T-Fal Armaral 8-Piece Nonstick Enamel Cookware Set, Metallic Black
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $149.99
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Editorial Review

This T-Fal eight-piece set comes with everything a chef will need for basic home cooking. Included are a 7-3/4-inch sauté pan, 10-inch sauté pan, 1-quart saucepan with lid, 2-quart saucepan with lid, and 5-quart Dutch oven with lid. All the pots and pans have a granite-textured nonstick interior for healthy cooking and easy cleanup. Exteriors are made of scratch-resistant porcelain enamel, and a stainless-steel antidistortion disc on the bottoms of the cookware prevents hot spots and promotes even cooking. The lids have vent knobs that can be set to either hold or vent steam, and the phenolic handles have nickel inserts, keeping them cool to the touch. Everything in the set is oven-safe up to 350 degrees F, and all pieces are dishwasher-safe. The set comes with a lifetime warranty. --Linda Dahlstrom

What's in the Box
1-quart saucepan with lid, 2-quart saucepan with lid, 5-quart Dutch oven with lid, 7-3/4-inch sauté pan, 10-inch sauté pan ... Read more

Features

• Lifetime warranty
• Eight piece set includes 7-3/4-inch sauté pan; 10-inch sauté pan; 1-quart saucepan with lid; 2-quart saucepan with lid; and 5-quart Dutch oven with lid
• Made of durable 18/10 stainless steel with hard enamel exterior; nonstick interior
• Stainless-steel antidistortion discs heat bottoms evenly
• Dishwasher-safe

Reviews (12)

Flimsy
First of all, the handle on one of the lids (on the large pot) fell off. BOO! I'd rather replace the pan than replace the lid's handle, which probably costs just as much.

The nonstick coating has lasted two years - cool!

The handles are all made of plastic, so these can not go into the oven. This is bad, unless you don't cook much. A good nonstick, ovenproof pan is a must for anyone who wants to make things like a fritatta.

be careful
This is a great starter set and yes, it's true that nothing sticks to it but you must be careful with it or that lovely non stick coating will come right off. I found it annoying to have to baby my cookware ( My pots get banged, I use metal utensils and anything I can't put in the dishwasher doesn't get used) and I ended up giving it away and buying a stainless steel set.

Long lasting and inexpensive
My kitchen finally has a product that will take the abuse from my family.I have bought other products in this price range before and found them wanting.Tfal has taken all the abuse we can give it and puts out good results.There do not seem to be any "hot spots" and even cooking is noticed throughout. ... Read more

Asin: B00004S8CB
Subjects:  1. Cookware Sets    2. (Cook Ware)    3. (Tfal)   

Sabatier Stainless-Steel Balance 14-Piece Knife Block Set
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $100.00
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Editorial Review

Fully forged in China of high-carbon stainless steel withhollow stainless-steel handles for weight and balance, the five kitchenknives in this set equip a cook with all the cutting edges needed. Six4-1/2-inch steak knives with serrated blades and solid, mirror-finish,stainless-steel handles are also included in the set. The kitchenknives are an 8-inch chef's knife, an 8-inch bread knife, an 8-inchslicing knife, a 4-1/2-inch utility knife, and a 3-1/2-inch paringknife. To keep their edges in order, the set includes an 8-inchsharpening steel, and there's a pair of rugged kitchen shears forcutting food, flowers, and cardboard. Everything fits into the set's14-slot wood storage block, which has one extra slot for another knifeand is stained black for a striking contrast to the satin-finishkitchen knives. Smoothly shaped bolsters and contoured handlescontribute safety and comfort to the kitchen knives, which are seamlessfor hygiene and easy cleaning. (The steak knives have a seam in theirgleaming handles.) To protect blades of this quality, the knives shouldbe hand washed. --Fred Brack

What's in the Box
8-inch chef's knife, 8-inch bread knife, 8-inch slicing knife, 4-1/2-inch utility knife, 3-1/2 inch paring knife, six 4-1/2-inch steak knives, 8-inch sharpening steel, kitchen shears, 14-slot wood block ... Read more

Features

• Hollow stainless-steel handles provide weight and balance
• Set comprises 8-inch chef's knife, 8-inch bread knife, 8-inch slicing knife, 4-1/2-inch utility knife
• 3-1/2 inch paring knife, six 4-1/2-inch steak knives, 8-inch sharpening steel
• Kitchen shears, 14-slot wood block
• Knives forged of high-carbon stainless steel

Reviews (14)

Disappointed, waste of money, gave away after 2 months
I was very disappointed in these knives.The chef's knife was very dull and no matter how hard I tried, it never got sharp.Even slcing vegetables was difficult.After 2 months, I gave up and donated the set to charity.They were a complete waste of money.

The "Missing Knife" syndrome......
I purchased this set (not from Amazon - unfortunately.I paid one third more money for the set) and found them to be well balanced, stylish and sharp. Yes, they are made in China, but almost everything you purchase today is made in China - realities of life.These knives are well balanced and I have had no problem handling them with my arthritic hands.

As most kitchen "engineers" know knife blocks usually contain at least one empty slot available to add an additional knife of your choosing in the future...If the aesthetics of this bother you then just buy another knife and fill the slot.Also place the knives in the block with the sharp edge upward (not against the block).This will greatly contribute to retaining the knife's sharpness over time.

In my opinon this Sabitier BALANCED knife set represents another great culinary value from Amazon.

Enjoy!

Jim

Big disappointment!!
I gave this 2 stars for the design only. The knives aren't sharp at all. They can barely cut an onion. I wasn't happy at all with this set.My cheap Farberware knives are better than these. ... Read more

Asin: B000063XIZ
Subjects:  1. Knives    2. (Knife)    3. Knife Sets    4. Knife Blocks    5. Chef Sets    6. Kitchen Knives    7. Cutlery   

OXO Good Grips 71180 Uplift Teakettle, Stainless Steel
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $49.99 -- our price: $49.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Bring out the scones--the Uplift teakettle covers all the bases when it comes to making tea. Its spout opens when the nonslip, heat-resistant handle is lifted, keeping fingers and hands far away from scalding steam. Its removable lid is extra wide for easy refilling and simple cleaning. Its 2-quart capacity ensures that there'll be enough tea to go around, even if you're entertaining guests from the other side of the pond. Made of sturdy stainless steel, this kettle will last through many a teatime.

