The ease of arriving home to a hot meal ready to eat is a convenient luxury that simply makes life easier. Tempered glass lids with cool touch handles for durability, clear visibility of food, and easy serving. But for versatility and quality of the results, this Russell Hobbs model is a great option in our eyes. The tempered glass lid features cool touch handles which allows for more comfortable and safe handling. Flavours won't become more concentrated because the liquid doesn't reduce, so try to pack in as much flavour as you can.

best slow cookers 2023 | BBC Good Food 12 of the best slow cookers 2023 | BBC Good Food

Some of the controls also confused us – the button that looks like an 'on/off' switch is actually just an 'off' switch, and we failed to find any reference to this in the manual.

This slow cooker is a fabulous option for the home cook who loves experimental techniques and gadgetry. Included is a selection of new releases and firm favourites that continuously hold their position against new brand models. Slow cookers tend to leach meat of its colour, so it’s important for appearance and flavour that they are well browned to start with. On the plus side, the hinged lid allowed us to check in on our dishes without leaving splatters or drips of condensation on the worktop.

Tower Scandi 3.5 Litre Stainless Steel Slow Cooker

Even better, the exterior of the slow cooker got lukewarm at most during cooking – which is a reassuring safety feature for those with littles ones in the kitchen.It has a relatively small footprint for a multi-cooker and the build is solid – all features feel robust and well-built, from the strong handles to the hinged lid.