kitchen tools Archives - falafelandcaviar.com Thu, 11 Jan 2024 15:37:59 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 When Should You Use a Cast Iron Skillet? https://falafelandcaviar.com/when-should-you-use-a-cast-iron-skillet/ Sun, 14 Jan 2024 08:44:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=18369 Congratulations, you’ve just recently bought a shiny new cast iron skillet, or maybe you’ve had one for a while, and now you’re wondering, “When should I use it?” Cast iron skillets are like a trusty friend in the kitchen, and knowing when to reach for one can make your cooking experience even better. In this […]

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]]> Congratulations, you’ve just recently bought a shiny new cast iron skillet, or maybe you’ve had one for a while, and now you’re wondering, “When should I use it?” Cast iron skillets are like a trusty friend in the kitchen, and knowing when to reach for one can make your cooking experience even better. In this article, we’ll explore the best occasions to use your cast iron skillet and unlock its full potential.

Searing Or Frying

One of the perfect times to use a cast iron skillet is when you need to sear or fry. Its ability to distribute heat evenly and maintain high temperatures makes it ideal for achieving that golden-brown crust on meats or vegetables. Whether it’s searing a juicy steak or crisping up some fried chicken, your cast iron skillet is up to the task.

Baking

Another excellent occasion to bring out your cast iron skillet is when you want to bake. From cornbread to skillet cookies and even deep-dish pizza, this versatile pan can go from the stovetop to the oven without missing a beat. It’s a handy tool for dishes that require both stovetop and oven cooking. The more you use it, the more you’ll see just how versatile it is!

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]]> How Often Do You Really Need To Sharpen Your Knives? https://falafelandcaviar.com/how-often-do-you-really-need-to-sharpen-your-knives/ Tue, 14 Nov 2023 08:09:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=18568 A sharp knife in the kitchen can make all the difference both in speed and in how much you enjoy the cooking process. Hereā€™s how you can tell itā€™s time for a refresh.  Difficulty in Cutting  If you find yourself applying more force than usual, it’s a sign the knife is losing its edge. Inspect […]

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]]> A sharp knife in the kitchen can make all the difference both in speed and in how much you enjoy the cooking process. Hereā€™s how you can tell itā€™s time for a refresh. 

Difficulty in Cutting 

If you find yourself applying more force than usual, it’s a sign the knife is losing its edge. Inspect the blade for visible damage. Nicks or chips may require professional sharpening.

Paper Test

A quick test you can do is try slicing a piece of paper with the knife. A sharp knife should cut through effortlessly. If it tears or snags, it’s time for sharpening.

If your knife doesnā€™t pass the test, here are a few tips for how to get it back in shape. 

Sharpening Techniques

Water Stones or Oil Stones (which are both special stones for sharpening knives) are ideal for maintaining and restoring knife edges.

You can also try using a manual or electric sharpener. They are quick and convenient for regular maintenance, and you can likely get them in your nearest kitchen store. 

And finally, if youā€™re knife has gone too far, consider professional sharpening. Itā€™s more expensive, but will also last longer and is great for resurrecting hard cases. 

The post How Often Do You Really Need To Sharpen Your Knives? appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Cookware: Where to Skimp & Where to Splurge https://falafelandcaviar.com/cookware-where-to-skimp-where-to-splurge/ Fri, 03 Nov 2023 08:41:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=18484 For chopping, baking, sauteing and more, keeping your kitchen well-stocked with a range of cooking tools is an essential part of being able to prepare a wide variety of dishes. That said, the cost of purchasing an entire kitchenā€™s worth of supplies can add up quickly, with even relatively basic items often coming with a […]

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]]> For chopping, baking, sauteing and more, keeping your kitchen well-stocked with a range of cooking tools is an essential part of being able to prepare a wide variety of dishes. That said, the cost of purchasing an entire kitchenā€™s worth of supplies can add up quickly, with even relatively basic items often coming with a substantial price tag.

Fortunately, you donā€™t have to spend big bucks on top-of-the-line versions of everything to create delicious food. Read on to learn more about which kitchen tools are okay to skimp on and which are worth the splurge.

Splurge 

Pots & Pans

Pots and pans are essential for the vast majority of kitchen tasks, so if you can only afford to splurge on one thing, we recommend going for a well-made set of cookware. Look for pieces with thick, multi-layered bottoms, as these allow for more even heat distribution. Once youā€™ve chosen your cookware, research and follow the care instructions to keep it in top working condition for as long as possible.