The Good Grips line features durable, nonslip, flexible handles on every product. Ergonomically designed to fit the palm comfortably, the pressure-absorbing processed rubber handle puts less tension on the hands while still providing an outstanding grip. Made from the same material as dishwasher gaskets, the handles are slip-proof--wet or dry--as well as dishwasher-safe. Good Grips products are moderately priced and have won the Tylenol/Arthritis Foundation Design Award. --Laurie Notaro ... Read more

Features

• 8 inches high by 8 inches wide
• Spout opens when kettle is lifted
• Soft, heat-resistant, non-slip handle
• Highly polished stainless steel body
• Large lid for easy cleaning; whistles when water is hot

Reviews (57)

Disappointed with this teapot
This teakettle was given to me as a gift. I will say that it does the job.It boils water.But there were many things I dislike about it.I dislike the uplift mechanism to open the spout.I found it cumbersome.The whistle was odd.It had a low sound and reminded me of the sirens some cities use as am emergency alert signal.I usually kept the spout open so I wouldnt hear the whistle.I have now had it for about a year and today when I pulled open the stopper to add water, the handle snapped completely off.

Thats a good excuse to get rid of it.Okay it did the job but there are better teakettles out there.I wouldnt buy another one of this model.I would not recommend this kettle.It does boil water so it worked (until the handle broke).

Attention - floaters!Particles and black film
I bought the shiny chrome "stainless steel" model, washed before using, as they recommend, then boiled water for a pot of tea.Noticed my tea was leaving black grease-like marks around my cup and could see a visible slick or film on the water.Poured the rest of the water into a clear pitcher only to find black floaty bits in it.Don't know if it was from the sealer or if they were actual pieces of metal.Cleaned, boiled another pot of water and the same thing happened.Boiled again at length with white vinegar and water.Still, there were floaters.Needless to say, I returned it immediately.Injesting unidentified floating objects with tea is not recommended.

Looks cool, interesting pouring concept, nice colors but water comes out dirtier than water put in.Could just be a problem with the chrome pot.I heart OXO, but will definitely not be buying their tea kettles again.

Love it, but....
This is by far the best design I have ever seen and I adore my teakettle. There is no spilling from the spout when you poor and you can easily pour one-handed because of the unique tip-and-pour feature that lifts the spout when you pull up the handle.
However, I am saddened by the fact that the removable lid (which is a great cleaning feature) cracked within the first month of owning it. I went back to the store and was given a new replacement lid and it cracked also within about four months! This time the crack is small enough that I am still able to use the kettle but it sure would be nice if such a great design held up as well as it looked.
Perhaps I got a couple of "lemons" but I would have to wonder since I bought first-quality at a reputable store. ... Read more

Asin: B00004OCN3
Subjects:  1. Teakettles    2. (Tea Kettles)   

Krups FEA112-42 Toast Supreme IV 4-Slice Toaster, Black
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $65.00
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

A great toaster for two people with different breakfast desires, this four-slot Krups model features dual controls. Each half features a six-position browning dial and one-touch button controls for bagels, defrost, reheat, and stop functions. The bagel button increases the amount of heat produced in order to toast bagels more efficiently. Wide slots with self-centering guides accommodate the thickest breads or the smallest waffle sticks, while extra-high lift allows items to be retrieved more easily. The exterior of the toaster stays cool during operation, and two crumb trays slide out for easy cleaning. Measuring 11 by 11-1/2 by 7-1/2 inches, the toaster is covered by a one-year warranty against defects. --Ann Bieri ... Read more

Features

• Self-centering guides ensure even browning; cord storage in base
• Cool-touch 4-slice toaster features dual controls for two-sided operation
• Can simultaneously brown 2 pieces of toast and 2 waffles at different temperatures
• Wide slots and extra-high lift accommodate thick as well as small baked goods
• One-touch button operation for bagel, defrost, reheat, and stop functions

Reviews (25)

All Looks, No Brains
Pros:Looks good in my kitchen.
Cons:Everything else.

Two reasons I bought this toaster: it was available for $23.99 at a local Ross and looks.I wasted my money.This is the slowest toaster I've ever experienced.By the time it gets your bread to anything remotely resembling brown, it will have completely dried out the bread, not to mention make you late for work.It doesn't matter what settig it's on, it still takes forever.And for those, like me, who like things almost-burnt, it's useless.

Can't make toast!
I'm 60 years old so I've seen and used a lot of toasters in my time so it amazes me to find one that can't make toast in the 21st Century. My wife bought this one because our "old" one, after less than two years of use, quit browning bread. We've had this one for only a few months and it is erratic at best. Sometimes it works, sometimes it browns one side and not the other, sometimes neither side on the first try. It's is worthless and frustrating. How hard can it be? It's ridiculous to manufacture a product that has been around for more than a hundred years, a simple product at that, which can't consistently brown bread. $50.00 for what?

