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?

Help me decide which to buy. I used a slow cooker for years, so it’s a known quantity. At the same time, it usually required additional cookware (browning meat, sauces, etc.). And cleaning that heavy ...