My Favourite Things

I know. I’m not Oprah. In fact I’m pretty much the opposite of Oprah;  being a scrawny white chick from Canada who has never seen the inside of a studio. But like the great Oprah, I wish to share with you the things I have found invaluable in my kitchen this year. You can add these to your shopping or stocking stuffer list for the home cooks and foodies in your life.  Sadly though, I’m not giving them away for free.

#1: Melon Baller

While this may seem like a “one purpose” item, I use this almost daily.  It is great for coring apples, pears, and other fruit.  I use it to make meatballs in consistent and even shapes.  And of course, it balls a melon.

This melon baller is probably the cheapest on the market (less than $5) but works the best.  The edges are sharp and allow you to easily core an apple.  It really is the perfect little stocking stuffer.

#2 Bench scraper

Again, this item is intended to help with pastry, but I find it has so many hidden talents.  What I use it for the most?  Scraping up mounds of chopped vegetables to transfer into a pot or dish.

#3 Salt Fat Acid Heat, by Samin Nosrat

This is the cookbook I cannot stop raving about.  More than just a compiled list of recipes, Samin Nosrat will actually teach you how to cook.  A must have on everyone’s Christmas list!

#4 Food Processor

This kitchen item is rather large, requiring storage which can be difficult in smaller kitchens.  But to me it is indispensable.  Use it not only to puree foods, but to crush nuts, grind meat, make dough…the possibilities are endless.  I recommend the Cuisinart 8 Cup Elemental that comes with a chopping blade, dough blade, shredding and slicing disc.  It strikes a nice balance between compact and functional.