs (actually three: first had a safety recall, second was dented on arrival, third still exhibited regulation issues). Lots of people are happy with Instant Pots, but I had a lot of issues with the pressure control being flaky for certain recipes. Additionally, much of what makes slow cookers safe when you are out of the house is their low wattage heaters... typically 250-400W... and low complexity (basically it's a small electric blanket that is wrapped around a very heavy ceramic pot). The Instant Pot has a 1000W heater, and is more complex (microcontroller + a thermocouple), so this negates some of the safety aspects of unattended slow cooking... though it is UL listed and has a thermal fuse in case anything goes wrong.

My recommendation if you are interested in pressure cookers and slow cookers:

1. Presto 8qt stovetop http://www.amazon.com/Presto-01370-8-Quart-Stainless-Pressure/dp/B0000Z6JIW $69 More volume than electric pressuer cookers (8qt > 6qt) which is important since safely pressure cooking needs lots of headroom between the food and lid valve so as not to clog. Typically headroom is 1/3rd volume for most foods, 1/2 for foamy foods like rice, etc. Thus a 8qt pressure cooker effectively has a volume of 4-5qt. When using it without building up pressure, it can double as a large 8qt stockpot. I ended up preferring stovetop over electric since I can get an initial brown on meat without having to use multiple pots, and I don't have to wait for an electric heater to come up to temperature (10+ minutes on the Instant Pot for me).
   
   
2. Hamilton Beach 6qt set'n'forget slow cooker http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-33967A-Programmable-6-Quart/dp/B00EZI26DW $50 Check reviews on thesweethome.com for it, but it beat out a lot of more expensive crock pot models. Oval shape lends itself better for some slow cooker recipes, such as mini, chocolate lava cakes, roasts, etc.
   
   $120 for both.. around the ballpark of the cheaper Instant Pots, you gain an additional pot for stove use, pressure cooker is of bigger size, slow cooker is safe unattended and a more conventional shape, and IMO will last longer. You lose automatic rice cooking capabilities but... by a $20-$30 rice cooker and probably get better rice, or just do it on the stovetop.
   
   By the way, no idea what food you like to eat, but these are two of my favorite cookbooks if you are getting started and wanted to build up some experience:
   
   

• America's Test Kitchen 100 Recipes http://www.amazon.com/100-Recipes-Absolute-Best-Essentials/dp/1940352010/ Good for in-depth explanation of 100 recipes across a pretty big range of techniques.
  
  
• Cook's Illustrated Cookbook http://www.amazon.com/Cooks-Illustrated-Cookbook/dp/1933615893/ Shorter explanations but lots and lots of recipes.
  
  And major shout out to Kenji's (from Seriouseats.com) new book if you want more detailed science information:
  
  
• The Food Lab: Better Home Cooking through Science http://www.amazon.com/Food-Lab-Cooking-Through-Science/dp/0393081087
  
  This post ended up being much longer than I expected, but those are my recommendations if you are just starting out. ;) The main thing I've learned since beginning to cook is that 90%+ of the recipes online (and even in print) are untested crap, and to look for recipe sources you can trust. The second thing is that a finished recipe is much more dependant on the technique (the steps you use to modify ingredients at specific times, temperatures, and textures) and way less dependent on the ingredients themselves (you can easily sub ingredients for many recipes once the core techniques are understood).

I own [this one I got on amazon for $49] (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EZI26DW?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_search_detailpage) and couldn't be happier.

I recently bought this one for my first slow cooker. I'm loving it and have had 0 issues. It's actually cooking away right now so I can have a late dinner and a lot of leftovers.

Liters or quarts? Not that it matters that much.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EZI26GO/ref=pe_385040_30332190_TE_M3T1_ST1_dp_1 This is the one I got, and I'll swear up and down by it. Fantastic device. Thrift stores generally have some, if you want to save some cash.

Mine is sealed pretty tight.

Wow. That seems a lot to spend on a slow cooker. I can't think of any that are unsafe.

The Ninja seems pretty cool.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0093MRWJS?pc_redir=1412516198&robot_redir=1

Personally I'd like a slow cooker that has a latch down top for transport and has some programing features. Something like this.
Hamilton Beach 33969A Set 'n Forget Programmable Slow Cooker, 6-Quart https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00EZI26GO/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_JFKoub0NQ90J3

This is the one I have: https://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-33969A-Programmable-Temperature/dp/B00EZI26GO

It's really nice if you happen to bring food to pot-lucks frequently, since there's a lock that holds everything together. The Timer is nice as well. It cooks for X number of hours and then reduces temperature to "warm" until you are ready.

howdy jeffcagney,

i got this one a few months ago.
Amazon.com: Hamilton Beach 33969 Set and Forget 6-Quart Slow Cooker: Kitchen & Dining

• http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-33969A-Programmable-6-Quart/dp/B00EZI26GO
  
  it works fine for me. [grin]
  
  take care,
  lee
  
  

Here are the recipes...

These are some dishes my friend made for me and froze in aluminum tins. It was so convenient to have some ready-made home-cooked meals to throw in the oven:

https://www.marthastewart.com/326572/tamale-pie
http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/baked-ziti/
http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/chicken-alfredo-stuffed-shells/

Crock pot stuff. I love slow cookers because there's nothing to learn or do. Just dump in the ingredients, turn it on low, set a timer for 7-8 hours from then, and come back to your food all prepared. You can get a 6 quart normal one for $35 on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-Programmable-33969A-Temperature/dp/B00EZI26GO

Crock pot pulled pork (my favorite because it's tasty, easy, and involves NO prep):

• Get ~4-5 lbs of bone-in pork butt or pork shoulder (some cheap cut of pork with some fat on it). Put it in the crock pot.
  
• Pour a can of root beer over it.
  
• Cook on LOW for 7 hours. Then drain the root beer. (Kinda tricky. I put the lid on the crock pot and let the liquid pour out of a slit on top. Wear oven mitts. Try not to drop meat into sink.)
  
• Add your favorite type of barbecue sauce (if you want). Shred it all with two forks. Continue cooking on LOW for 30 more minutes.
  
• Eat it.
  
  ^ Throw those on some potato rolls for some tasty sandwiches. The cooked meat also freezes really well. I can make lunch for two adults for a whole week out of this (in addition to having it for dinner once or twice).
  
  Slow cooker corned beef and cabbage:
  https://www.marthastewart.com/891899/slow-cooker-corned-beef-and-cabbage
  
  Here's some stuff on freezer cooking, including with some recipes. If you have a chance before your twins are born, maybe you can throw some of these together:
  
  http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/freezer-cooking/
  
  I like to make casseroles because they reheat well and my entire goal in life is to cook as little as possible. I make one of these and eat the leftovers for lunch for a week.
  
  Cream of Chicken Taco Casserole:
  
  
• 2 cans cream of chicken soup (or one big can.. And then use all but 2 oz of it)
  
• 1 small can Old El Paso green chili peppers
  
• 1 pkg. Old El Paso taco shells (12)
  
• 1 large can evaporated milk.
  
• 1 onion, chopped
  
• 1 chicken: boiled, deboned, and cut up.
  
• Shredded cheddar cheese (about 1.5 cups. Do it by sight)
  
• (optional) 1 can rotel tomatoes.
  
• (optional, afterwards) Put taco sauce or hot sauce on top of a serving.
  
  Mix the cooked, cut up chicken with soup, milk, peppers, and onion.
  Line a 9 x 11.5 pan with taco shells. Crush them up first if you want.
  Pour chicken mixture over taco shells.
  Top with cheese.
  
  Bake 1 hour at 350 degrees.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00EZI26GO?tag=thesweethome-20&linkCode=as2

This one?

Amazon Canada DUO80 $99.99

Amazon is currently listing the 8-quart Instant Pot as in stock.

