Bakeware

2007-05-31T00:50:00.000-07:00

Ultrex 8-Piece Cutlery Set

We believe in sharing the joys of deeply discounted daily deals with as many people as possible. We erect no barriers to purchase on the grounds of race, color, creed, language, sexual orientation, national origin, personal hygiene, Cubs fandom, or other. But we must make one exception in the case of this Ultrex 8-Piece Cutlery Set: we regret that we cannot sell this item to serial killers.

Those of you who do not hear voices compelling you to murder will receive six different knives, ranging from a 3.5” paring knife to an 8” chef’s knife, all with stainless steel blades and handles. They’re ideal for use in your kitchen, not alongside some lonely highway up in the hills somewhere. Throw in a pair of kitchen shears and a knife block for safe storage, and you’ve got yourself one nifty little knife set – unless, of course, you’re a kill-crazed psychopath. If you are, please don’t order this Ultrex 8-Piece Cutlery Set.

Warranty: 90 day Woot

Includes:

3-1/2” paring knife
4-1/2” tomato knife
5-1/2” utility knife
6” boning knife
8” bread knife
8” chef’s knife
Kitchen shears
Knife block

Original Source: http://www.woot.com/Blog/BlogEntry.aspx?BlogEntryId=2454

2007-05-30T08:37:00.000-07:00

KitchenAid Blender

I was asked recently what is the secret to my baking. I am convinced that I owe it all to my KitchenAid 10-Speed Stand Mixer. Since my daughter purchased it for me 3 years ago, baking truly has never been the same! The whites are fluffier and the batter smoother – nothing compares!

It comes in a variety of colours and it is very heavy so I suggest that you keep it in a handy location where you don’t have to pick it up and move it around too much! Some of you may gawk at the price, but it really is worth the investment. They last forever and are durable enough to even mix dough.

Original Source: http://jackandjane.blogware.com/blog/_archives/2004/6/17/132746.html

2007-05-28T21:13:00.000-07:00

Overpriced Cookware

Why is it that cookware is so darn expensive. I understand that there are different kinds of cookware and materials and surfaces and metals and all that other crap, but why is it that a single pan can cost hundreds of dollars. Are these pans made of gold or something? Anodized, Non-anodized, teflon, cast iron, aluminum. Too many options, too many choices, too much money. You want to know what I want, it's simple, an inexpensive pan that can cook anything. Sounds easy, right? Well apparently not, because now they have specific pans, to cook specific foods. The whole thing is getting out of hand. I enjoy cooking, but a set of pots and pans, should not cost two months salary.

OriginalSource: http://ijustgotblogged.com/index.php?blog=3&title=overpriced_cookware&amp;amp;amp;amp;more=1&c=1&tb=1&pb=1

2007-05-27T20:23:00.000-07:00

How to set up your first kitchen

May turning into June means many things, one of which is graduation. Whether the graduate in your life is graduating from high school and will be off in the fall to start college somwhere far away from home, or graduating from college and about to embark on "real life," no doubt he or she will setting up a "first kitchen."

Heidi Swanson received a letter from a reader of her food blog, 101 Cookbooks, that asked her how to set up a first kitchen, and rather than answering it herself, Heidi opened it up to her other readers. Some of the commenters pointed to other resources, like Mark Bittman's recent NY Times article about a No-frills Kitchen, and a Consumerist post about outfitting a kitchen with a budget. Most of the 150+ commenters have good tips, ranging from a basic pot and pan, cook's knife, and even what types of spices to have in the pantry.

If you're putting together a graduation gift, kitchen stuff might be great idea.

Original Source: http://www.slashfood.com/2007/05/27/how-to-set-up-your-first-kitchen/

2007-05-25T21:22:00.000-07:00

Topnotch Kitchen Accessories

That Compliment the Chef or Home Cook in You

Believe me, owning the right kitchen accessories can make your kitchen chores seem easy and save you from wasting precious time.

Okay we all have to eat.

For some the act of creating a delicious meal is easy, for others it's not. It all depends on which school you belong too?

There are two schools of thought when is comes to cooking. There's the old school and the new school. Your kitchen experiences can be somewhat painful if you're still claiming the old school. When you graduate to a new way of thinking into the new school, cooking becomes a whole lot easier.

Cooking doesn't have to be difficult. We make it hard by not applying common sense and adapting to our environment. Here is a case in point.

The fact that you use recipes means you've learned a valuable lesson. You can now recreate that exceptional meal that you cooked for your special person. Without hearing "It doesn't taste as good as before" or "Baby something is missing". The lessoned learned was not to cook by taste. In fact you know outsmart everyone by using your ability to recreate great foods.

Having the right recipe is only one-third of the successful cooking equation. Another third of the pie requires you to equip yourself with the right tools of the trade.

Here are some top rated kitchen accessories that are guaranteed to make your time in the kitchen more enjoyable. Once you get equipped you'll look forward to creating delectable tasting foods for yourself, family and friends.

Kitchen Accessories You Can't Live Without

Cookware
You know cast iron steel works best. But what's the skinny on other cooking materials and surfaces like stainless steal, copper, aluminum and non-stick. See for yourself, size up your pots here.

