If you have bought
a used slow cooker or you have had your slow cooker for a
number of years and aren't sure if your slow cooker is cooking
at the correct temperature, you can test it.
Fill your slow
cooker with 2 quarts of lukewarm water. Cover with the lid
and cook on low for 8 hours. Have a thermometer ready (a meat
thermometer will work) after the 8 hours is up, life the lid
and immediately place the thermometer in the water.
If the temperature
is 185 degrees, your slow cooker is cooking perfectly. If
it is under 185 degrees, chances are that you could be risking
having your food undercooked or suseptiable to harmful bacteria
growth. If it is higher than 185 degrees, you will have to
shorten your cooking time or your meals could be overdone.
