Screwpull Lever Model Wine Opener Gift Set
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $139.00
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Editorial Review

Equipped with a newly designed, long-lasting screw, this famouslever-action cork puller can now open 2,000 bottles of wine uninterrupted (meaning youdon't need to replace the screw). That alone makes this a great gift for wineenthusiasts. But the great-gift factor ratchets up because the wine opener comesin a handsome black case as part of a set with Screwpull's foil cutter.Operating the wine opener is a kick. Swing the lever open, grip the bottleneckwith the handles, swing the lever closed, and watch the screw penetrate thecork. Now take the lever back to the open position, and the cork comes out ofthe bottle. As an added flourish, you can use the handles to grip the cork whileyou swing the lever open again, pulling the Teflon-coated screw from the corkand softly into the operator's hand. This tool is precisely engineered, andcomes with a two-year warranty against defects. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• The original lever model in classic black
• Teflon coated worm allows cork to be removed with ease
• Cork won't crumble or break
• Set includes foilcutter
• Great gift idea for wine enthusiasts

Reviews (33)

Don't bother
Worked fine for about a dozen bottles, then broke.Same thing happened with one my mother-in-law bought for herself.I would not recommend.

Superb, but worth the money?
I love using this thing.It works perfectly.Takes up a little more room in the drawer than other corkscrews but it's flawless at extraction.But is it worth [the money paid]?? I don't think so.I found one elsewhere for half that price.

What was I thinking?
My wife gave me a Screwpull many years ago.I must have pulled over 2,000 corks without changing the worm.One day, I had a problem with a cork & used brute force - so no more Screwpull.

I new that my wife had paid [$$$] & that the Rabbit (at half that price) was getting good press; so I made my second mistake.

The Rabbit started out good but the worm began to stick after a dozen corks.Another problem: when the cork didn't come out easily, the Rabbit pinched my fingers as I released the cork.

Thankfully, after 9 months, the Rabbit gave up the ghost.The worm unravelled & couldn't be removed.

I have just received a new Screwpull from Amazon.At [$$] it is competitively priced, but price is not the point.I expect the Screwpull to last indefinitely.I have learned my lesson - don't use brute force.The worm is now supposedly good for 2,000 pulls.Three or four worms should see me through.

I have seen some negative reviews for both products, but I can't identify with the problems attributed to the Screwpull.However, the more numerous negative Rabbit reviews reflect my own experience.

I have two tips.When dealing with wax seals, remove the wax before using the corkscrew.If the worm meets resistance in a cork, revert to an old fashioned corkscrew - the cork may be a high-tech product for which neither product is suited.

For those who have never used this type of product, I can say that after 10 years I have never had a cork break.

For those thinking of reviewing either product - wait until you have removed 50 corks. ... Read more

Asin: B00000DMBO
Subjects:  1. Corkscrews    2. Openers    3. (Cork Screws)    4. Wine Tools    5. Barware    6. (Bar Ware)    7. (Cork Pullers)    8. (Corkpullers)    9. Bartending    10. Screwpull    11. (Screw Pull)    12. (Leverpull)    13. (Lever Pull)    14. Wine Products    15. Wine Openers    16. Wine Lovers Gift Sets    17. Kitchen    18. Dining    19. Barware Accessories    20. Gifts   

Vacu Vin Wine Saver Gift Pack, White
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $14.99 -- our price: $12.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Wine should breathe a little, but not overnight. Putting an end to the oxidation process, which turns a favorite Merlot into vinegar, is easy with the Vacu Vin Wine Saver. Made from high-quality rubber, which will not affect the taste of the wine, the Wine Saver uses a vacuum-style pump to release air to keep a wine fresh. And it's easy to use--just place a stopper in a bottle's neck, place the pump over the stopper, and pump air out until some resistance is felt. This process is suitable for preserving all but sparkling wines, and will save Chiantis, Syrahs, and others for up to two weeks. --Madeleine Miller ... Read more

Features

• Reusable vacuum wine storage set ideal for all wine lovers
• Keeps open wine fresh for two weeks
• Correct usage puts an end to the oxidation process
• Includes 1 sturdy plastic pump and 2 high-quality rubber stoppers
• Hand washable; one-year warranty

Reviews (98)

It works!
We use our vacu vin wine saver all of the time since purchasing it about six months ago.It enables us to put partially full bottles back into our wine cooler, which we were unable to do before. We had tried unsuccessfully to do this with other wine corks.

Extend that bottle's life!
I recently bought this, and am happy with it. It "clicks" after 4 or 5 quick pumps for a 3/4 full bottle, and 7-8 clicks for a 1/4 filled bottle, to indicate vacuuum has been established, and the vacuum holds well, as does the wine!

Theprevious model did not click, however it certainly attained vacuum after about the same number of pumps..hearing the clicks is more reassuring!

As I recently bought it, I can't assess its long term durability as others have.

It does extend the wine's good taste for at least a few days in addition to the usual 2-3 days before the wine tastes "funny".

I've no reason to try it for more than a week of"corking up" a previously opened tasty bottle, so for these reasons i've got my money's worth, and it gets 5 stars.

The older model is more reliable.
Mine worked for a while, but then seemed to start to stick, which made it impossible to pump anymore.I tried soaking the entire mechanism several times in soap and water, but it still doesn't work.I initally liked the clicking feature and sleeker design of this model, but have gone back to using the old version, since this one stopped working. ... Read more

Asin: B00004SAF4
Subjects:  1. Wine    2. Bar Tools    3. Barware    4. (Bar Ware)    5. Bartending    6. Wine Products   

Vacu Vin Wine Saver Extra Stoppers, Set of 4
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $9.99 -- our price: $9.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Wine should breathe a little, but not overnight. Putting an end to the oxidation process, which turns a favorite Merlot into vinegar, is easy with the Vacu Vin Wine Saver. These long-lasting extra stoppers are designed to work with the vacuum-style pump (sold separately) to keep a wine fresh. Made of high-quality rubber, they won't affect the taste of the wine. And the method is simple--just place a stopper in the opening of a bottle, place the pump over the stopper, and pump air out until you feel some resistance. This process is suitable for preserving all but sparkling wines, and will save Chiantis, Syrahs, and others for up to two weeks. --Madeleine Miller ... Read more

Features

• Hand washable
• Use with the Vacu Vin Wine Saver
• Reusable vacuum wine storage
• Keeps open wine fresh for two weeks
• 4 stoppers

Reviews (4)

Perfect for stopping up wine
These work quite well. With the pump, it's the perfect solution for those of us who only want one glass at a time.
My wines have, for the most part, stayed 'fresh' when using this system.

works well
I've used this system for years, and it certainly extends the life of open wine. I have not left open wine at room temperature so I don't know whether that works. The seals on the stoppers eventually wear out so it helps to have extras. I consider the claim that it will keep wine for up to two weeks to be overly optimistic.