This one! It's actually cheaper now than when I bought it but I'm positive they'll go on sale for the holidays also. We're a family of 3 but honestly I like the bigger size if you have the counter space. What will kick you over $200 is alllll the accessories! I bought a second pot to make cooking multiple things simpler (wash one, cook with the other), a steamer basket, a glass top for easier slow cooking, a stackable egg rack for hardboiling.... But every piece is 100% worth it. It's been such a game changer appliance. Especially when I was doing after school pick up after a full day of work and then had to find an easy to cook a hot dinner that wasn't "fast food."

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B1VC13K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_q4cDDbHPJH8R0

>Limited to one per customer
>
>Link

half of them are made in china for super cheap, sold at a higher price than they're worth for a while, then drop to half price.

see: instant pot

Some good deals on Amazon if anyone is interested:

​

Instant pot pressure cooker

Cookware Set

Espresso maker

Monitor 32'

Steelseries Headset

More Deals

I just ordered the Instant Pot DUO80 (8 quart) at Amazon. Normally $130. Today $82. (Real prices, tracked with CamelCamelCamel.) Heckuva deal. This IP gets great reviews.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01B1VC13K/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01B1VC13K/

Bomb digity right there.

Price History

> https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HHWSV1S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_I30gAbWQQVXDM

"Add to list" (or maybe not too late to get on Xmas wishlist....)

This one: https://smile.amazon.com/Anova-Culinary-Bluetooth-Precision-Cooker/dp/B01HHWSV1S/ref=sr_1_1?s=prime-day&psr=PDAY&ie=UTF8&qid=1499786106&sr=1-1&keywords=sous%2Bvide&th=1&psc=1

The WiFi Bluetooth one is normally $200ish, I'd considered buying at $180 before, but didn't see the value in the WiFi part of it. So the $150 you posted I'd probably buy if I saw it hit $100. Thanks,

Joule or Anova WiFi, keep in mind Joule can only be used with a phone or other WiFi device that supports the app - but its ease of use can't be beaten.

Anova Nano might also be a good option but I've heard mixed reviews. I personally use the Anova WiFi and couldn't be more satisfied.

Anova WiFi (I bought mine for $119): https://www.amazon.com/Anova-Culinary-Precision-Bluetooth-Included/dp/B01HHWSV1S/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1550594863&sr=8-3&keywords=anova+wifi

Joule: https://www.amazon.com/ChefSteps-Joule-Sous-Watts-White/dp/B0727R431B/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1550594863&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=anova+wifi&psc=1

Edit: updated with Amazon links

Thanks, that's good to know. I'll put this thing on my Amazon wish list: https://www.amazon.com/Anova-Precision-Cooker-WIFI-Watts/dp/B01HHWSV1S/ref=pd_cart_wl_2_3?_encoding=UTF8&refRID=GV0X6QSRBDV9PR0CQV8C&th=1

Just a matter of hinting to the wife :)

I guess using a doubler boiler could be called a sous vide method, but more specifically, I have one of these that I want to use for infusion.

we put this one on our registry (not too pricey) plus we got a bunch of le creuset for xmas from our moms to use it with. one of the groomsmen bought it for us yay! i think you can do lots of different things with a sous vide, including fish (not sure about veggies).

These flashlights are awesome: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06Y1VZR6J/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

​

Have you heard of sous vide? https://www.amazon.com/Anova-Culinary-Precision-Bluetooth-Included/dp/B01HHWSV1S/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1542952053&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=sous+vide&psc=1

​

This is the world's coolest drill: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015XBO2E0/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

​

This dash cam is a great deal for the price: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0742DD36K/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

​

It's on Amazon. The 900W Wifi+Bluetoothis $99 off $199.

Business Costco is Costco geared towards businesses. Their bulk meat comes in 50lbs or more. A LOT of stuff is individually packaged items which makes it easier to take on the go. I have one about 20 mins from my house but they may not be everywhere.

As for the sous vide. I have one made by Anova.

Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker | WI-FI + Bluetooth | 900W | Anova App Included https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HHWSV1S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_wEh1Cb9SQZQMV

There are other ones that work fine but I really like the WiFi, as I can turn it on while at work, come home and it's ready. I love this thing.

I got the food Saver vacuum sealer from Costco and it's paid for itself in the amount of food it's saved me.

But for the sous vide you can use a zip lock bag or they even have reusable bags that you can wash out the inside. You put that in a stock pot or heat safe water container you have laying around.

I hope this helps!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HHWSV1S
for 129.99

Astroturfing is a marketing technique. You have a 2 year old reddit account with no activity before today, and all of your activity is links to this campaign. So essentially you look like you're trying to market this.


As for other options, there are several. Something like this would be my recommendation, because it's a lot more space-friendly than the one you linked, and is a lot less expensive. All you need for sous vide is a way to control water temperature. That's it. If you really wanted to, you could cook ghetto sous vide with a crock pot and a ziploc bag.

+1 that a good steak doesn't need sauce. Imo it ruins it and only poor cuts or poorly cooked steaks need sauce at all.

+1 on the sous vide. The results are amazing and it's so effortless. There's even this little gem that hooks up to your wifi and can be controlled by alexa or on the go. It's pretty hard to not get it perfect with this.
A nice sear on the grill, a pan, or a blowtorch with sear tip and you're at top quality cooked steak.

I have this guy. I usually used a large crock pot container as the water bath so I didn't have to buy a large special tub. Even that was a bit tight to work in if I had two big steaks in there. I didn't really feel like the water had enough room to circulate. But I don't like the device enough to want to buy a special tub to do water baths in.

You want to use a transformer rated at 1,000 voltamperes or 1KVA. DO NOT USE those travel converters. They are to be used ONLY on heating only appliances. Like older waffle irons, clothing irons, hair dryers and the like. They produce a poor waveform of current and can damage anything with electronics in it. Like your product. But as you can see from the link, they run about US$100. So unless your have other items you also want to run at 120VAC, it is probably cheaper to buy a new heater in country. For instance in the 1980's I moved for 2 years to England. I bought about 3 transformers, but I brought a number of my US appliances with me.

The only other problem is that they use 50Hz instead of 60Hz. So I also had a frequency converter. I am an electrical engineer and I built that myself. I used it to run my computer monitors and turntable. Both of which would not work correctly on 50Hz, even with the right voltage.

Also what voltage was it rated for? Your product details (click on answered questions, search: voltage) said you could order 120 or 220.

edit: Most modern electronics will work on either 50 or 60Hz without problems. I had old school electronics.

The shills are out in force this holiday season. Do not order using that link. Just use this non-referrer link and don't feed the rats.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HHWSV1S/

An instant pot is a must for a dorm. A toaster oven too. Or better yet a Nuwave oven.

https://www.amazon.com/Instant-Pot-Multi-Use-Programmable-Pressure/dp/B01MFEBQH1


https://www.nuwaveoven.com/common/NVJAE04/features.asp

Obviously not a "one size fits all" answer here, but from experience and what I recommend to clients:

​

Not skilled in the art of cooking? Buy a tool that alleviates that pain point. I often recommend an Instant Pot.

I use an instant pot to cook all of my weekly proteins (chicken, ground beef, fish, turkey, pork, etc) in one single pot. I throw all of the meat into a pot, add some stock, season with whatever I enjoy, and set it to cook.

​

After it's done cooking, I can easily weigh out the meat I want to eat in a single serving and put it on top of a bed of carbs (rice, noodles, potatoes, etc.), add some veggies, and garnish with mushroom + green onion. Well balanced meals with ease.

I have this one and I love it because I can pre-brown the meat right in the pot. It's got a non-stick surface though, so I don't know whether it can be Kashered or not. I have been hearing a lot of good things about the Instant Pot lately. Have you considered one of those?