Cutlery
Got a dull knife? Time to pull out the old sharpening stone. Good cooks work with a variety of sharp knives. See which knives will benefit you.

Bakeware
Stock your kitchen cabinets with the right pan sizes for ease of baking, broiling and oven cooking. Don't know which (metal, ceramic, glass) is best for baking? Find out here!

Kitchen Gadgets
Kitchen gadgets are fun and great time savers. You can become more effective in less time. Find out why, how and what works.

Kitchen Utensils
You need more than just spoons, forks, and knives. Look here for other items to incorporate to easy your preparation task.

Original Source: http://www.soulfoodandsoutherncooking.com/kitchen-accessories.html

2007-05-24T20:29:00.000-07:00

Kitchen Knife Usage Techniques: Keep Your Fingers Intact

Alright, I’ll admit it. I have, on more than one occasion, taken off a part of my finger as I was whipping up what I was sure was going to be a fantastic meal. While finely dicing a yellow onion, I sliced the tip of my index finger in the process. The frantic race to the bathroom for disinfectant and a band-aid put a bit of a damper on the meal. I have also had unfortunate incidents with a serrated knife and a loaf of French bread, a paring knife and a potato, and one very bad time with a cheese grater.

You are probably thinking that I should be relieved of my cooking duties and kept at least 10 feet from all cutting utensils everywhere. I’d like to think that I am a strange, one time case but the real fact is that we all make unfortunate errors while working in the kitchen because we don’t use our knives properly. I found a great tutorial for the proper way to hold and use your kitchen knife sets so that you can avoid such unpleasantness as gouging your fingers.

The Cooking Enthusiast Web site provides How-To Guides and one specifically on Basic Knife Techniques. Take a look and practice. It will save you the Neosporin and embarrassment later.

Original source: http://www.lightsandknives.com/blog/kitchen-knife-usage-techniques-keep-your-fingers-intact-2007-05-09

2007-05-23T19:39:00.000-07:00

Kitchen Gadgets - Zyliss Shake 'n' Go Shaker (for Protein Drinks, Smoothies, Dressings, more)

Can you tell yet that I'm a little obssessed with Zyliss products? I just love them. Zyliss makes smart products that work well and feel right in your hands while you're using them. This Shake 'n' Go shaker is a perfect example of just that.

I have this little green shaker container, and use it for whipping up quick homemade dressings (thanks to the little attachment inside that helps make blending a breeze) or to take a smoothie to go with me wherever I happen to be going.

This is a real bargain too - for under five bucks you're getting a true multi-tasker for around the kitchen. I find that the spout makes sipping easy AND the lid stays on true and tight. I've never had this little shaker leak even a drop! (At work, where we sell these - a box usually doesn't last a week. Customers have caught on to these amazing little gizmos too, and so they never last long.)

Original Source: http://kitchengadget.blogspot.com/

2007-05-22T19:30:00.000-07:00

The Perfect Kitchen

A busy commercial or household kitchen definetly requires the perfect equipment to operate successfully. Whether you're feeding 3 or 300 you not only want that food to look good, you want it presented on something stylish and sturdy.

It's really important for me I guess, to have the right utensils when I'm cooking. As you can imagine, having a busy food blog requires trying different recipes and new things all the time. I need to have confidence that the pots and pans I'm using are going to do the job correctly. God knows, I've worked in many restaurants in the past where the owners took no pride in the equipment they used. The $$$ they spent were unbelievable!!! If only they had made the correct investment in the first place, they could have saved themselves a lot of trouble and money.

And speaking of investments. Have you had a good look in your own kitchen lately? Maybe it's time you invested in some great new dinnerware. I like the feel of strong, white dinner plates when I'm serving food. I also like shiny, strong stainless steel cutlery. As a matter of fact, I want my kitchen to have the best tools for all my catering needs. I think we should all want that. Check out instawares. They have all the resources to help you set up that perfect kitchen.

Original Source: http://www.souvlakiforthesoul.com/index_files/sponsored_perfect_kitchen.html#unique-entry-id-35

2007-05-21T19:17:00.000-07:00

Surgical Stainless Steel Waterless Cookware Set

Find out more about the history of dutch ovens and how to purchase aid cookware kitchen the perfect one for you. To see this line go to scanpan ergonomic cookware free aid cookware kitchen shipping (some restrictions apply). The smooth, hard finish of 18/8 aid cookware kitchen surgical stainless means this set is easy to keep clean.

For the price, it is a deal that is aid cookware kitchen sure to sell out soon.

Suggestion box about aid cookware kitchen ubid.com become an affiliate. The fixating aid cookware kitchen screws were rusty. Editors also rate for design factors including the shape and seal of the aid cookware kitchen lid, the weight of the pan and the shape of its handle.

For tableware we carry steakhouse style steak knifes and high quality kitchen knive and aid cookware kitchen cutlery kitchen knife sets.For tableware we carry steakhouse style steak knifes and high quality Surgical Stainless Steel Waterless Cookware Set kitchen knive and aid cookware kitchen cutlery kitchen knife sets. They aid cookware kitchen seek to take and enhance the best qualities of each metal to produce a superior product. Now the coating on the cookware also needed to last aid cookware kitchen a lifetime.

