Sabatier Precision Stainless Steel Steak Knives, Set of 4
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $25.00
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Editorial Review

These 9-inch table knives can easily convert a thick New York strip steak into bite-size pieces, though their 4-3/4-inch blades are a tad thicker than those of the best steak knives. Having serrated edges, they tend to tear the fibers of a steak, chop, or roast rather than slice precisely through them. While most steak knives have wood or synthetic handles, these knives are stainless steel--highly polished to a mirror finish--from the tips of their blades to the ends of their shapely handles, so they're appropriate for the most elegant dinners. Handles are heavy and fit snugly in the hand. These knives are dishwasher-safe, but, to prevent damage to their blades, it's best to hand wash them. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Made in Asia
• Slice any steak, chop, or roast meat at table
• All stainless steel, with mirror finish
• Serrated 4-3/4-inch blades
• Dishwasher-safe, but not recommended

Reviews (5)

great-looking knives, but...
These knives are certainly a joy to hold in your hand.I've had these for about 6 months and the beautiful stainless steel has not shown any hint of rusting or discoloring.They are also quite heavy and don't have that "metal-colored plastic" feel to them.

But...they don't cut at all!In fact, they didn't cut the first time, and they didn't cut any times after that.I didn't return them because I was completely infatuated by their look, but I wish I would have - there are plenty of other steak knives out there that have a similar look.I'm investigating ways to sharpen them, but for now they are only good for spreading butter and jelly (and breaking eggs, because they are quite heavy).

Couldn't cut the ham
I purchased these knives right before Easter because they were attractive, but I was disappinted when they arrived. They are serrated only at the tip of the blade, and I had a hard time cutting through the Easter Ham with them. They have a nice weight, but as a steak knife are only slightly more effective than my butter knives. Purchase something else with real teeth if you're planning to need a steak utensil.

Very good knives, but....
I love the knives, but as I'd just spent a lot of money for the Provence block set of kitchen knives, I should have saved a little longer and gone for the matching set. Don't get me wrong. The knives are great. They just don't match as they should. I love the Sabatier Provence set, and I am currently saving some extra cash to upgrade the knives to a set of Provence steak-knives. The others will still be there for normal day to day use, but that Provence set....... There is no beating it in the long run. The most bang for your buck !!! However, for everyday use and durability, I do believe that these knives are a very wise investment which will last for many years to come. ... Read more

Asin: B00004SCPU
Subjects:  1. Knives    2. (Knife)    3. Steak Knives    4. Kitchen Knives    5. Cutlery   

Pyrex Prepware 3-Piece Measuring Cup Set
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen (01 April, 2005)
list price: $14.99 -- our price: $14.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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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. That's important even with this set of liquid measuring cups, which can go into the oven to, say, warm a sauce and then be plunged into dishwater. The set consists of three measuring cups: a 1-cup, a 2-cup, and a 4-cup, all essential to a well-equipped kitchen. Large, dark blue markings in both U.S. and metric measurements make the cups easy to read. The cups are nonreactive (useful for acidic salad dressings) as well as stain- and odor-proof, and come with a two-year warranty against breakage from oven heat. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Made in the U.S.A.
• Ergonomically designed handles
• Pyrex glass is non-porous, so it won't absorb food odors, food flavors or food stains
• New measuring cup with 4-position lid which allows you to sift, pour, strain, and sprinkle
• Sure fit seal keeps lid secure while pouring

Reviews (2)

Indispensable
Here's a really important piece of food prep equipment.I spend a lot of time winging it when I cook, but when I do have to measure my ingredients, I love these clear Pyrex cups in three tremendously useful sizes.They're heavy, but they're safe for boiling liquids, ice cold food and everything in between.Pyrex is crystal clear and cleans up beautifully.You can't ask for more.

Best Glass Measuring Set!
The glass measuring cups are perfect for melting butter or heating water to boiling in the microwave. You can also use them to mix up a small batch of salad dressing.

They are really indispensable in any kitchen. While I tend to measure even some liquids in my metal measuring cups, I reach for these when the quantity of liquid goes over one cup. You do have to raise them to eye level to see if you have poured in just the right amount.

