All of us were shocked when our fuel bills suddenly shot up in 2023. Ever since, manufacturers of home appliances have been scrambling to assure us their hobs, ovens and microwaves are the most efficient on the market. Comparing appliances isn’t easy: the energy labels aren’t always obvious, and even when they are, they don’t necessarily make much sense unless you know how to read them. Here, you’ll discover what those ratings actually mean and how a few other key investments can save you money in the long run.
What to make in your Slow cooker
Slow cooker sausage casserole
SERVES 4 PREP 20 mins
COOK 4 hrs on high or 8 hrs on low EASY ❄
2 red onions, finely chopped
1 celery stick, finely chopped
1-2 tbsp rapeseed oil
4 carrots, cut into thick pieces
12 chipolatas, each halved
1 sweet potato, peeled and cut into chunks
400g can tomatoes
1 tbsp tomato purée or tomato & veg purée
1 thyme sprig
1 rosemary sprig
1 beef stock cube or stock pot
pasta, to serve (optional)
1 Fry the onions and celery in the oil over a low heat for about 5 mins, until softened, then spoon into the slow cooker. Fry the carrots briefly, then add them too.
2 Brown the sausages all over in the same pan. Transfer to the slow cooker along with the sweet potato chunks and canned tomatoes.
Put the tomato purée in the frying pan, add 250ml
