Instructions from the Governor-General and Council of India to the Governor of Ceylon, 1656-1665 (1908)

There’s something wonderfully comforting about slow-cooked food. Perhaps it’s that sensational aroma that fills your house and the irresistibly rich flavours that warm your soul. Or the melt-in-the-mouth texture of slow-cooked meats and the fact that you can create a hearty crowd-pleasing meal without spending much money or time in the kitchen. For whatever reason, slow-cooked food is undeniably delicious and, best of all, it practically cooks itself, especially if you are using a slow cooker. Simply throw all the ingredients into the pot in the morning, switch it on and return in the evening to the welcoming aroma of a home-cooked dinner.