I seem to reach for these everytime I cook! They are also handy for measuring chopped vegetables or fruit. ... Read more

Asin: B00005B8KF
Subjects:  1. Measuring Cups    2. Measures    3. Measurers   

Braun MR430HC/AC Multiquick Deluxe Hand Blender & Chopper
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $49.99 -- our price: $29.88
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

This multipurpose tool created a stir in the kitchen when it came out, as the food processor did a generation earlier. In order to blend, whip, and chop smaller amounts of ingredients, it's no longer necessary to wrestle with bulky appliances. Immerse the 7-1/2-inch blender shaft, with its little blade on the end, into a pot where vegetables have been simmering, press the switch, and in seconds a creamy soup appears--with no need to dump everything into a big blender. Blend sauces and baby foods in their cooking pots, too. Blend a milk shake or juice drink right in its drinking container, or in the 2-1/2-cup beaker included in this set. Whipping cream and egg whites is just as convenient: a 5-inch whisk attaches to the motor when the blender is removed. For chopping nuts, herbs, garlic, or onions, there's a 2-cup chopper bowl with a special blade. The motor with the attached blender shaft can be mounted on a wall (mount included). Everything but the motor and the chopper-bowl top (both should be wiped with a damp cloth) can go into the dishwasher. This tool is more than handy, it's a revolution. The instruction sheet, unfortunately, is harder to comprehend than the tool is to use. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• One-year warranty against defects
• Set includes blender, whisk, chopper, bowl, beaker, and wall mount
• Blends soups, sauces, baby food, juice drinks, and milk shakes
• Whips cream, egg whites, and puddings
• Chops herbs, nuts, garlic, and onions

Reviews (100)

I'm ready to get a third!
I live for my Braun handblenders.I use it most often to make refried beans and also for all kinds of soups.I keep kosher so I have one for dairy and one for meat and I'm planning to get one for passover.This is a must have for every person who hates to clean up the food processor or the blender.It cuts prep time to a bare minimum..

My favorite kitchen tool
This is the best kitchen tool anyone could own.It is small, and therefore easy to store.It is also easy to clean.

I have used mine to puree soups, applesauce, make smoothies, beat eggs, make pesto and baby food.With the attachments, I have ground coffee beans, whole spices, ground nuts, cake mixes and more!

Very versatile, very affordable, easy-to-clean, easy-to-store...what more could you ask for?

Handy... but not so easy on the hands
The Braun Multiquick 430 HC consists of a motor housing with cord that twist-locks into a blending attachment. It can also lock into a whisk attachment, or the top portion of a mini-chopper. It includes a two-cup plastic measuring cup as well, sized and shaped so that you can use the blender to blend small amounts of liquids in it.

While you need to wipe off the motor housing by hand, the lock-on attachments are dishwasher-safe. (Our last immersion blender was one-piece and not dishwasher-safe, so this is a real bonus!) Because of the way the blender attachment is shaped, with the plastic housing circling the blade, you don't have to worry that the blade will get banged around and dulled on the dishwasher rack.

With enough use the blades will eventually dull, of course, and we use ours quite a bit. But until then they work wonders, easily pureeing soups of all kinds. The chopper attachment is surprisingly effective, and I've used it to chop small amounts of herbs into confetti in split seconds. It's also very easy to assemble, use, de-assemble, and wash in the dishwasher--easier than a mini-prep food processor.

The whisk is a handy attachment, and the multiquick does have enough power to produce whipped cream, although it takes more time than it does with a full-power two-beater hand mixer. However, there isn't a lot of feedback from the whisk--it has just enough give that it's hard to tell when it's pushing up against a bowl, so I'm always a little worried that I'm going to damage it inadvertently.

The one real problem this item has for me is the on-button. It isn't very sensitive; it requires a firm push, it's easy to accidentally let up on it, and it takes some amount of force to keep it pushed in. I have tendonitis, so this can be pretty hard on my hands if I'm not mixing or chopping a very small amount of materials. It would be nice if it had either a real "on" switch, or a more sensitive button. ... Read more

Asin: B00004S9GX
Subjects:  1. (Handheld)    2. (Stick Blenders)    3. (Immersion Blenders)    4. Small Appliances    5. Electrics    6. Hand Blenders   

Cuisinart ICE-20 1-1/2-Quart Automatic Ice Cream, Frozen Yogurt, and Sorbet Maker, White
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $80.00 -- our price: $49.95
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Creating up to 1-1/2 quarts of ice cream, frozen yogurt,sorbet, or frozen drinks at home takes only about 20 minutes with thiselectric appliance, and salt and ice are not needed. After themachine's chilling chamber has been in the freezer for about eighthours the liquid between its walls is thoroughly frozen. The chamberthen goes atop the power base, the unit's paddle goes into the chamber,the transparent top is locked in place, and the machine is turned on.Ingredients go into the chamber through an opening in the top as thepaddle turns. The chamber chills the ingredients to whateverconsistency is desired--though dense treats are hard to make becausethe paddle churns in air.

