Kitchen Gadgets

"Oh Christmas tree, Oh Christmas tree, how beautiful the kitchen gifts you bring." Gifts that make me 'souper' happy. Want to cook every day. Make me look like a real cook. Make me better than I actually am. Speed up my cook time because I don't have all dern day.  Make my cabinets feel loved. Bring some spice to my life. Make me feel loved. Gives Rachel Ray a run for her money. And who doesn't love gadgets?

First up, my prized possession, the Ninja Master Prep Professional QB1004. I found this gem on Consumer Reports. We prescribe to CR online and I have found it very useful when trying to buy quality at the best price. This blender/food processor combo is easy to clean, versatile, over-sized and most importantly does a great job. I've use the food processor so far for making hummus, baby food, prepping for soups and making guacamole. I purchased this on Black Friday at Target for $45-$50.

In case you didn't hear, many folks got black eyes over this hot Black Friday item: the Paula Dean 12 piece cookware set in blue and red featured at Walmart for $100. Oh yea, I showed up ready to hurt somebody but I got played by a teenie-bopper who tricked me. I'm still bitter. It all worked out though as I later found almost the exact same set at Target for a few dollars more. I've really enjoyed this set so far. My previous set was the heavy-duty Caphalon and it's been okay but it's entirely too heavy for regular use and not worth the price you pay.  So far, Paula's got it going on with this set as it cooks evenly, I love the rubber handles and it's a nice weight.

I lived and studied in Spain for a summer in 2006 and my host mom used one of these to make her excellent gazpacho (recipe to come in future post). I've been eyeing a hand-blender ever since. With the creation of this blog and souping on a regular basis, I thought it was the perfect time to purchase. I haven't actually used it yet but when I do I'll make sure to add my thoughts.

A new splatter guard! I especially love this one because it's heavier than the mesh and the grooves fit all-sized pots. It's such a handy kitchen gadget for souping.

A set of four Zak Designs Recycled Confetti bowls. Brilliant! I really like these bowls because the colors add fun to my cooking experience. Also, they're just a little more expensive than one of Rachel Ray's garbage bowls. Who in their right mind would pay $20 bucks for a bowl that is made in China to put your garlic and onion peels in? Playa-please. I have four bowls that can hold garbage just fine, or better yet, just use my trash-can like every other non-celebrity cook. I love you Ra-ra just not your garbage bowl.

'Till next time, 
Natalie