Knives

Investing in sharp, high-quality blades wonā€™t only make meal prep more enjoyable, it will also help prevent injuries and accidents in the kitchen. Look for knives with forged blades and comfortable, ergonomic handles, as these are designed to allow for more precision and control.

Skimp

Baking Sheets

Baking sheets are necessary for many dishes that involve roasting and baking, but the difference between high-end sheets and more affordable options is actually pretty minimal. Look for baking sheets with a non-stick coating, or use a silicone mat for easy cleanup and to keep your baking sheets looking like new.

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]]> Kitchen Essentials That Will Make You a Master Chef https://falafelandcaviar.com/kitchen-essentials-that-will-make-you-a-master-chef/ Fri, 28 Apr 2023 08:19:46 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17786 Do you dream of becoming a master chef? With the right kitchen essentials, you can take your cooking game to the next level. Don’t be too prideful to think that you can cook anything you want with a mere bowl and spoon. Here are the items that you should have if you really want to […]

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]]> Do you dream of becoming a master chef? With the right kitchen essentials, you can take your cooking game to the next level. Don’t be too prideful to think that you can cook anything you want with a mere bowl and spoon. Here are the items that you should have if you really want to be taken seriously.

Dutch Oven

A Dutch oven is a versatile cooking pot that can be used for everything from soups and stews to roasting meat. Look for one that’s made from high-quality materials and has a tight-fitting lid.

Immersion Blender

An immersion blender is a handy tool that allows you to blend soups, sauces, and smoothies right in the pot. Look for one that’s powerful and easy to clean.

Mandoline Slicer

A mandoline slicer is perfect for slicing vegetables and fruits with precision. Look for one that has adjustable blades and is easy to use.

Cast Iron Skillet

A cast iron skillet is a must-have for any serious cook. It’s perfect for searing, sautĆ©ing, and frying, and can be used both on the stove and in the oven.

Kitchen Scale

Accurate measurement is crucial when it comes to baking, and a kitchen scale can help ensure that your ingredients are measured precisely. Look for one that’s easy to use and has a large display.

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]]> 3 Things to Keep in Mind Before Investing in an Air Fryer https://falafelandcaviar.com/3-things-to-keep-in-mind-before-investing-in-an-air-fryer/ Wed, 23 Mar 2022 10:36:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=15757 The air fryer is definitely the trendiest kitchen tool of 2022 but it’s just as polarizing as it is popular. Some people swear itā€™s worth the investment while others believe itā€™s a waste of money, but you wonā€™t know the truth before you try it. If youā€™re thinking of buying this kitchen appliance, here are […]

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]]> The air fryer is definitely the trendiest kitchen tool of 2022 but it’s just as polarizing as it is popular. Some people swear itā€™s worth the investment while others believe itā€™s a waste of money, but you wonā€™t know the truth before you try it. If youā€™re thinking of buying this kitchen appliance, here are a few things you should take into consideration before welcoming it into your home.

Waste of Space

Air fryers are often considered impractical because they take up a lot of space. Even the smaller models are usually bigger than most other countertop appliances, so you probably wonā€™t use yours on a regular basis if you donā€™t have enough counter and cabinet space.

Flavor of Food

The air fryer is often hailed as the healthier alternative to deep-frying, but the cooking process is quite different. Thatā€™s part of the reason why foods prepared inside it probably wonā€™t taste the same as their deep-fried counterparts, but the change isnā€™t too drastic once you get used to it.

Smaller Portions

If you fry foods for a larger group of people on a regular basis, the air fryer isnā€™t the kitchen tool you need. This appliance canā€™t hold a lot of food at once, so itā€™s better used to prepare a meal for one or two people, and itā€™s useless when it comes to larger gatheringsā€”unless you have the patience to fire it up a few times.

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]]> 3 Trendy Kitchen Tools You Don’t Need https://falafelandcaviar.com/3-trendy-kitchen-tools-you-dont-need/ Mon, 09 Aug 2021 06:51:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=15872 Any chef can get tempted by shiny, new kitchen tools, especially when they’re trendy. But the problem with kitchen tools is many of them are only designed to do one thing and they can take up tons of room in your drawers. These three kitchen tools do the trick, but they’re really unnecessary. Cherry Pitter […]

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]]> Any chef can get tempted by shiny, new kitchen tools, especially when they’re trendy. But the problem with kitchen tools is many of them are only designed to do one thing and they can take up tons of room in your drawers. These three kitchen tools do the trick, but they’re really unnecessary.