InstantPot

It's plugged in with a grounded 3 prong cable. Inside there's a little metal pressure switch which allows the unit to turn on (which I don't plan to do for this). On top of that, there's a metal (stainless steel) pot that goes inside.

Two words: Instant Pot

https://www.amazon.com/Instant-Pot-Muti-Use-Programmable-Pressure/dp/B01MFEBQH1/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1505547239&sr=8-3&keywords=duo+instant+pot+6+qt

I just bought my wife an InstaPot. Anyone here have experience with them? Any tips?

I LOVE the Instant Pot! I have had one for two months now and it is amazing.

If anyone was wanting to get one, you can get them on Amazon for less than $80! You can buy them here, I think they are on sale too!

Check out amazon, if your still looking, the 3 quart is 59.99 and the 6 quart is 79.99. The three quart would be perfect for you.

​

link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MFEBQH1/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I got a 12qt Rubbermaid and a fitted lid for just under $30! (19.99 + 9.99, free prime shipping)

Edit: I wasn't sure about 12 vs 18 and I opted for smaller and couldn't be happier. I can cook tons of stuff in it without worry.

I bought a 12 qt Rubbermaid and an everie corner lid link, and have been happy. But I used a large stock pot for s while and add perfectly fine with that.

Get the Anova then see how it works for you before buying extras.

I actually read that article earlier and it’s why I was confused. They make custom made covers for the bins that seem like an obvious improvement. But I don’t know what I don’t know.

EVERIE Collapsible Hinged Sous Vide Container Lid Compatible with Anova Culinary Precision Cooker and 12,18,22 Quart Rubbermaid Container (Corner Mount) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071L6PRY8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_7TbXBbB6C9BJ5

https://www.amazon.com/EVERIE-Collapsible-Container-Compatible-Rubbermaid/dp/B071L6PRY8

Nice, thank you! I was looking at this one:


EVERIE Collapsible Hinged Sous Vide Container Lid Compatible with Anova Culinary Precision Cooker and 12,18,22 Quart Rubbermaid Container (Corner Mount) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071L6PRY8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_gGvRCbTNRZQ8H

Taking it a bit far but maybe OP can purchase a desk microwave like this one.

Here it is :)

I just saw an AmazonBasics microwave. I hadn't looked at it before, but it's clear with the Alexa integration and shopping deals that they intend for it to be a loss leader of some sort.

At 60 bucks, it looks like a pretty decent deal for a small microwave.

I moved into a new 1BR apartment that has limited counter space and the microwave that came with the place is massive (like 1.3-1.4 m^3). This one is half that size and the price is in-line or cheaper with the non-voice enabled ones.

I'll probably buy it, but only because I was looking to get a new/smaller microwave anyway

https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Microwave-700W-Works-Alexa/dp/B07894S727/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?_encoding=UTF8&ref_=ods_gw_ha_sr_dc_092318

Link without Amazon affiliate tag: https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Microwave-Compact-Works-Alexa/dp/B07894S727/

You can't -now-...

But SOON™

YOU CAN PLAY SKYRIM

ON YOUR ALEXA-POWERED MICROWAVE!!!!!!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07894S727

your microwave will

https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Microwave-700W-Works-Alexa/dp/B07894S727

Looks like they agree.
Alexa compatible microwave

Amazon has also just put out a voice-activated microwave. Highly recommended!
https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Microwave-Small-Works-Alexa/dp/B07894S727

"Immersion blenders" such as THIS model , intended for kitchen use, brag about having 200 Watt motors. Here is ANOTHER one that lets you

> Choose from five variable speed settings, from 7,000 rpm to 15,000 rpm, plus a 17,500 rpm TurboPulse setting

However, they are probably designed to stir more than 1 liter of liquid, of much higher viscosity than water (think: pureed chickpeas), at much faster velocity than you are interested in. You can probably treat these as an upper bound.

I recommend this.

Whipped cream makes a fantastic (and super easy) keto dessert. You can sugar-free flavored syrups for flavor - they're usually next to the coffee at supermarkets. Get yourself one of these and you can whip up cream in less than a minute.

boil water in a large pot, 60% full, and cook spaghetti. Cooking time will be on box.

take a large-ish teflon pan, put a silver-dollar's worth of E.V. Olive Oil, and some chopped garlic (you can buy it in a jar in olive oil), heat it in the pan for a minute, coating surface.

throw in some chicken, cut into bite-size pieces (sausage works too), fresh greenbeans (or any veggi), cook until browned medium-low heat, add some salt, and basil while cooking, mix in pan with a plastic spatula (always use plastic on teflon. it scratches)
add fresh baby spinach at the end for a minute and a half (it cooks down A LOT so add way more than you think you need)

add some heated tomato or vodka sauce OR, a nice alternative:
put 2 tablespoons of olive oil, spoonful of chopped garlic, and a spoonful of tomato sauce in a bowl. Chop with a wand mixer, and mix in very well into pasta. You may want to add more or less of this.

The whole thing takes 20 minutes, and it's delicious.

How has nobody mentioned an immersion blender yet?

Shove it in, pulse trigger, enjoy.

I have this one and love it

https://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-CSB-76BC-SmartStick-200-Watt-Immersion/dp/B000EGA6QI/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1541878819&sr=8-7&keywords=cuisinart+immersion+blender

You may need to either let the tomatoes cook out a bit longer for more juice or add water. Another option is to use an immersion blender (a blender on a stick). For example: http://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-CSB-76BC-SmartStick-200-Watt-Immersion/dp/B000EGA6QI

Caramelizing onions definitely help, but it depends on what type of curry. Indian Curry is much different than Thai Curry. The Thai Curry I made doesn't use onions at all.

Here's the recipe:

Crockpot Thai Chicken Curry

Prep Time: 5 min | Cook Time: 5 minutes 3 hours | Servings: 4 people | Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients:

• 1 (14 oz) can full fat coconut milk
  
• 1/4 cup almond butter
  
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  
• 3 tablespoons lime juice
  
• 2 tablespoons honey
  
• 4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
  
• 1/2 cup chicken stock
  
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  
• 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs, boneless/skinless
  
  

  Toppings/Extras
  

• Red bell peppers, sautéed (optional, but recommended)
  
• Chopped Cilantro for topping
  
• Nuts for topping (roasted but unsalted if possible)
  
• Sliced green onions for topping
  
  

  Directions:
  

  
  Whisk together sauce ingredients: coconut milk, almond butter, red curry paste, fish sauce, lime juice, honey, garlic, chicken stock, ground ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes directly in the crockpot.
  
  Cut chicken into large, bite sized chunks and add to crockpot.
  
  Spoon sauce over the chicken, so it's fully submerged.
  
  Cook in crockpot on LOW for 3 hours.
  
  Serve immediately with sautéed bell peppers over rice. Top with chopped cilantro, nuts (e.g., cashews/peanuts), and sliced green onions.
  
  Notes: Generally, I double this at least. I quadruple this for a large crockpot. This can be cooked on the stove in less time if the chicken is already cooked.
  
  Recipe based on the one here, but modified: http://showmetheyummy.com/crockpot-thai-chicken-curry/
  
  ----------
  
  I used lemon juice instead of lime and green curry past instead of red but it still had that same wonderful taste. I also added in cauliflower to the crockpot to help extend it and add in another veggie. You pour the sauce on rice or other veggies (I used green beans instead of rice this time). I also diced the bell peppers and placed in the crockpot instead of sauteing them to place on the rice later.
  
  Also of note, instead of whisking, I use an immersion blender such as this to make things easier.
  
  Hope you enjoy this recipe!!

