i dont think you need book for slow cooking, just chuck in whatever you want to and it will turn out fine. I have found from experience they do all vary in the speed they cook but my latest one if i want something ready at lunchtime i will put it on high setting around 9 in the morning or more often than not its a work day and i put it on low before i leave and its ready when i get home. Ive never browned anything or prepared anything just let it cook in there. I 'roast' joints of meat in there too with no added liquid or anything.