Not The Priciest, And That's OK!!
I believe in paying top dollar for quality, and haven't been afraid to do so with kitchen appliances. But quality for a bargain price is even better! This toaster works better than many other toasters out there, and definitely better than any toaster I've owned previously. I bought the polished chrome from Crate&Barrel (sorry, Amazon), and had no idea until just now reading other reviews that it is missing a separate bagel setting, but that's OK with me - it toasts my bagels perfectly without any special setting. I use this toaster for a household of two; I suppose I might want a few more features like a dual browning option if it was used more than that, but it isn't so it works just great!I've owned it for well over 1.5 years now, without a single problem (it doesn't get what I would call heavy use, but I doubt that would make a difference).The outside wall stays cool to the touch when in operation. It looks great next to my other chrome appliances (cuisinart 14-cup food processor & Cuisinart CBT-500 blender - which, by the way, Amazon is currently selling for a lot less than I paid for mine - buy them!); mixing and matching brands as long as they work well is definitely OK with me. Plus, the polished chrome model has a special coating over the finish which is undetectable and makes wiping fingerprints off of it a snap! I can honestly say I love this toaster. ... Read more

Asin: B00005KIRX
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Toasters   

KitchenAid KHM5DH 5-Speed Ultra Power Hand Mixer, White
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $64.99 -- our price: $39.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Professional chefs have long sung the praises of the KitchenAid stand mixer. Now, KitchenAid has designed a product specifically for the home baker with this five-speed hand mixer. Very portable, this mixer allows you to roam the kitchen and mix at will. Its powerful yet lightweight motor maintains consistent beater speed even in heavy mixtures and won't bog down. The mixer comes with traditional beaters and also dough hooks for raised yeast doughs--simply change attachments to mix heavy bread doughs and delicate whites all with the same machine. Designed with nonclogging air vents, the mixer is easy to clean because smooth, sleek surfaces have no seams or grooves that trap ingredients. This mixer also comes with a one-year warranty. --Linda Dahlstrom ... Read more

Features

• Wipes off for easy cleaning
• Five speeds, 7-1/2 inches long by 6-1/2 inches high
• Dough hook attachments knead raised yeast dough quickly and thoroughly
• Comfort-designed handle; heel rest won't tip when set on end
• Powerful lightweight motor designed for quiet, lifelong operation

Reviews (43)

Point of Clarification...
The mixer reviewed by Cook's Illustrated, (See 'Oh My Gosh' below.) was the 7-speed KHM7T and did receive the highest marks (and also was the most expensive).This mixer was not reviewed.

NOT made in USA as Tech Data says
I'm not happy.The Amazon "Technical Data" section currently states "Country of manufacture: USA" but on the box it says "Made in China"! I go out of my way to purchase items that are made in the USA and to avoid things that are made in China.It is important to me.It's hard enough to find things (in many categories) that are are not made in China.I definitely don't appreciate being misled.Come on Amazon!
-----------------------
Now ... regarding the mixer itself ... we just received it and have only used it once so it's a bit early to give it a meaningful rating.However, we definitely noticed two points that many others have mentioned.It is very quiet but it is not as fast as many other mixers.My wife doesn't seem too concerned about the speed so I guess it's not a major issue but definitely noticable.

Oh my gosh!
This is the best hand mixer EVER! After 25 years with an old GE hand mixer that finally went, I picked up a Hamilton Beach hand mixer because I was in a baking bind. It was one of the worst purchases I ever made -- chasing batter around the bowl until it finally mixed. Then I ordered the KitchenAid mixer on the recommendation of Cooks Illustrated and let me tell you, it is a PLEASURE to use!! I just made one of my standard recipes and I never had to a) use a speed higher than #1, b) chase batter around the bowl, or c) mix anything by hand because it was too heavy for the mixer! All I can say is WOW! Get this hand mixer if you're in the market for one. ... Read more

Asin: B00004SGF0
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Hand Mixers    4. (Kitchen Aid)    5. Kitchen    6. Gifts   

Waring WPB05BC Kitchen Classic Blender, Brushed Chrome
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $150.00 -- our price: $79.00
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

This blender's powerful, 360-watt, commercial-grade motor whipsup margaritas and piña coladas, milk shakes and smoothies, soupsand sauces, and crushes ice at either of its two speeds. Equipped witha 40-ounce glass container that fits onto a rugged brushed-chrome base,the blender looks great in any kitchen. Its stainless-steel bladeassembly removes for cleaning, and the container is calibrated in bothounces and liters. The blender's power cord extends a full 6 feet,permitting use in various settings: bar, kitchen, and patio. Fullyassembled, the blender stands 15-1/2 inches high on a 7-inch-diameterbase. The rubber lid with its plastic 2-ounce measuring insert andblade-assembly seal require hand washing, but the container, containerbottom, and blade assembly are dishwasher-safe. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Measures 7 by 8 by 15-1/2 inches; 5-year warranty against motor defects
• 2-speed blender for drinks, soups, sauces, and dips--crushes ice at either speed
• Powerful, 360-watt motor; 40-ounce, glass container on rugged, brushed-chrome base
• Stainless-steel blade assembly removes for easy cleaning
• 6-foot power cord for use in various settings: bar, kitchen, and patio

Reviews (54)

First impressions
I actually wound up buying mine from Sears, beause I needed a few pairs of jeans also, but I'll make some comments.

I make protein smoothies every day, and usually I make them from frozen strawberries/peaches/mangoes and two big scoops of protein powder. Previously, I was using a Cuisinart to make the smoothie, and it was not the best solution. It was too wide and had weird problems with circulation - a pocket of air would develop around the blades, and it would sit there whirring away and not mixing anything and I would have to turn it off and stick in a spoon. At other times, the bottom half of the mixture would mix, but the top half wouldn't move at all. Also my Cuisinart motor died after two years of making smoothies, so I bought this blender.

This blender is great because the carafe is narrow. There's no "dead spots" around the edges and therefore it mixes really well. Also, it has enough power that I can make the smoothie on the "low" setting which is pretty quiet without resorting to "high" which is noisy. At the low setting, it is quieter than the Cuisinart I was using plus it mixes the smoothie in half the time, which is good for me because I make smoothies at 2 am in the morning before I go to bed and I live in an apartment, so I don't like to disturb the neighbors. So far I'm very happy with it.

Even a good brand name goes cheap...
Bought the Waring hoping to get a quality smoothie maker, opened the box and hello! cheap plastic parts start falling out!The blade collar (the part that holds the bade) had disintegrated, the one part I would hope would have some substance.Didn't even get to try it out.Well back to the drawing board...