Cherry Pitter

Pitting cherries is a real pain and cherry pitters make it easier, but if you own a metal pastry tip, metal straws, or chopsticks, you can use them to pit cherries. Just push them through the center of the fruit to poke the pit out.

Strawberry Huller

Instead of a strawberry huller, use a sharp paring knife to remove the green stems. Make sure to angle your knife at 45 degrees into the fruit and rotate in a circular fashion around the stem until the core is removed.

Egg Separator

Your hands will do the trick to separate the egg yolk from the whites. Crack the egg on the counter and empty it into your hand so the yolk is cradles in your palm and the whites steam through your fingers. There also won’t be jagged edges which pose the chance of the yolk getting broken and messing up your recipe.

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]]> Once You Add a Microplane To Your Kitchen Arsenal, Everything Changes https://falafelandcaviar.com/once-you-add-a-microplane-to-your-kitchen-arsenal-everything-changes/ Sun, 15 Dec 2019 10:02:17 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=12951 A microplane is basically a handheld small grater and boy does it do wonders in the kitchen! Get yourself one and check it out. Garlic Garlic is something that really should go into almost everything savory that you cooked. It just brings a depth of flavor that you really can’t get from anywhere else. However, […]

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]]> A microplane is basically a handheld small grater and boy does it do wonders in the kitchen! Get yourself one and check it out.

Garlic

Garlic is something that really should go into almost everything savory that you cooked. It just brings a depth of flavor that you really can’t get from anywhere else. However, chopping garlic can get really annoying and slow down the cooking process. Instead, why not microplane it right into your pan! This is a great time-saver, and it also makes it easier to use garlic raw in things like dressing and cold sauces for noodles!

Ginger

Ginger is another essential ingredient when it comes to Asian-style cooking, but no one wants a big chunk of ginger in their food. Instead, use the microplane to break it up so it can add the flavor it needs to without an unpleasant texture.

Zest

The zest of citrus is almost better than the juice itself because it provides a really powerful citrus taste without adding any extra liquid. However, if you get any of the white pith, it’ll be really bitter. So, the best way to avoid that is by microplaning! A microplane can make sure you only get the colorful part of the zest easily.

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]]> 3 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do With a Panini Press https://falafelandcaviar.com/3-things-you-didnt-know-you-could-do-with-a-panini-press/ Fri, 26 Jul 2019 19:41:24 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=10121 Panini presses are a very common kitchen accessory nowadays. Consisting of two ā€œgrill piecesā€ that go on top and under the food to cook it, these grills are most commonly used in order to make grilled sandwiches. However, did you know that these machines have lots of other uses? In fact, the name ā€œpanini pressā€ […]

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]]> Panini presses are a very common kitchen accessory nowadays. Consisting of two ā€œgrill piecesā€ that go on top and under the food to cook it, these grills are most commonly used in order to make grilled sandwiches.

However, did you know that these machines have lots of other uses? In fact, the name ā€œpanini pressā€ is quite a misnomer considering all of the things that these nifty grills can do.

Here are three recommendations for things to do with your panini press.

Grill Meat

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#ad To be honest with you guys, Iā€™m an awful cook. I could literally burn cereal (I wish I was kidding). Itā€™s definitely genetic though because my dad couldnā€™t cook until I was like 15 (shoutout to him for taking this picture… I know itā€™s a little blurry… but he was proud of it, so here we are). I remember when I was younger, my dadā€™s go to was his @georgeforemanco grill. Those that know my dad know heā€™s a big meat eater (ex-body builder & whatnot), but obviously Iā€™m a vegan, so I thought I would try out some plant-based options on it instead! This week Iā€™ve made tofu chicken & brown sugar plantain quesadillas, veggie burgers, grilled vegetables, grilled ā€œcheeseā€ sandwiches, etc on this grill! All of which turned out fantastic, proving that even cereal-burners like me can use & love this grill! This is the Rapid Grill Series 5-Serving Removable Plate Electric Indoor Grill & Panini Press! The grill plates are removable, which makes it was easier to clean for messy cooks like myself. Perfect for feeding families… or one very hungry millennial. Click the link in my bio to get your own! Available at @walmart! . . . . . . . . . . #georgeforemangrill #georgeforeman #walmart #sponsored #vegan #veganfood #vegansofig #veggie #veggieburger #veganmodel #veganinfluencer #millenials #budget #moving #kitchendecor #kitchen #kitchenappliances #grill #panini #paninipress #influencer

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When you think about it, it makes all of the sense in the world to use a panini press to grill meat. Making hamburgers or chicken breasts becomes incredibly easy in a panini press, as the consistent heat on both sides of the meat means that itā€™ll cook perfectly and safely. Just be sure to clean off the residual juices well once youā€™re finished!

