Gadget of the Week: Tea Ball

There are so many different types of tea accessories available that you can purchase to make sipping on a perfect cup of tea enjoyable.  When I first started drinking tea, of course it was in the tea bags, but later I transitioned to full leaf tea and for that I needed something to hold the leaves.  So, I found a number of accessories, which include stainless steel tea balls, infusers, mesh strainers, etc.  Which should I choose?!  Everyone has their own preference, but over time, I began to favor those accessories that would allow me to have the full flavor of the tea after steeping.  So, my favorite tea accessories are the mesh balls and strainers.

Tea accessories can be purchased anywhere tea is sold, as well as online http://bit.ly/J9vmy.

Gadget of the Week: Electric Toaster Oven

It’s May and it is H-O-T in some parts of the country like Phoenix, Arizona!!  We have already hit triple digits, but only in the low 100’s! LOL!  Needless to say, sometimes it’s just too hot and requires more energy to fire up the big oven only to bake or roast something small.  So, this is where an electric oven comes in.  I use my toaster oven for a number of things all year round, but especially during the summer months!  There are so many varieties to choose from, that ranges from basic toaster oven to an electric convection oven.  Currently, I have just the basic toaster oven that I have had since 1999 and I only paid $30!  Talk about a great ROI (return on my investment)!  I use my oven for roasting vegetables, baking fish, toasting bread, and much more!

If you don’t currently own a toaster oven, I highly recommend that you purchase one sooner than later.  You can find these handy appliances everywhere as well as on Amazon.com.  Check it out:  http://tinyurl.com/l8xmmb.

Gadget of the Week: Mr. Coffee Electric Coffee Grinder

The Mr. Coffee Electric Coffee Grinder is another one of my favorite kitchen gadgets that I use everyday!   This grinder is not just for grinding coffee beans, but I use this grinder for grinding flaxseeds.  I know that you may be thinking that a grinder is a grinder, what’s the big deal?  Well, I have tried several grinders, that range in prices, and the Mr. Coffee grinder was the best by far due to its quality grind and low price.  For about $19 – $24, this grinder has 3 different types of grinds for a variety of sizes.  Moreover, this grinder has an automatic timer that stops once the grind has completed for a specific size.  Electric grinders can also be used to make puree’s or sauces; I once made pesto in my grinder and was thoroughly pleased! 

If you are considering to add more Omega-3’s to your daily diet through adding flaxseeds, then you should definitely consider getting this grinder.  Sometimes this grinder may be a little difficult to find , but check Walmart, Target or some grocery stores.  The Mr. Coffee grinder can also be purchased online through Amazon.com. 

Click here to learn more about  the Mr. Coffee Electric Coffee Grinder with Chamber Maid Cleaning System

Gadget of the Week: Silicone Cookware

Have you seen those flexible, bright-colored, rubber-like pans, spatulas, and spoons that claim to withstand very high temperatures? These cookware items are made with a polymer called silicone.  Silicone cookware is great in the kitchen because they truly can withstand very high temperatures that range between 175 to 600 degrees, as well as the fact that it is flexible, easy to store, easy to clean! 

 

There are noticeable differences between silicone baking pans and non-stick/glass baking pans.  In my opinion, I feel that baking with silicone pans keeps the baked goods moist in comparison to other pans.  However, one downside to this cookware is that foods do not brown on the bottom when baked and requires that you remove the food quickly from the pan to prevent sticking. 

 

Depending on the type of silicon cookware you select, the price is around $5 and up.  Click to learn more information about the Silicone Solutions Red Bread Baking Set as well as other silicone cookware. 

Gadget of the Week: Apple Divider and Corer

 

I love this nifty gadget!  I no longer have to mess up my lipstick or make loud noises when eating one of my favorite fruits—apples!  Since we are now moving into the start of apple season, I decided to put this apple divider and corer in this week’s issue.  There are so many different types and brands to select that range in price from $1 to $35.  Now, because I keep it real with my readers, the divider that I have was only $1 and I have been using it for 3 years!  My gadget divides apples into 6 wedges and separates the core!  It’s so easy to use, clean and store. 

Just in case you can’t find the apple divider and corer in your neighborhood, then you can purchase one Amazon for about $7—yes, I know that seven times more!  But look at this way; it saves you on gas and time from running around looking for one for a $1!  LOL!

Check out the MIU Plastic and Stainless-Steel Apple Cutter/Corer, Black.

Gadget of the Week: Specialty Glass Bottles

I know that glass bottles aren’t technically a “gadget”, but I felt that with this week’s topic concerning water, it was a perfect time to discuss.  So, disregard the title and keep on reading! 