Vac System
I have had this system for at least 2 yrs and it has worked very well for me.I find that it keeps the wine fresher for a longer period as long as it is properly refrigerated.I cannot attest to nonrefrigerated wines using this system as I always refrigerate my wine after opening. ... Read more

Asin: B00005AS51
Subjects:  1. Wine    2. Bar Tools    3. Barware    4. (Bar Ware)    5. Bartending    6. Wine Products   

Riedel Vinum Chianti Classico/Zinfandel Wine Glasses, Set of 6
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $120.00 -- our price: $71.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

One of the more versatile stems among the 19 myriad shapes in Riedel's Vinum line, this glass, model 416/15 to loyalists, hits almost all the food groups. It's called the Chianti Classico glass, referring to the Italian region producing red wines from the Sangiovese grape, but the glass is designed to enhance the nuance and flavor of wines made of Dolcetto or Montepulciano, too. And Zinfandel drinkers--we're talking red Zin here--will find that this glass focuses lots of bright fruit to the nose, rounding off some of the rougher edges of a young red. A 1997 Napa Valley Zinfandel, tasted in both Riedel and "Brand X," bears this out. And lovers of the Riesling grape, take note: this exact same glass is also marketed as the Riedel Vinum series Riesling Grand Cru glass, perfect for both the dry versions as well as the sweeter late harvest renditions of this tasty white. Why, it's a veritable vinous United Nations--Italians, Germans, and North Americans of all colors using an Austrian forum to show off. --Tony Mason ... Read more

Features

• Height, Capacity: 8 1/4"H, 13 oz.
• A versatile design for use with Italian red wines, Zinfandel, white Rieslings
• Machine-made of 24% lead crystal
• Affordable second-tier from a prestigious name in wine-friendly stemware
• Made in Austria

Reviews (9)

the glass that started it all for me
It's a bit of a long story, maybe more than you want to know, but it might help you make what'll one day be a decision you'll look back on with favor. So here goes:

Five years ago, a buddy of mine invited me to dinner in honor of my birthday. He'd opened a 10 year old bottle of Storybook Mountain organic zinfandel, and offered me a glass. It was marvelous. Then he said, "Well, try it in this." He gave me another glass (it was the Riedel Vinum chianti/zin glass), and I put it under my nose. Encountering the focused bouquet of this terrific wine from that glass was like being smacked in the face. I was thunderstruck. I kept moving back and forth between the two glasses and was utterly staggered by the difference. The power of the Riedel glass to deliver the wine to the nose made me a believer for life.

Years before, I'd heard a Riedel engineer on the radio explaining the science behind the sizing and shaping of glasses for different types of wine. I was as skeptical as the sarcastic radio host. Even though I was a committed wine geek, I was resistant to the notion that one needed at least a few different styles of stemware to get the most out of wine. After my encounter with the vinum chianti/zin glass, I was hooked.

The only drawback is having to buy six, which may be more than some people need. If you do a bit of searching on the web, you'll find some retailers who offer these glasses singly. If you love chianti and/or zinfandel (red zinfandel, that is), do yourself a favor and try one of these glasses. You'll never go back!

Not for Zinfandels
Riedel labels this glass for Chianti and Chardonnay, and for both, it's great.But for Zinfandels, especially high end ones, it can't even hold a candle to a standard Bordeaux glass.

I'm a big fan of Riedel's Vinum line, but have learned that following their labels for these glasses is a good idea.If you like big California zins (and I do), then these aren't the glasses for you.They thin out the smell, and even make the wines taste much smaller than they really are.If you want an all purpose glass for reds, try the Bordeaux or Burgundy glasses.

Small for Red Wine Glasses
These glasses are good quality, and the shape is perfect for Zin or Chianti, but the glasses simply aren't big enough to allow for a decent volume of wine and room at the top of the glass to hold the nose.I love these glasses for white wine though. ... Read more

Asin: B00004SZ7X
Subjects:  1. Glassware    2. (Glass Ware)    3. Bartending    4. Wine Glasses    5. Red Wine    6. White Wine    7. Wine    8. Stemware    9. Glasses    10. (Stem Ware)    11. Barware    12. (Bar Ware)   

Real-Life Entertaining
by Donata Maggipinto
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (20 October, 1998)
list price: $30.00
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Editorial Review

OK, so your life is complicated. Whose isn't? Donata Maggipinto thinks that most people would entertain more often if they knew how to do it simply. Real-Life Entertaining shows how to put forth the effort required to make guests comfortable and happy without the usual pressure-cooker effect on the hosts. Her four seasonal menus in the "Casual Suppers" section are truly casual yet stylish (for example, the easy-to-prepare pumpkin chowder is presented in small hollowed-out pumpkins), and the four "Big-Deal Meals," while relying on slightly more sophisticated ingredients and presentation, are still doable by intermediate cooks. Each section has additional recipes beyond the four menus, special style notes, and primer pages. Maggipinto's style is friendly--it's OK to serve food you bought as take-out, let the guests help with the dishes, and even serve on TV trays if there's something very special on the tube. There are plenty of Martha Stewart-style suggestions for those who are looking for "extra credit," but for the majority of us, who just want things to be "good enough," this book helps. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Style simply done for our fast paced living
This book is well done.It helps the one who truly wants to provide a memorable experience dining with all the tools and thoughts.From table setting to recipes to their presentation to total function planning, this work is chock full of ideas and thought starters which easily serve as do-it guides if one wants Donata to do all the thinking.

The recipes are not forboding or complex, but yet are very sophisticated, rich and easy to find ingredients and prep techniques.Some that especially attract my tastebuds are: Roasted Game Hens Stuffed under the sking with Herbed Ricotta; Duck Breasts with Cherry-Cabernet Sauce; Crown Roast of Pork with "Triple a" Stuffing; Beet and Champagne Risotto.

This is extremely well-organized which makes it simple and easy to use.Divided into major sections of Casual Suppers, Big-Deal Meals, Parties (with five listed) and Ways with Take-Aways.What is also an attractive feature throughout is Primers on various topics such as "D-I-Y Bar" Caviar, etc., Style Notes where thoughts on plates, centerpieces, etc. are shared.

Those looking for entertaining aid will find true, stylish relief from this delightfully done resource.

I love this book!
I received this as a gift and have made over a dozen of the recipes. The grilled swordfish with lemon aioli is to die for! There are some great suggestions for how to plan, prepare and organize dinner parties. Starting with an empty dishwasher is one of them - it's so simple yet it makes a world of difference. The recipes are relatively simple and have been consistently very good. Out of the 20 or so cookbooks I have - this is my favorite.

Real-Life Entertaining is a stylish idea guide.
When I want to cook, there are many cookbooks from which to choose.WhenI want to entertain, I will go directly to Real Life-Entertaining.Thisbook is not only full of simple recipes and menu ideas but also style notesthat share easy ideas for making our homes and tables beautiful for ourguests.Best of all, the author understands that my life is a busy one! She proves that I don't have to spend all day decorating to host amemorable occassion in my home.I like the party favor cellophane bagswith chocolates tied with a ribbon trim and the idea of TASSELS on thebacks of my dining room chairs!This book is my new entertaining bible. ... Read more

Isbn: 0609601113
Subjects:  1. Cookery    2. Cooking    3. Entertaining    4. Menus    5. Methods - Quick & Easy    6. Cooking / Quick & Easy   

Franciscan Apple Dinnerware 12-Inch Oval Platter
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $42.00
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Editorial Review

A striking example of one of the most popular dinnerware patterns in American history, this oval platter exemplifies the informal grace of Southwestern hospitality. First made in California and now produced in various countries, Franciscan dinnerware achieved immediate popularity when it appeared in the late 1930s and ranks as a prized collectible, particularly the American-made pieces (pre-1984). Apple (1940) and Desert Rose (1941) are the only continuously produced Franciscan patterns. Today's Franciscan dinnerware (the name honors colonial California's mission-founding priests) fulfills contemporary expectations, going safely into the dishwasher, microwave, and freezer. The platter's subtly sculpted red apples, green leaves, and brown bark edge are set against a pale sand background. Perfect for special-occasion dining, this 12-inch oval platter serves Cornish game hens or grilled halibut with finesse. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Among most popular dinnerware patterns in American history
• Classic pattern (since 1940) is a favorite of collectors
• Subtly sculpted red apples and green leaves against pale sand background
• 12 inches long
• Dishwasher-, microwave-, and freezer-safe

