The Hamilton Beach 4-Quart Slow Cooker 33141 is a compact appliance that is incredibly easy to use. Styled in stainless steel and black, this unit consists of an ultra-lightweight heating base, with a removable 4-quart oval stoneware crock insert and a glass lid. What's nice about this model is it has a one-piece wraparound stay-cool handle made from heavy-duty Phenolic plastic. The molded handle is not only aesthetically pleasing but also provides added safety since it covers a good portion of the base with its stay-cool material.

There is one dial control on this model, with four settings: Off, Keep Warm, Low and High. The dial is made from the same stay-cool plastic so it won't get hot, and the knob clicks in place at each setting. We would have liked to see an indicator light since it was impossible to tell at a glance whether the unit was operating -- but overall, that was a minor concern. We were impressed with the beautiful glossy stoneware liner. The contrast of the deep black liner against the stainless-steel base is stunning. The removable liner is dishwasher safe, as is the glass lid.

The Hamilton Beach 4-quart Slow Cooker is compact enough to store easily in a cabinet or cupboard. It measures approximately 12 inches wide by 9 inches deep by 12 inches tall. The 4-quart capacity crock is well suited to preparing family-size one-dish meals, such as beef stew, chicken and rice, or pot roast. The crock will hold a 4-pound chicken or roast, comfortably. For best results, you should fill the crock at least halfway, and no more than three-quarters full. This will allow the foods to cook properly, without bubbling over. A typical recipe will serve 5-6 people (or more if making a first-course soup or appetizer).

When cooking on the low setting, meals are ready in 6-10 hours. On high, the time is reduced by half. Smaller cuts of meat or individual meatballs cook faster than whole roasts. We noticed that the 4-Quart Slow Cooker reached the desired cooking temperature quickly and returned heat well. Lifting the lid (to stir) results in substantial heat loss and is not recommended.

The Hamilton Beach 4-Quart Slow Cooker is a good choice for small to medium-sized families or anyone who doesn't need the capacity of a larger machine.


Pros: Compact, lightweight, stainless-steel housing
Cons: No indicator light

Warranty
1 year, limited