I use an immersion blender like this: http://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-CSB-76BC-SmartStick-200-Watt-Immersion/dp/B000EGA6QI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1291916788&sr=8-1 except I don't think mine is as nice. Very handy because there are no extra dishes and the immersion blender cleans much easier than the pieces of my blender.

Hi! Welcome!

Well you probably don't need cold process AND melt and pour samplers. If you're a hands on kinda person (like me), you're gonna love cold process soap making, and (IMO) melt and pour almost feels like cheating at that point :).

You didn't mention equipment, so I'll go over that

1. you'll need a stainless (preferably) pot with high enough sides to not splash. Something like this although you could probably go smaller (depending on how large of batches you want to make. I prefer my pots on the large side because it gives me more room to be sloppy when I mix.
   
   
2. Pick up a hand mixer like this. This isn't 100% necessary, but sooooo worth it. I picked mine up at a flea market for 5 bucks. Check goodwill or salvation army. Having one of these turns 30-40 minutes of stirring into 3 minutes of blending.
   
   
3. For cold process, pick yourself up a couple of good wine and beer thermometers. These are nice because they measure in 2 degree increments. You can use any other food thermometer, this is just my preference.
   
   
4. Make sure you go to the grocery and pick up some good thick gloves and some safety goggles. Lye is an amazing chemical, but can burn the hell out of you if you're not careful. better safe than sorry.
   
   
5. When you get ready to pour your soap into the mold, you're gonna want to have it lined with some freezer paper. Don't use wax paper. If you use wax paper, you're gonna have a bad time.
   
   
6. It is very important to pick up a scale. Everything in soap-making is measured in weight, not volume. I'll repeat that, EVERYTHING IS MEASURED IN WEIGHT. If you find a scaled that weighs in lbs and oz, you'll have to a lot fewer conversions in your head.
   
   
   That being said, don't let that list scare you, like I said, I picked up most of my gear from thrift stores and flea markets. Soap making is fascinating and well worth the effort. Enjoy!

I've only been drinking bulletproof coffee for a week but I love it. It gives me the energy I desperately need. I use 1 Tablespoon regular salted butter, 1 Tablespoon Virgin Coconut Oil, 12 oz black coffee, 1 packet Splenda. I blend mine with a stick blender I received as a gift. If you're on a budget, and I'm assuming you are because you're in college, get a small personal blender like This One. I've read a lot of posts on bulletproof coffee and it seems Kerrygold butter is best. And the MCT oil, Coconut oil contains MCT so I just use that. It works for me, I love it.

I make a couple days worth of shakes at a time (so, 4-5). I dump everything into a pitcher, and go at it with an immersion blender like this. It's cheap, and when you're done you just have to clean the wand and you're finished. No extra parts or dishes to wash.

I got an immersion blender three years ago and I've never looked back. I use it about once a month to blend soups or make pudding; I consider it an invaluable, if infrequently used, part of my kitchen.

I bought the Cuisinart CSB-76 from Amazon. I've only used it once but it seems to work great.

1. My defining moment was when I went with my sister to a college and realized that I actually want a future, that I actually want to do something with my life. I shouldn't keep staying in the past.
   
   I_Define_me
   
   I really need and want this blender.
   

I have one of those small individual blenders this one. It is a to go cup and blender in one. It works great for bulletproof coffee.

I could definitely use this blender for my first apartment I'm moving into in August. I'm on a mission to change my eating habits and lifestyle and it would DEFINITELY come in handy! Goodbye Eleven :(

Well, it certainly isn't a great blender, but for my dorm the [Hamilton Beach personal blender] (http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-51101B-Personal-Blender/dp/B0017XHSAE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409171086&sr=8-1&keywords=hamilton+beach+blender) works for me. It is extremely convenient because you can drink right from the blender cup. It doesn't blend up veggies at all though. It is very cheap and also pretty easy to clean.

Hamilton Beach Blender

This thing makes the smoothest dang protein shakes

Activity: Singing

Movie: Mean Girls I have watched that movie too many times to count :)

Book: Fever 1793 (After reading it a million times in school I finally got my own copy thanks to the redditgifts books exchange)

I just went to a lake that is french for little potato :)

New ideal gift :)

I used an actual blender (this one to be precise). If you have a blender, can you give it a try and report back? Since I kind of did this on accident, I'm not exactly sure how else to troubleshoot. What kind of protein powder did you use?

What a fun contest!

1. What's a birthday without cards? Pretty ones even:) Added to my Cave of Wonders wishlist on July 10.
   
   
2. I've got nothin :/
   
   
3. Ooh... I've got probably close to 60 of those to choose from. How about [this one] (http://www.amazon.com/DramaContemporary-Hungary-Books-Eugene-Brogyanyi/dp/1555540546/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=1143OIB90TSSU&coliid=IGO9DFBZKV5ZA) about Hungarian plays? It's on my Booked with bargains list because used copies start at a penny. It's also on my Geeking out list, added July 12.
   
   
4. H'mm, I have something that's so awesome [it doesn't need an eating utensil to use!] (http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-51101B-Personal-Blender/dp/B0017XHSAE/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=16Q1M9X9GOLAF&coliid=IBCF1BBG8UQ5H) A blender that transforms into a travel mug is nothing short of magical. And this one was added to my geeking out list on July 12.
   
   
5. An animal that serves as a tea companion is the [best sort of animal] (http://www.amazon.com/Kikkerland-Monkey-Infuser-Drip-Tray/dp/B005SQ4BJW/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=16Q1M9X9GOLAF&coliid=I3UICS49GSTJLJ). This monkey tea infuser was added to my geeking out list on July 6.
   
   
   
6. SQUEE. Best color ever. Take [that] (http://www.amazon.com/Tovolo-80-6100PL-Purple-Tea-Infuser/dp/B000G34EXA/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=1R9P80O1URJSU&coliid=I3PE33RG7P10TP) (purple tea infuser June 3 cave of wonders) and [that] (http://www.amazon.com/Paper-Mate-Retractable-Ballpoint-35830/dp/B001B0DCSU/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=1R9P80O1URJSU&coliid=I3AM1W644F6QCA) (purple ink pens Cave of Wonders July 10) and [this] (http://www.amazon.com/Amethyst-Gemstone-Beads-Purple-Inches/dp/B002696YHG/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2AWRGPWU7U5BD&coliid=I34UR3X5LMFOLE) (purple beads July 26 fun sized list) and [POW] (http://www.amazon.com/Pilot-Rollerball-Retractable-Purple-PIL26071/dp/B0013CKDVK/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2AWRGPWU7U5BD&coliid=I15QGVSYNUVTKR) (another purple pen fun sized July 10) and [WOW] (http://www.amazon.com/TopCase-Metallic-PURPLE-Macbook-Unibody/dp/B0040BLOZU/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=16Q1M9X9GOLAF&coliid=I3AAZB1THZQHKZ) (purple computer case geeking out added July 7).
   
   
   
7. A little game I like to call [sorting neat facts in a world that makes sense] (http://www.amazon.com/Pocket-Posh-Logic-100-Puzzles/dp/0740778609/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=QIOVI9G7K472&coliid=I2IGINW5WZS3K1), otherwise known as logic puzzles! Added May 30 to Puzzled and Poetic
   
   
8. My guilty pleasure would be good deals on shoes. This isn't necessarily a good deal but [they're cute!] (http://www.amazon.com/Military-Combat-Fold-over-Multiple-natural/dp/B00BFMCN98/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2KZTB0H1P6VLH&coliid=IBK6GKPEQ9ZHX&psc=1)
   
   
9. This would be a [tool for learning] (http://www.amazon.com/Melissa-Doug-Basic-Skills-Board/dp/B000NVBE10/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2SXK6EXO51EGC&coliid=I1JUL7SJ6EWSH1) added June 26 to Student Resources.
   