Reviews (1)

Small Franciscan Apple Platter
The Franscican Apple Dinnerware 12-inch Oval Platter is the smallest of the three sizes of platters in this pattern of beautiful handpainted china. I have six of these platters because I use them for serving antipasti and for individual servings of pasta or large entrée salads, with grilled salmon or chicken. Franciscan also makes the oval platters in 14-inch and 16-inch sizes. The largest size is the same size as a traditional turkey platter, and it also can be used as a base under the Franciscan Apple Soup Tureen. ... Read more

Asin: B00005099X
Subjects:  1. Serveware    2. (Serve Ware)    3. Serving    4. Trays & Platters   

Mozzarella: Inventive Recipes from Leading Chefs With Buffalo Mozzarella
by Sian Irvine
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (01 March, 1999)
list price: $21.95
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Reviews (2)

Great Recipes for Mozzarella di Bufala
"In the winding streets of Naples, mozzarella cheese is made daily from buffalo milk." Buffalo mozzarella is part of the everyday diet of Neapolitans and others who live in the southern Italian countryside of the Campania region. Buffalos made their way to southern Italy from India sometime in the sixteenth century. "Mozzarella di bufala" is almost synonomous with Naples, a city where Pizza Napoli was created about three hundred years ago.

When the royal couple of Italy visited Naples in 1899, they ordered pizza to show their solidarity with the people. Legend has it that a Neapolitan baker topped this famous pizza with the colors of the Italian flag by using thick, white slabs of mozzarella di bufala, sliced red tomatoes, and green basil leaves. The baker named his creation after the Italian queen, Margherita, and, to this day, we still order Pizza Margherita in restaurants and bake it at home. The word "mozzarella" derives from the Italian verb "mozzare," that! is, "to cut off, the action of breaking the cheese curd into smaller, more manageable pieces."

The process of making mozzarella di bufala is fascinating. I have seen American food television cooking shows that show it, beginning when the buffalo milk is poured into large metal vats; heated to 95 degrees for several hours; and then a "caglio" (coagulant) is added, which causes a curd to be formed. Next this curd is broken into smaller pieces, the liquid is drained off, and buffalo ricotta is formed, which is then heated for several hours. Finally, the cheesemaker scoops it up with a wooden palette to test it for readiness. When ready, the cheese is rolled into balls by hand, an art learned over years of apprenticeship, and then soaked in brine for several hours. The fresh cheese is best eaten within a day or two, but will keep up to five days. This art of cheesemaking is usually passed down through generations in southern Italian families. However, there are some large !manufacturers who treat the fresh milk with chemicals in order to give the resulting cheese a longer shelf live, but the fresh taste, aroma, and texture are then sacrificed.

After I saw this entire process, I came to appreciate why the cost of mozzarella di bufala is higher than that of regular mozzarella. Also, as long as it is authentic mozzarella di bufala, someone who has lactose intolerance should be able to enjoy it without the uncomfortable side effects that would result from eating mozzarella made from cow's milk. To me, summer means eating an insalata of thick-sliced fresh mozzarella di bufala, sliced vine-ripened tomatoes, with basil leaves and a splash of balsamico fino.

Besides a history of mozzarella di bufala, this beautiful book offers 61 excellent recipes, with a color photo accompanying each one. Top chefs from 21 British restaurants have contributed these recipes, which are grouped in chapters: Insalata; Pane; Pasta; Legumi; Riso e Risotto; Pesc!e e Crostace; and Carne. There is a glossary of terms, with some recipes (Brioche, Mayonnaise, Pesto, Tomato Sauce), followed by an index.

At first, I thought, "Why would I want an Italian cookbook with recipes from British chefs?" After I tested some of the recipes, I have come to love this book. Now I have so many more ways to use my favorite mozzarella di bufala other than in the classic insalata. I enjoy making Eggplant Salad & Carta Musica; Fresh Linguine with Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Smoked Mozzarella; Spaghetti alla Sorrento; Gâteau of Grilled Vegetables & Mozzarella; Buffalo Mozzarella, Tomato & Pesto Tart; and San Daniele Prosciutto with Mozzarella, Figs & Balsamic Dressing.

If you love mozzarella di bufala or have been eager to try it, you will like these recipes. Some of the ones with pane do take a while when made from scratch, but there are many other whimsical, easy, and creative recipes here, too.

Bovine treasure!
If you love buffalo mozzarella (and who on God's green earth does NOT?) you HAVE to buy this book (and you HAVE to buy it from amazon.com!!!).Particularly scrumptious is the braised eel stuffed with buffalo mozzarellaand squid! ... Read more

Isbn: 9625934391
Sales Rank: 483211
Subjects:  1. Cookery (Mozzarella cheese)    2. Cookery, Italian    3. Cooking    4. Cooking / Wine    5. Italian cooking    6. Mozzarella cheese    7. Specific Ingredients - Dairy   

Grab your guests' attention by serving the soup course in thisbeautiful, playful Mierco cabbage tureen. The tureen, lid, platter, and ladlehandle feature the raised detail of cabbage leaves and are hand-painted indelicate green and cream tones for a charming effect. Carrying the tureen on theplatter is easy, but you can also carry it by itself--the cabbage leaves at therim curve out so the bowl doesn't slip. Mierco uses the same design on thetureen lid where the leaves arc out to create a clever pinch handle. Functionalas well as handsome, this tureen features notches in the lid and lip so theladle stays put, and there's enough room on the platter for crostini. --EmilyBedard ... Read more

Features

• Made in Italy
• Durable, finely finished ceramic with hand-painted cabbage details
• 4-piece set includes a tureen, lid, ladle, and under-platter
• 11-1/2-inch diameter tureen, 13-inch-diameter platter; 8-1/2 inches tall assembled
• 4-quart capacity

Asin: B00004YYO6
Subjects:  1. Serveware    2. (Serve Ware)    3. Serving   

Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking
by MARCELLA HAZAN
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (27 October, 1992)
list price: $30.00 -- our price: $18.90
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Perhaps more than any other person, Marcella Hazan isresponsible for bringing Italian cuisine into the homes of Americancooks. We're not talking spaghetti and meatballs here--Hazan's cuisineconsists of polenta, risotto, squid braised with tomatoes and whitewine, sautéed swiss chard with olive oil and garlic.... Twentyyears ago, when Hazan first exploded into the American consciousness withThe Classic Italian Cook Book and More Classic ItalianCooking, such recipes were revolutionary. With time, however, theseclassic dishes have become much-beloved family favorites.

Now a new generation is ready to be introduced to Marcella Hazan's waywith food, and in Essentials of Italian Cooking Hazan combinesher two earlier works into one update and expanded volume. In additionto the delicious collection of recipes, this book serves as a basicmanual for cooks of every skill level. Recipes have been revised toreduce fat content, and a whole new chapter full of fundamentalinformation about herbs, spices, and cheeses used in Italian kitchens--as well as details on how to select specific ingredients--has beenadded. New chapters, new recipes--who could ask for more thanEssentials of Italian Cooking? ... Read more

Reviews (78)

VERY ITALIAN
My husband is an italian Chef and he thinks than even the recipes are quite simple, they are VERY ITALIAN...and also easy to follow.Very recommendable

Get it and don't change a thing!!
Okay people, it's simple.Buy the book, follow the recipes as written and don't change a thing!!!I have been to Italy 9 times in my life and I can say with great confidence that this book represents the true nature of Italian cooking.If modifying recipes is your thing please don't buy this book.It's a masterpiece and is not created for those who feel the need to try and re-create a masterpiece.