Original Source: http://articlesnips.com/surgical-stainless-steel-waterless-cookware-set/

2007-05-20T21:28:00.000-07:00

Ronco's Showtime Six Star + Cutlery 25-Piece Set

Ronco's Showtime Six Star + Series 25-Piece Cutlery Set is the ultimate in performance, quality and durability. This set contains all the quality stainless steel knives you will ever use in your kitchen! Each Six Star Showtime knife is made of the best high carbon stainless steel and features full tang, impact-resistant riveting. This 25-piece set includes: 22 knives, carving fork, poultry shears and a knife sharpener plus a Free solid flavor injector. Use it to inject nuts, herbs, olives (and just about anything else you can think of) into ham, lamb, pork and pastries. Best of all the knives come with a Free Replacement Guarantee for Life! Making the Ronco Showtime Six Star + Cutlery Set a perfect addition to any kitchen.

Original Source: http://asseenontvnetwork.blogspot.com/2007/02/roncos-showtime-six-star-cutlery-25.html

2007-05-18T21:35:00.000-07:00

KitchenAid Stand Mixer – Cakes, Cookies and Dough, Oh My!

I bought my KitchenAid Professional Series Stand Mixer over 4 years ago. It’s one of my favorite kitchen tools. Over the years, I’ve made many delicious cakes, cookies and doughs with a KitchenAid Stand Mixer.

Not only is it a great kitchen gadget that will improve and speed up your baking and cooking tasks, it can also add some style and color to your kitchen. I have a red mixer that is the center piece of my kitchen. I friend of mine calls it the “red wonder” because of the great baked goods it produces and the beauty of it.

Last month, I lost a bet on the Penn State vs. Notre Dame game. I’m a die-hard Penn Stater and unfortunately we were beaten badly in South Bend. I had a bet with a Notre Dame alumnus over my chocolate chip cookies versus her chocolate chip tofu cookies (sounds strange but they are actually very good).

Today, I used my KitchenAid Stand Mixer to make chocolate chip cookies to pay off the bet. It pains me that I made cookies for a Notre Dame fan, but I’m a man of my word. Good thing I’m not a big gambler. Some people like to win money, I prefer baked goods.

If you are looking for a good value, the KitchenAid Artisan Series Stand Mixer is a great stand mixer for the money. A stand mixer is an essential kitchen tool and can be a great show piece in your kitchen. It also can assist you in settling college football bets!

Original Source: http://sprenzy.com/shopping/articles/category/kitchen

2007-05-17T19:40:00.000-07:00

Running Gloves – Keep Your Fingers Warm and Toasty

For some reason, I have issues keeping my extremities warm, no matter what type of gear I use. Is it just me? When my toes or fingers get cold, I’m done for the day. Whether it’s snowboarding, cycling or running, once my digits get too cold, it’s game over, get me a cup of hot chocolate and into a hot shower.

For you runners out there, check out these five running gloves tested by Runner’s World that will keep your fingers nice and warm. All of the recommended gloves are under $35.

180s Convertible Glove - “A great all-around glove. Our runners loved its warm-yet-lightweight micropoly interior and superthin water-resistant retractable hood that turns the Convertible into a glove or a mitten.”

Brooks HVAC Gloves - “Ideal for a range of temperatures, this glove uses strands of silver, which supposedly help keep your hands at a constant temperature. We were skeptical, but it kept our tester warm.”

Asics Winter Run Hybrid Glove - “Although the polyurethane-coated hood of this fingerless glove is a bit bulky, it keeps bare fingers out of the elements without sacrificing dexterity.”

SmartWool Synergy Glove - “A great option for milder days, the Synergy features a blend of SmartWool and nylon, giving you the traditional warmth of wool, plus the added wicking ability of nylon.”

Adidas UltraTech Running Glove - “The thin UltraTech is good for chilly mornings. It has a soft material over the thumb (perfect for the occasional nose wipe) and three reflective strips to keep you visible on early morning runs.”

For me, the SmartWool Synergy Glove appears to be the best fit for San Francisco weather, where it rarely gets colder than the upper 40s. I’m also a huge fan of SmartWool products. Despite the shorter and colder days, pick up a pair of running gloves, keep your fingers warm and “run, Forrest, run!”

Original Source: http://sprenzy.com/shopping/articles/2006/10/31/running-gloves-keep-your-fingers-warm-and-toasty

2007-05-16T18:43:00.000-07:00

An Introduction to Kitchen Appliances

As a society we've come to rely heavily upon major household appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers. It isn't until they stop working that we realize just how important they are to daily life. Fortunately, most major appliances run repair-free for a long time, but every once in a while one will break down.

Calling in a repairperson can be expensive--before you do, it's always nice to know that the problem isn't something that you could fix yourself in a few minutes. Beyond simple maintenance, however, there are not many repairs you can make yourself unless you are a skilled do-it-yourselfer and have the right tools.

When you buy new appliances, purchase ones that have a record of reliability, which you can determine by checking consumer reporting magazines. Be sure your new appliance has a strong warranty--there's nothing like having your broken washer repaired at "no charge."

