Has anyone else been wondering what the Crock-Pot people will think up next? Ever since the Rival company (the original manufacturer) was sold to a new parent, there’s been an explosion of innovative ideas. One new model we really like is the Crock-Pot Duo, which puts two separate cooker pots, side by side, in one base. This is particularly helpful if you want to slow-cook an entire meal, including a side dish, all at once.

Or you can get even fancier and try dessert alongside your stew. Our Pear Spoon Bread (click here) is made deliciously hassle-free in the slow cooker.

Here are a few of our observations, pro and con, on the Duo:

Each pot holds 2 1/2 quarts, which is a good size for most recipes that serve up to 4, but the smaller round shape doesn’t work for large roasts or a whole chicken.

The pots have separate controls, so you have a choice of whether to use one or two.

Because the pots can be turned immediately to the warm setting, (unlike many other models), the Duo is perfect to keep foods warm when you’re entertaining. (There’s also a Trio of pots that’s geared toward buffet entertaining, but this appliance is very large, and in our opinion, too difficult to store since we’d use it rarely.)

The Duo model is fairly priced – starting at $60 at Walmart and at Bed, Bath & Beyond. (Some stores are selling it at $70 to $80, so shop around!)

Has anyone else tried these new Crock-Pots? What do you think?