This book is a pure delight
This is a truly wonderful cookery book. It is an exemplar of good publishing: it is beautifully bound and printed on superb paper in fonts that delight the eye and with classically pleasant engravings for illustrations. All this before one gets to the text and recipes: the text is culturally informative and the recipes are excellently thought out, being easy to follow and a pleasure to carry out. Using this book has made a real difference to the taste of Italy in our household. ... Read more

Isbn: 039458404X
Subjects:  1. Cookery, Italian    2. Cooking    3. Cooking / Wine    4. Regional & Ethnic - Italian    5. Cooking / Italian   

Calphalon Commercial Hard-Anodized 6-1/2-Quart Saucepot with Pasta Insert
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $221.00
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Editorial Review

If you've ever suffered a steam burn draining your spaghetti through a colander, you'll appreciate this three-piece pasta set. A 6-quart insert sits inside the saucepan, so when your pasta is appropriately al dente, just lift the insert for instant drainage. The 6-1/2-quart saucepan has a pure aluminum core for fast heat conductivity so the water will boil faster. Because aluminum can dent, warp, or discolor easily, a hard-anodized coating protects the saucepan and increases its durability. The lid is also hard anodized, which means the oxide film of aluminum has been thickened to protect the pan. The insert is stainless steel, so it won't react to food and will retain its shape through a lifetime of use. The set includes a collector's edition recipe card to get you started on your pasta-cooking adventures. While most metal utensils are safe with anodized surfaces, avoid sharp tools, such as knives. For optimum longevity, this set should be hand washed. --Laura Cuthbert ... Read more

Features

• Lifetime warranty
• Set contains 6-1/2-quart saucepan, 6-quart insert, and lid
• Set cooks and drains pasta, corn, or shellfish easily
• Aluminum core for excellent heat conductivity
• Pot and lid are hard anodized for durability

Reviews (17)

Perfect for corn or pasta
I love this for boiling corn or pasta.It doesn't have the nonstick surface like the 2 1/2 quart saucepan, but I bought this for easy draining and it gets the job done well.

Heavily used in our household !
I bought this set over a year ago.Although it is on the smaller side, I have to say it is probably the second most used pot in our household (the first being the 2 1/2 qt shallow commercial anodized sauce pan!).It works well for meals for my family of four.I routinely boil 1 pound of pasta or approx. 5 lbs of cubed potatoes for mashed potatoes.I have made soup, chili and spaghetti sauce in the pot as well.It's the right size for enough of these dishes for my family, plus some leftovers to freeze for another full meal.I don't find it as "narrow" or difficult to use as my 8 qt stock pot - the height seems perfect for the width of this pot.

Nice, but small
This is a nice pot and fits the burners on my stove without hanging over.

There are two disadvantages:

1.The 6 1/2 qt. size is barely sufficient for 16 oz of macaroni.An 8 qt. pot with insert would've been better.I know Calphalon has an 8 qt. stock pot and an 8 qt. insert, but they don't appear to offer these packaged together, making a set prohibitively expensive.

2.Contrary to what Top 100 Reviewer Michela says above, the stainless steel insert does get hot, and you can burn your hands on the insert handles if you're not using towels or mitts.

Water, aluminum, and stainless steel are fairly good conductors of heat, so all of the elements of this set get hot (which is what you want) EXCEPT for the silverstone handles on the stock pot.

I have mixed feelings about using an insert.You usually have to dispose of the macaroni cooking water anyway, so dumping the entire contents of the pot into a colander makes sense, rendering unnecessary the insert.

Also, if you sauce your macaroni in the pot in the traditional Italian fashion, you're not going to want the water in there, again eliminating the need for an insert.

Alton Brown makes a good point in his new book about getting the biggest pot for making macaroni that you can fit in a cabinet.He suggests going with a cheap aluminum job from a restaurant supply store, because you want it to be as light as possible when filled with water and macaroni.

As other reviewers have noted, 6.5 quarts is sufficient for 16 oz of macaroni or less.If you routinely need to cook more than a pound, you're going to need a much bigger pot.

I have a monster 16 qt. Farberware stainless steel stock pot for times like this.It may not be quite as light as Alton Brown's suggested non-anodized aluminum restaurant supply store model, but it will hold up better over the long term and probably didn't cost too much more. ... Read more

Asin: B00005AWC9
Subjects:  1. Pasta Pentolas    2. (Multi-Pots)    3. (Calphlon)    4. (Calaphon)    5. Calphalon    6. Commercial    7. Hard Anodized    8. Saucepot    9. 6-1/2-Quart    10. Cookware    11. Saucepans    12. (Sauce Pans)    13. (Cook Ware)    14. Multipots   

All-Clad Stainless Pasta Ladle
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $19.99 -- our price: $19.99
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Editorial Review

Renowned worldwide for its cookware collections, All-Clad now makes kitchen accessories, and that's welcome news to serious and professional cooks. This 11-1/2-inch pasta ladle is a perfect example of the tools' professional-grade quality. It's made of heavy 18/10 stainless steel that is polished to a mirror finish. The handle, which features the same famous design used in All-Clad's cookware, is grooved on the top and rounded on the bottom for comfort and holed in the end for hanging on a hook or peg. With its prongs and hole in the center, this ladle serves long pastas, such as spaghetti, without clumps and allows cooking water to drain away. All-Clad tools are dishwasher-safe and carry a lifetime warranty against defects. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Lifetime warranty against defects
• 11-1/2-inch ladle for serving long pasta without clumps
• Durable, professional-grade tool
• Made of heavy 18/10 stainless steel polished to mirror finish
• Handle grooved on top, rounded on bottom for comfort

Reviews (3)

All-Clad makes the greatest products!
I started with a 9-piece cookware set more than 10 years ago after many decades of buying inexpensive cookware. Once I bought All-Clad, there was no going back. I admit, I originally tried their LTD line, but I wanted something I could put in the dishwasher. I find the stainless cooks just as evenly as the LTD and is much easier to care for. Since buying the set, I have bought almost every piece of All-Clad stainless manufactured as well as most pieces of their gold standard bakeware, their gadgets, and tools. Everything is of the highest quality and will be around for generations to come.
I have yet to be disappointed, and you will never need to replace any of their items.
I will never buy another brand.

All-Clad Stainless Pasta Ladle
This pasta ladle is excellent; it is well made and easy to clean.The design is excellent, it allows you to scoops pasta quickly and easily.The polished stainless steel is so beautiful you could definitely serve with it as well.It is excellent quality that will last a lifetime.An All Clad must have! Highly recommended! A+ !

Icing on the Cake
If you're into All-Clad, then you probably have the 6 piece tool set.The set is fine without, but the pasta ladle is a must have.Big bowl ringed by "fingers" keep everything in its place.If you're into volume cooking, then this is for you.Clean up is a breeze and it doesn't pick up sauce stains, etc.You've gone this far, the pasta ladle is the obvious piece to round out your collection. ... Read more

Asin: B00005AL7G
Subjects:  1. Tools    2. Gadgets    3. Cooking Utensils    4. Ladles    5. (Ladels)    6. Pasta Forks    7. Pasta Tools    8. Pasta Servers    9. All-Clad    10. (Allclad)    11. (Al-Clad)   

Zak Designs E-Z-Roll Garlic Peeler, Green
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $7.99 -- our price: $7.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Tired of garlic peel strips under your fingernails? Try this easy-to-use garlic peeler. Just place an unpeeled clove of garlic inside, roll the peeler back and forth on a countertop, and let the peel shuck itself off. The time-consuming task of stripping every shred of peel from each clove is a chore of the past. Cleanup is easy, too--rinse under the tap or run through the dishwasher. --Emily Bedard ... Read more

Features

• Dishwasher-safe
• Quick way to peel whole garlic cloves
• No garlic odor left on hands or countertop
• Flexible, easy-to-roll rubber material
• 5 inches long, wide enough for large or small cloves

Reviews (45)

Don't bother
This isn't going to save you time.I have this thing in my kitchen and it never gets used.

