Nutrition Provided By the Slow Cooker
By Brandi Goodman
National Slow Cooking Month arrives in January each year, but you don't have to wait for the occasion to enjoy using your device. The slow cooker helps you make delicious dishes without having to stand around a hot stove. You can throw everything in one pot in the morning and arrive home to a hot meal come dinnertime. Try some healthy meal options for adequate nutrition provided by the slower cooker.
Beef and Barley Soup
Soup is a great option for a cold day. Beef and barley both provide beneficial nutrients, making them a great soup combination. You'll gain plenty of protein, iron, and minerals from the beef. The barley provides additional protein, fiber, magnesium, and Vitamin B3. Add in a homemade broth and extra vegetables and you have a filling and nutritious dish.
Turkey
Though you can place any meat in the slow cooker for a protein-rich dinner, turkey is one of the leaner options that's recommended. Make sure you choose a small enough turkey that will fit inside the cooker you have. Use extra virgin olive oil and seasonings to flavor your turkey. You'll gain Vitamin B6, essential amino acids, protein, B12, and niacin from this meal. Pair it with veggies for a complete dinner.
Pot Roast
Pot roast is a commonly made dish in the slow cooker. To improve the nutritional factor of the meal, use a lean cut of meat. Chuck roast is often recommended because it's fat enough to cook well yet still lean enough to be appropriate. You can also use homemade broth instead of the store-bought version to limit sodium. Use lots of veggies but avoid the starchy potatoes. You'll gain tons of protein, Vitamin K, potassium, Vitamin A, and more from this meal.
Greek Pork With Chickpeas
Chickpeas are a great source of nutrients. Fiber, folate, protein, iron, and manganese are all provided. Pork also provides protein, while also serving up Vitamin B6, selenium, and zinc. Use olive oil, oregano, onion, garlic, and cumin to spice up the dish.
Your slow cooker can be your go-to meal-maker anytime you're too busy to cook. Throw all your ingredients in the pot and let it simmer as you tend to your daily duties or head to work. A nutritious meal is more than possible when you choose the right ingredients.
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