Chocolate chips, chopped fruit, nuts, and other special ingredients canbe added toward the end. The chamber is nonstick for easy cleanup.Storing it in the freezer ensures a frozen confection is only 20 to 40minutes away when the mood strikes. The machine measures 10 inches indiameter and 15 inches high and weighs 9-1/2 pounds. It carries athree-year warranty against defects. A detailed instruction bookletincluding many recipes is included. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Measures 10 by 15 inches; three-year limited warranty
• Makes up to 1-1/2 quarts ice cream, frozen yogurt, sorbet, or frozen drinks
• A breeze to use--no salt or ice needed
• Chocolate chips, chopped fruit, nuts, and other ingredients added
• Recipe booklet included; cord storage

Reviews (363)

Ice cream just the way you want it!
This is a delightfully easy way to make ice cream that tastes the way you want it to.Want a flavor no one sells?Mix it yourself with this easy-to-use machine.Even basic flavors are great when you control the ingredients that go in.
The machine is not messy, as it requires no ice or rock salt, and all of the parts are fairly easy to wash.The recipes in the instruction book work just fine.

A bit of advice;
1)Read the instructions carefully.
2)Plan for some lead time.You need to have the bowl completely frozen. (If you need to make more than one batch at a time, you can buy an extra freezer bowl.)
3)Bear in mind that the ice cream will still be soft when the machine is done with it. (This is true with most ice cream machines.) You will still need to put it in the freezer for a while before serving.
4)Indulge in high quality ingredients; for example, get some whole vanilla beans for your vanilla ice cream. (If you want a lot of them, eBay is the cheapest place to get them.)

I am delighted with this purchase and just can not imagine buying ice cream from the store again.

Pays for itself in one summer of use
I've had this ice-cream maker for three years now, and think it's the best little ice-cream maker I've owned. It's so easy to use and clean, and works perfectly every time. It has definitely paid for itself several times over, because I haven't bought store-bought ice-cream since I bought this machine, and I've made LOTS of ice-cream, gelato and sorbet with it since.

My recommendation for best results: Refridgerate your ice-cream mixture overnight before making if possible, and be sure the insert is thoroughly frozen in a very cold freezer. On warm summer days, I also cover the top opening of the clear plastic "lid"with a folded towel to keep the cool in better.

Best Pinacolada maker
I got this icecream maker for Chritmas a couple of years ago. It really works well. It does take some of your freezer room but well worth it. We made Pinacoladas with it when I first got it and my friends havent stopped talking about them since. Makes a wonderful gift or for your home. My kids love it too. ... Read more

Asin: B00000JGRT
Subjects:  1. Ice Cream Machines    2. (Makers)    3. Kitchen    4. Gifts    5. Cooking    6. Entertainment    7. Small Appliances    8. Electrics   

Le Creuset 4-1/2-Quart Round French Oven, Red
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $235.00 -- our price: $174.99
(price subject to change: see help)
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Editorial Review

Beautiful enough to bring to the table yet durable enough to outlive its101-year warranty against defects, this heavy casserole is perfect for preparing andceremoniously serving dishes such as braised short ribs with sauerkraut, cassoulet, andvegetable soup. Use it in the oven or on the stovetop. Made of cast iron, with an exteriorand interior clad in two coats of Le Creuset's famous bright enamel, the round casseroleholds 4-1/2 quarts. Cast iron is unexcelled for heat distribution and retention, so thiscasserole cooks foods evenly and gently at low temperatures without hot spots and issuitable for all heat sources. The plastic knob on its heavy, tight-fitting lid is ovenproof to450 degrees F. This casserole is dishwasher safe and has loop handles for easy lifting.Like all Le Creuset cast-iron products, it is hand cast in a one-of-a-kind sand mold andhand finished at the Le Creuset factory in France. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Dishwasher-safe; 101-year warranty
• Can be used in the oven or on the stovetop
• Made of enameled cast iron--unexcelled for heat distribution, retention
• Heavy, tight-fitting lid; plastic knob on lid is ovenproof to 450 degrees F
• Holds 4-1/2 quarts

Reviews (2)

Amazingly amazing
A month or so ago I was crusing the housewares department here at Amazon.com, looking for a Dutch oven.I'd nearly settled on Calphalon, but I read a review (gotta love these things!) which said that though Calphalon was generally the cookware of choice, for Dutch - in this case French - ovens, Le Creuset was the brand to buy.I took this advice to heart, in part because I loved the cherry red finish, and bought this 4.5 quart oven.