Before you begin any repairs on an appliance, check the owner's manual. If you can't find the manual for a particular appliance, try contacting the manufacturer on the Web and requesting a new one for your make and model.

If an appliance doesn't work, first be sure that it's plugged in. Also check the circuit breaker or fuse that serves the appliance's circuit and make sure that it hasn't flipped or blown. You can check to see if the receptacle is energized by plugging in something that works--a small lamp or a circuit tester.

Also check you owner's manual to see if the appliance itself has an overload fuse or reset switch. If it does, check to see if it needs to be reset.

Original Source: http://hometips.com/home_improvement/appliances_fixtures.html

2007-05-15T19:20:00.000-07:00

Dream Kitchen

My dream kitchen would have a food preparation place in the center. Where I could place cookware and other utensils, in plain sight, nearby but not crowding my cutting area. I'd love to have a spacious kitchen like the ones I see in movie sets and home decorating magazines. Kitchens should be spacious enough to walk around in, and to eat in. Even if your home has a formal dining room. It's nice to have some 'sit down space' in the kitchen as well. It's a good place to sit and take a tea or coffee break or have an informal chat or catch up on some reading.

I'd also like to have enough cupboard space to store pantry foods as well as dishes. I don't know that I'd like to have a separate pantry. I think it would be easier to have everything stored in or around the cupboard area. I could use the pantry to store non-food items, such as paper goods, soap, etc. I basically like having whatever I need when I'm cooking very close by, including utensils, dishes and food. I'm used to working in small spaces, where I can reach everything very easily. I also have long arms which come in handy when I need to reach up or across for something that I need.

Original Source: http://coachandcreate.blogspot.com/2007/05/dream-kitchen.html

2007-05-14T19:01:00.000-07:00

How Long Will Your Kitchen Appliances Last?

My parent's microwave is dead. My dad called last night to inform me of its demise. Frankly, I was never attached to the thing, but it has been a staple in their household for more than a decade so I suppose parting is sweet sorrow...

My dad went out and bought another one, but his shopping trip was not without dismay. His problem is that he was trying to find an exact replica of the one that sat on the counter of my parent's home for the last decade. (Good luck... I told him as much.) In the end, he walked away with a new Kenmore. It's larger than the old one and from what I can gather has more bells and whistles than the dinosaur they housed for so many years.

But, here's the kicker to this story: the guy at the appliance store told my father that the new microwave should last about 11 years. Eleven years? Who comes up with a number like that? It seems like a rhetorical question, but according to my dad, the guy at Sears actually had a legitimate answer and the documentation to back up his claim.

Apparently, there is a trade group that asked dozens of manufacturers and researchers to estimate how long the various household appliances and other major elements of a home like drywall, plaster, and pipes would last.

Here are some of the results: According to the National Association of Home Builders, major elements of a home, including foundations, exterior doors, basements and framing should last at least 50 years. However, other parts of the home have a much shorter lifespan. For example, the life span of a gas water heater averages 10 years, while a heat pump should last about 16 years.

As for common household appliances here's the breakdown:

Refrigerators--13 years

Dishwashers-9 years

Gas Ranges-15 years

Trash Compactors-6 years

Gas Water Heaters--10 years

Washers-10 years

Electric Water Heaters-11 years

Obviously, these are estimates on products that are made by reputable companies---not ones that are picked up second hand.

I was surprised to see that these days dishwashers only last about nine years. My dishwasher is close to 6-years-old. I'm hoping I can squeak out at least two more good years from it before it goes the way of my parent's microwave.

Original Source: http://home.families.com/blog/how-long-will-your-kitchen-appliances-last

2007-05-13T19:29:00.000-07:00

Crisp Design Enjoys Premium Pricing

In kitchen appliances, Alessi and Cuisinart come to mind for their excellent design. They produce objects and kitchen appliances that consumers display on their counters and tables.

Cuisinart products are intuitive to learn and use. They are high quality, save time and reduce or eliminate perceived complexity. They are intuitive to learn and use. They command a 50-100% pricing premium. Design sets them apart from their competitors.

Alessi goes a step further. Alessi’s secret sauce is that they invite famous designers to apply their magic on a commodity category. That enables them to charge $249 for an Alessi designed kettle that compares with $20 for a run-of-the mill kettle.

Original Source: http://sramanamitra.com/blog/804

2007-05-11T21:33:00.000-07:00

KitchenAid Hi-Density Hard Anodized 10-Inch, 3-Quart Saut Pan with Lid

With its gorgeous, marble-like exterior, this pan proves that not all hard-anodized aluminum cookware is created equal. KitchenAid calls its premium hard-anodized surface Hi-Density, reflecting the five extra manufacturing steps it undergoes to produce a glossy, charcoal gray finish, a stylish alternative to the ordinary matte finish produced by the anodizing process. Those extra steps also have a practical result, making the harder-than-steel surface nearly impervious to stains and scratches. Beneath the surface, an aluminum core spreads heats evenly across the bottoms of pots and pans and all the way up the sides.