Disappointed smoothie lover
I received my Waring Blender on March 17.Today is March 19, and I just tried to use the otherwise lovely machine to make a smoothie.THAT proved to be disastrous.As was mentioned in other reviews, the blades jammed up within seconds and the blender began to smoke. I could smell rubber burning.Not a fragrance one wants to experience when trying to make breakfast!I stopped the blender, stirred the mixture (in the event some frozen fruit was clogging the blades), and tried again.The mixture seemed to blend OK on high for about 20 seconds, then the blades died on me AGAIN.Once more, I stopped, stirred, and tried again.The unit continued to smoke and smell of burning rubber, so I quit.Smoking appliances (other than toasters, I suppose) are not for me, so I will be returning this blender.This was my very first blender, and although I was sure to follow the directions exactly, I got terrible results...a chunky, grainy smoothie.Hopefully, I'll find another machine that works twice as well for half the price. ... Read more

Asin: B00005MFCA
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Blenders    4. (Osterizers)   

Toastmaster 200 Waffle Baker
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $29.99 -- our price: $24.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Already divided into four sections for serving, a7-inch-diameter Belgian waffle emerges from this waffle maker with deeppockets for accommodating lots of melted butter and syrup or loads offruit. The grids are nonstick to readily release the four-piece waffleand to easily wipe clean. A ready light shines when the waffle maker isproperly heated to accept batter and shines again when the waffle iscooked. With its chrome housing and black plastic handles, the1,000-watt appliance looks great, and its compact size allows for easystorage. It measures 7-3/4 inches wide, 3-1/2 inches high, and 9 inchesdeep and carries a one-year warranty against defects. Accompanying thewaffle maker are coupons worth U.S.$10 for foods such as Pop-Tarts.--Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• 7-3/4 inches wide, 3-1/2 inches high, 9 inches deep
• Makes 7-inch-diameter, deep-pocket Belgian waffle in four sections
• Nonstick cooking grids wipe clean
• Light shows waffle maker is preheated, then shows waffle is done
• Chrome housing, with black plastic handles

Reviews (5)

Toastmaster 200 Waffle Baker
I have had this exact model for over 30 years.On countless occasions it has made perfect waffles.I won it at a raffle in 1975 when I was 20 years old.It still makes great waffles but the cord finally gave out.I was thrilled to see that this make and model is still available.I am definitely purchasing a new one and hope it lasts 30 years like my old one.I will be 80 years old by then.Yikes!Great product!

You Get What You Pay For
I got this for $9.77 at Target. I figured, even if I can get 2 decent waffles out of it before it breaks, it would have been cheaper than going out to a diner and spending $5 on just one!

My husband was skeptical when I brought it home, but once he tasted a hot steamy waffle, he was hooked as well. Pancakes simply do not compare! We are now waffle-making junkies. We eat them for breakfast, lunch, snack, dinner, whenever!

It doesn't take much to please us. We use simple pancake mix (following the waffle directions of course). I've gotten so lazy I now will only use COMPLETE pancake mix (the just add water and oil kind).

First the PROS: Price can't be beat. The indicator light is very useful in telling you when it is ready for batter and when the waffle is done. I have found it to be remarkably accurate. It's lightweight - I guess it could be stored upright, haven't tried it as yet. Nonstick coating is great. Decent sized waffle with deep creases (especially if you press down). Waffles cook quickly.

The only downside is that the waffles don't come out particularily crisp, though I have found that if you press down on the top while baking, it helps. Also, I've found that one side usually comes out crisper than the other. Perhaps this is normal in the wafflemaker world. Another thing - I use nonstick butter spray to coat it before pouring the batter and I've noticed that it seeps out all the way through the front of the lid. Kinda gross but not enough to stop using it!

Bottom line: if you want a cheap alternative to going out for waffles, I think this is fine. If you're not too picky about crispness, this is fine. Even if you think you will only use it once every so often, buy it, it will save you money. You will become addicted however to making waffles because it's just so darn easy and good!

Get a Better (Working) Product
...Now, I don't know, maybe it was just the particular one that I bought but the waffles were coming out perfect on the bottom but on the top, it was as if the iron wasn't even on.When I went to return it at the store, I saw another 3 people in line to do the same thing, so I'm thinking someone forgot to plug something into the right spot on this waffle maker while it was going through the assembly line.

Hope you all have better luck than me with this! ... Read more

Asin: B000063XGO
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Waffle Irons    4. Waffle Makers    5. (Wafflemakers)   

OXO Good Grips 21181 Jar Opener
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $6.99 -- our price: $6.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

You'll throw away all those other jar openers in your kitchen drawer after using this jar opener by Oxo. As the large, easy-to-hold rubber handle absorbs the pressure from your hands, the sharp stainless-steel teeth grip the jar lid and wrench it easily from the jar with one good pull. With its graduated opening, the opener fits over any lid size and gives you unprecedented leverage to battle the most stubborn of lids.

The Good Grips line features durable, flexible handles on every product. Ergonomically designed to fit the palm comfortably, the pressure-absorbing processed-rubber handles reduce stress on the hands, while providing an outstanding grip. Made from the same material dishwasher gaskets are constructed of, the handles are slip-proof, wet or dry, and dishwasher-safe. Good Grips products are moderately priced and have won the Tylenol/Arthritis Foundation Design Award. --Laurie Notaro ... Read more

Features

• Dishwasher-safe
• Good Grips oversize rubber handle is easy on your hands
• Graduated opening fits any lid size
• Stainless-steel teeth grip lids firmly
• Nonslip handle provides excellent leverage to twist off difficult lids

Reviews (29)

This is an amazing product
Bought this a few years ago for my partner who had fibro myalgia, and have used it daily ever since.A friend just fell and broke her arm @ the wrist, so I loaned it to her. She fell so in love with it that she found it here on the net and is purchasing one for herself.

Buyer Beware
Anyone needing assistance to open jars. need not waste their money on the oxo. The jars do not stay secure and slip, from the simplest relish jar to a large mayonaisse jar. In short, it is worse than useless - unless you need a pooper-scooper when you walk your dog. It does do that fairly well.

