We’re living in a golden age of small kitchen appliances (see: slow cookers, Instant Pots, and air fryers). We’re also in a not-so-golden age of abundant counter space. So what’s a home cook to do?

Instant Pots were all the rage a few years ago, promising to be an all-in-one multi-cooker that can pressure cook foods quickly in addition to being a rice cooker, yogurt maker, slow cooker and more.

One of my favorite comfort foods to make in a slow cooker is pot roast. However, my family's recipe for slow-cooked pot roast is a little different than most. It only calls for five ingredients: a ...