KitchenAid's Hi-Density hard-anodized cookware includes other nuances. Its 18/10 stainless-steel interior is polished to a mirror finish on the sides--less on the bottoms to hide the inevitable whisk and spatula marks. Wearing a mirror finish inside and out and equipped with big handles, lids sit down deeply to produce tight seals and to minimize rattling. Cast-stainless-steel handles are triple-riveted for strength and gracefully arched for easy lifting. Handles stay cool on the stovetop and go safely into the oven up to 500 degrees F. This straight-sided, 10-inch, 3-quart saut pan has a helper handle and is perfect for saut ing, frying, and braising. KitchenAid cookware carries a lifetime warranty against defects and should be hand washed.

OriginalSource: http://bestbuyszone.blogspot.com/2007/01/kitchenaid-hi-density-hard-anodized-10.html

2007-05-10T19:53:00.000-07:00

Good taste?

Over the weekend, someone asked me a question that I had to answer honestly.

“Are you one of those people who can taste every flavor in a dish?”

I wish I could have said yes, but I had to answer no. My tongue is not that connected to my brain. I can taste complexity, but too often I can’t name it. A few weeks ago, I mis-tasted a bright yellow oil — I thought it was saffron, but it was flavored with curry. Yikes.

The good news is that I firmly believe that my tastebuds are entirely teachable, so long as I feed them a steady diet of new, different and delicious flavors.

Of course there are immediate rewards in this kind of taste-education — filling my mouth with great tasting food — but even better in my opinion is being able to apply what I learn in my own kitchen, thereby improving what I eat all the time, not just when I am at work.

I love being able to make a good soup great, a tasty salad worth going for seconds, and a pasta dish so delicious that people want to lick their dishes. Note that this is the goal; I am still in training. For now, I will have to be satisfied with being a cook who doesn’t have good taste but is a great student of making things taste good.

Original Source: http://www.ibabuzz.com/allyoucaneat/2007/01/

2007-05-09T18:59:00.000-07:00

Appliance life span in the home varies

Appliances and building components have life spans too.

Knowing their life expectancies may help you decide whether it makes sense to repair an aging appliance. How much useful life is left in it?

Two other factors come into play when homeowners make the decision to replace. One is simply fashion: We want something new, we want to replace white appliances with stainless steel, we want to remodel the kitchen.

The other is efficiency. Today's refrigerators, for example, are far more energy-efficient than those of five or 10 years ago. Hanging on to an aging refrigerator may mean paying higher utility bills than you would with a new one.

The May issue of Consumer Reports identifies the most and least reliable appliance brands in its annual Product Reliability Survey.

The magazine also offers a timeline: When does it make sense to repair, and when to replace?

How long will it last?

6 years -- trash compactor

9 years -- dishwasher, microwave

8-10 years -- carpet

10 years -- clothes washer

11 years -- freezer, water heater (electric)

12 years -- garbage disposal

13 years -- refrigerator, clothes dryer, electric range

14 years -- range hood

10-15 years -- air conditioner, garage door opener

15 years -- gas range, kitchen faucets

15-25 years -- laminate floors

20 years -- medicine cabinet, tub/shower faucets

20-50 years -- whirlpool tub

20+ years -- water heater (tankless)

50 years -- kitchen cabinets, vinyl floors

75-100 years -- tile floors

Lifetime -- wood floors

Original Source: http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/athome/312270_lifespan21.html

2007-05-08T19:21:00.000-07:00

How Many Ways Can You Use A Pizza Cutter?

This may not be news to you but guess what, “A pizza cutter does more than just slice pizza”!

I was cutting some toast for one of my daughters one morning and the pizza cutter with its new homemade cardboard scabbard was still out from the night before so I decided to see how it would work on toast. To my surprise, it worked beautifully.

So then I tried it on my other daughter’s egg-in-hole and again it performed like a charm. I now figured I was on to something.

For the record, if you make your own pizza or buy frozen commercial brands like DiGiorno, a pizza cutter is a must. It just makes slicing a pizza into kid-sized slices that much easier. Not that we eat a lot of pizza in our house, but it is a staple when we go out and have babysitters who are early on in their culinary education.

So now I’m thinking what have I been missing all these years and what else might this circular blade be used for cutting. I’m on a mission to see how many unique and interesting ways one can use a pizza cutter besides slicing pizza.

I figure I’m not the first one to think of using a pizza cutter for other kitchen chores so I invite you to share some of your favorite ways you have utilized this handy kitchen gadget.

Original Source: http://www.reluctantgourmet.com/blog/archives/146

2007-05-06T20:33:00.000-07:00

The Scoop on Kitchen Appliances

Appliances should blend in with other design elements in your kitchen. You can achieve this by having them built into the cabinets or paneled to look like them. Or if you prefer, you can make a statement with a stand-alone, like those made with a decorative vent hood and carved wood ornamentation or a stainless steel refrigerator. Keep in mind where you place your appliances will affect the other design elements in your kitchen. For example, a range or a separate cooktop and oven could change your countertop and cabinet space plans.

Your options for appliance designs include:

Built-in

Paneled

Freestanding professional-style

Freestanding restored

Reproduction antiques

Standard freestanding

A new neutral is stainless steel appliances which work well in all styles of kitchens, from Old World to contemporary to Mediterranean to traditional.