Useful, but not durable
I have tendonitis in my hands, and this makes opening jars a bit difficult at times. There isn't always someone else around to open them so we picked up the OXO jar opener to give me a hand. It's a funky thing, combining one of OXO's large, soft rubber Good Grips handles with a fan-shaped piece of plastic that grips the edges of a jar lid in metal teeth, grasping it and giving you leverage with which to twist.

You simply slide the fan over the lid until the lid can't sit any further inside the edges, which means it'll adjust to fit a wide variety of lid sizes. The teeth grip, and you twist, holding onto the Good Grips handle.

The good: That handle is very comfortable for hurt hands to use. It also gives plenty of leverage and thus works fairly well in opening jars.

The bad: The teeth don't grip perfectly, sometimes slipping a bit, so it still requires a bit of hand strength to push the opener on securely enough to work. Also, it didn't take too long before the metal teeth-strip along one side just came right out of our jar opener.

For some reason our OXO products don't seem to last all that long or hold together all that well, although most people I talk to don't have so much trouble with them. Perhaps it's just that we put our kitchen things through a whole lot of use; maybe if we were less intensely active in the kitchen it wouldn't be a problem. Regardless, the good thing is that their products are designed so well in other ways, and usually not too expensive given that, that we keep buying replacements instead of simply going with other companies. I do believe the jar opener is a handy item, particularly for occasional use. Just be aware that it might not stand up to heavy use. ... Read more

Asin: B00004OCIV
Subjects:  1. Manual Can Openers   

Screwpull S1200-1A Table Model & Foilcutter Gift Set, Black
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $30.00
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Forget struggling with your corkscrew, hoping you won't break the cork or drop the bottle. Give this wine opener set a try and you'll be amazed at how easily the cork slips out. You can open a new bottle without someone offering to give you a hand or having to hide in the kitchen swearing under your breath. Put that paring knife away and run the foil cutter around the top of the bottle to remove the foil with ease. Then place the plastic guide over the neck. Balance the corkscrew on top and begin to turn clockwise.Keep turning until the cork lifts itself right out of the bottle. How easy was that? It's true this is a gift set, but I like to buy myself presents. --Dana Van Nest ... Read more

Features

• Comes in a box and makes a great gift
• Great for removing corks from wine bottles, no pulling required
• Includes foil cutter and corkscrew
• Lightweight and easy to use
• Guide frame adjusts for different bottle sizes

Reviews (21)

My Scewpull has broken
Yesterday (18 Nov 2004) I was trying to open a very tightly corked bottle of wine, and due to lack of a foil cutter, I had not properly removed the plastic "foil". While putting the scewpull under exceptional stress, the handle snapped off, leaving the screw in the cork and the handle in my hand, as two seperate items.

Am I complaining - NO !!!

I was given this screwpull as a house warming gift, when I lived in the UK. I moved into that house in 1981. When I was first given this corkscrew, I was not too impressed.

First there was a "rule" for using a corkscrew, which was that the screw must not pierce the bottom of the cork. Clearly it is impossible to use a screwpull effectively without piercing the bottom of the cork. When you look behind the rule though, the reason for the rule, must be, so that bits of cork don't fall into the wine. Of course I soon found out that the Screwpull somehow manages to pierce the cork, without causing cork fragment contamination.

Secondly from it's rather fragile looks, I didn't expect it to last as long as a year. In fact it lasted more than 20 years, and many 000's of bottle openings.

YES - I am impressed.

The king of corkscrews.
I have gone through three of these in the last ten years.They are the best corkscrews on the market.The screw is perfect and sharp and never crumbles a cork or pushes it into the bottle.

If I have one criticism of the screwpull it is down to the plastic from which it is constructed.It is a clear hard brittle plastic, relatively tough, but cannot stand being dropped on a hard tile floor.

That aside, you will not find a better corkscrew than this one.

great wine opener
We purchased this wine opener 12 years ago on the recommendation of a sales clerk at a kitchen supply store. At the time I thought $20 was a lot to pay for a corkscrew, but after using it at least once a week for the past 12 years I can't imagine using another type of wine opener. ... Read more

Asin: B00004S7UZ
Subjects:  1. Openers    2. (Cork Screws)    3. Wine Tools    4. Barware    5. (Bar Ware)    6. (Cork Pullers)    7. (Corkpullers)    8. Bartending    9. Screwpull    10. (Screw Pull)    11. (Leverpull)    12. (Lever Pull)    13. Wine Products    14. Wine Openers    15. Wine Lovers Gift Sets    16. Corkscrews   

OXO Good Grips 2-Piece Pizza Wheel and Garlic Press Set
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $14.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Say goodbye to slicing, dicing, and chopping impossibly tiny cloves of garlic. Using the Good Grips garlic press, the work is done for you with just one firm squeeze and no strain on your hands. The press is as easy to clean as it is to use: just flip the handles and the built-in cleaner punches the remains right through. The second part of this set, the 4-inch pizza wheel, is one you can rely on to make a complete cut on the first run, thanks to its beveled stainless-steel blade. It's also great for cutting strips of dough for pies.

The Good Grips line features durable, nonslip, flexible handles on every product. Ergonomically designed to fit the palm comfortably, the pressure-absorbing, processed rubber handle puts less tension on the hands, while still providing an outstanding grip. Made from the same material as dishwasher gaskets, the handles are slip-proof, wet or dry, as well as dishwasher-safe. Good Grips products are moderately priced and have won the Tylenol/Arthritis Foundation Design Award. --Laurie Notaro ... Read more

Features

• Soft rubber handles absorb pressure on hands
• Garlic is pressed through with one squeeze
• Garlic press has built-in cleaning tool
• Stainless-steel pizza-wheel blade is beveled for sharpness
• Pizza wheel has built-in thumb guard

Reviews (10)

poor workmanship
I have owned this garlic press for about 2 years and it failed the other night crushing pieces (I always slice them first) for my chili recipe.May seem hefty but it cal break at the pivot.I'm tired of companies making cheap kitchen equipment and will look for something that slices small pieces instead of "crushing" if this is a weak point for these products.

not so good
The part about the garlic press that should be so great is a piece of plastic that cleans the press after use.Mine broke off after a couple of uses.