I want to thank that reviewer; it was one of the best pieces of advice I've had in ages.Le Creuset has produced one of the best, most versatile pieces of cookware I've ever owned.This pan heats evenly and holds the heat, but you really have to work at getting food to burn in it.It goes from stove to oven to table with real panache.Nothing sticks.Ever.Really, I'm not kidding here because I did manage to burn something by walking away and forgetting about it for an hour.But after another hour's soak and a scrub with a nylon pad, the residue was completely removed, leaving no discoloration of the lovely cream-colored enamel of the interior.I use it nearly every day now; I don't know how I got on for so long without it.

I would also like to point out that the cherry red color is very jolly.It might even provoke you to speak French (or at least with an outrageous Monty Pythonesque French accent) while you're cooking."Allo, now we add zee ahnyon. Zut alors!"That sort of thing.Of course if you find the idea silly, perhaps you should buy the piece in a more sedate color.

Bottom line, this is a great piece of cookware.C'est vrai!

I love Le Creuset cookware.
In my opinion, Le Creuset is the best cookware on the market.Not only is it attractive, but it cooks food beautifully, holds the temperature of the food after you remove it from the oven and looks great when you bring it tothe table.The bright colors really liven up your kitchen and they are soeasy to clean.The enamel surface is very durable and I have never had itchip or break off.This cookware heats evenly both in the oven and on thestove.While it is expensive, I believe it is worth the price. ... Read more

Asin: B00004SBGZ
Subjects:  1. Cookware    2. Dutch Ovens    3. (French Ovens)    4. (Cook Ware)    5. (Lecreuset)    6. (Le Cruset)    7. (Le Crueset)   

Fiestaware Yellow 484 67-1/4-Ounce Large Disk Pitcher
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $32.00
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Editorial Review

This large disk pitcher epitomizes the stylized, bold art deco design of Fiestaware, first introduced in 1936 and resuscitated in 1986 after a 13-year hiatus. The body of the pitcher is accented with Fiestaware's signature concentric rings and resembles a flattened ball or disk, with one catch: the top right corner of the disk is missing, replaced by a handle completing the perimeter of the round disk. Other design elements stand out to make this pitcher a unique find: the pouty lip, small oval pouring hole, and large square hole on the top of the pitcher are bold twists. Perfect for serving beverages such as water, juice, iced tea, or lemonade, the casual pitcher matches over 50 additional Fiestaware pieces in nine different colors, so you can mix and match pieces to create a personalized set. --Emily Wolf ... Read more

Features

• Dishwasher- and microwave-safe
• Great for water, juice, iced tea, or lemonade
• Large pitcher epitomizes the stylized, bold art deco design of Fiestaware
• Vitrified china with lead-free glaze
• Complements additional Fiestaware pieces for a well-matched set

Reviews (8)

I have always wanted one of these !!
And when it came up on my Gold Box offers, I couldn't resist ! And it is great !!Heavy duty without feeling too heavy, this pitcher makes any occasion a bit more special !!And it looks great in my yellow kitchen to boot !! Stylish, slightly retro and looks beautiful !What more could you ask ??

Always wanted one of these !!
So when it came up on my Gold Box offers, I knew I had to have it !It is great !Beautiful, sleek and also useful !It looks great in my yellow kitchen too !The pitcher is heavy duty without feeling too heavy.Makes a nice piece on your table during that special dinner at home !

