I think the simplest recipe we make is an Americanized carnitas. One nice chunk of pork, quickly browned in a hot pan then into the crock with 12oz coke zero, nothing else. It sounds crazy, but it's crazy good. No coke flavor left over, just tender pork goodness. Fork tender, separates easily in the remaining juices and goes wonderfully with home made guacamole and fresh corn salsa. I think the missus got the recipe from "skinny girl" or even maybe weight watchers. Also make a lot of barbacoa in it with a couple adobe peppers and a little beef stock. Nothing authentic about either recipe, but I assure you they taste delicious and could not get much easier. Never noticed any crock pot flavor in anything that has come out of it