Make Smashed Potatoes

Have a bunch of new or redskin potatoes and just donā€™t quite know what to do with them? Baste them in olive oil, salt, and sprinkle herbs on top of them and put them into a panini press after youā€™ve softened them up! A panini press works perfectly for this.

Reheat Pizza

Ah, thereā€™s nothing quite as satisfying as leftover pizza. Am I the only one that thinks that it tastes even better the second day? If you arenā€™t into cold pizza, a great way to reheat your pizza and keep it crispy is in a panini press.

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]]> Handheld Immersion Blenders are a Kitchen Must-Have https://falafelandcaviar.com/handheld-immersion-blenders-are-a-kitchen-must-have/ Thu, 06 Jun 2019 08:44:44 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=8689 One essential item in any kitchen has to be a blender. This tool can be used to do all kinds of useful things while cooking — from mixing ingredients to blending different items together for recipes such as smoothies. Did you know, however, that not all blenders are tabletop? In fact, one kitchen tool that […]

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]]> One essential item in any kitchen has to be a blender. This tool can be used to do all kinds of useful things while cooking — from mixing ingredients to blending different items together for recipes such as smoothies.

Did you know, however, that not all blenders are tabletop? In fact, one kitchen tool that I strongly recommend for anyone who considers himself a kitchen whiz is a handheld immersion blender.

Handheld immersion blenders do the same thing as a tabletop blender, but they have the advantage of being much more portable and flexible than the traditional version.

Instead of adding things into a container on top of a blender that canā€™t move, you simply stick the handheld immersion blender into any container.

Itā€™s so much easier to just put the handheld immersion blender into a sauce pot full of blanched tomatoes, for example, than to put them inside of a blender and then transfer them back into a pot when making a tomato sauce.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BM41jfFDNqe/

Another limitation that handheld immersion blenders take care of is quantity. If your tabletop blender wonā€™t hold a large quantity of food that needs to be blended, this isnā€™t a problem if your blender is handheld.

Anyone who is looking to save time and simplify their life in the kitchen has to pick up a handheld immersion blender. You definitely wonā€™t regret it!

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]]> Hereā€™s the Proper Way to Use a Cutting Board https://falafelandcaviar.com/heres-the-proper-way-to-use-a-cutting-board/ Thu, 09 May 2019 08:10:24 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=8006 Despite being a relatively simple and straight-forward kitchen device, did you know that there are actually some tricks that you should know in order to get the most out of your kitchenā€™s cutting board? As we all know, a cutting board can be used to slice up things such as meat, vegetables, and bread in […]

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]]> Despite being a relatively simple and straight-forward kitchen device, did you know that there are actually some tricks that you should know in order to get the most out of your kitchenā€™s cutting board?

As we all know, a cutting board can be used to slice up things such as meat, vegetables, and bread in a kitchen. But did you know that you only need to wash yours with soap after handling raw meat on it?

Washing your board with soap too often can cause the board to shrink or to acquire some of its ā€œflavor.ā€ Try only rinsing your cutting board after handling produce and bread on it to avoid this.

Another important tip for getting out of your cutting board is to use a sharp knife. Using a dull knife will force you to saw at what youā€™re cutting, which can cause creases and imperfections to form in your board. Be sure to keep your knives sharpened at all times to avoid this.

Finally, did you know that the space for the handle on a cutting board that forms a hollow square has another use?

You can use this hole in the board to scrape off what youā€™ve cut into a pan or bowl without pieces of the food flying everywhere.

Wasnā€™t that helpful?