   
10. I don't know about you, but my childhood coincided with the BOOM in gel pens [similar to these] (http://www.amazon.com/Sakura-58350-10-Piece-Assorted-3-Dimensional/dp/B000LR4ZDA/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=16Q1M9X9GOLAF&coliid=I2DY1WDG2BV378) added to my geeking out list July 12.
    
    
11. These [handy cards] (http://www.amazon.com/Fancy-Pants-Designs-Collection-Journaling/dp/B009EEF36O/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=16Q1M9X9GOLAF&coliid=I164DKZ2CB4CV3) are to help organize my journal entries- added to geeking out on July 12.
    
    
12. One of my hobbies is jewelry making, and [this is a chain] (http://www.amazon.com/shipping-16-Vintage-Antique-Twisted-Chains-Jewelry/dp/B00AIKTSX2/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=16Q1M9X9GOLAF&coliid=I172SEPLDWH9I5) to incorporate in said hobby- added to geeking out July 13
    
    
13. All right, how's research on [another country's textbooks] (http://www.amazon.com/Textbook-Reds-Schoolbooks-Ideology-Post-Communist/dp/0271058560/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2KZTB0H1P6VLH&coliid=I2M3GLH2G3KYAA) for nerdy? Added to Booked with bucks on July 9.
    
    
14. Ain't nothing more natural than me and [my tea] (http://www.amazon.com/Organic-Decaf-Spiced-Peach-Tea/dp/B00081H3BA/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=16Q1M9X9GOLAF&coliid=IDESGPH15UE82) (ignoring the fact that I don't actually own this kind of tea) added to Geeking out July 12
    
    
15. Speaking of [tea and green] (http://www.amazon.com/Harney-Sons-Coconut-Vanilla-Sachets/dp/B00796KNHS/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pd_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=1R9P80O1URJSU&coliid=I2UWULYHAV7V4Y) here's something added to cave of wonders just yesterday
    
    
16. If [this hat] (http://www.amazon.com/Womens-Cloche-Bucket-128SH-Brown/dp/B00AAVT7XA/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=16Q1M9X9GOLAF&coliid=I5GBSKLYUIN0H&psc=1) were mine, it would indeed be worn! Added to geeking out July 12.
    
    
17. Funny? (stares blankly and humorlessly) Oh wait! [There's this] (http://www.amazon.com/How-Survived-Communism-Even-Laughed/dp/0393030768/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=1143OIB90TSSU&coliid=I2BSGBOA78R0S0) Added July 26 to booked with bargains
    
    
18. [More purple beads!] (http://www.amazon.com/Glass-Pearls-Czech-Round-Purples/dp/B00B5DBYCE/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_S_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2AWRGPWU7U5BD&coliid=I3122TPXZTZMMI) added to fun sized list back in March.
    
    
19. Gardening? [My flowers] (http://www.amazon.com/Lucite-Cabochons-Ivory-Yellow-Flower/dp/B002UGWX5C/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_nC?ie=UTF8&colid=2AWRGPWU7U5BD&coliid=I13QBBKH7U4RRU) happen to be more of the glue on variety ;) Added in March to fun sized list.
    
    
20. SIGH. I'm terrible with "favorites" questions. This one no this one no this one should be my motto. Or that one or that one or that one. Can't decide.
    
    Edit: after almost an hour of hunting down this list, I forgot to include the raffle phrase! Happy happy cake day! :) Hope it was a good one!

How do you mix your protein shakes?

http://www.amazon.com/Sundesa-BB28-SC08-BlenderBottle®-Classic-28-ounce/dp/B001KADGMI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1382110052&sr=8-1&keywords=shaker+bottle

http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-51101B-Personal-Blender/dp/B0017XHSAE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1382110067&sr=8-2&keywords=blender

My two weapons of choice.

This might be sort of random but I would pamper myself with this. I absolutely LOVE fruit smoothies. Kitten mittens =)

Final Fantasy 14: A realm Reborn, these pieces of shit, and this other piece of shit.

so much regret. The game sucked, the silicone Popsicle molds were almost impossible to get off, and the blender was just shitty.

Also apparently I purchased nothing in 2014. wat

It's probably time to replace your slow cooker. My old one ran way too hot and would boil water on LOW. My Hamilton Beach doesn't do that.

When cooking in my slow cooker, almost nothing except stews and soups need any added liquid. Even without adding water or broth, roasts, chicken, and other meats are nearly swimming when they are done cooking; with or without vegetables.

I have this 6qt cooker, which is a very popular model.

Some folks report having problems with it (unexpected shutoffs, etc) but I've used mine many dozens of times without any problems.

I have had this one for several years and I love it. I have used it to make sausage and kraut, navy beans and ham, pot roast, chili, soup, sloppy joes, and stew.

There are definitely plenty of vegetarian meals out there for slowcookers. You can get a basic one pretty cheaply, and if you wait for Black Friday (or Cyber Monday) you can usually get a really nice one for under $20 too.

I use this one, and have been really happy with it. We've only got 2 adults and one toddler in my family, but this cooker does a good job with smaller meals and still gives me the flexibility to cook massive meals with lots of leftovers or feed 8-10 people when we have company.

As someone else has mentioned, you don't even need a slowcooker for most slowcooker recipes. Just about any of them can be modified for the stove or the oven. You can't really beat the convenience of tossing a few things into the pot in the morning and coming home to a ready meal, though. :)

I got this one:
http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-33967-6-Quart-Programmable/dp/B001AO2PXK/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1268415806&sr=1-5

pros about this one:
-There is a timer on it. I use it to make steel cut oats overnight.
-The lid clips on. I can easily bring it to a potluck (yes, I live in Minnesota).
-There is also a temp probe. You can set it to shut off when a particular temperature is reached.
-It's 6 qts. I never ever used my old, smaller one, but I use this one about twice a week.

I've been thinking about getting one as well, and I've seen this one mentioned quite a bit. I have it on my wishlist. It has a timer, good size, not very expensive, and it seems to have a lot of good reviews.

Hamilton Beach Set 'n Forget 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker

I prefer the fancier one for $10 more, but Hamilton Beach is definitely the way to go. The ability to secure it for travel alone makes it the Iceberg Slim of slow cookers. I will now go make some beef stew in mine.

Also, this slow cooker is really cool because of the thermometer it has. I feel a little safer about leaving it running while I'm out of the house.

I really like this one http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-33967-6-Quart-Programmable/dp/B001AO2PXK because you can put a timer on it and once it is done it switches to keep warm. This way you don't have to rush home to turn it off.

Just found this sub. Loving it already.

I bought this one about a year ago. I love it and have used it often. Never really needed the meat thermometer as of now though. Love the settings and size of it.

10/10 would buy again.

It might seem overkill by contrast to a timer, and you have to reset the cooking time almost every time you put something in because it doesn't give you a buffer of time from the point that it beeps to tell you it's reached the cooking temperature, but I really have to recommend the Breville Motherfucking Smart Oven. The best thing to happen to ovens since ovens. It turns off when your pizza is done and there is no way it will burn it if you put the right time in. It's also a convection oven, so it has really good temperature distribution and the "hot spot" issue is well under control. It's one of those things that is kind of expensive, but as soon as I got it, I realized it was worth every penny, and I use it almost exclusively in place of the big oven. It's a lot larger than most toaster ovens while still fitting on a shelf and more than likely you'd have room for it in a dorm room as long as it didn't trip the breaker. It's also a really good toaster and broiler. I also like that it requires far less time for heating than a full-size oven and doesn't heat up the entire kitchen.

my Breville toaster oven actually has one of these: http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1314813837&sr=8-1

holy shit my friend has this one

I had no idea it was that expensive...god damn

I can second the breville. I have the Breville Smart Oven for about a year and I use it about 10 times more frequently than my oven. Ive made everything from a 5lb roast to bread and pizza in it with no problem.