The press is fine, just not as great as advertised.

I have no knowledge of the pizza wheel.

The price is great for the two pieces.I paid as much for one piece.

Low quality
I bought this because of the reversible cleaning gizmo, which worked fine.But it was hard to press, left a lot behind, and ultimately the handle broke - the metal sheared into two pieces.Poor quality. ... Read more

Asin: B00004OCJT
Subjects:  1. Pizza Kits    2. Garlic Tools    3. Pizza Tools   

OXO SteeL 51481 Ice Cream Scoop
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $9.99
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Editorial Review

With a spring-loaded popup release, this medium-size round scoop (2-1/4-inch-diameter bowl and 9 inches long overall) molds perfect little mounds of ice cream, sherbet, and other frozen desserts. The release, which operates with a push of the thumb, also makes possible neatly molded servings of vegetable purées, like bright-green peas and yellow butternut squash. Oxo's Steel line is an all-stainless-steel variant of the company's familiar fat-handled Good Grips line. Rather than being straight-sided, this tool's handle is tapered from heel to finger grip and has satin-finish, stainless-steel panels top and bottom. The handle's sides feature the same design as those in the Good Grips line--they're made of soft processed rubber for comfort, with"fins," or grooves, that flex under pressure, conforming to individual finger grips and providing control when handles are wet or slippery. Like all Oxo tools, this ice cream scoop is dishwasher-safe; a hole in its handle facilitates hanging on a hook or peg. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Lifetime warranty against defects
• Scoops ice cream, sherbet, and other frozen treats
• Can also be used to mold vegetable purées
• Tapered handle with soft, nonslip sides
• Dishwasher-safe

Reviews (26)

Mechanical failure
I normally love OXO products. Amongst other things, I own an OXO can opener, a few OXO knives, an OXO ladle, a plastic OXO spoon.

The lever on this ice cream scoop broke after only two months (on its third use). We sent it back to the company several months ago, but have not heard any response.

Also, it's a particularly lightweight scoop, so if your ice cream is as frozen as that from the average New York Deli, you'd be better off finding a heavier one.

Boo! Don't buy it.
At first glance, the lever scoop concept seems like a good idea.

In practice, however, this scoop is just a pain in the butt. Whatever you're scooping ends up under the lever, which goes back down after you've ejected the food from the scoop. So, when you take it out of the dishwasher, the food under the lever has turned into a pretty disgusting blob.

Granted, you could painstakingly handwash the scoop every time you use it, but I'd rather spend money on something else that you can just throw in the dishwasher or, for those of us without a dishwasher, be able to wash without checking all the cracks and crevices to make sure there isn't any gross food stuck inside of it.

In my opinion, OXO should have designed the lever so that it doesn't go all the way back inside the recessed back of the scoop and instead rested just above the back of the scoop so it isn't such a hassle to clean.

By the way: it does its scooping job just fine, but the lever problem is so glaring that it isn't worth it.

Best Ice Cream Scoop Available!
I have found the lever-type ice cream scoops to be vastly superior to any other, even those with the sliding mechanisn, and OXO makes the best of the best with their stainless steel scoop.This handy little gadget dishes out a perfect scoop of ice cream every time:it easily slices through the hardest treats while scooping out softer treats without ever sticking.A must-have for ice cream fans! ... Read more

Asin: B00004OCM9
Subjects:  1. Ice Cream Scoops   

OXO Good Grips Measuring Cup Set, Black
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $4.49
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Editorial Review

Finding the right measuring cups in a crowded cupboard is always a hassle--it always seems that you only find the ones you're not looking for. This set takes steps to solve that problem, first by providing a ring so you can hook them all together. And color-coded measurement labels are eye-catching. The labels are clearly marked, and the color-coding is great for little helpers who haven't mastered their fractions yet. Each cup in this set of four has a wide handle that's comfortable to hold. As are all Good Grips gadgets, these cups are dishwasher-safe. A matching set of measuring spoons is available. --Laurie Notaro ... Read more

Features

• Set of four plastic cups
• Includes 1 cup, 1/2 cup, 1/3 cup, 1/4 cup
• Easy-to-read color-coded measurement markings
• Attached on one removable plastic ring
• Dishwasher-safe

Reviews (4)

High-quality measuring cups
I like these measuring cups better than any other I have ever owned, and here's why:

*durable, heavy plastic is sturdy and won't warp like cheaper versions
*can go in the microwave (unlike metal measuring cups)
*fat handles are easy to grip
*cups sit flat and secure on counter

These simple cups are a good buy and should work well for many years; highly recommended.

Cup size indicators wear off
I am a avid collector of all things OXO--but these are going back to the OXO Corp. today. The "1", "1/2", "1/3" cup etc. indicators are made of an embedded paper & wear out over time, so you have to try & figure out if you have the right cup, especially on the frequently used cups-not handy when you're in the middle of a recipe.

Finally replacing them after 10 years...
10 years ago as a bachelor my husband invested a whopping 3.50 in this set of measuring cups.Here we are after 7 years of marriage, two kids and MANY recipes ... and my 1-cup measure just bit the dust.Handle snapped off as I was digging into some flour.I'm guessing that 10 years of being run through the dishwasher nearly every day finally did it in.I plan on replacing them with the very same brand.Probably the best buy you can make for your kitchen in terms of value for the money. What more can I say? ... Read more

Asin: B00004OCKJ

Black & Decker Super Chopper
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
-- our price: $19.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Features

• Measures 8-2/3 by 6-3/8 by 5-1/4 inches
• Extra-large, 2-cup-capacity food processor
• High/low pulse controls provide extra control
• Great for coarse or fine chopping
• Safety locking system; dishwasher-safe bowl, lid, and blade

Reviews (4)

Great little chopper!
I don't own a food processer, but I don't need one--this little chopper meets all of my needs.I've owned mine for 5-6 years, and I probably use it at least 2-3 times per week.It's particularly good for chopping onions quickly, easily, and without tears--just cut the onion into a few chunks, stick the pieces in the chopper, and chop away.The two speeds and the amount of time you process determine the extent of the chopping, from very finely chopped onions and garlic to coarsely chopped nuts.I've used this chopper for a variety of jobs, including making bread crumbs, chopping nuts, and more.The unit is small enough to keep on the counter, but it's also lightweight enough to be tucked away and brought out only when needed.Plus, it has an important safety feature in that the unit won't run unless the lid is closed and turned to lock.A great little product that is a perfect replacement for or substitute to a larger food processer.