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]]> ersion="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> kitchen tools Archives - falafelandcaviar.com Thu, 11 Jan 2024 15:37:59 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 When Should You Use a Cast Iron Skillet? https://falafelandcaviar.com/when-should-you-use-a-cast-iron-skillet/ Sun, 14 Jan 2024 08:44:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=18369 Congratulations, you’ve just recently bought a shiny new cast iron skillet, or maybe you’ve had one for a while, and now you’re wondering, “When should I use it?” Cast iron skillets are like a trusty friend in the kitchen, and knowing when to reach for one can make your cooking experience even better. In this […]

The post When Should You Use a Cast Iron Skillet? appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Congratulations, you’ve just recently bought a shiny new cast iron skillet, or maybe you’ve had one for a while, and now you’re wondering, “When should I use it?” Cast iron skillets are like a trusty friend in the kitchen, and knowing when to reach for one can make your cooking experience even better. In this article, we’ll explore the best occasions to use your cast iron skillet and unlock its full potential.

Searing Or Frying

One of the perfect times to use a cast iron skillet is when you need to sear or fry. Its ability to distribute heat evenly and maintain high temperatures makes it ideal for achieving that golden-brown crust on meats or vegetables. Whether it’s searing a juicy steak or crisping up some fried chicken, your cast iron skillet is up to the task.

Baking

Another excellent occasion to bring out your cast iron skillet is when you want to bake. From cornbread to skillet cookies and even deep-dish pizza, this versatile pan can go from the stovetop to the oven without missing a beat. It’s a handy tool for dishes that require both stovetop and oven cooking. The more you use it, the more you’ll see just how versatile it is!

The post When Should You Use a Cast Iron Skillet? appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> How Often Do You Really Need To Sharpen Your Knives? https://falafelandcaviar.com/how-often-do-you-really-need-to-sharpen-your-knives/ Tue, 14 Nov 2023 08:09:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=18568 A sharp knife in the kitchen can make all the difference both in speed and in how much you enjoy the cooking process. Hereā€™s how you can tell itā€™s time for a refresh.  Difficulty in Cutting  If you find yourself applying more force than usual, it’s a sign the knife is losing its edge. Inspect […]

The post How Often Do You Really Need To Sharpen Your Knives? appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> A sharp knife in the kitchen can make all the difference both in speed and in how much you enjoy the cooking process. Hereā€™s how you can tell itā€™s time for a refresh. 

Difficulty in Cutting 

If you find yourself applying more force than usual, it’s a sign the knife is losing its edge. Inspect the blade for visible damage. Nicks or chips may require professional sharpening.

Paper Test

A quick test you can do is try slicing a piece of paper with the knife. A sharp knife should cut through effortlessly. If it tears or snags, it’s time for sharpening.

If your knife doesnā€™t pass the test, here are a few tips for how to get it back in shape. 

Sharpening Techniques

Water Stones or Oil Stones (which are both special stones for sharpening knives) are ideal for maintaining and restoring knife edges.

You can also try using a manual or electric sharpener. They are quick and convenient for regular maintenance, and you can likely get them in your nearest kitchen store. 

And finally, if youā€™re knife has gone too far, consider professional sharpening. Itā€™s more expensive, but will also last longer and is great for resurrecting hard cases. 

The post How Often Do You Really Need To Sharpen Your Knives? appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Cookware: Where to Skimp & Where to Splurge https://falafelandcaviar.com/cookware-where-to-skimp-where-to-splurge/ Fri, 03 Nov 2023 08:41:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=18484 For chopping, baking, sauteing and more, keeping your kitchen well-stocked with a range of cooking tools is an essential part of being able to prepare a wide variety of dishes. That said, the cost of purchasing an entire kitchenā€™s worth of supplies can add up quickly, with even relatively basic items often coming with a […]

The post Cookware: Where to Skimp & Where to Splurge appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> For chopping, baking, sauteing and more, keeping your kitchen well-stocked with a range of cooking tools is an essential part of being able to prepare a wide variety of dishes. That said, the cost of purchasing an entire kitchenā€™s worth of supplies can add up quickly, with even relatively basic items often coming with a substantial price tag.

Fortunately, you donā€™t have to spend big bucks on top-of-the-line versions of everything to create delicious food. Read on to learn more about which kitchen tools are okay to skimp on and which are worth the splurge.

Splurge 

Pots & Pans

Pots and pans are essential for the vast majority of kitchen tasks, so if you can only afford to splurge on one thing, we recommend going for a well-made set of cookware. Look for pieces with thick, multi-layered bottoms, as these allow for more even heat distribution. Once youā€™ve chosen your cookware, research and follow the care instructions to keep it in top working condition for as long as possible.

