Slow cooking is a popular cooking method that involves cooking foods at low temperatures for several hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes tough cuts of meat super tender. Slow cookers like the Ninja Foodi are a convenient appliance for slow cooking. But how good is the Ninja brand for slow cooking compared to other brands? Here’s a look at the pros and cons.
The benefits of slow cooking
Slow cooking has several advantages over regular cooking methods:
- More flavorful meals – The long cooking time allows flavors to develop fully.
- Tender meats – Slow cooking tenderizes connective tissues in tough cuts of meat.
- Convenience – Just throw in ingredients in the morning and come home to a complete meal.
- Energy efficient – Slow cookers use less energy than an oven.
- Ability to cook unattended – Once set up, a slow cooker doesn’t need to be monitored.
- One-pot meals – No need for multiple pots. Just dump everything in the slow cooker.
- Minimal cleanup – Slow cookers cut down on cleanup since everything is contained.
Introducing the Ninja Foodi slow cooker
The Ninja Foodi is an electric multi-cooker that can be used as a pressure cooker or slow cooker. Here are some key features of the Ninja Foodi slow cooker function:
- 6.5 quart ceramic coated pot – Big enough to cook for a family.
- Digital control panel – Allows you to adjust cook times and temperatures.
- 3 temperature settings – Low, medium, high settings.
- 24 hour timer – Set it and forget it, perfect for longer recipes.
- Dishwasher safe – Makes cleanup a breeze.
- Other functions – Can also air fry, steam, sear, bake, etc.
Benefits of the Ninja Foodi slow cooker
Here are some of the key advantages of using the Ninja Foodi for slow cooking compared to a regular slow cooker:
- Extra features – The Ninja isn’t just a slow cooker but has other functions like air frying, pressure cooking, etc.
- Precise temperature control – Digital panel makes it easy to set exact temperatures.
- Timer convenience – Ability to program cook times up to 24 hours.
- Large capacity – Can cook meals for a large family.
- Searing option – Lets you brown meats before slow cooking for added flavor.
- Saute function – Saute veggies or brown meats right in the pot.
- Pot versatility – Pot can be used on the stove or in the oven in addition to the multi-cooker.
How does the Ninja Foodi perform as a slow cooker?
Here’s a look at how the Ninja Foodi performs when used specifically as a slow cooker:
Heating Consistency
The Ninja Foodi cooks evenly thanks to it’s ceramic pot and heating element that distributes heat throughout. Foods are cooked through without hot spots.
Programmable Timer
You can program cook times from 30 minutes up to 24 hours. This allows you to cook recipes that need longer cooking times with no monitoring needed.
Low, Medium, High Settings
Having 3 temperature presets allows flexibility similar to a standard slow cooker. You can adjust as needed based on the recipe.
Temperature Ranges
| Setting | Temperature Range |
|---|---|
| Low | 200°F |
| Medium | 250°F |
| High | 300°F |
The temperature ranges are quite standard for a slow cooker. The low setting is ideal for gentle simmering while the high works well for faster cooking.
Auto Keep Warm
Once cooking is done, the Ninja Foodi automatically switches to a keep warm setting. This prevents overcooking and keeps food ready to serve.
Downsides of the Ninja Foodi as a slow cooker
While the Ninja Foodi performs well as a slow cooker, there are a couple downsides to consider:
- Price – More expensive than many standard slow cookers.
- Bulky size – Significantly larger footprint than a typical slow cooker.
- No rubber gasket – The lid doesn’t seal tightly so some moisture can escape.
- Less cost effective – Using just the slow cook function doesn’t maximize other abilities.
Ninja Foodi slow cooker recipes
The Ninja Foodi slow cooker can be used to make almost any slow cooker recipe. Here are some tasty recipes to try:
Pulled Pork
Make fall-off-the-bone tender pulled pork in the Ninja Foodi. Brown the pork shoulder in the saute function then slow cook with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Pot Roast
Get perfect pot roast by browning the meat, then adding veggies and broth and slow cooking until melt-in-your mouth tender.
Chicken Tortilla Soup
All the flavors of this classic soup develop with a long simmer. Top with crispy tortilla strips.
Ribs
Braise your ribs on low for 6-8 hours until they are super tender. Finish them with your favorite bbq sauce.
Chili
ground beef, beans, tomatoes, onions, chili powder, cumin, garlic. Slow cook the chili 8+ hours for maximum flavor.
Beef Stew
Sear beef cubes to brown them, then add broth, veggies and potatoes. Slow cook for a savory stew.
Tips for using the Ninja Foodi as a slow cooker
To get the most out of the Ninja Foodi for slow cooking, keep these tips in mind:
- Use the saute function to brown meats before adding other ingredients.
- Cut vegetables and meat into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Add enough liquid like broth, tomatoes, etc to keep food moist.
- Avoid lifting the lid too much to prevent heat loss.
- Use the delay timer for meals that take 8+ hours.
- Let pressure release naturally after slow cooking under pressure.
- Add dairy ingredients like cream or cheese at the end.
FAQs
Can you use the Ninja Foodi solely as a slow cooker?
Yes, the Ninja Foodi has dedicated slow cook functions that allow you to use it solely as a slow cooker without any pressure cooking.
What is the maximum slow cooking time on the Ninja Foodi?
The Ninja Foodi slow cooking timer can be set for up to 24 hours, which is ample time for even the longest slow cooking recipes.
Is the Ninja Foodi slow cooker safe to leave on overnight or while away?
Yes, the Ninja Foodi has an automated keep warm setting that prevents overcooking once the cook time is complete, so it’s safe to leave on overnight unattended.
Can you use the Ninja Foodi ceramic pot on the stove or in the oven?
The ceramic pot included with the Ninja Foodi is stove top and oven safe up to 500°F, so you can sear ingredients or finish dishes in the oven.
What size slow cooker is the Ninja Foodi pot?
The Ninja Foodi has a 6.5 quart ceramic coated pot, making it equivalent to a medium to large sized traditional slow cooker.
Conclusion
The Ninja Foodi performs very well as a slow cooker while also offering extra versatility from its other cooking functions. The precise temperature control, durable ceramic pot, and timer make it comparable to stand-alone slow cookers. While it does cost more than basic models, the other features may make it worthwhile if you’ll utilize those. The large capacity and dishwasher safe pot also make it convenient for big families or meal prep. Overall the Ninja Foodi is an excellent all-in-one multi-cooker option if slow cooking is one of your main priorities.