Time saver
This little chopper is a wiz.Great time saver for the smaller chopping jobs!!Easy to wash & store.I have rhemitoid arthritis and it does all my chopping needs.My kitchen wouldn't be the same without it!!

Too much work
I received this chopper as a gift.Once assembled it works well.My biggest complaint is that the bowl requires some effort to remove or assemble, it must be positioned exactly on the baseAlso, the lid must be position correctly or it will not work...and it takes some getting use to to get it on correctly.The design could be better. ... Read more

Asin: B00006IUVT
Sales Rank: 23823
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Full-Size Food Processors    4. (Foodprocessors)   

Pyrex 7-Piece Bakeware Set, Clear
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $29.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Safe in the oven, microwave, refrigerator, freezer, and dishwasher, Pyrex is a special glass that withstands the shock of going from hot to cold, or vice versa, without breaking. This set equips a kitchen for basic baking: cakes, pies, cobblers, and casseroles. The set consists of a 11-by-7-by-1-1/2 dish, an 8-inch-square dish, a 9-1/2-inch pie dish, a 2-quart casserole with cover, a 2-1/2-quart mixing bowl, and a 1-cup measuring cup. Perfect for cooking and serving, the bowl and dishes are nonreactive (useful for acidic marinades) as well as stain- and odor-proof, and come with a two-year warranty against breakage from oven heat. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• 2-year warranty against breakage from oven heat
• Basic set for cakes, pies, cobblers, casseroles
• Includes 11 by 7 dish, 2 1/2-quart mixing bowl, 1-cup measuring cup
• Also: 8-inch square dish, 9 1/2-inch pie dish, 2-quart casserole with cover
• Safe in oven, microwave, refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher

Reviews (3)

Great Set for Those Just Starting Out
I bought this set because of the price. I had NOTHING for my home and needed something. I wasn't just going to settle for anything because I didn't want to waste my hard earned cash.

I saw this set in the storage, the price wasn't bad, so I picked it up. I love it.

The square pan is small and great for lasagna.
The rectangle pan is great for cakes.
The pie pan is great for pie or quiche.
The measuring cup...self explanitory. :c)
The casserole dish...TBA.

I'm really glad I saw this set and decided to pick it up. I now have a great set for bakeware.

Staples of your kitchen for years and years to come
I received this starter set as a gift years ago (it also included 4 bonus custard dishes), and I find myself reaching for the various pieces again and again.I love making baked goods in the square dish--it's the perfect size, and the finished goodies never stick!The lidded casserole is perfect for cooking single-dish dinners in the oven, and the rectangular dish is my lasagna staple.The pie plate and measuring cup have also gotten regular use, as I bake frequently.One of the best things about these pieces is that clean-up is a breeze; even baked off foods come off easily without scrubbing.The entire set still looks just as good as it did when it was brand new--highly recommended!

The best pie dish you will find....
All the items in this set are very useful for the new cook and are beloved by the experienced cook who will still have them long after they are purchased.

My grandmother introduced me to Pyrex and she always made her famous apple pie in the glass pie dishes. They brown the pie crust just enough and I have wonderful memories of seeing the pie dish sitting on her counter with the pie still steaming and scenting the kitchen with the heavenly scent of apples and cinnamon.

This is a set you can use for years and years! The measuring cup is a nice bonus and you can add it to your regular three piece glass measuring cup set to use as an extra cup.

I would like to see the pie dishes sold separately, are they? You need at least two if you are a serious baker. ... Read more

Asin: B00005B8KA
Subjects:  1. Bakeware Sets    2. (Bake Ware)    3. Baking    4. Bakers    5. Casseroles    6. (Caseroles)    7. Baking Dishes    8. Bakeware   

How to Cook Everything: Simple Recipes for Great Food
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (14 August, 1998)
list price: $35.00 -- our price: $22.05
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Mark Bittman, award-winning author of such fundamental books as Fish and Leafy Greens and food columnist for the New York Times ("The Minimalist"), has turned in what has to be the weightiest tome of the year. There are more than 900 pages in this sucker--over 1,500 recipes! This isn't just the big top of cookbooks: it's the entire three-ring circus. This isn't just how to cook everything: it's how to cook everything you have ever wanted to have in your mouth. And then some.

Bittman starts with Roasted Buttered Nuts and Real Buttered Popcorn, and moves right along, section by section, from the likes of Black Bean Soup (eight different ways), to Beet and Fennel Salad, to Mussels (Portuguese-style over Pasta), to Cream Scones--and he hasn't even reached seafood, poultry, meat, or vegetables yet, let alone desserts. There are 23 sections in this cookbook (!) that reflect directly on the how-to of cooking, be that equipment, technique, or recipe.