Fiestaware Pitchers - Style Plus
Wonderful. Adding this to the table makes an average meal seem a little bit special. Well balanced, sturdy, excellent lines. Art that works. ... Read more

Asin: B00004Y9L6
Subjects:  1. Carafes & Pitchers    2. Fiestaware    3. (Fiesta Ware)    4. (Fiestawear)    5. (Fiesta Wear)    6. Drinkware    7. (Drink Ware)   

Taylor Digital Oven Thermometer/Timer
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $25.99 -- our price: $16.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Opening the oven to check on a food's temperature means wasting the cook's time and losing oven temperature and moisture--not to mention a face full of steam. This thermometer prevents those problems. Insert the instrument's 6-inch stainless-steel probe into a roast beef or turkey and monitor the time and temperature (from 32 to 392 degrees F) on the thermometer's large digital display, which connects to the probe with a 4-foot cord. The control panel sets cooking time and temperature, and an alarm sounds when either is reached. Fully opened, the thermometer/timer is 5 inches high, but it folds flat for compact storage. Magnets on the back permit it to be temporarily mounted on a metal surface. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Folds flat for compact storage; magnetic back for mounting on metal surface
• Remotely displays food's temperatures and time elapsed while it's cooking
• Programmable control panel for cooking by precise temperature or time
• Alarm sounds when cooking time or desired temperature reached
• Stainless-steel probe goes into food, 4-foot cord leads to thermometer

Reviews (75)

Very handy, not very sturdy
It's all true.A digital thermometer is an indespensible tool for the kitchen.This one works great for a while, and then starts giving erroneous results, so beware.

The digital timer feature is handy, although not very well done.It makes a raucous noise when you turn it on.And setting the time is a bit inconvenient as you can't reduce the amount of time.

Although the metal wire and probe and temperature alarm feature might make you think you can leave the probe in your food while it's cooking, DON'T.The probe will conduct heat into the middle of your food much faster than the meat will, and so the meat around the probe will get cooked and the probe will tell you (totally accurately) that the meat is done, it's only referring to the meat right next to the very hot probe.The rest of your meat is not yet cooked.

A great tool, just don't get it wet
I've had this model of thermometer for a couple of years now and have really come to rely on it. I use it for everything from baking bread to deep frying french fries. It's a sturdy tool provided that you remember two things:

1) The body of the thermometer is not heat or water proof, so be careful where you stick it.

2) The probe is not water proof, so be careful not to submerge it.

Died after a year
I loved this but I have to give it the poor review because it stopped working.It didn't get too hot or anything.Just started reading far hotter then correct temperature. ... Read more

Asin: B00004XSC5
Subjects:  1. Oven & Refrigerator Thermometers    2. Kitchen    3. Cookware   

Taylor Professional Oven Dial Thermometer
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $9.99 -- our price: $9.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

Set this durable, professional-grade, stainless-steel oven thermometer on an oven rack or rotate its base and hang it securely from the rack. Either way, it precisely measures temperatures from 200 to 500 degrees F, and its 3-inch dial is easy to read, so roasts and cakes come out of the oven cooked the way they should be. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Made of stainless steel
• Easy-to-read 3-inch dial
• Measures temperatures from 200 to 500 degrees F
• Professional quality and accuracy
• Can be set on base or hung (base rotates for use as secure hanger)

Reviews (10)

Stinks on Ice
I bought this to replace a Polder oven thermometer that had a shattered face.Worked once, now the needle is stuck at six o'clock.Unacceptable, I will replace it with a different brand.

Never worked!
This product has not worked since the day I received it.

Money Wasted !
I saw this item highly recommened in several cooking magazines.After looking for several weeks I found one.I was extremely unhappy when it didn't work accurately right from the get go.I was not surprised to find that the needle didn't even budge the second time I used it.
PLEASE don't buy this much over-rated thermometer. ... Read more

Asin: B00004XSBV
Subjects:  1. Oven & Refrigerator Thermometers   

Cuisinart CPT-60 Custom Control Total Touch 2-Slice Electronic Toaster, Blue
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $90.00
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

