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?

We test slow cookers at home and make stews in each to find the most efficient devices with the best features.

I was just given an Instant Pot. Right now the only cooking appliances I use besides my stove are a slow cooker and air fryer. It seems you can make things like soup quickly in the Instant Pot, and ...