No More Grandma Hands
Pros:
+ It works.
+ Your hands don't smell like grandma's
+ No more unintentional crushing
+ No dangerous knife-slapping

Cons:
- After about 4 large cloves, the 'garlic paper' sticks to the inside.(You can shake it out and keep going.)
- Not as sexy as slapping a big chef's knife
- Single-purpose gadget

Pricey but worth it
Yes, the price is kind of steep considering what this item probably costs the manufacturer but hey...isn't that what capitalism is all about -- figuring out how to inexpensively produce something that's incredibly useful?And that's exactly what the garlic peeler is.We love cooking with garlic, but neither one of us ever got the "whack with a knife" trick to really work.Consequently, peeling garlic was a tedious, time-consuming, and messy chore.No more.Pop the clove into the tube, roll the tube a few times across the counter and voila!The garlic, she is peeled.Having to rinse out the tube after every few peelings is nowhere near as time-consuming as it was to peel garlic the old-fashioned way.This is one of those terrific gift items for anyone who even occasionally cooks with garlic.They'd never make the purchase themselves, but once they have this, they will wonder how they got along without it. ... Read more

Asin: B00004RDDN
Subjects:  1. Garlic Tools   

Pedrini Acciaio & Acciaio Stainless Steel Herb Mincer
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $17.99 -- our price: $17.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

With its 3-inch head and nine round, sharp blades, this stainless-steel tool quickly and evenly minces a heap of herbs with a simple rolling motion. The mincer's oval handle is channeled to provide a sure grip even when wet, and the hanging loop at the handle's end is cleverly angled so that the 9-inch mincer lies flat against the wall when hung on a peg or a hook. It's alsodishwasher-safe. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Dishwasher-safe
• Round blades roll over herbs to mince them evenly, quickly
• Heavy stainless steel
• Channels on handle provide a sure grip
• Loop on handle angled to hold tool flat against wall

Reviews (4)

Save yourself the money and just buy a good knife!
Plain and simple - this tool does NOT work.At all.

It is supposed to mince the herbs when rolled over them on a cutting board.In reality, what it does is smash and juice the herbs into a pulpy mess.It does not work on parsley, chives, oregano, nothing.I tried several herbs, and it did not cut a single stem of any of them.It didn't even "kinda work" or work a little - it did not function one bit.

My second complaint is how lightweight and flimsy the tool is.For the money, I was expecting something a bit nicer.The tool is actually very light; the blades are thin and cheap. Thehandle is hollow; the entire thing bends easily.

Do not waste the money on this.It flat out does not work.

Pedrini Herb Mincer
Very elegant looking but it didn't work so I returned it.

EXCELLENT!
Your gonna LOVE this little dream machine!Substantial,yet light. Gets the job done! ... Read more

Asin: B00004VWTP
Subjects:  1. Herbs    2. Spices   

Zyliss Rotary Cheese Grater
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $14.99 -- our price: $14.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Put away that cardboard canister of prefabricated, over-processed Parmesan cheese and grate your own with this Zyliss hand-crank cheese grater. You'll never go back to the packaged stuff again. And, thinking versatility, this fine grinding drum works equally well on hard cheese, nuts, or chocolate. Dust some ground chocolate over cocoa or crepes, nuts over brownies, and, of course, fresh Parmesan over spaghetti. Just slip the steel drum inside the grater, hold on with one hand while twisting the handle on with the other, place the cheese or nuts into the 2-1/4-inch by 1-inch well, and grind as little or as much as you need. The drum is open on one side for easier sprinkling over food. --Doree Armstrong ... Read more

Features

• Guaranteed for two years
• Hand-crank cheese grater for fine grinding of hard cheese, nuts, and chocolate"
• 2-1/4-inch by 1-inch well for portion control
• Drum is open on side opposite crank to sprinkle gratings over food
• Stainless-steel grating drum removes for hand washing

Reviews (20)

I love this grater
I didn't know they used these at the Olive Garden; I felt the plastic on this one at the store after our last (cheaper) model broke, and thought this one might stand up better.It has!It is the only tool I'll ever use for grating Romano or Parmesan cheese for pasta -- so much easier and faster than a plane or box grater.The unit is nice and sturdy -- I don't worry about the arm breaking while I'm grating, as it did on our previous grater.It comes apart very easily for cleaning, and the handle can be used on either side for left- or right-handed cooks.I have used it to grate large amounts of cheese, too; I guess it's a little hard on the hands, but I think any grater will present that problem unless it's electric.

Soft cheese need not apply...
This tool is well-designed and handles comfortably, grating fine swirls of cheese with a quick crank of the handle. Note that this item works well ONLY with hard items like Parmesan and other European hard cheeses, but not with the cheeses commonly found in supermarkets, which have been processed to the point of being like rubber (including US-made Swiss, Edam, Cheddar etc.) These softer cheeses choke up the grate barrel and become glued to the internal structure, making it increasingly difficult to dispense cheese and impossible to clean.

Perfect for hard cheeses
I got the grater set that comes with a little
container with lid that attaches to the opening
of the grater where the grated cheese falls out.
Very handy.

I love this grater. Very efficient, easy to use
and no paranoia about adding some meat (your finger
tips) to the cheese like with most other ones.

Works perfectly for hard cheeses. Used it as well
for Beets, which worked very well to.
Had troubles with rather soft cheeses like Havarti,
as it clogged up inside the grating cylinder...

a must have for me... ... Read more

Asin: B00004T148
Subjects:  1. Cheese Graters   

Sweet Maria's Italian Desserts: Classic and Casual Recipes for Cookies, Cakes, Pastry, and Other Favorites
by Maria Bruscino Sanchez
Average Customer Review:
Paperback (20 October, 2000)
list price: $14.95 -- our price: $10.17
(price subject to change: see help)
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Reviews (2)

Sweet Maria's Italian Desserts -paperback
Many of us past the age of 40 have difficulty with small print, especially in recipes with fractions. I willgive the book to a friend who can read without a magnifying glass.

Some of her recipes do not contain salt, which can result
in a flat taste,regardless of other ingredients.
It would have been nice to have a few photos.

This is a varied collection of recipes with simple directions.

Make Delicious Italian Desserts at Home
Make Delicious Italian Desserts at Home

In her latest cookbook, "Sweet Maria's Italian Desserts: Classic and Casual Recipes for Cookies, Cakes, Pastry, and Other Favorites," baker Maria Bruscino Sanchez offers traditional family recipes for the home baker. She demystifies the "handful of this and that" that one often finds with "old country" family recipes. Italian baking, like Italian cooking, is regional. Maria offers recipes from her Neapolitan and Abbruzzese heritage; from her Sicilian husband's heritage; and from her travels all over Italy. Sheshares updated traditional and contemporary recipes from her own Sweet Maria's Bakery in Waterbury, Connecticut, where Italian-Americans and others purchase desserts.

The recipes in this cookbook are easy to follow. Here you will find authentic Italian recipes for everything from cookies (including biscotti), cakes (including cheesecakes), pies and tarts, pastry (wonderful cannoli), sweetbreads, frozen desserts, fruit desserts, and dessert sauces.