This electronic appliance places 850 watts of toasting power atyour fingertips while providing 21st-century flexibility. Its1-3/4-inch-wide slot accommodates two slices of thick bread or two orthree bagel or English muffin halves, and it's long enough (11 inches)to hold oversized homemade bread. The touch-control panel offers sevenbrowning settings, from light to dark, and an electronic memoryautomatically sets browning at your previous preference unless youchange it. Other buttons permit defrosting, reheating without browning,special timing for bagel toasting, and the cancellation of allsettings. Also, to save energy and toasting time when only one slice isbeing toasted, there's a button that turns off half the toastingelement. Other features include a slide-out crumb tray, cord storage,and a lever to lift short slices extra high. This handsome toaster, ingleaming plastic that stays cool to the touch, measures 15-1/2 by 7-1/2by 5-3/4 inches. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Too complicated for a toaster
I've had this toaster for a couple years now and up till a few months ago it worked great. However, the lever on it started sticking, not coming up fast, and there was a smell of burnt plastic. It finally stopped working all together. I took the toaster apart and could not beleive how complicated it was!! Electronics all over the place. No wonder reviews have been all over the place. When you put that much electronics next to heating elements , you are asking for poor quality. I will not be purchasing another one of these. From what I have learned from this toaster and other reviews, when this thing works, it works quite well; however, there are a high percentage that don't. And stay away from refurbished ones. They may have fixed the part that failed, but many times this part failed for some other reason and that root cause will not have been fixed.

Too bad it doesn't work very well
I had high hopes. It looks like a perfect toaster. It can handle two bagel halves easily, a super long sour dough, or two pieces of regular sandwhich bread. It has was appears to be useful setting buttons. But in the end, it toasts unevenly. VERY unevenly. As a rule, it burns the top and fails entirely to tast the bottom. So unless you plan to hover over you toast and flip it, I'm afraid this isn't the unit for you.

Pretty good toast, but .....
During 3 years of owning this toaster we had to get it replaced twice. Both times the knob for pushing down the toast broke. What an annoyance! However, when it was working, this toaster made very good toast, and warmed bagels just fine. It has a very nice appearance, and I must say the Cuisinart company was good about replacing their product. Now if they could just figure out a way to improve that knob ..... ... Read more

Asin: B00004W5NX
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Toasters   

Chicago Metallic Gourmetware Non-Stick 2-Piece Lowfat Meatloaf Pan
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $12.50 -- our price: $9.95
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The top pan of this two-tiered set has holes to separate out fat and juices; covering the pan ensures the meatloaf is moist. The fatty liquid can then be tossed, or, for the less calorie-conscious, stored for later or used to make a quick gravy. The pan's nonstick surface makes cleaning easy and keeps leftovers from sticking. Its cooking area is 9-1/4 by 5-1/2 by 2 inches, making it great for smaller loaves, while the bottom pan can be used to make a traditional, larger meatloaf. You'll need to set the cooking temperature 25 degrees lower than a recipe calls for, because the pan's dark color absorbs heat. --Shannon Borg ... Read more

Features

• Pans let fat drain while cooking
• Nonstick Silverstone aluminized steel
• Dishwasher-safe
• Made in the USA
• 10-year limited warranty

Reviews (11)

utility 5, durability 0
If you make meatloaf and prefer it without a lot of fat, this pan is great...conceptually.It works- but only for a very short time.I've had mine for about 2 years before it was almost entirely rusted, and that with very light use.

i understand the product is warrantied, but have not been able to get any information on replacement as I tossed the manual, and the company website is just an advertising vehicle.

If you must buy this pan, save the manual, and expect it to give out very quickly.
I see from the other reviews that many people have had similar problems with product durability.

i intend to buy another pan, but will get it from a different company

Great Purchase - Well worth the price
I recently purchased this pan and have used it about five times to date.I prepared the south beach recommended meatloaf and was pleased with the result.It is actually a multipurposepan.I have no complaints. I wash the pan by hand immediately after use.Nothing appears to stick in this pan.

Yesterday I picked up a cornbread mix from Trader Joe, and baked it in the pan.I sprayed the pan with olive oil cooking sprayand it came out beautifully.This is the second item I owned fromChicago Metallic products and I am truly impressed.I definitely recommend this pan.

Great meat loaf pan!Easy clean up!
This is a great meatloaf pan!I received one as a gift after I raved about a meat loaf cooked by a friend in one of these pans.It is great for people trying to watch their fat intake.The fat drains easily into the bottom pan and cleans up very easily.You are still left with a nice, juicy, flavorful meatloaf.I have not yet run into the rusting problem that other amazon.com reviewers have.This pan is highly recommended! ... Read more

Asin: B00004R90V
Subjects:  1. Loaf Pans    2. Baking    3. Bakeware    4. (Bake Ware)   

Mason Cash 4-Inch Mortar & Pestle, White
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $35.00
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

