KUSA - You could spend hundreds of dollars on kitchen gadgets. How about a crinkle cutter for veggies or goggles for cutting onions? When it comes to cooking, it's a lot easier to get the job done when you have the right tools. It can be downright disappointing when something doesn't work.
Consumer Reports asked its Facebook fans which kitchen gadgets they rely on and then the list was narrowed down and testers check them out. The list of essentials included can openers, graters garlic presses, and peelers.
Sensory panelists tried out traditional versions of these handy helpers along with ones that offer a twist. New-fangled doesn't necessarily mean "improved." More often than not testers preferred tried-and-true designs. Some of the gadgets were just plain awkward.
For example, the Joseph Joseph collapsible cheese grater doesn't lock. The squeeze grater wasn't a favorite either. A better option is the Oxo Good Grips Box Grater for $18. It even has a compartment with measurement markings for your grated cheese.
The Oxo Good Grips garlic press for $16 has a large chamber and a big plus is a built-in cleaner. The $20 Oxo Magnetic Locking Can Opener was a lock with its cushioned grip and magnetic arm that keeps the lid from falling into the can.
As for peelers, Consumer Reports recommends the Kyocera ceramic peeler for $18. It has a comfortable handle and an adjustable blade that works well whether the chef is a righty or lefty.
(Copyright © 2006-2012 Consumers Union of U.S., Inc.)
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