Keep in mind that in order to get the commercial feel of a professional-style appliance you�ll need to splurge. Increased cooking and storage capacity and an oversized look come at a price that almost doubles standard appliances. True commercial units aren�t rated for residential use because of their special ventilation needs, massive size and safety issues, but most pro-style appliances come close to giving the advantages of a restaurant-grade appliance, including greater durability, more precise temperature control and a stainless steel finish. If you love to cook or have a big family pro-style is worth a look.

Original Source: http://www.calfinder.com/blog/kitchen-remodel/kitchen-appliances/#

2007-05-04T20:04:00.000-07:00

Kitchen Design Help: Choosing Granite for Countertops and Floors

Your kitchen sounds fabulous, with a look of luxury to it in a big way. Good for you! I’m also glad you chose black appliances. In your case, this choice will “support” the overall style that I think you are aiming for.

Mixing granites is in the advanced realm of blending materials, as I call it. It can be very tricky. The graining in granite needs to be looked at closely and the colors as well. If you are speaking of using Black Absolute granite, and pairing it with a dark green granite that has black flecks in it, it sounds very doable. Be aware that Black Absolute will show moisture spots fairly well, so make sure the stone is well sealed and that you buy a quality stone as opposed to choosing a stone by price alone. There are quality differences in stone that make it worth paying a littleWine Butler more for a better quality product.

Black Absolute has virtually no grain movement to it, so it lends itself to being a suitable match to most granites. I think I would put the black on the countertop because it is such a solid black that it would show everything if it were your flooring material. Beware of that when choosing your dark green granite as well. The more pattern you can have in the granite, the better it will hide all the specks that end up on the floor.

Good luck, it sounds like a great kitchen!

Original Source: http://designtalk.homevisions.com/2007/05/01/granite-countertops-kitchen-design/

2007-05-03T20:24:00.000-07:00

Kitchen Tools: Wooden Spoons

All our stirring and braising this past weekend, as well as the recent roundup of favorite kitchen tools reminded us of how much we love our plain wooden spoons. For all the silicone gadgets and devices cluttering the utensil jar, the humble wooden spoon is the one we reach for first to stir the pot.

We like these Beechwood Spoons ($3.95 or $4.95, Crate & Barrel). They look sturdy. We also like this tasting spoon ($10, Red Bird Crafts), with a channel to cool your soup before you burn your lips.

Original Source: http://kitchen.apartmenttherapy.com/food/cookware-tools/kitchen-tools-wooden-spoons-020155

2007-05-02T20:39:00.000-07:00

Have You Met the Muffin Man?

Ten years ago, I first became aware of the dangers of nonstick cookware from a student who had a pet bird. Apparently, when you cook with nonstick cookware, it gives off a gas that can be fatal to pet birds. If nonstick cookware is fatal to pet birds, isn't this the canary in the cave for human use of nonstick cookware?

I have since given away all of our nonstick cookware, except the muffin pans. I could find no alternative material for muffin pans in any store. My children love to make and eat muffins. They are quick and easy to make, and you can pack them full of whole grains, nuts, and fruit. Cooking with your child is fun and ensures they will eat healthy foods. Children love to eat what they have made, and cooking provides an opportunity for authentic measuring tasks.

Original Source: http://www.greenoptions.com/cooking

2007-05-01T20:20:00.000-07:00

Flatware

So you've picked out your dinnerware and drinkware, looks like the flatware is next!

Just like dinnerware and glassware, you will (traditionally) want to register for both fancy and everyday versions. Your fancy flatware is reserved for holidays and special occasions, while your everyday flatware is the stuff that is going to get banged around and ground up in the garbage disposal (come on, who hasn't done that at least once). You may decide that fancy flatware is not your thing, and that you would rather your guests spend the money on other accessories (soup spoons, knives, serving sets) instead. To check out a few tips on what to look for in flatware, as well as get a list of useful things to add to the flatware portion of your registry,

When choosing flatware make sure that the pieces feel balanced in your hand. If it's too heavy it may feel even worse when there's food at the other end.
Make sure the flatware you choose complements your chosen dinnerware. The fancy should complement the fancy and the everyday complements the everyday.
Choose a good quality stainless steel, 18/10 stainless steel is a combination of steel, chromium and nickel for its shine.
A lot of people think it's bad luck to receive knives as a wedding gift. If you think this way and get knives, then turn your "gift" into a financial transaction by giving a penny for each knife to the person who gave you the knives.
Your everyday flatware should definitely be dishwasher safe.
A five piece place setting includes salad fork, dinner fork, knife, soup spoon and teaspoon.
Be sure to choose serving sets that will complement your flatware and dinnerware.
If you choose an elaborate design for your dishes, you may want to go simpler in your flatware and vice versa.
Register for the same number of place settings as your dinnerware and glassware.
A checklist of flatware related items that you might want to consider:

- 5 piece fancy place settings (get the same number as plates)

- 5 piece everyday settings

- Serving Sets

- Soup Ladle

- Butter Knife

- Cheese Knives

- Chef Knife

- Steak Knives

- Paring Knife

- Bread Knife

Original Source: http://yumsugar.com/191088

2007-04-30T20:00:00.000-07:00

Drinkware

Yesterday I kicked off our wedding registry pointers with some tips on selecting dinnerware. Today I thought we'd jump from dinnerware to drinkware.