With high sides for extra capacity and an abrasive matte finish to facilitate grinding, this 4-inch mortar and pestle set has a myriad of kitchen uses. It can be used to crack garlic cloves, grind spices and aromatic roots, pound chiles, crush nuts, and create silken, creamy sauces like pesto, mayonnaise, and skordalia with a precision a food processor or blender can't match. Made of chip-resistant white ceramic, the mortar and pestle are nonporous so they won't absorb moisture, odors, or flavors and can be safely cleaned in a dishwasher without acquiring a soapy taste. The pestle has an ample grip for ease of use. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Dishwasher-safe
• 4-inch mortar with pestle for myriad kitchen uses
• High sides provide extra capacity, spout eases pouring
• Made of nonporous ceramic, with abrasive matte finish for grinding spices
• Pestle has ample grip for ease of use

Reviews (1)

Works like a dream
This is just what I needed for grinding spices and herbs.I'd been using a suribachi (a ridged mortar for grinding sesame seeds) and the result was a lot of spice caught in the spaces between ridges.With the classic mortar and pestle, there's nothing to interfere with the process.The heavy pestle grinds up spices quickly and efficiently, and the mortar wipes or rinses clean immediately.If you've never ground your own flavorings, do try.It's fun and it allows you to get the benefit of all the oils you release as you grind.It's particularly good for saffron because you can buy whole saffron threads so there's no chance it's been adulterated.

Highly recommended for the more hands-on cook. ... Read more

Asin: B00005Q5FT
Subjects:  1. Herbs    2. Spices    3. Mills    4. Specialty Tools   

Hoffritz Stainless-Steel Mandoline Slicer
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $69.99 -- our price: $19.99
(price subject to change: see help)
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

This professional mandoline slicer for slicing and shredding potatoes and other vegetables comes with everything you need: a 4-quart stainless-steel bowl, a plastic storage lid, four interchangeable cutting blade cartridges, and a cutting slide with a safety guard. Just slide in the cartridge you need--thin slice, thick slice, julienne (1/8-inch), or french-fry cutter (1/4-inch)--press the safety guard with sharp prongs onto the end of the vegetable, and slice away. The safety guard rests on side rails over the blade so your hand can't slip, and the entire cutting slide apparatus snaps onto the top of the bowl. The stainless-steel bowl has four rubber grippers underneath so it won't slide while you're slicing. Pop the plastic storage lid on top and put leftovers in the fridge. Every part of the mandoline slicer, including the cutting blades, is dishwasher-safe. Lifetime limited warranty. --Doree Armstrong ... Read more

Features

• Lifetime limited warranty
• Mandoline slices and shreds potatoes and other vegetables
• Includes cutting slide, stainless-steel bowl, plastic lid, and four slicers
• Slicers include thin slice, thick slice, julienne, and french-fry cutter
• Dishwasher-safe

Reviews (142)

It's simple mechanics, folks
I bought this item about 2 years ago and use it mostly for slicing potatoes and making cole slaw.It is very easy to use, and despite what you may have read from others, it is easy to remove the blades as well.I understand the problem well.If you grasp the edge of the blade without really paying attention to how it is designed, the tendency is to pull down a bit.This puts pressure on the small piece of plastic that is designed to lock the blade in place, thus causing you to fight against the "lock". If you pull the blade slightly upward and out, it slides out very easily. For that matter, straight out works, too. It may not be fancy, but for my needs, it works great!

Do not buy this item!!!
We received this mandoline as a Christmas gift, so we cannot return it without risking hurt feelings.It is cheaply made, has few cutting options, and worst of all, the blades are extremely hard to remove, resulting in a badly cut finger!

Hoffritz is apparently out of business (Salten has a license to sell some of their products, but not this one), and I can see why.

