Kitchen Gadgets

Although, like you, I get a ton of kitchen equipment catalogs, I rarely look at them, because I have no room in my kitchen for any more toys.  But when I looked at the latest Chef's Catalog, a few things caught my eye, from utility and aesthetic standpoints.  I'll share them with you.  Then I'll rummage through my kitchen to find some things to give away to make more room...

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The microwave had become the easiest way to boil water.  This polycarbonate microwave teakettle holds two cups and even whistles when it boils.  It is marked in ounces, and the handle stays cool.  I like it a lot.  Wonder if it would discolor if you actually put a teabag in it.  I intend to find out. Here for a mere $9.99.

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These attractive porcelain markers come with a dry-erase blue marker, and can help your pickier holiday guests sort though the buffet table without having to guess. Identify cheeses, meats, dishes, desserts.  Put them face down in front of glasses for wine (or, for the so-inclined--no names, please, single-malt scotch) tastings.  Both microwave and dishwasher safe.  Here six for $12.99.

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To those of you who have never taken out a second mortgage to buy kitchen knives, here's your chance.  You could do much worse than to purchase this Henckel's 6-knife set with magnetic bar.  It includes a nice selection of knives, and to my mind, the magnetic bar protects the knife edge better than the other options. And doesn't take up counter space.  I make this claim in spite of the fact that both Shawn Lea and Dr. Joe have both featured slotless knife holders recently.  I think those would have to dull the blades. Another suggestion, go with the Classic with its riveted handles over the Grand Prix.  The set is "just" $329.99. 

Or if you prefer, get a magnet alone, they have that too.  ($19.99 for the 15" and 39.99 for the 20").

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Finally, for those of you who don't have a Kitchenaid with a grating attachment permanently grafted to it, the next best thing is a rotary grater.  These come with barrels for fine, medium and coarse grating (medium is fine 99% of the time), and in a choice of colors: black, blue or red.  $19.99.  They work great for swiss, cheddar or other cheeses of that firmness.  Reggiano Parmigiano takes a little more work, so get a motivated eater with strong hands to grate that for you.

Comments

[Shawn Lea]

I don't know what brand the knives were but my mom had one of those magnet bar thingies in her make-shift kitchen in the old pool house. It was great - I must have one. (And Santa just might have to bring me the $300 knives that come with it too.)