Traditionally you should consider registering for everyday glassware, as well as fine crystal and barware. However every couple is unique so go with what suits your needs. If you entertain a lot, you may want a full set of barware, if you don't drink then there's no need. Just don't limit yourself in registry items due to space, from what I understand, once you have the goods, you'll find room for everything. On the flip side, don't register for everything just because you can. Take into consideration what you really want and the number of people who will be attending your wedding.

To check out tips on how to select drinkware, and what you should add to your registry,

Most glassware falls into one of two categories: stemware and barware. Stemware is any glass on a stem (except for a martini glass), generally used for water and wine, and barware is any glass with a solid, flat base.
In general, you will want to register for the same number of stemware (wine and water goblets) settings and dinnerware place settings.
Accidents happen, and more often with glassware than with dinnerware, you may want to consider a few extras in each glass size.
When choosing glassware, pick up each glass and hold them. You'll want to make sure that they are comfortable in your hands.
The shape of each glass is designed to enhance a certain kind of beverage, so take into account the sort of drinks you serve often.
Your everyday glassware should be durable (which doesn't have to mean ugly and boring) and fit easily into your dishwasher and cabinets. A basic everyday set will usually be a 24-pc set that contains 8 highball glasses, 8 double old fashioned glasses and 8 all purpose glasses. If you don't plan on getting fancier versions of these glasses, then be sure that they complement your other selections.
When it comes to crystal, know that good crystal is brilliant, clear and flawless. If you see chunks, swirls or seams it's not a good sign. Also, when tapped, good crystal should give off a clear bell-like ring.
If you love wine, consider registering for varietal-specific wineglasses.
Here are some of the drinkware items you might want to consider adding to your list:

- Everyday Beverage Glasses (shown)

- Wine Glasses (Red & White)

- Water Goblets

- Champagne Flutes

- Margarita Glasses

- Martini Glasses

- High Ball Glasses

- Old-Fashioned Glasses

- Pilsner Glasses

- Pint Glasses

- Ice Bucket & Tongs

- Wine Decanter

- Bar Tools Set

- Cocktail Shaker

Original Source: http://yumsugar.com/189821

2007-04-29T20:56:00.000-07:00

Dinnerware

Ah, the wedding registry. Some people hate it, while others love it. But one thing's for sure, nearly every couple has one. Personally I think they're fantastic. Creating a registry is probably the only socially acceptable thing you can do where you tell people exactly what you want and have them purchase it for you. And besides, the majority of newlyweds rely on them to get their home stocked with essentials.

Purchasing things off of someone's registry is usually pretty simple, however setting up your own registry can be quite daunting. So to help you maneuver you way through registry dos and don'ts, we'll spotlight each of the five traditional kitchen/dining categories (dinnerware, flatware, glassware, appliances and kitchenware) and provide a bunch of extra tips too. So be sure to check it out each day this week.

To start things off, we'll look into the world of dinnerware. To see what you should add to your list,

These days there seems to be a specialized dish for everything, you can go crazy and put everything on your register, but a good rule of thumb is to put the basics on your registry and add more once things have begun to be purchased (although some people think this is a bad idea and prefer to give their guests as many options as possible).

It's suggested that you register for at least 8 place settings, preferably 12, and a basic set of serving pieces.
Although people traditionally register for two place settings (fancy and everyday), more couples are going for one nicer everyday set instead.
Your formal setting should include: dinner plate, salad plate, bread & butter plate, and cup & saucer - soup bowls are usually not part of the setting, but also make a nice addition to the registry.
Your everyday setting should include: dinner plate, salad plate, soup/cereal bowl and mug or cup & saucer.
If you're not sure of your color scheme, register for white or ivory dishes. You can always add color to your table with linens and decor.
If given the option, be sure to register for the "completer set" - this typically includes vegetable bowl, platters, sugar bowl and creamer, etc. This way everything will match and nothing will be left off the list.
For your everyday place settings, make sure you select something that is safe for microwave, freezer, oven and dishwasher.
Start with the dishes first, you may be tempted to put those cute little gravy boats on your registry first, but it's easier to find accessories to match your set, than the other way around.
Think timeless. Although you may love the wild pattern today, is this something that will pass the test of time? Is it something you would want to pass on to future generations?
And finally, a checklist of dinnerware you should consider adding to your registry:

- Formal Place Settings (8 or 12 settings)
- Casual Everyday Place Settings (8 or 12 settings)
- Cake Plate/Stand
- Butter Dish
- Soup Tureen
- Serving Trays (3-5)
- Serving Bowls (3-5)
- Platters (3-5)
- Salad Bowl
- Salt & Pepper Shakers
- Gravy Boat & Stand
- Teapot
- Pitchers

Original Source: http://yumsugar.com/188472

2007-04-27T19:14:00.000-07:00

Cookware

To round out our wedding registry tips, I thought I'd cover my favorite category, cookware & bakeware. To begin, look at both of your current pots/pans and see if there are any worth keeping, or any sets you have already started. Also look to see what kind of pans you have, are there any you love and want more of? Or maybe you splurged on a fancy brand only to learn you hated the way they heated. Also think about your cooking style. If you're more health conscious, you may want to consider non-stick so that you can use less oil. If you're an aspiring chef, go for hard anodized stainless or copper for superior heat conductivity. To learn what you should look for when selecting pots, pans and bakeware, as well as a pretty full list of things you might want to register for,