Knives

Investing in sharp, high-quality blades wonā€™t only make meal prep more enjoyable, it will also help prevent injuries and accidents in the kitchen. Look for knives with forged blades and comfortable, ergonomic handles, as these are designed to allow for more precision and control.

Skimp

Baking Sheets

Baking sheets are necessary for many dishes that involve roasting and baking, but the difference between high-end sheets and more affordable options is actually pretty minimal. Look for baking sheets with a non-stick coating, or use a silicone mat for easy cleanup and to keep your baking sheets looking like new.

The post Cookware: Where to Skimp & Where to Splurge appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Kitchen Essentials That Will Make You a Master Chef https://falafelandcaviar.com/kitchen-essentials-that-will-make-you-a-master-chef/ Fri, 28 Apr 2023 08:19:46 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17786 Do you dream of becoming a master chef? With the right kitchen essentials, you can take your cooking game to the next level. Don’t be too prideful to think that you can cook anything you want with a mere bowl and spoon. Here are the items that you should have if you really want to […]

The post Kitchen Essentials That Will Make You a Master Chef appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Do you dream of becoming a master chef? With the right kitchen essentials, you can take your cooking game to the next level. Don’t be too prideful to think that you can cook anything you want with a mere bowl and spoon. Here are the items that you should have if you really want to be taken seriously.

Dutch Oven

A Dutch oven is a versatile cooking pot that can be used for everything from soups and stews to roasting meat. Look for one that’s made from high-quality materials and has a tight-fitting lid.

Immersion Blender

An immersion blender is a handy tool that allows you to blend soups, sauces, and smoothies right in the pot. Look for one that’s powerful and easy to clean.

Mandoline Slicer

A mandoline slicer is perfect for slicing vegetables and fruits with precision. Look for one that has adjustable blades and is easy to use.

Cast Iron Skillet

A cast iron skillet is a must-have for any serious cook. It’s perfect for searing, sautĆ©ing, and frying, and can be used both on the stove and in the oven.

Kitchen Scale

Accurate measurement is crucial when it comes to baking, and a kitchen scale can help ensure that your ingredients are measured precisely. Look for one that’s easy to use and has a large display.

The post Kitchen Essentials That Will Make You a Master Chef appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> 3 Things to Keep in Mind Before Investing in an Air Fryer https://falafelandcaviar.com/3-things-to-keep-in-mind-before-investing-in-an-air-fryer/ Wed, 23 Mar 2022 10:36:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=15757 The air fryer is definitely the trendiest kitchen tool of 2022 but it’s just as polarizing as it is popular. Some people swear itā€™s worth the investment while others believe itā€™s a waste of money, but you wonā€™t know the truth before you try it. If youā€™re thinking of buying this kitchen appliance, here are […]

The post 3 Things to Keep in Mind Before Investing in an Air Fryer appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> The air fryer is definitely the trendiest kitchen tool of 2022 but it’s just as polarizing as it is popular. Some people swear itā€™s worth the investment while others believe itā€™s a waste of money, but you wonā€™t know the truth before you try it. If youā€™re thinking of buying this kitchen appliance, here are a few things you should take into consideration before welcoming it into your home.

Waste of Space

Air fryers are often considered impractical because they take up a lot of space. Even the smaller models are usually bigger than most other countertop appliances, so you probably wonā€™t use yours on a regular basis if you donā€™t have enough counter and cabinet space.

Flavor of Food

The air fryer is often hailed as the healthier alternative to deep-frying, but the cooking process is quite different. Thatā€™s part of the reason why foods prepared inside it probably wonā€™t taste the same as their deep-fried counterparts, but the change isnā€™t too drastic once you get used to it.

Smaller Portions

If you fry foods for a larger group of people on a regular basis, the air fryer isnā€™t the kitchen tool you need. This appliance canā€™t hold a lot of food at once, so itā€™s better used to prepare a meal for one or two people, and itā€™s useless when it comes to larger gatheringsā€”unless you have the patience to fire it up a few times.

