1 Keep in mind that an electric slow cooker can’t brown the meat. 2  If you want a browned skin on the meat, sear it quickly in a small amount of olive oil before placing in the electric slow cooker. 3  Always place vegetables in the bottom of the slow cooker first, followed by the roasts or large cuts of meat. Leave the lid on the slow cooker to keep the temperature consistent. 2  Remove the lid only when necessary to stir the food or to check if the meat is done. 3  Because of the low temperatures of an electric slow cooker, leaving the lid off for long periods will decrease the temperature in the pot and let moisture escape.