By Anna Wallner and Kristina Matistic

Anna Wallner and Kristina Matisic

No, you haven't entered a time machine. Slow cookers, also known as Crock-Pots, are making a comeback in kitchens all around the country. The reason? They are a quick, easy and inexpensive way to make tasty meals for the family, all without having to monitor the pot.

Here's what to look for when shopping for one.

• Look for a slow cooker that has a removable insert. This will make it much easier to clean the pot. You can also prepare food in it the night before and then pop them in the refrigerator overnight.
  
• Oval cookers are more convenient than round ones because they can fit roasts and whole chickens better.
  
• If you are feeding a family of four or more, buy a slow cooker that is at least six quarts in size.
  
• Many of today's slow cookers come with a bevy of settings for everything from roasts to stews to desserts. The one feature we found most helpful is a cooker that automatically switches to "warm" once the cooking is done. Some cookers need to be turned to warm manually.
  
• When it comes to this appliance, we feel looks do matter. Because it will be sitting on your kitchen countertop for hours on end, choose a slow cooker you find esthetically appealing.

Come cooking time, here are some tips to getting the most out of your slow cooker:

• Don't spend money on the best cuts of meat. Slow cookers cook meat at low temperatures — 170 to 280 degrees. The low heat helps less-expensive and leaner cuts of meat become tender.
  
• Don't open the lid or you'll allow the steam to escape, affecting cooking time.
  
• Unless you're having company for dinner, we say save yourself some time and effort and don't bother braising meat first.
  
• If you're using a regular (non slow cooker) recipe, reduce the amount of liquid by 50 percent.

(Anna Wallner and Kristina Matistic host The Shopping Bags.)