Whether you can make beef bourguignon blindfolded or you’re still trying to perfect the art of egg boiling, having the right equipment can be just as important as having a fully stocked pantry. But being well equipped doesn’t have to be boring! These kitchen gadgets are just the right amount of awesome: They make food prep twice as fun but still get the job done.
Equal Measure Measuring Cup by Fred & Friends
Learn to cook – and cook to learn – with this master measuring cup. While you level out your sugar and flour, you’ll discover that one cup of water holds five thousand little drops, and that this beaker-full equals the volume of half a human brain. Behold the powers of the pourer! Measures up to 2 1/2 cups, 20 ounces and 600 milliliters of dry or liquid ingredients. Find it for $11.55 on Amazon.com.
Cutting Mats by Kikkerland
These colorful cutting mats are more than just a bright addition to your kitchen counter; they’re helpful health tools too! To avoid hazardous cross-contamination when prepping raw meats and veggies simultaneously, chop up on these four color-designated mats (flexible for easy storage). You’ll be doing both your kitchen and your family a favor. It’s $12 for set of four.
Herb Mincer by Crate & Barrel
More mincing, less wincing! If too much knife-work makes you nervous, this handy helper will take care of everything. Its eight stainless steel blades get all your herbs cut to size easily and evenly – plus the tool fits perfectly in the palm of your hand for comfortable control of pressure and direction. Blade guard included. Runs $7.95.
OXO Jar Opener
Say “so long” to stubborn lids! This nifty tool keeps slippery jars in place while its stainless steel teeth grip the lid; all you do is twist, no grunts required. Adjusts to fit lids of all sizes. About $11 at Sur La Table.
Vegetable Scrubbing Gloves by Williams Sonoma
Get your veggies clean from any harsh chemicals and still keep their nutrient-rich skins by scrubbing them down with these (super-cute!) textured gloves. Look stylish while cleaning? Sign us up. It’s $11.95 a pair.
Utensil Pot Clip by Crate & Barrel
It’s the next best thing to sliced bread! This pot clip solves all your saucy spoon problems: Taking up minimal space on the stove top or counter, it fits snuggly on the rim of any pot or pan and holds up spoons – preventing burns (and messy counters) between stirs – plus props lids open to prevent boiling over. Heck, it even keeps serving spoons by their respective platters from parties to dinner. Runs $6.95.
Microplane Soft-Handle Zester Graters by Sur La Table
For all your future cooking and baking needs, go where no grater has gone before with one of these snazzy kitchen-savvy must-haves. Sleek designs allow for easy usage and even easier storage – and soft handles offer optimal comfort. Tough lemons everywhere will finally meet their zesty fates! $14.85 each.