Of special interest are recipes for tiramisù (including savioardi--Italian ladyfingers), homemade limoncello, crostata di fico (fresh fig tart), millefoglie (thousand-layer apricot tart), biscotti di cioccolata con noci (chocolate hazlenut biscotti), and apricot-almond semi-freddo. For special occasions, such as St. Joseph's Day (March 19) and Easter, Maria tells how to make "Pane di Pasqua con Uovo" (Braided Easter Bread with Eggs). For Christmas, there are recipes for "Panettone" (Christmas Fruit Bread) and "Crostata di Natale" (Christmas Tart).

Sidebars occur throughout this cookbook that offer tips such as "How to Make an Italian Cookie Tray," "Bomboniere" (favors for Italian weddings and bridal showers), and "Al Dente." Another sidebar tells how ". . . Italian pastry chefs traveled with Catherine de Médici when she went to live in France . . . .who showed the French chefs some of their basic techniques for pastry making, which they then adapted to make some of their legendary sweets."

Highly recommended for authentic Italian dessert recipes! ... Read more

Isbn: 031224133X
Sales Rank: 90549
Subjects:  1. Cookery, Italian    2. Cooking    3. Cooking / Wine    4. Courses & Dishes - Desserts    5. Desserts    6. Italian cooking    7. Italy    8. Methods - Baking    9. Regional & Ethnic - Italian    10. Sweet Maria's (Bakery)    11. Cooking / Baking   

Simac #4050 Il Gelataio Magnum
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $499.99
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Editorial Review

Fully automatic, this machine takes the trouble and guessworkout of making ice cream, sorbet, frozen yogurt, gelato, and frozendrinks at home. Ingredients go into the bowl, two buttons are pressedand about 50 minutes later 1 quart of a frozen confection is ready forconsumption. Because the machine doesn't require its bowl to be frozenfor hours in a refrigerator's freezer (like less expensive machinesthat only churn), it can immediately begin making another batch. If abatch becomes too hard the machine shuts off automatically. Housing,paddle, lid, and an accompanying spatula are plastic, while theremovable bowl is made of stainless steel for easy cleaning. The lid istransparent so freezing progress can be monitored. The machine measures11-1/2 inches wide, 8 inches high, and 15 inches deep, and it weighs 33pounds. Made it Italy, it carries a one-year warranty against defects.An instruction booklet with many recipes is included. --FredBrack ... Read more

Features

• Makes up to 1.5 quarts of ice cream, sorbet, frozen yogurt in 50 minutes
• Fully automatic: pour ingredients into bowl, press two buttons
• Removable stainless-steel bowl; plastic housing, paddle, lid, spatula,
• 11-1/2 inches wide, 8 inches high, 15 inches deep; weighs 33 pounds
• 1-year warranty against defects

Reviews (16)

An excellent machine with a few problems
I've been using this machine to make multiple batches of ice cream every day, and it works wonderfully.The removable bowl is essential for quick clean-up, and allows you to swap in another bowl and dasher to quickly start a second batch.(Assuming, of course, that you've gone out and purchased these optional components)The wonderfulness of the ice cream it makes is entirely determined by the ingredients you put in, but the ice cream maker is fully capable of freezing the ice cream to a smooth and creamy consistency.

The only reason I didn't give this maker 5 stars is that, if the bowl overflows (which it may, as ice cream expands as it freezes) there are lots of holes and nooks that the ice cream can get into that are impossible to clean it out of.If you tend to fill the bowl full, be prepared for your ice cream maker to end up smelling a bit cheesey.It's not a big deal, but a little better design of the plastic housing would have eliminated this problem.

The plastic dasher also takes a bit of effort to clean; milkfat tends to stick to it.It may still be greasy coming out of the washer.

nice luxury item
I am a caterer. I bought an earlier model which I have used constantly. It is expensive, it uses up a lot of counter space and since it is heavy, you need to be able to dedicate a space just for it. It is easy to use, makes fabulous ice cream, reliable and fast. Once you get used to homemade ice cream it's very hard to go back to commercial stuff. Also makes great sorbets. This would make a great gift to someone who has lots of counter space, loves kitchen toys and ice cream. It also makes a great present to oneself. For any caterer who does small dinners I would say it definitely allows you to expand your offerings and despite its hefty fee can be a real money maker.

works like a charm
Just received a Magnum for Christmas and couldn't wait to try it out. It's ready to go with no assembly required, and extremely easy to use. The 'maiden' batch of ice creamI made was wonderful-smooth, creamy, and significantly better than anything you can buy. I would recommend that anyone getting this machine also have a loud kitchen timer, since it has none and several reviewers have warned about the danger of stripping the gears if the ice cream goes rock-hard.

The machine is heavy, so be careful when moving it around.My only complaints are minor: at these prices, couldn't the makers have put in metal gears and built in a timer?However, with a little attention, this shouldn't be a major headache.

If you're serious about making frozen desserts, you'll love this machine for the convenience (no prefreezing bowls)and the superior quality of fresh, preservative-free ice cream and sorbets in any flavor you can dream up, when you want it.i also appreciate the beater and bowl being diswasher-friendly. ... Read more

Asin: B00004RDDM
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Ice Cream Machines    4. (Makers)   

Riedel Vinum Liqueur/Grappa Glasses, Set of 6
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $120.00 -- our price: $71.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Few entities have undergone and survived the forces of public attention and critical reevaluation as have grappa and its cousin from France, Marc--unless we include the house of Riedel itself. For centuries, the Austrian glassmaker contented itself with the manufacture of vases and bowls before coming to the forefront of crafting elegant, scientifically designed stemware for serious wine drinkers. And now Riedel, preaching its gospel of increased wine enjoyment by matching grape type to specific glass shape, is set to take on another comeback kid, this one in the spirit world. Once a sort of Continental moonshine made by fermenting and distilling the winemaker's leftovers--grape skins, pulp, seeds, and stems--grappa and Marc have emerged as popular postprandials. And this glass, resembling a hybrid of bud vase and champagne flute, tames these bad boys into pleasurable submission. Tasted in another manufacturer's "grappa" glass, one mid-priced 80-proof offering was all scorched tongue and boozy nose. In the Riedel, with its flared lip and heaviness uncharacteristic of other Vinum models, the same grappa exhibited the elegant floral notes of an orchard. It's no mean feat taming a spirit that is neither willing nor weak. --Tony Mason ... Read more

Features

• Height, Capacity: 6 3/8"H, 2 7/8 oz.
• Designed to enhance Italian grappa and French Marc
• Machine-made of 24% lead crystal
• Affordable second-tier from a prestigious name in wine-friendly stemware
• Made in Austria

Reviews (1)

Tame Your Grappas!
Riedel (pron. ree'-duhl) is the premier name in Austrian leaded crystal stemware. The "Vinum" series is their "affordable" line. (I would not call it "second tier" because Riedel has at least two other series with price points above this one.) Riedel is the preferred choice for wine connoisseurs and enthusiasts, not to mention the port and single-malt scotch aficionados. The artisans of Riedel have designed stemware to accomodate grape-to-glass, as is perfectly demonstrated in these beautiful 3-Ounce Grappa Glasses.

