Slow cooker season officially arrives as temperatures drop. It’s the signal for Americans to dig out their beloved Crock-Pots.

The branded slow cooker debuted in 1971 at the National Housewares Show in Chicago. Previous versions of the modern-day model have been in use since the 19th century, according to Smithsonian Magazine. But an inventor named Irving (Nachumsohn) Naxon patented his slow cooker in 1940. He called it the Naxon Beanery.

When he retired, he sold his company, Naxon Utilities, to Rival Manufacturing in Kansas City. Rival then hard-launched its Rival Crock-Pot in 1971.

The Crock-Pot craze took off, and Rival released a Crock-Pot cookbook for users to enjoy. Below are eight original recipes that became American classics and are still appreciated today.

8 original Crock-Pot recipes

3-4 pound brisket, rump roast, or pot roast 1-2 onions 2-3 carrots2-3 potatoes1/2 cup water or beef consommé Salt and pepper to taste

Put vegetables in the bottom of the Crock-Pot. Salt and pepper the meat, then add it to the pot. Add liquid. Cover and cook on low for 10-12 hours (or on high for 5-6 hours). Remove meat and vegetables with spatula.

2-pound round steak, cut into 1/2-inch cubes 1 tablespoon paprika 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme, crushed 1 cup chopped onion 1 bay leaf 1 clove........

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