The holidays are a time of family dinners, impromptu get-togethers and parties of all kinds, so it’s important to take note not only of pantry and refrigerator staples such as flour, sugar and eggs, but also kitchen tools. Take a peek beyond the festive dishtowels and large serving platters for these must-have items of the season.
1. Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer is a must when preparing a turkey or roast. Look for a thermometer that has a clear readout and thin probe that will make just a small hole in the meat, allowing less juice to escape. A metal or all-purpose meat thermometer takes about twenty seconds to register temperature when inserted at least two inches into the food. A digital instant-read thermometer registers a more precise easy–to-read temperature in about half that time when inserted a half-inch deep.
2. Electric Carving Knife
An electric carving knife comes in handy for cutting large quantities of meat into slices of even thickness. Look for a knife that has a comfortable grip, good balance and a power switch that’s positioned away from the blade release button.
3. Crockpot
A crockpot is ideal for the hectic holiday season. It can save time by allowing you to cook while you’re busy doing other things. Crockpots range in size from 1 to 6 quarts, with an average size of about 3-1/2 quarts. Look for a crockpot that has a timer, three heat settings (low, high and keep warm) for adjusting the heat to cook according to your schedule, and a removable dishwasher-safe liner for easy cleanup.
4. Zester
Using a zester is a quick and easy way to remove the fragrant and flavorful peel from citrus for use in baked goods, deserts, sauces and other recipes. This tool can also be called on to grate cheese, chocolate, nutmeg, ginger and garlic into favorite holiday dishes.
5. Roasting Pan
When planning a holiday dinner, a good roasting pan is of utmost importance. First, measure your oven and consider the pan size. Having too large of a pan may result in burnt drippings due to the extra surface area, while having too small of a pan can keep foods from cooking properly. Look for well-made pans that have handles. As far as materials, stainless steel and nonstick aluminum pans are popular choices, and nonstick pans are easy to clean.
6. Kitchen Shears
While kitchen shears are a basic tool, they are especially helpful during the holidays. Use them for cutting herbs, poultry, pastry dough, parchment paper, kitchens string, and more. Look for shears that are dishwasher safe and a good size and proportion to cut both small and large items.
7. Pastry Blender
Essential for making many holiday baked goods, this tool consists of five or six parallel U-shaped, steel wires attached to a wooden, plastic or rubber handle. Look for one that has rigid blades and a comfortable grip.
8. Rolling Pin
A must during the holidays, this tool has many uses. It can be used to crack peppercorns, crush crackers for coating a roast or making a piecrust, and even flatten poultry for fancy stuffed chicken dishes. A tapered rolling pin, larger in the center and tapered at both ends, is perfect for rolling dough and pastry.
The holiday season is a great time to add new tools to your kitchen. With these kitchen essentials, preparations for holiday meals and get-togethers will go smoothly. At the same time, you will give yourself the gift of a well-stocked kitchen for the New Year.
