Three-Pan Water-Bath Server
In buffet mode, three stainless steel food pans sit in a water pan over the heating element, with a total capacity of 8 QT. Adding hot water to the water pan is what gives even heat: rather than scorching the bottom of the food, the warm bath surrounds each pan. The three pans suit a typical spread of a main, a side and a sauce, and one owner found them good sizes for fondue at family gatherings. Each has a removable clear lid with an anti-scald handle and a utensil slot, so a serving spoon can stay in place while the lid keeps heat in. For hosts used to lining up several slow cookers, this is the real appeal: one plug, one footprint and three dishes held hot. One owner who usually runs about five slow cookers for events bought it for a graduation party instead of renting equipment.