The Elite Gourmet MST1234BX Diamond Pattern Slow Cooker is a functional and aesthetically pleasing kitchen appliance, primarily used for preparing stews. Its removable, dishwasher-safe stoneware pot and tempered glass lid with cool-touch handles make it a user-friendly device for everyday cooking. This 6-quart cooker in a charcoal black finish seems solidly built, with a heavy crock that ensures even cooking and easy cleaning.
However, users have noted a few concerns. The lid is slightly undersized, but this doesn’t significantly affect its cooking performance. An interesting discovery is the temperature settings; the “Low” setting operates like high heat, and vice versa, which users have learned through experience. The cooker has proven effective for dishes like navy beans and sausage, delivering consistent results.
Despite its functionality, the cooker’s design has room for improvement. It is notably bulky and heavy. The black temperature knob lacks clear markings, making it challenging to set the desired temperature accurately. There’s a preference for a more attractive, lightweight, circular design, as older models were less cumbersome and easier to store.
Some users have encountered quality issues. A few received units that appeared used, with scratches and loosely tied cords. There have been instances of the cooker not heating properly and emitting a burning smell, leading to safety concerns. Additionally, the temperature control seems unreliable, with cases of food burning on the outside while remaining undercooked inside.
The appliance’s exterior also poses challenges, with plastic flecks that are difficult to clean and temperature dial letters that wear off easily. These issues have led some users to consider the product potentially hazardous and difficult to maintain.
Overall, while the Elite Gourmet MST1234BX Slow Cooker offers some advantages in terms of size and basic functionality, it also presents several drawbacks in terms of design, quality control, and user experience.