A year ago I started looking for large glass bottles with a good seal in order to keep my juice fresh.  I was browsing on the Web and I came across these unique specialty bottles with swing tops and I fell in love!  With all that’s going on in the environment and the fact that we are exposed to so much BPA through food stored in cans or non-recyclable bottles, I decided to start using the glass bottles as my daily water bottles.  I love these unique bottles because they are available in different styles and they are environmentally friendly!

As you read in my previous blog entry on BPA, results indicates that it does have some impact on one’s overall health.  So, if you are having difficulty with finding a water container that does not contain polycarbonate plastics or is not made of non-recyclable plastics, then you should really consider purchasing glass bottles.

You can purchase glass bottles with swing tops at specialty cooking stores and at Amazon.com. They vary in price depending on the size. If you can’t find one locally, click to purchase the 8.5 oz. Swing Bottle 314730ME.

 

 

Gadget of the Week: Escali Primo Digital Scales

At one point in my life, I refused to measure anything that I cooked.  I was so sure that I had enough control and good eating habits to eat without measuring.  Well, those were the “before age 30 days”—the days when everything you ate actually burned off even without exercising!  Now that I moved past those memorable days, I have found that I have to work harder in order to stay healthy and look good, which means that I now have to start watching my portion sizes.  URGH! 

 

In order to keep me on track, I purchased a digital simple and inexpensive digital scale that I use daily! I know that many of you may be thinking that this is not necessary for you because you’re in control, well good for you.  But, for my friends out there who struggle with their weight and overeating, then you really need to make this small investment.  There are a variety of digital scales on the market that ranges from $25 – $100.  I recommend that you start with the less expensive scales.  However, if you want the scale that has all of the programs in it, then expect to pay over $60 for it.  You can purchase a digital scale at any department/kitchen store, as well as on Amazon.com (free shipping for orders over $25).

 

Click this link to learn more or to purchase the
Escali Primo Digital Multifunctional Scale.

Gadget of the Week: Portable Butane Burner Stove

Portable Push-button Burner

I purchased my first portable burner about a month ago for a cooking party.  I have seen these little tabletop burners at restaurants/hotels; I would observe the chefs using these burners to cook a variety of omelets. Because I am often paranoid to use anything with gas, I was afraid to turn on the burner.  But once I got the courage to do so, I absolutely loved it!  Not only can I use this burner for my cooking parties/demonstrations, but also I can use them at home to save energy!  You can also use these burners in emergency situations that prohibit the use of electricity. As I have said before, these burners are very easy to use and because it comes with a case, traveling with the burner is very easy too!

There are many different brands of burners that range in prices.  I purchased my burner (Sun Stove) for $12 at a local Asian grocery store and it works great!  If you are not in an area where there are Asian grocery stores, then you can purchase other brands, like the Portable Push-button Start Butane Stove on Amazon.com for $14.89.  There are other brands available and the prices will change depending on store and brand. Click this link to learn more or to purchase the Portable Push-Button Start Butane Stove for Camping, Emergencies.

Gadget of the Week: Kitchen Aid Food Processor

Kitchen Aid Food Processor

I stumbled on the Kitchen Aid Food Processor because I wanted to find an appliance that was cheaper than the Vita-Mix Blender, but still got the job done!  Though the food processor is not a blender, it can be used like one to blend smoothies and drinks.  Also, the food processor can be used for shredding carrots, chopping onions, or kneading dough.  There are many different manufacturers, such as Cuisinart, but I have found that the Kitchen Aid brand is easier to use and clean. What I like most about having the food processor is the fact that I can shred large batches of carrots and store in the fridge for future use.  Having the food processor allows me to prep my food days in advance, which definitely saves me time!  So, if you cannot afford to purchase the Vita-Mix blender, then consider purchasing the Kitchen Aid Food Processor.  I guarantee that you won’t have any regrets!

The food processor can be purchased at Amazon.com or at your local kitchen supply store.  The Kitchen Aid brand is a little more expensive than the other brands, ranging from $177 – $199, but it is definitely worth it!

Click the link to learn more or to purchase the KitchenAid Food Processors.

Gadget of the Week: Zyliss Jumbo Garlic Press

Zyliss Garlic Press

I purchased the Zyliss Jumbo Garlic Press because I wanted fresh minced garlic, quickly!  I know that some of you maybe wondering why the need to buy a press when you could just chop garlic by hand.  Well, my answer is simple—convenience!  Once I started to use this press, life became so much easier because I didn’t have to peel or remove the ends of the garlic prior to chopping/mincing.  All you have to do is add the garlic clove and press!  As I have said many times, cooking should be fun and by having the right gadgets/tools you will be able to enjoy the experience of cooking! 

 

Click this link to learn more or to purchase the
Zyliss Jumbo Garlic Press with Cleaner.