Culinary preparations for the autumnal holiday often involve time-consuming recipes. A method gaining popularity simplifies meal preparation through prolonged, low-temperature cooking in a specialized appliance. This approach allows for hands-free cooking, ideal for managing other holiday-related activities. Examples include hearty stews, savory pulled meats, and sweet dessert creations, all designed to feed a crowd or provide convenient, make-ahead meals during a busy season.
The value lies in its efficiency and convenience, permitting hosts to focus on decorations, costumes, and guest entertainment rather than constant kitchen oversight. Historically, slow cooking methods have been employed to tenderize tough cuts of meat and extract maximum flavor from ingredients. Modern appliances offer precise temperature control and programmable timers, enhancing the reliability and predictability of the cooking process.