Most multi-cookers have a delayed-start function that allows you to program the time you'd like to start cooking. However, this function isn’t safe to use if your dish contains ingredients that shouldn’t be left out at room temperature, such as meat and dairy products. In these cases, you could set your multi-cooker to switch to the “keep warm” function after it's done cooking. This strategy will keep your finished food at a safe temperature (without overcooking it) until you’re ready to eat.