With a bevy of kitchen gadgets on the market, it can be hard to decide what’s a gimmick and what will actually perform. Does the tool slice and chop as quickly and as accurately as it claims? Does it really fold to save on space or cut down on prep time? Everyone claims easy to use, but what about easy to clean? We want products that make life simpler, not those that bring up new challenges. And it wouldn’t hurt if they were easy on the eyes when not in use.
Here, a roundup of PointClickHome's favorite epicurean tools that will have you spending less time in the kitchen and more enjoying your feast. Bon appétit.
Wooden Cracker (above)Though you may never guess it, these simple beech cubes outperform the average metal nutcracker. Simply rest a nut in the hollowed area of the larger block, place the smaller block on top, and give it a gentle whack. The result is a beautifully shelled nut—intact—every time.
Cubist Nutcracker, $29; CharlesAndMarie.com
There is nothing more frustrating than a jar that refuses to open. Instead of banging it on the counter (again), find Zen-like relief in the JarPop. Simply align the tool on the lip of the jar as you would a bottle opener and pull up to break the vacuum seal. The unscathed lid twists off easily, and you still have your hand muscles—and sanity—intact.
JarPop, $4; ContainerStore.com
When free counter space is difficult to come by, this strainer and cutting board combination saves the day. With adjustable arms that fit most sink sizes, it creates a new work area from an underused prep space. Chop produce on the cutting board and slide it right into the strainer for rinsing. The cutting board lifts off for easy cleaning.
Cooks Strainer and Cutting Board, $20; JCPenney.com
Whisk Away
Finally, an easy-to-use whisk that does the grunt work for you. Squeeze the handle, and the whisk head twists to blend. It’s perfect for quickly mixing lighter liquids and for creating peaks on egg whites. An open-ended design—with minimal nooks and crannies—makes it simple to clean.
Joseph Joseph Twisk Mechanical Whisk, $14.95; Amazon.com
See the full gallery of these handy kitchen helpers...Which gadget would you love to have in your kitchen?