First mandolin I ever had; I like it
I really like the covered bowl which catches the slices. I am a basic tool person, knife or grater, but I think I will use and enjoy this thing. TV Cooks use them, that's why I even knew what it was.:-) ... Read more

Asin: B00004RHNF
Subjects:  1. Slicers   

Farberware Millennium 10-Inch Stainless Steel Meat Tenderizer
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $9.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

This 10-inch tool has a heavy, durable plastic head for pounding and tenderizing meat. To break up tough fibers, the head has two sizes of pyramids to penetrate the meat's surface. Soft, gray Santoprene bumps on the satin-finish stainless-steel handle provide a slip-resistant grip, and the handle is notched for hanging on a hook or a peg. Dishwasher-safe. --Fred Brack ... Read more

Features

• Dishwasher-safe
• Heavy plastic head for pounding and tenderizing meat
• Head has two sizes of pyramids for breaking up tough fibers
• Handle is 18/8 stainless steel, with soft bumps for slip-resistant grip
• Can be hung on hook or peg

Reviews (2)

Get into the groove
Watch out, this puppy is one serious implement of havoc that will flatten the most recalcitrant hunk of meat with a few well-placed blows.It's got heft, it swings, but never too much because it's got a rubber grid on the handle to help you hold on even if your hands are wet.There are two heads, one large, one small for different degrees of tenderizing.

I've turned substantial medallions of pork into cutlets in a matter of seconds with this item, and the result is meltingly tender and delicious.And, let's face it, something like this is considerably better than whacking at a tough cut of meat with a heavy plate, isn't it?

And when you're not cooking, it makes a nice mini battle hammer for SCA events.That's Ms. Thor to you, fella.

ZORRO
IT IS VERY EASY TO USE.LIGHT IN ANY WOMENS HAND DOES A GREAT JOB.HELPS PREPARE MEAT OF ANY THICKNESS.EASY TO FIND. I FEEL EVERY HOUSE SHOULD HAVE ONE. A GREAT PRODUCT TO USE. ... Read more

Asin: B00004WGP2
Subjects:  1. (Faberware)    2. (Farberwear)    3. (Farber Ware)   

Simac 4060 Il Gelataio Junior
Average Customer Review:
Kitchen
list price: $299.99
US | Canada | United Kingdom | Germany | France

Editorial Review

The Gelataio Junior's outstanding design and features make it easy to be creative with ice cream, gelato, sorbet, sherbet, or frozen drinks. This relatively compact machine does all the work--simply add blended ingredients into the removable canister, attach the motor, and press the Chill and Churn buttons. After 15 to 30 minutes, the ice cream is frozen to the perfect eating consistency. The Gelataio Junior also has an automatic stop mechanism, should the ice cream become too hard to churn, and because of the separate function buttons, the ice cream can be left in the machine to maintain this consistency, or scoop it out into a separate container for freezing. The powerful motor churns relentlessly, ensuring a smooth texture, and the ingredient canister is removable and, along with the churning arm, dishwasher-safe. Perhaps most importantly, the included recipe book will help get you started on many ice cream adventures--never had avocado ice cream (no kidding), here's your chance! --Julija Gelazis ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Super ice cream maker
We've used this machine 2-3 times/week for the last 2 years.it makes super ice cream & the removable canister is key (hygiene).Despite the heavy use, we've had no problems of any kind with it...

Il Gelataio Ice Cream Maker
A wonderful Ice Cream Maker - the best I've ever had.I had purchased one 20 + years ago, and when I moved, gave it to my cousin.Big Mistake! I love the new model and have enjoyed my little adventures in making ice cream and sorbets.Yes, it is heavy - and I live in an apt. with minimum space. However, I purchased a rolling cart at [a store], and keep the Machine on it in a closet.There's a handy plug available, so don't have to move the item into the kitchen.I have a bit of trouble plugging in the top motor.Sometimes it doesn't align properly and then, the paddle won't rotate.Takes a bit of doing.And yes, it does take more than 20 minutes to make ice cream but well worth it!
Susan in OR

Lovely Machine...
The Simac Junior is a lovely machine that creates "soft-serve" style ice-creams. (Almost a sorbet consistency.) I suppose that this is to be expected, since the machine is made for gelataio. I gave this product 4 stars because I was expecting it to produce a firmer ice cream, but I still love it. It's wonderful to have home-made ice cream without all the fuss. If you can afford it, go for it!

However:

1.) Be aware that it takes closer to 50-60 minutes to achieve the desired consistency--not the 20 minutes stated in the instruction/recipe booklet. Although the booklet is small, it has some basic recipes to get you started.

2.) The machine is very LARGE and heavy, so be prepared to have some serious counter space available! Ideally, a permanent spot...

3.) There is a fair amount of noise from the machine. Not unbearably noisy, but you'll know it's running! ... Read more

Asin: B00004RDF2
Subjects:  1. Small Appliances    2. Electrics    3. Ice Cream Machines    4. (Makers)