Its seriously the best toaster oven I've ever used.

Toaster oven oven: https://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW

I have a Breville convection oven and love the thing, yes, I know it's pricey but if you cook a lot, it's worth it. It's great for reheating things as well your basic toaster needs. When my oven broke, it was a savior. I wouldn't do a full roast in it but for chops and fish, it was fine albeit a little longer than my oven.

We use our Breville Smart Oven more than we use the big oven. It's definitely been a good investment for us.

We have this one, big enough to use as main oven, especially on hot summer days when you don’t want to heat up your house! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001L5TVGW/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_i_sPxZDbZXSYVJN

http://www.amazon.com/Breville-BOV800XL-1800-Watt-Convection-Toaster/dp/B001L5TVGW

Price: $249.95.

You save: $0.04

The Breville Smart Oven is fantastic. I've got this version, which is a bit cheaper than the one you linked to. It's also smaller, but it's usually not a big problem (although I have sometimes made bread that rose a bit too close to the heating element and burned a bit on top. But it was still delicious). I do have a (vintage) 12 cup muffin pan that will fit in the toaster oven, although it is the type with closely spaced cups that tends to result in the tops running together. I think there's a Nordic Ware one that'll fit too.

Anyway, it heats way, way more evenly than your standard oven, so it's much easier to bake in that many of them. In a typical oven, filling the space very full causes a lot of problems (putting two 9x13s side by side in my full size oven always results in some burning, and it's actually a reasonably good oven), but the Breville not only fits a 9x13, it also cooks it evenly.

If you can afford it, I'm a huge fan of the Breville BOV800XL Smart Oven. It's done a pretty good job so far of cooking pizzas, roasting small chickens and vegetables, as well as toasting things.

I had the same issue recently. I ended up getting a nice counter top convection/toaster oven and I love it! It bakes faster than the oven I used to use so if you got one, I would recommend doing some research on adjusting bake times for a convection oven.

The only downside is the size, really. But that usually just means it takes more loads for cookies, etc. You can bake anything in it that you would bake in a normal oven, as long as it fits.

The one I use and love is:

Breville Convection Oven

I bake a lot so I splurged on my oven, but you can get a good convection/toaster oven for a lot less too. I would shop around and decide what features you want it to have.

Also, If you end up getting a convection oven, remember when using it to not have it's back against the wall because it needs some clearance or it might overheat/damage the oven.

Hope you find something that works for you! : )

Magic Bullet

I love mine... so much less hassle and clean up...

Save up man, it's a totally worthy appliance. I did lots of research before getting mine, and I love my blender! Also, magic bullets work well, live long, and are relatively inexpensive too.

This comment will not be helpful, but I'll admit, when I first read your title, this was my first thought: https://www.amazon.com/Magic-Bullet-MBR-1701-17-Piece-Express/dp/B001WAKFDY

Defs the Magic Bullet I've been lusting after ever since I saw the infomercial at 3am when it first came out. We don't own an actual blender and I freaking love smoothies and milkshakes. Plus, holy shit, how great was the Magic Bullet infomercial?!

Then what is [this] (http://www.amazon.com/Magic-Bullet-MBR-1701-17-Piece-Express/dp/B001WAKFDY)?

First of all I just want to say that, that strainer looks amazing.

I'm going to guess that you'll have $43.24

here is an item under $10, here is one under $25, and here is one under $50

I love the Magic Bullet. It's the perfect size for making a shake or smoothie (Unless you want a huge one) and since it's small, you don't have to worry about dirtying a big blender pitcher or whatever they're called. Plus there's a few so if you're lazy and one is dirty, you can use another one. They're also good because you can seal them and take them wherever you want to go

Also good if multiple people want a drink/shake/smoothie/whatever but don't want the same thing.

I have a Magic Bullet that works pretty well. Comes with lids and such, also good for blending in spinach for some added weight to the juice.

I use a ninja bullet. Scoop some coconut oil, kerrygold, and mct oil. Then I put the cap on and place it by the coffepot. Morning comes, I make coffee, pour it in the prescooped cup, blend it, then put the drink top on and go. Never been better. I have a giant ninja kit with blender and everything but This bullet can be had on amazon for under 50. I used that before I had the ninja.

I have the 6 qt crock pot ($35) and a timer I got from a hardware store ($10).

http://www.instructables.com/id/Sous-vide-cooker-for-less-than-40/
I found some hotspots with the stagnant water, so I added this to keep the water moving, and a palce to tie the temp probe to.
stc-1000
crock pot

would like this for phone fund but if we are talking about actual items then this be safe and come back soon =D

Good one, on sale with free shipping

One of these. Shipping to Japan was quick and cheap, the total price worked out less than one of the tiny ones sold locally.

I also have a three quart one for things like pot roasts.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003HF6PUO/ref=ya_aw_oh_bia_dp?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This is a fantastic slow cooker, I've had it since February and it's love.

Something like this would work. I know that $20.00 can be a lot when you're on a tight budget, but it will save you a lot of money in the long run.

If you shop around, the one thing you want for sure is for your crockpot to have a removable inner/stoneware. If it isn't removable, it can be a real struggle to get it clean without getting the whole instrument wet (not advised).

Slow cooker. Absolutely. And you can get a decent slow cooker for a reasonable price. 20 bucks for this nice little Crock-Pot. I use my slow cooker for everything from chili to stews to roasts to soups. Easily one of my favorite appliances!

Ok, first thing you will need is one of these:
https://www.amazon.com/Crock-Pot-3-Quart-Manual-Stainless-SCR300SS/dp/B003UCG8II/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1511104258&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=small+crock+pot+1.5+quart&psc=1

Then, stick a quarter cup of ghee, coconut oil, or some other oil, and stick about 7 grams of hash it in, don't worry about decarboxylation, that will happen while the hash is cooking. Let sit for 3 hours cooking away. When you are done, cook whatever you normally would, using said oil to cook with.

It's almost as if the eBay item had a differently-sized crock from the pot it fits in. Or, perhaps, in your country the crock was metric whilst the pot was Imperial, or vice versa.

Don't blow off the Crock-Pot brand; it's fine and popular. But perhaps find a way to get one new, from someplace.

I've studied different brands recently because I wanted a second, smaller one. I bought THIS one for about USD 50 in the USA. But since you want a manual one, there's THIS which is selling for USD 20 in the States. Larger sizes for manual on/off/warm ones are of course more expensive but not radically so.

If you aren't going to cook large meals (and have leftovers), I don't suggest you get a 6Q. If you only put a little bit in, and cook it, there's a really good chance it will overcook. I used to have this problem, and there are other people who've posted with the same issue.

I suggest you get a 3Q. It's small enough to give you two+ portions, and it's a good size for potluck dishes, if you ever do that sort of thing. I have a 3Q and it's what I use when I'm cooking for 2. It's the size I most often take to potlucks. I have a 1.5Q, 3Q, 5Q and 6Q that I use often, so I've tried different recipes in all of these.

This is the one I have. Whatever you get, make sure it has a warm setting.

I got this Classic 3-quart Round Crock Pot. The one I got is kind of an orange color. New in box, never opened. I already have 3 Crock Pots.

We had a huge crockpot, but it ended up making too much food so the food always went to waste. I got this one instead http://www.amazon.com/Crock-Pot-SCR300SS-3-Quart-Manual-Stainless/dp/B003UCG8II/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1420740570&sr=8-1&keywords=crockpot+scr300 and it's great because it'll make enough food for the two of us then we have leftovers for another meal. Beef stew is so easy to make as well. Just brown some stew meat with garlic and other spices, toss it in the crockpot with carrots, onions, worcestershire and it's good to go the next morning.

You need one of these !