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]]> 3 Trendy Kitchen Tools You Don’t Need https://falafelandcaviar.com/3-trendy-kitchen-tools-you-dont-need/ Mon, 09 Aug 2021 06:51:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=15872 Any chef can get tempted by shiny, new kitchen tools, especially when they’re trendy. But the problem with kitchen tools is many of them are only designed to do one thing and they can take up tons of room in your drawers. These three kitchen tools do the trick, but they’re really unnecessary. Cherry Pitter […]

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]]> Any chef can get tempted by shiny, new kitchen tools, especially when they’re trendy. But the problem with kitchen tools is many of them are only designed to do one thing and they can take up tons of room in your drawers. These three kitchen tools do the trick, but they’re really unnecessary.

Cherry Pitter

Pitting cherries is a real pain and cherry pitters make it easier, but if you own a metal pastry tip, metal straws, or chopsticks, you can use them to pit cherries. Just push them through the center of the fruit to poke the pit out.

Strawberry Huller

Instead of a strawberry huller, use a sharp paring knife to remove the green stems. Make sure to angle your knife at 45 degrees into the fruit and rotate in a circular fashion around the stem until the core is removed.

Egg Separator

Your hands will do the trick to separate the egg yolk from the whites. Crack the egg on the counter and empty it into your hand so the yolk is cradles in your palm and the whites steam through your fingers. There also won’t be jagged edges which pose the chance of the yolk getting broken and messing up your recipe.

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]]> Once You Add a Microplane To Your Kitchen Arsenal, Everything Changes https://falafelandcaviar.com/once-you-add-a-microplane-to-your-kitchen-arsenal-everything-changes/ Sun, 15 Dec 2019 10:02:17 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=12951 A microplane is basically a handheld small grater and boy does it do wonders in the kitchen! Get yourself one and check it out. Garlic Garlic is something that really should go into almost everything savory that you cooked. It just brings a depth of flavor that you really can’t get from anywhere else. However, […]

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]]> A microplane is basically a handheld small grater and boy does it do wonders in the kitchen! Get yourself one and check it out.

Garlic

Garlic is something that really should go into almost everything savory that you cooked. It just brings a depth of flavor that you really can’t get from anywhere else. However, chopping garlic can get really annoying and slow down the cooking process. Instead, why not microplane it right into your pan! This is a great time-saver, and it also makes it easier to use garlic raw in things like dressing and cold sauces for noodles!

Ginger

Ginger is another essential ingredient when it comes to Asian-style cooking, but no one wants a big chunk of ginger in their food. Instead, use the microplane to break it up so it can add the flavor it needs to without an unpleasant texture.

Zest

The zest of citrus is almost better than the juice itself because it provides a really powerful citrus taste without adding any extra liquid. However, if you get any of the white pith, it’ll be really bitter. So, the best way to avoid that is by microplaning! A microplane can make sure you only get the colorful part of the zest easily.

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]]> 3 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do With a Panini Press https://falafelandcaviar.com/3-things-you-didnt-know-you-could-do-with-a-panini-press/ Fri, 26 Jul 2019 19:41:24 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=10121 Panini presses are a very common kitchen accessory nowadays. Consisting of two ā€œgrill piecesā€ that go on top and under the food to cook it, these grills are most commonly used in order to make grilled sandwiches. However, did you know that these machines have lots of other uses? In fact, the name ā€œpanini pressā€ […]

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]]> Panini presses are a very common kitchen accessory nowadays. Consisting of two ā€œgrill piecesā€ that go on top and under the food to cook it, these grills are most commonly used in order to make grilled sandwiches.

However, did you know that these machines have lots of other uses? In fact, the name ā€œpanini pressā€ is quite a misnomer considering all of the things that these nifty grills can do.

Here are three recommendations for things to do with your panini press.

Grill Meat

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#ad To be honest with you guys, Iā€™m an awful cook. I could literally burn cereal (I wish I was kidding). Itā€™s definitely genetic though because my dad couldnā€™t cook until I was like 15 (shoutout to him for taking this picture… I know itā€™s a little blurry… but he was proud of it, so here we are). I remember when I was younger, my dadā€™s go to was his @georgeforemanco grill. Those that know my dad know heā€™s a big meat eater (ex-body builder & whatnot), but obviously Iā€™m a vegan, so I thought I would try out some plant-based options on it instead! This week Iā€™ve made tofu chicken & brown sugar plantain quesadillas, veggie burgers, grilled vegetables, grilled ā€œcheeseā€ sandwiches, etc on this grill! All of which turned out fantastic, proving that even cereal-burners like me can use & love this grill! This is the Rapid Grill Series 5-Serving Removable Plate Electric Indoor Grill & Panini Press! The grill plates are removable, which makes it was easier to clean for messy cooks like myself. Perfect for feeding families… or one very hungry millennial. Click the link in my bio to get your own! Available at @walmart! . . . . . . . . . . #georgeforemangrill #georgeforeman #walmart #sponsored #vegan #veganfood #vegansofig #veggie #veggieburger #veganmodel #veganinfluencer #millenials #budget #moving #kitchendecor #kitchen #kitchenappliances #grill #panini #paninipress #influencer