Every inch of the way the reader finds Bittman's calm, helpful, encouraging voice. "Anyone can cook," he says at the beginning, "and most everyone should." More than a few college kids are going to head off to their first apartments with Bittman's book under arm. More than a few marriages will benefit with this book on the shelf. And anyone who loves cooking and the sound of a great food voice is going to enjoy letting this book fall open where it may. No matter what the page, it's bound to be a tasty and rewarding experience. --Schuyler Ingle ... Read more

Reviews (263)

This has recipes that are hard to find in other cookbooks...
This book tries to be a comprehensive cookbook that has recipes for just about everything. It told me how to cook a duck so that the fat under the skin drains out, for instance, and no other cookbook I've seen describes this. It also has several good and simple veal recipes. I couldn't find a recipe for Veal Francessa anywhere else, although the book does not call this dish by this name. (Veal fried with lemon and wine.) So I've found recipes that are not ususally included in other books. I have not seen any recipes that are particularly outstanding. I am still glad I bought this book for those hard to find recipes. It does a very good job of covering many types of dishes not found anywhere else.This book is a practical encyclopedia of cooking, rather than a gourmet's guide. All the recipes are fairly simple.So I would recommend this cookbook for anyone who enjoys trying new things, or needs some good everyday recipes. It makes an excellent addition to my small but well-rounded cookbook library.

Great concept -versatile information
Mr. Bittman has nailed the idea of how we should approch meal preparation today. The sidebars issuing hints and tips as to how to use a particular recipe with other ingredients are invaluable. It's like a Joy of Cooking, but with the reality of today's world.

I carry this book with me when I travel because I hope to familiarize myself with the concepts that are so universal. Bittman is competing with James Beard (in my mind) for great information and recipes combined.

a good basic cookbook
I have had this cookbook for a few years.There are quite a few recipes that I make out of it on a semi-regular basis:clam chowder, calzones, tempura, ravioli, spaghetti carbonara, lamb curry, etc.Sometimes the recipes turn out a little bland, I definitely have to modify them to my own tastes, but these are excellent basic recipes.

The binding of this hardcover edition didn't stand up to regular use.We are not hard on our books at all, but large chunks of pages have started falling out. ... Read more

Isbn: 0028610105
Subjects:  1. Cookery    2. Cooking    3. Cooking / Wine    4. General    5. Reference    6. Cooking / General    7. General cookery   

The New Food Lover's Companion: Comprehensive Definitions of Nearly 6000 Food, Drink, and Culinary Terms (Barron's Cooking Guide)
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (01 March, 2001)
list price: $16.95 -- our price: $11.53
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Reviews (45)

Do you cook?You need this book.
"My mom told me that Confectioner's sugar is Powdered Sugar." my girlfriend says.
"No it's not -- it's just really small sugar." I reply.
"Time to check the book." We echo, almost in unison.

She's right.And this wasn't the first time we've answered questions, settled arguments, and gained knowledge from this book.I originally purchased it because it was a required book for culinary school.It's utterly indispensible if you want to know what ingredient are, and its holes are few and far between.

Is it really necessary to review this book?
Suffice to say that it has everything you could ever want regarding food items - measurements, weights, french terms, japanese terms, how to determine the temperature of the grill, sizes, servings, where what cut of meat comes from, and on and on and on Herbst kept on.It never stops.Easy to read, well-written - there is a reason this is simply the best "handy" food encyclopedia out there.

Now, for the reason why this review is helpful.Most people keep it in the kitchen, where they use it only when they cook, and let's face it, most of us don't have time to cook all the time.That is why I keep (and have kept for some time) this handy guide right next to the crapper - I sit down, do my do-do, and peruse.And that, ladies and gentlemen, is why I know more useless food terms than anybody I know.

A great gift for your favorite foodie.

Terrific Culinary Term Reference for All Levels of Cook.
The "Food Lover's Companion" is a chunky dictionary-style reference of nearly 6,000 food, drink, and culinary terms for the beginning cook to the gourmet chef. Author Sharon Tyler Herbsthas added terms, updated most listings, and expanded the book's excellent Appendix for the 3rd edition. Pronunciation guides are provided for most terms. A mind-boggling array of culinary nouns, proper nouns, verbs and the occasional adjective are defined. As an example, on one page in the "B" section you will find definitions for: Boursin, bovolo, boxty, boysenberry, braciola, Braeburn apple, brains, braise, bramble, and bran. Terms are listed alphabetically, but it helps to read "How to Use This Book" in the first pages of the book for specific information on how terms are organized and cross-referenced. The "Food Lover's Companion" isn't entirely comprehensive; there are a couple of ethnic food terms that I couldn't find, and I don't agree with every definition. But this is the closest to being a comprehensive culinary reference as I have seen.

Although 687 pages of "Food Lover's Companion" are dedicated to defining culinary terms, the Appendix includes many useful charts and definitions, which some cooks will find just as valuable. Some of the Appendix's helpful features are: Ingredient Equivalentsthat give comparable amounts for different forms of nearly 200 foods, 37 Ingredient Substitutions, a Pan Substitution Chart that gives volumes for various sizes of pan so that you may find a suitable alternative, high altitude adjustments, oven temperature equivalents for Fahrenheit, celsius, British gas mark, and French gas settings, Smoke Points of Popular Oils, Fatty Acid Profiles of Popular Oils, approximate metric equivalents, metric conversion formulas, definitions of food label terms, a Pasta Glossary that describes 94 different pasta shapes, British and American differences in cooking terms, a list of consumer product information sources for various foods, seasoning suggestions, and an Additive Directory that explains the purpose of various chemical additives.

The "Food Lover's Companion" is a terrific reference for every level of cook. That obscure ingredient in your new Thai recipe and the incomprehensible term in your mother's WWII-era cookbook are both probably in here. It's interesting just to browse, too. The book has a slick paper cover that can be wiped off, but might have been better laminated. If you're wondering what distinguishes the "Food Lover's Companion" from Sharon Tyler Herbst's "Food Lover's Tiptionary", this book defines far more terms than the "Tiptionary", but does not include extensive preparation advice, cooking lessons, or recipes. For example, the "A" section of the "Food Lover's Companion" defines over 200 terms in dictionary style. The "A" section of the "Tiptionary", provides detailed purchasing, storing, cooking, general info, and recipes for 15 culinary topics. ... Read more

Isbn: 0764112589
Sales Rank: 2512
Subjects:  1. Cookery    2. Cooking    3. Cooking / Wine    4. Dictionaries    5. Food    6. Reference