[tps_title]Some precooking is required[/tps_title]
Browning some foods before tossing them into the slow cooker will make the recipe taste better. Foods you should consider browning before hand include: large pieces of meat (sear for extra flavor), ground beef, onions and garlic. While these foods are safe to cook from raw in the slow cooker, The Kitchn recommends a precooking these particular foods to release extra flavors.