If you can, get yourself a crock pot! I just found this one on amazon for 18$ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003UCG8II/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_9UUYDbJ6XPEA9

Hardly more than the price of one door dash meal! You can make anything in a crock pot! And you can easily use it to reheat soups, sauces, etc. I would be happy to send you recipes I use!

Also, bagged salad and a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store is a great dinner. I like to use the leftovers to make wraps with peanut sauce and rice (amazing even cold from the fridge), and use the carcass in my slow cooker to make stock for soup!

$3 at a thrift store. $20 brand new.http://www.amazon.com/Crock-Pot-SCR300SS-3-Quart-Manual-Stainless/dp/B003UCG8II/ref=sr_1_4?s=kitchen&srs=3270395011&ie=UTF8&qid=1377989568&sr=1-4

If it's CrockPot brand it's not burning down your house. Absolutely an absurd excuse.

Electricity? 15-20 cents. You are ridiculous.

Sounds like the heating element is dead, which happens. I'd just replace it. I have this one, and it's served me well for years:

https://www.amazon.com/Crock-Pot-3-Quart-Manual-Stainless-SCR300SS/dp/B003UCG8II/ref=sr_1_11?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1479859760&sr=1-11&keywords=crock+pot

Non-mobile: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B003UCG8II/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1426820983&sr=8-2&keywords=slow+cooker&dpPl=1&dpID=51253%2Bqq9AL&ref=plSrch&pi=AC_SY200_QL40

^That's ^why ^I'm ^here, ^I ^don't ^judge ^you. ^PM ^/u/xl0 ^if ^I'm ^causing ^any ^trouble. ^WUT?

There's an amazon 3-quart 20$ crockpot I've used for five years (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003UCG8II). You can turn it on with some kind of meat and vegetables and sauce and leave it for 4 or 8 hours depending on slow or "fast" cook, and come back to a meal you can eat or divide into portions and freeze for later. They also make these plastic crockpot bags that you can literally put into the crockpot and cook your food in, and you won't have to clean the crock pot afterward.

I have one of these (the 450 watt version) and kind of rely on it a lot, all the time. For nut butters I throw nuts into the smaller of the containers and blend them up. Sometimes it needs a little water, depending on the nut.

I bought this one a few months ago and it hasn't failed me yet:

Ninja Master Prep (QB900B) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003XU3C7M/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_wY4Hxb4J5BE8G

1. Wow, this took forever. I tried to put them in order of date, but around the last row, I had to go back to older photos, because I didn't have any recent ones leading to the last two. Had a fun time putting this together, though.
   
2. It's all me in the photos. I promise.
   
3. The hairbrush is in the last photo.
   
4. Your health-related items reminded me of this blender that would be used to make healthy smoothies.
   
5. Surprises are fun.
   
6. I'm ready for my closeup!
   
7. Thanks for the contest!

Here is the cheaper north america version http://www.amazon.com/Ninja-QB900B-Master-Revolutionary-Drink/dp/B003XU3C7M/ref=pd_sim_k_2

If you want carrots, kale, etc. blended to drinkability you can do it with a Ninja. The older model does just as good as job as the new one (I've had both) and its cheaper. You can buy at Bed Bath and Beyond or check out amazon

http://www.amazon.com/Ninja-QB900B-Master-Revolutionary-Drink/dp/B003XU3C7M/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1312909649&sr=8-7

Ninja makes 2 lines of blenders one is a cheapy Magic Bullet competitor which works well when compared to other machines in the segment and cost ~$50 but are no substitute for a real blender.

My SO bought her Ninja at Costco for $130 and has been using it to make frozen fruit smoothies and crushing ice every morning. I haven't used it myself but according to her it's lightyears better than our old Oster blender.

Do you have a blender already? Or are you opposed to buying a food processor/blender type of thing? Because my personal love of a food processor is actually this set from Ninja. If you want something a bit more, this is the next step up. And if you just want the food processor part try this.

I have a small Ninja chopper which I thought I would use more, but it's become just a smoothie machine for me. As a smoothie machine it's nice, but with the size of it there's a whole bunch I can't that I could do with a normal size food processor, anything involving dough or making more than a very small batch of something like hummus. I've done peanuts in mine before, along with ice and frozen fruit.

Unless it's the things I mentioned, I just use my knife, it's just easier to clean up and I hate doing dishes. Decide what you need for yourself.

This is the one I have, although if you can afford just a little more space than that, this is probably better. It'd be a tough sell to get me to buy the second one today as the food processor I've been looking at is $40 and I already have a blender, it's a weird product that's kind of a blender and kind of a food processor.

I personally use this one for blending smoothies and it does a very good job of pureeing everything. Also, it's a very good price for the quality.

Use a food processor. I have a small one where I can chop a small amount at a time.

I have this one. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003XU3C7M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awdb_t1_FBfYDb7CW7N78

You won’t get even pieces. You will still need to cut of ends and peel.

I think this looks good.

Anyone have a ninja?

The Jesus Toaster

Those illustrations look like toast
.

I too can produce Jesus on toast miracles! https://www.amazon.com/Burnt-Impressions-The-Jesus-Toaster/dp/B0042QRYO8

At - "Keith Hey Pete...send this to Marc for Xmas...http://www.amazon.com/Burnt-Impressions-jesus247-Jesus-Toaster/dp/B0042QRYO8 "

The "Marc" is a highlight.

You sir, are awesome. I was looking for a gift for my catholic mom that would be a good follow up to the jesus toaster my brother got her last year.

Can I interest you in the Jesus Toaster?

Here's a more recent appearance of the saviour:

https://www.news5cleveland.com/news/local-news/oh-cuyahoga/northeast-ohio-man-claims-bird-droppings-show-image-of-christ

And, a DIY version:

https://www.amazon.com/Burnt-Impressions-The-Jesus-Toaster/dp/B0042QRYO8

​

You can see Jesus in your toast every day!

https://www.amazon.com/Burnt-Impressions-The-Jesus-Toaster/dp/B0042QRYO8

Do you have this toaster?

Or you could just buy a toaster

278

Interesting buy :)

Thanks for the great giveaways Pachanka!

Wake Up to a miracle every day!

Buy a rice cooker and for $35 you can cook up to 10 cups of rice (20 cups cooked). I cook about 10 cups on Sunday and leave the built-in bowl in the fridge for the rest of the week. One of the best investments ever.

I have an Aroma that serves as a rice cooker, steamer, and slow cooker (crockpot). It works well and I really like it. My only complaint is that you can't set it to steam something for less than 5 minutes, so it's not good for blanching delicate veggies like broccoli.

I bought this a year ago and it's works perfectly every time. My last Aroma rice cooker worked well for 3 years but I wanted a larger capacity.

http://www.amazon.com/Aroma-ARC-150SB-Uncooked-Digital-Steamer/dp/B0055FSN0Y/ref=sr_1_2?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1406485651&sr=1-2&keywords=aroma+rice+cooker

Rice cookers are very simple technology, you don't need an expensive one to last a long time.

I use this one. Never had an issue.

10-cup rice cooker with steamer basket. The updated version sells for about $37 on Amazon. Works fine. Instruction manual here.

The most recommended one from america's test kitchen is like 30$. At that price I think there's no reason to not get one.

http://www.amazon.com/Aroma-UNCOOKED-Stainless-Exterior-ARC-914SBD/dp/B007WQ9YNO/

http://www.amazon.com/Aroma-uncooked-Digital-Exterior-ARC-150SB/dp/B0055FSN0Y/

I was thinking about getting this one:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0055FSN0Y/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&th=1

This is something that I came up with a while ago that my roommate could make easily (he's not exactly culinary school material). It's ridiculous easy. Very tasty. VERY flexible (swap out proteins, seasonings, add veggies, you can do whatever you want to it). Should work in a crock pot if needed, definitely works in one of these combo rice cooker/slow cooker things.