This set of six stems will wow you, your family, and your friends, as you savor the potent Italian brandy, grappa. One's first taste of grappa is almost a rite of passage in an Italian or Italian-American family. But you certainly don't have to be Italian to appreciate the enhancementof this grape which these Riedel glasses bring to your senses. Salute! ... Read more

Asin: B00004SZ80
Subjects:  1. (Stem Ware)    2. Barware    3. (Bar Ware)    4. Glassware    5. (Glass Ware)    6. Bartending    7. Wine Glasses    8. Wine    9. Spirits    10. Cocktails    11. Stemware    12. Glasses   

Every Night Italian : 120 Simple, Delicious Recipes You Can Make in 45 Minutes or Less
by Giuliano Hazan
Average Customer Review:
Hardcover (12 January, 2000)
list price: $25.00 -- our price: $15.75
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

In Italy there are no mothers who are bad cooks. Can this be possible? In the case of Giuliano Hazan, whose mother is Marcella Hazan, yes. Marcella is the doyenne of Italian cookbook authors published in the United States. And Giuliano is no slouch, either. Though his first cookbook, The Classic Pasta Cookbook, is lamentably out of print, it is a laurel upon which he could have rested. Fortunately, Giuliano Hazan appears to be a restless man. "I learned to cook because I like to eat well," he writes in Every Night Italian. "Satisfying food does not have to be complex or take a long time to prepare. Often the simpler it is the better it tastes, and simplicity is what Italian cooking is all about." To this end, Hazan has compiled a collection of Italian recipes any cook can serve to any family every night of the week.

He wisely opens his book with two sections: "The Italian Pantry," a list of all the basic ingredients to have on hand, and "Some Essential Techniques," such as chopping an onion, cutting a pepper, trimming an artichoke, and boning and filleting a chicken breast. The book is then divided by appetizers, soups, pasta and rice, fish and shellfish, meats, vegetables, salads, desserts, and menus--120 recipes total, all flavor-heightened and with an eye cocked at the clock. Chicken Braised with Porcini Mushrooms has a substantial sound, and yet you are only looking at 20 minutes of prep time and 60 minutes from start to finish, leaving plenty of time for a Insalata Caprese with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Hazan's version of Ribollita, the classic Tuscan soup, takes two-and-a-half hours from start to finish, but only 30 minutes to prep. The Bucatini with sausage and onions is a straight shot at 30 minutes, start to finish. Spend a little time with this book, master the recipes, and you will no doubt find yourself agreeing with Giuliano Hazan that Every Night Italian is a perfectly plausible idea. --Schuyler Ingle ... Read more

Reviews (18)

quick and simple recipe
this book is wonderfull ! the recipes are delicious and very tasty. I use it least once a week and each time I'm very pleased with the result.
I also have Simple and Simply Delicious by Sylvie Rocher with those 2 books I'm good to go !

The truth is on the cover
One of the best things about this book is stated on the cover: "...Delicious Recipes You Can Prepare In 45 Minutes Or Less".It's great to have recipes that are simple yet delicious and also leave some room for nice presentation.

I'm a fairly novice cook but I've found the directions in the book to be simple to follow, and the finished products have come out looking great as well as tasting great.

So far I have only tried about a half-dozen of the many recipes, but it's already a winner to me.In particular, Hazan's recipe for parmesan cheese encrusted rack of lamb is so simple and tasty at the same time that it makes you wonder why we pay so much for lamb in a restaurant.

Excellent Book
I have had this book for a few years now. A good sign is that the pages are starting to fall apart. I use this book a lot - there are some recipes that I cook on a regular basis like the Shrimp and Linguine. This is a great book for people who don't have a lot of time but like to cook fresh, good food although there are some fancier recipes for dinner parties etc.A lot of the recipes are very simple and quick to make but taste so delicious. Even a simple Tomato and Onion Spaghetti tastes great when made fresh. My favorite recipes include the Snapper with Tomatoes and Olives, Chicken breast with 3 Peppers, and Grilled Lamb Chops with a Lemon and Vinegar Sauce. Definitely a book worth having. ... Read more

Isbn: 0684800284
Subjects:  1. Beverages - Wine & Spirits    2. Cookery, Italian    3. Cooking    4. Cooking / Wine    5. Italian cooking    6. Methods - Quick & Easy    7. Quick and easy cookery    8. Regional & Ethnic - Italian    9. Cooking / General   

FrancisFrancis! X1 Espresso Machine, Orange
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $799.99 -- our price: $799.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Bright and boldly colored, this espresso machine from FrancisFrancis! is for those who relish sleek, modern design in their kitchen and cheerful colors in their decor scheme. Leave it out on the counter, as it's too heavy to move around much. This machine is designed for use with prepackaged coffee "pods," specifically Easy Serving Espresso (ESE) pods, or with regular ground coffee--handles for both are included.

The machine is 10-by-12 inches in overall size and has an instrument panel look on the front: flip switches, pilot lights, and a temperature gauge to allow for more precise temperature control, which helps prevent overheating the espresso. There's also a pull-out drawer in the bottom section to house the drip grill, a removable plastic bin at the back for the water supply, a built-in cappuccino feature, and a circular wire holder on top for warming inverted coffee cups. --Marcie Bovetz

Editor's note: This item may arrive with water inside from the manufacturer's pressure test. This is a normal occurrence and doesn't point to a problem with the machine. ... Read more

Features

• Measures 10 by 10-1/4 by 12 inches; 3-month product warranty, 1-year service warranty
• Ideal for making coffee specialty drinks at home; hot water dispenser for tea
• Temperature gauge provides precise control; steam nozzle heats milk to make cappuccinos
• Circular wire holder on top warms inverted coffee cups
• For use with packaged coffee pods or ground coffee; powder-coated steel finish

Reviews (44)

2001 model still going strong! Great espresso
Having worn out a Capresso machine after daily brewing 4-6 shots of espresso in making lattes/cappuccinos, etc. I went looking for a more durable machine.

I bought an X1 in 2001/2 when it was a brand new model (in stainless) and it is great:

1. It heats up quickly.
2. It brews VERY consistently.
3. The ESE thing is the best mess-preventer ever.
4. Separate steam-temperature setting is great. Heats milk much faster than other, cheaper consumer models.
5. Machine has capacity to steam enough milk for at least 3 tall lattes before needing a quick "refill" of water from the pump switch.
6. I like the simplicity and total manual operation. The switches aren't labeled, but there's only 3. Kind of a morning meditation for me.

The most important, non-obvious things:

1. Don't leave a pod in the holder and move temperature to steam setting. When you unhook the pod holder, steam will instantly blow apart the ESE pod, which, given that it is more than boiling hot, will hurt, plus will dry instantly on the wall.
2. Use INDIVIDUALLY WRAPPED ESE pods, unless you use them all within 2-3 hours of opening the tin. They sour very quickly, even in the freezer. I am partial to Starbucks pods, given my household's addiction to that brand, but I think that is more of a preference than a quality issue. Illy tastes fine, but you have to use them all quickly.
3. If you serve a lot of guests, the double unit (X3?) might be better. With the dual-temperature settings, you'll spend a lot of time running water through the unit to cool the steam setting back down to brew the next batch of espresso. Lots of refills of the water container, which is a bit of a pain to remove from the back of the machine.

Overall, a great performer after 4 years of daily, multiple use. This thing is a great machine.

GIVES YOU A PHENOMENAL ESPRESSO IF YOU HANDLE CORRECTLY
Two months ago I bought the X1 from the new serie "X1 by appointment" at the online store azone.ch. Discount price about 500 USD including a box of 18 E.S.E pods from AMICI. The inventor of the machine Francesco Illy is a "pope" of the coffee industry. He founded the "Francis Francis" Company in Switzerland. His father and grandfather are the founder of the "ILLY" coffee brand. A name for sophisticated taste of coffee. Francesco Illy started to launch his own brand "AMICI". There are actually 4 different E.S.E. pods available. My favourites are the "Espresso" (silver box with red stripe) and "Ristretto" (..with black stripe). Please check amici.ch for more information. So, that's a little bit about history and now my review: When I read the negative postings I wonder why there are some problems when using the machine or why the coffee gives some people only average joy. Here my suggestions for a real espresso experience:

Rule 1: Strictly use the E.S.E. pods....the one from AMICI or LAVAZZA I can suggest. Not try to use non-E.S.E. pods. They will not fit perfectly.

