I bought this for my Nephew to take to work. Asked him how it worked on its first use, and he absolutely loved it. The food was nice and hot. Just right to eat.
Bought this a few weeks ago, and it's exactly as promised. Some here have complained that the inner lid pops open while heating, It's supposed to. Depending on what I'm having, I may throw a bit of water in to keep meat from drying out before plugging in. I leave the unit at work and just bring the inner bowl home. And no one will ever know I have it. Perfect item, so as not to use the microwave at work, because the employees are slobs. Are they like this at home too?
Love, love, love using this crock pot to have a warm lunch, but... This is the 2nd one I have purchased where the cord came away from the plug and exposed the wiring. Caused a large spark when plugging it in.
Didn't think I would need this with having a microwave around at work but this is way better! Food is warmed thoroughly avoiding hot spots and because I eat food that "smells", there's no need to worry about a scent permeating my office. Food is perfectly warmed (not too hot and not too cold) about 45mins-1 hour after being plugged in. Portion size is just right. I would recommend this! But be warned as other reviewers have mentioned.. the inner lid is flimsy and liquids will spill during transport. If not for that, would've given it 5 stars.
The expected arrival time was, right on target, and the packaging was sufficient enough to prevent damage. The lunch crock pots are individually tailored to my needs. I like the idea of preparing a fresh meal in advance, and knowing what ingredients are used in my meal. I am very happy with this purchase, and now the proud owner of three lunch crock pots. These mini crocks are great for stews, and chilis, over rice. A simple plug in, and very little monitoring provides you with a home cooked meal. For the working person, the traveler, and the retiree, this is a Godsend.
I have used mne many times. What I like it the best for is to make omlets. I mix up my omlet the night before and put it into a closed container. Then next day I take it to work and pour it into my Lunch Crock - to with shredded cheese and let it heat/cook between 2 to 3 hours. It is loways read come lunch time. Also makes a great warmer for hot dips, soups and casseroles.
I only bought this two days ago, and I already love it. I like having hot oatmeal for breakfast at work, but steel cut oats take forever to cook, and you can't microwave them. I experimented at home and it cooks oatmeal overnight just perfectly! I'll have to get an extra insert for my lunches too. I'm thinking about things like veggie tamale pie, with corn tortillas; or maybe rice-based veggie dishes. If everything but the starch and veggies is cooked, it should work. Thinky thoughts...
Thanks for all the helpful and informative reviews!