Fajita Rice

3 cups of rice
Water for 3 cups of rice
1 can of diced tomatoes (don't drain)
1 tablespoon onion powder
2 teaspoons crystallized garlic
1 lb ground beef uncooked
2 tablespoons fajita or taco seasoning
2 teaspoons jalapeno salt
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 tablespoon of crushed red pepper
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 tablespoon chicken broth concentrate (or 1 big bullion cube (4 normal sized))
1 tablespoon beef broth concentrate (or 1 big bullion cube (4 normal sized))
about 1 lb of chicken (either a breast or thigh works) (thawed) cut up into 1 inch pieces
No butter or oil, the fat in the beef will be our fat

Mix all of this in rice cooker (break up the beef as much as possible), and push the rice button.

You could also buy a rice cooker. I got the Aroma large one (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0055FSN0Y/ref=oh_details_o05_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) and it's amazing. There are plenty of rice cooker recipes out there like beans and rice, that allow you to make a one-pot meal in there with very little effort.

But, regardless, I'll also use the rice cooker to simply cook up large amounts of rice, and then seal them up into portions and freeze. I'll do both white and brown, and the brown I cook in the chicken bone broth I make, which also gets frozen. Red sauce, both with meat and without, do well in the freezer.
I buy packs of chicken breast and boneless thighs from Costco, and then cut the raw chicken into bite-sized pieces. Lay it out on a cookie sheet topped with parchment/wax paper and freeze. Freezing them like that means you can pour out some of the frozen meat, not all, plus it thaws quicker.
Make GF gravy and freeze it. I combine the chicken with the non-meat red sauce, or with gravy and have that over rice or waffles, or stir-fry w veggies over rice.
I found that it was better in the end if I did all the prep work and then frozen, rather than created meals. I also get onions - slice some, dice some, mince some, and freeze. Same w green/red peppers if you use those. If you use one of those vacuum sealers, you could make up GF pizza crusts ahead of time, freeze the proper portion amount of sauce to go with and same with freezing proper portion amount of shredded cheeses.

They have smaller ones, this is a 20 cup for only $37.

I'd imagine you'd make your money back in no time with hungry people everywhere.

http://amzn.com/B0055FSN0Y

Just made rolls with medium grain rice the other day. I think it worked just fine as the rolls disappeared remarkably fast. Definitely pre-wash the rice until the water runs clear. Can’t help with the water ratio, as this guy does the cooking for me.

Once done, fluff into a large bowl. Mix in seasoning and separate the grains. Light and gentle with a folding motion.

I’m considering this cooker, but it’s quite expensive. Not sure if it’s worth the cost: Zojirushi NS-TSC10 5-1/2-Cup (Uncooked) Micom Rice Cooker and Warmer, 1.0-Liter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0074CDG6C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_1zzYAbQDV4F1Q

Another nice thing about this series is you can get a smallish 5 1/2 cup version which is great for a household of one or two. Most start at the next size up (10 cups?) in my research.

Zojirushi NS-TSC10 5-1/2-Cup (Uncooked) Micom Rice Cooker and Warmer, 1.0-Liter https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0074CDG6C/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_VqW8OJtdBefIp

and here it is

As I recall the magic bullet theory was proven to be bunk after the correct seating arrangements of the JFK and the governor were accounted for.

Unless you mean this. In that case I'm completely satisfied.

https://www.amazon.com/Magic-Bullet-MBR-1701-17-Piece-Express/dp/B001WAKFDY

Aroma rice cooker like this one. You fill it with the appropriate amount of rice and water, and it cooks it automatically. You can leave it in there for hours if you forget about it. Get an air fryer, and you can cook your chicken and broccoli in it by the time the rice is finished.

Did you conveniently ignored the impact of heat due to the extra power consumption? Even in a normal size case the heat is significant.

Your example of the wattage of certain appliances are also borderline hyperbolic. Even a high end $200 microwave has a wattage rating of 1200w, not to mention most people don’t use their microwave for hours each day.

1500w rice cooker? Really? Do you mind sharing a link to a ricer cooker that uses 1500w for non commercial usage?

Again, even a high end rice cooker such as this one is only rated at 610w.

https://www.amazon.com/Zojirushi-NS-TSC10-Uncooked-Cooker-1-0-Liter/dp/B0074CDG6C/ref=mp_s_a_1_7?keywords=rice+cooker&qid=1550983761&s=gateway&sr=8-

Finally I find it ironic, and somewhat amusing that you question other people’s usage for their gpu on high load for 4 hours a day, but cite the power consumption of a “lamp post” on your front porch. Why exactly do you need to keep it on again? Do you have it on for hours each day? If so for what reason?

Looking forward to read your reply.

http://www.amazon.com/Hamilton-Beach-33969A-Programmable-6-Quart/dp/B00EZI26GO/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1408827714&sr=8-2&keywords=slow+cooker

and there are plenty more...

From Amazon.com,

Oster 6-Cup 8-Speed Blender $39.00 (US)

Magic Bullet MBR-1701 17-Piece Express Mixing Set $48 (US)

The Oster blender is higher rated by consumers (4.2 stars Vs. 3.6 stars for the bullet)

Smaller and underpowered does NOT mean cheaper, and it certainly doesn't mean better.

People are idiots. I want jesus toast

lol. well it must not be very popular then.

**checks amazon. #1 best seller in kitchen and dining.

https://www.amazon.com/Instant-Pot-Multi-Use-Programmable-Pressure/dp/B01B1VC13K/ref=lp_3031632011_1_1?srs=3031632011&ie=UTF8&qid=1500240780&sr=8-1

loving your anecdotal evidence to the contrary tho. Izzat the scientific method you are using? :D

Right?
AmazonBasics Microwave, Small, 0.7 Cu. Ft, 700W, Works with Alexa https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07894S727/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_UJx7CbZ78TB5H

I found a better travel jar, it's designed to be mobile: http://amzn.com/B0017XHSAE

> This is impractical for people who may have errands to do during lunch or before or after school. Or those who need to pick up children from work. Or those who work odd hours (do you really want to be biking on a road at 2AM? Or during winter. or rain... nothing like showing up to work soaked wet...

1. It's only impractical if you don't have enough time to sleep/eat or don't have days off. 9 hours at work including lunch +9 hours sleep/eating at home and even a 1.5 hour commute leaves 3 hours for leisure time/running errands, and that's not including days off.
   
   
2. You can wear layers in inclement weather.
   
   >Cool. When I lived in Chicago, my heating gas cost was nearly $200, and I didn't keep it higher than 68
   
   Either that was a) a aberrant spike, b) was much larger than a 1 bedroom apartment, or c) your landlord was bilking you.
   
   >You need a mini-fridge. And you'll need a microwave unless you plan on eating cold rice and beans every day. And you'll need a stove to heat up the beans and rice.
   
   No you can use a gas stove-which we have and is also included in my gas bill-or a cheap rice cooker which happens to have a 15 hour delay so you can have your rice ready when you wake up and/or get home from work.
   
   The power rating of a typical rice cooker will cost you around $12 a month in electricity if you're using it 5 hours every day for cooking.
   
   >Boston, $769 will get you a median 340 sqft, or a 34'x10' space. IF you can even find a place that small.
   
   Median is even more useful than average.
   
   You forgot 1 bedroom shares*. My rent is 525 and I share a two bedroom small apartment outside Boston.
   
   Besides, we're talking about survival here, right? If you have enough space to live, why is it a problem?
   
   Or is it really not a starvation wage, but a "I take lots of things for granted and want to be able to have them" wage?

Product Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07894S727/

Edit: you guys realize it's a rule for this sub now to post the product link right?