For some reason, I am having issues with potatoes in the slow cooker. They are cooked, but really solid as if they were raw. I tryed red potatoes in last nights batch, but still the same thing. After all is in the pot, I cook on high for 2 hours, then low for 8, let cool a bit, then put in portion bowls. Carrots were the same way last couple batches. What might cause this, or what do I need to do to change it up so the potatoes are soft like they are supposed to be?

 Also, when adding beef after browning in the fry pan, are you supposed to have the crock pot heated some? I always just add the beef straight from the pan to the cold crock, then add the rest of the stuff. But I saw somewhere that it is not good to have the beef cool between browning and adding to the slow cooker. How should I approach this? Keep on as I am, or what do I need to do?

 Thanks.