Rule 2: Buy some high quality espresso cups. If the porcelain is robust and thick it can keep and lead the warmth much better.

Rule 3: Always use pre-heatened cup. Place them on top of the coffee machine. I never turn off the machine. If you switched of the machine, wait about 20 minutes before preparing coffee.
And important: Pour one espresso cup of water before inserting any pod. This guarantees, that the cup gets his temperature and that the machine gets its operation temperature.

Rule 4: Keep your machine clean. After every use clean the pad-holder. Put it in the machine (be sure there are no pods inside) and simply pour water for about 10 seconds trough it.

Rule 5: For the ones who experienced damages, I think, they didn't threat it correctly! After using the steam YOU MUST SWITCH BACK to the espresso mode and activate the toggle switch for espresso. Simply pour water about 20 seconds. Now the boiler will not overheat and protects the machine. If you do not follow that rule your machine could be damaged seriously!

Final commentary: Those people who wants to compare the X1 with any one from Braun for about 99 USD and think the taste is the same, I must only say, that they have no concept of good coffee taste. The Francis Francis is nothing for people who confuse real espresso flavor with the over-sweeted plastic or paper taste of any Mc Donalds or Dunkin' Donuts sewage.
The first time I have seen the X1 I knew, soon or less I will purchase it. The unmistakable design didn't relinquish myself anymore. Every day walking to the kitchen, the Francis Francis X1 smiles at me. A machine to take into one's heart.

Marcel Dubach, ZURICH

Great looker, with faults. but i think it is great.
I am going t give this machine 2 stars for looks and an extra star for function this makes it a 3 star machine.I will review it to counter another review about this machine.The review was written by : Diego Frare.
1-**You can only get a perfect espresso from a professional machine and only if you use it to make dozens of coffees every day. I think the average bar in Italy makes hundreds of cups a day, and in places like some highway service areas they easily make over one thousand every day.**
a-I don't know how is this relevant
b-It is not true, If you teach yourself the art of making espresso, then you can make "great" espresso from many machines that are on the market today, but making the "perfect" espresso is a debatable for even the professional machines.
2-**The most annoying one is the lack of a pressure relief valve, so the water remains under pressure for minutes after you finish brewing your coffee, and you cannot remove the portafilter without getting coffee grounds sprayed all over. **
a-I believe the machine has a pressure valve, that does not allow the pressure to go above a certain amount (my guess 11 or 12 bar). What Diego is referring to is the absence of a 3 way pressure relief valve.This crates what is called "portafilter sneeze" which he describes.
b-The solution for that is in the same box as the machine came with. I guess you need to read the instructions to get the best out of your machine.
c-The solution is using the providedTamping / Anti "Sneeze" Gizmo, with it you car remove the Portafilter (PF) right away with no worries of any mess.
3-**. Another flaw is the finish, too prone to get scratched, at least in the black version. **
a-I have the red one, and I do not have any problems keeping it scratch free.
4-**. Also, the front panel of the plastic drip tray should have been made of stainless steel: because it's made of regular steel, you need to remove the front panel every time you wash the tray, otherwise it will rust easily. It wouldn't be too bad if it popped out and snapped back in, but you have to unscrew the knob to remove it. **
a-I am not sure which machine is Diego reviewing here. I am completely lost.What I have is a cover plate made of stainless steel (your cup would sit on there), then I have the drip tray, and it slides out like a drawer (you could detach it completely for ease of cleaning, this is the knob you see in the picture)
5-**. I closely looked at the spouts, and it's a one piece die cast unit, so I don't think it's my particular example that's bad, but it's a design flaw or a bad die cast template **
a-This is not true. The PF is cast but the spouts are screwed into the threaded part of the PF, the cause for that problem is most probably uneven tamping.
6-**if you put a fraction of a gram too much, the system will not be tight enough and water will leak from the top of the portafilter and fall into your cup.**
a-the machine comes with two baskets, one single shot and one double shot. Single is supposed to filled with 7 grams. I filled mine with 9 grams (using an accurate electronic scale [error is 0.1]) and I had no leakage at all.I guess if you go above this for the single basket (which I do not see why) you will have a problem.
7-** consistently decent espresso with a home machine ** (steps)
a-great instructions which I think everyone should use

In summery Diego might have a bad apple, and should have sent it back to the company under it's warranty.But also it might have been an older X1, the new X1's have been almost completely rebuilt as of 2004.
MY NEG for this machine are as follows:
1-Single shot basket is hard to perfect (I still have not perfected it), yet for sure you will need to put more ground coffee than what the instruction say.
2-The new boiler thermo controller is very accurate è it turns on and off the boiler at least 3-4 times during the process of brewing 1 shot of espresso. This is good, yet the problem is when the boiler goes on again, there seems to be a small drop in electricity to the pump that is driving the coffee through.I think this is missed thing when the company made the 110V version of their European 240V.
3-Stem wand is too short and that strong.It is hard, but you can do some micro foaming with it, but not with too deep of a pitcher.

4-The absence of a pressure gauge.

I will not go and list the PLUS things since the Negatives should be a good indicator of the quality of the machine. If you need to read more go to coffeegeek.com and check their review of this machine.
[...] ... Read more

Asin: B00004RBR9

FrancisFrancis! Jubilaeum Espresso Cups and Saucers, Set of 6
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $150.00
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

When he invites artists to collaborate in creating porcelainware, Italian designer Francesco normally wishes to amuse and delight, to create a mood that excites appetite and provokes conversation. With this espresso set, however, his artist-collaborator, Andrea Manetti, seeks to inspire contemplation, as she draws on classical religious icons to depict life's irony. "All saints here," one cup says, ambiguously referring either to the innocents depicted on the cup or to us, the espresso drinkers--or to both? Is it sarcasm, plea, or declaration?

The limited-edition "Jubilaeum" (Anniversary) set presents six finely glazed espresso cups bearing Manetti's paintings--which include gold leaf, accounting for the price--along with six white saucers. As usual, designer Francesco packs his gleaming porcelain in a tin case (13-1/2 inches in diameter by 5-1/4 inches high for this set) that, among other suggested uses, can be employed used as a stool (black cotton, foam-filled pillow included). A photograph on the lid shows a young girl sticking out her tongue. ("FrancisFrancis!" cries the despairing parent.) An impish phrase, Poi ti spiego ("I'll explain later"), is printed on the case, along with the story behind it. The artwork, including the gold leaf, is virtually indestructible, and the espresso set is dishwasher-safe. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Tin packing case, complete with pillow, can be used as stool
• Limited-edition set of porcelain espresso cups, signed by artist
• Decorated by Italian artist's paintings inspired by religious icons
• Intent is to portray life's irony
• Strong colors--including gold leaf--provoke strong emotions

Reviews (1)

5 star
With regard to the review by the customer who was disappointed by not being able to get practical use out of them because of their size:This is a set of ESPRESSO cups.An espresso serving is around 1.5 ounces, and which fills the cup about half way.This means these type of cups would only hold under a quarter of a cup, even filled to the rim.These cups are from a series of artist-designed expresso sets which are produced by the company FrancisFrancis! which specializes in funky, artistic, designer espresso machines.

If you've familiar with FrancisFrancis' design philosophy, and have sprung for a beautiful X1, you already know that you need to find a set of this series to put on top :)

These cups don't deserve a "4" because a customer didn't know what they were buying.This is very much a 5-star item. ... Read more

Asin: B00004U8L9
Subjects:  1. Cups    2. Mugs    3. Coffee    4. Tea