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When you think about it, it makes all of the sense in the world to use a panini press to grill meat. Making hamburgers or chicken breasts becomes incredibly easy in a panini press, as the consistent heat on both sides of the meat means that itā€™ll cook perfectly and safely. Just be sure to clean off the residual juices well once youā€™re finished!

Make Smashed Potatoes

Have a bunch of new or redskin potatoes and just donā€™t quite know what to do with them? Baste them in olive oil, salt, and sprinkle herbs on top of them and put them into a panini press after youā€™ve softened them up! A panini press works perfectly for this.

Reheat Pizza

Ah, thereā€™s nothing quite as satisfying as leftover pizza. Am I the only one that thinks that it tastes even better the second day? If you arenā€™t into cold pizza, a great way to reheat your pizza and keep it crispy is in a panini press.

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]]> Handheld Immersion Blenders are a Kitchen Must-Have https://falafelandcaviar.com/handheld-immersion-blenders-are-a-kitchen-must-have/ Thu, 06 Jun 2019 08:44:44 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=8689 One essential item in any kitchen has to be a blender. This tool can be used to do all kinds of useful things while cooking — from mixing ingredients to blending different items together for recipes such as smoothies. Did you know, however, that not all blenders are tabletop? In fact, one kitchen tool that […]

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]]> One essential item in any kitchen has to be a blender. This tool can be used to do all kinds of useful things while cooking — from mixing ingredients to blending different items together for recipes such as smoothies.

Did you know, however, that not all blenders are tabletop? In fact, one kitchen tool that I strongly recommend for anyone who considers himself a kitchen whiz is a handheld immersion blender.

Handheld immersion blenders do the same thing as a tabletop blender, but they have the advantage of being much more portable and flexible than the traditional version.

Instead of adding things into a container on top of a blender that canā€™t move, you simply stick the handheld immersion blender into any container.

Itā€™s so much easier to just put the handheld immersion blender into a sauce pot full of blanched tomatoes, for example, than to put them inside of a blender and then transfer them back into a pot when making a tomato sauce.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BM41jfFDNqe/

Another limitation that handheld immersion blenders take care of is quantity. If your tabletop blender wonā€™t hold a large quantity of food that needs to be blended, this isnā€™t a problem if your blender is handheld.

Anyone who is looking to save time and simplify their life in the kitchen has to pick up a handheld immersion blender. You definitely wonā€™t regret it!

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]]> Hereā€™s the Proper Way to Use a Cutting Board https://falafelandcaviar.com/heres-the-proper-way-to-use-a-cutting-board/ Thu, 09 May 2019 08:10:24 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=8006 Despite being a relatively simple and straight-forward kitchen device, did you know that there are actually some tricks that you should know in order to get the most out of your kitchenā€™s cutting board? As we all know, a cutting board can be used to slice up things such as meat, vegetables, and bread in […]

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]]> Despite being a relatively simple and straight-forward kitchen device, did you know that there are actually some tricks that you should know in order to get the most out of your kitchenā€™s cutting board?

As we all know, a cutting board can be used to slice up things such as meat, vegetables, and bread in a kitchen. But did you know that you only need to wash yours with soap after handling raw meat on it?

Washing your board with soap too often can cause the board to shrink or to acquire some of its ā€œflavor.ā€ Try only rinsing your cutting board after handling produce and bread on it to avoid this.

Another important tip for getting out of your cutting board is to use a sharp knife. Using a dull knife will force you to saw at what youā€™re cutting, which can cause creases and imperfections to form in your board. Be sure to keep your knives sharpened at all times to avoid this.

Finally, did you know that the space for the handle on a cutting board that forms a hollow square has another use?

You can use this hole in the board to scrape off what youā€™ve cut into a pan or bowl without pieces of the food flying everywhere.

Wasnā€™t that helpful?

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