Must Have Gadgets

Mini food processor: I would be lost without it. I love it for quick mincing of garlic, herbs, and vinaigrettes.

Food processor: I have the extra large one for a more powerful motor, and I like the Cuisinart brand. It is great for pie dough in 30 seconds, scalloped potatoes in a minute, grating carrots and cheese, and pureeing. Look for a stainless steel bowl for easy cleaning and longevity.

Standing mixer: I like the Kitchen Aid brand, and I have the large professional one with the bowl that drops down with a very powerful motor so I can make double batches of cookies without straining the motor. It makes cakes and cookies in a minute, and whips eggs and makes smooth mashed potatoes for a crowd. Costco often sells them for a great price.

Blender; Buy a good quality blender that can easily crush ice for blended drinks.

Microplane grater: It is super sharp and wonderful for citrus zest, grating garlic, and lemongrass. Garlic press: My favorite one is from Walgreens. It is very large (so you can crush 2-3 garlic cloves at a time), and can be flipped over for easier cleaning. Garlic peeler: I don’t always use it, but if I have to peel a lot of garlic, I get it out. The plastic tube really does a great job of removing the garlic skin. Citrus reamer; Either wood or stainless steel, this tool really helps to get the last drop out of a lemon, lime, or orange.