THE SLOW COOKER COMEBACK

Bust it out and try these new ideas - they're as easy as anything you've used this time saver for before, but healthier and more delicious.

GREAT GRAIN

Firm yet chewy wheat berries take longer to cook than most grains, so their texture holds up well in the slow cooker. Their high fiber content keeps blood sugar and cholesterol levels in check while helping your digestive system move right along.

VEGETARIAN CHILI WITH GRAINS AND BEANS

ACTIVE 15 MIN.

TOTAL 6 HR. 25 MIN. ON HIGH (8 HR. 25 MIN. ON LOW) SERVES 4 TO 6

1 28-oz can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes

1 14.5-oz can petite diced tomatoes

¾ cup wheat berries

1 onion, chopped

1 large carrot, chopped

1 large poblano pepper, seeded and chopped

3 cloves garlic, pressed

1 Tbsp chili powder

2 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground coriander Kosher salt and pepper

1 15.5-oz can black beans, rinsed

1 15.5-oz can kidney beans, rinsed Sour cream, shredded Cheddar, sliced scallions, cilantro leaves, and lime wedges, for serving 

1. In 5- to 6-qt slow cooker, combine both tomatoes, wheat berries, onion, carrot, poblano, garlic, chili powder, cumin, coriander, and 3/4 cup water. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, covered, until wheat berries are cooked but still chewy, 5 to 6 hr. on High or 7 to 8 hr. on Low.