Slow Cooker

[Lake]

Slow Cooker

Today I want to say something wonderful
about my slow cooker –
a Rival, a crock nestled
in stainless steel shell,
when heated, it simmers like hot springs.

I want to tell you how mild tempered it is -
you throw in beef tendon, carrots,
kidney beans, shiitake and kelp...
add hot water and aniseeds,
turn the switch
and leave it to hatch.
Go read, relax, or run an errand.
When you return, you'll see how
soft fire makes tender meat.

I love the way steam whistles softly,
pushing the glass lid that gently pops
poof, poof, poof to the rhythm of bubbling
stews. No spills, but an escape of aroma;

inside, everything dissolves in a slow burn.



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