CLEANCut - How often do you get raw chicken on your hands and reach for something to clean the off? Ordinarily, this means contaminating your kitchen, and increasing the risk of salmonella. Fortunately, the CLEANCut eliminates the need to touch anything prior to getting a paper towel.
Pros: EASY way to get paper towels out of the roll, reducing the risk of contamination. Handsfree operation allows to grab a towel in a hurry. Operates regardless of perforation, meaning you may use less paper.
Cons: Requires installation.
http://cleancutdispenser.com/T-Fal Actifry - I'll admit, at first I was skeptical. However, 28 minutes after cutting a fresh sweet potato into strips and adding a tablespoon of oil, I had sweet potato fries. It works with a variety of fried foods, and generally does a good job in getting that fresh from the fryer taste.
Pros: Uses less oil, works well with fries and chicken wings. Very easy to clean.
Cons: Takes longer than a standard fryer (cooking times are more inline with an oven). Only one temperature setting.
http://Tfalactifry.comKapoosh Knife Block - A year ago I received a very wide knife as a gift, and had no place to store it. With the Kapoosh, knife width is no longer an issue.
Pro: Easy to use, particularly for wider knives and kitchen shears. Rods inside are dishwasher safe.
Cons: It's easy to overload with too many knives.
http://www.amazon.com/Kapoosh-Universal-Freedom-Rod-Knife-Utensil/dp/B001U8A07Y/ref=pd_vtp_hg_2Emson Pressure Smoker - I generally avoid "combo" items, but this one does the trick. It offers all the benefits of a traditional 5 qt pressure cooker, but with the benefit of a smoke infuser, lending a rich smoky flavor to meats, cheeses and starches.
Pros: It works well. I've used it on beef, pork, cheese, and potatoes, and all came out well.
Cons: A little wood goes a LONG way. I use mine outside, or in the garage.
http://emsoninc.com/emson-smoker-0Cameron's Man Claws: When it's time to pull the turkey out of the roaster next week, do it with strength and style. These BPA free plastic wolverine hand extensions allow control and ease in moving HOT cuts of meat out of the oven, and on to the cutting board. Also works well to shred meat, and toss salads.
Pros: Saves the mess of trying to get the turkey out of the roasting pan.
Cons: None to speak of.
http://www.cameronsproducts.com/man-clawFor more of Chef Tom's recipes and ideas, please visit:
http://www.cookwithtom.com.