Be sure to select materials and styles that reflect your cooking style.
Consider registering for a few different types of pans. Stainless steel requires the least maintenance and can go in the dishwasher, and sometimes you really don't feel like washing the pans by hand.
Copper pans are the best heat conductors, yet cool quickly allowing for maximum heat control. They are also oven safe, however you will have to hand wash them and occasionally polish them too.
Stainless Steel pans have a clean look, and are easy to take care of. They're also oven and dishwasher safe (bonus!).
Enameled Cast Iron pans heat slowly, but distribute heat effectively. The ones with porcelain-enamel insides are stick-resistant and the ones with the porcelain-enamel outsides are quite durable and cute. Plus, the enameled ones are dishwasher and oven safe.
If you don't like baking, then there's probably no need for specialty pans such as springform or popover. You may decide to register for more dinnerware or appliances instead.
Consider registering for pan sets as well as individual pieces. This way you'll break apart the range of prices your guests can choose from.
Cookware should feel good and sturdy in your hands. Also note the weight. If you find the pot too heavy to carry while empty, imagine it full of food.
Be sure to include at least 2 round cake pans and a square or rectangular cake pan. Also most muffin/cupcake recipes yield 24, so you may consider adding two to your registry.
For a fully stocked kitchen, you'll want to consider some of the following:

Cookware:

- Sauce Pans
- Sauté Pans
- Stock Pots
- Frying Pans
- Cast Iron Skillet
- Double Burner Griddle
- Casserole Dishes
- Wok
- Grill Pan
- Braiser
- Roasting Pan
- Paella Pan
- Fish Poacher
- Asparagus Pot
- Double Boiler
- Fondue Pot
- Steamer
- Pressure Cooker
- Tea Kettle
- Dutch Oven

Bakeware:

- Pizza Pans
- Muffin Pans
- Cookie Sheets
- Cake Pans (Round, Square, Rectangular)
- Pie Pans
- Tart Pans
- Loaf Pans
- Bundt Pans
- Popover Pans
- Ramekins
- Rolling Pins
- Springform Pans
- SilPat
- Pizza Stone
- Flour Sifter
- Mixing Bowls
- Cookbook Holder
- Measuring Cups

Original Source: http://yumsugar.com/193473

2007-04-26T21:30:00.000-07:00

Appliances

So we've gone through what you need to look for when choosing dinnerware, drinkware and flatware, so today I thought we'd cover the fun stuff: appliances!

Now every couple is going to be different. If you don't drink coffee, there's no need to register for a coffee pot or espresso machine. Also, since so many couples tend to live together before getting married, they've probably already accumulated quite a few great items, so look at what you have, what you need to replace and what you want. To check out the appliances you might want to consider and some tips on what to look for,

As I mentioned, think about what appliances you want. I know of one girl who registered for a stand mixer, only to give it away (unused!) two years later. She hated baking and knew it before her wedding, but felt she had to register for it anyways.
Just because you want a Kitchen-Aid mixer, doesn't mean you have to select all Kitchen-Aid products. Research each product individually and register for the one that suits you the best.
Some appliances come in different colors, be sure to select ones that coordinate with each other, as well as your kitchen scheme. Personally I think chrome and stainless steel never go out of style. However a fun orange mixer might really suit your kitchen well.
Don't feel obligated to register for a cheaper product, just because it's cheaper. If you want the $400 one, but feel your guests could only justify spending $100, don't feel obligated to register for the cheaper one. Remember, your guests can always go in something as a group, and if no one gets it for you... well, in my opinion, nothing is better than something you didn't really want.
If you don't have the space - and I know a lot of people (myself included) feel they don't - ask yourself if there is a place you can store it until you move into a larger place. You might be in a tiny apartment now, but how about next year?
If you have a huge guest list, you may even consider registering for major appliances like washers, dryers, refrigerators, etc.
Finally, a list of appliances you might want to consider:

- Stand Mixer

- Food Processor

- Hand Mixer

- Toaster

- Waffle Maker

- Blender

- Slow Cooker

- Espresso Machine

- Coffee Pot

- Rice Cooker

- Kitchen Scale

- Thermometer

- Bread Maker

- Juicer

- Ice Cream Maker

Original Source: http://yumsugar.com/192331

2007-04-25T19:22:00.000-07:00

Jamie Oliver Stainless Cookware

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Orignal Source: http://leandroalcalde.zeroblogs.com/2007/02/15/jamie-oliver-stainless-cookware/

2007-04-24T20:39:00.000-07:00

Super Sweet Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s day evokes many memories and feelings, though mine are somewhat different from the norm. Being a single gal, Valentine’s isn’t just about romance at my house. Instead, it’s taken on a new form, and is essentially a great reason to bake/decorate/eat beautiful sweets.

At the top of the list are cupcakes, which are a subject close to my heart. My newest love in the cupcake realm is silicone bakeware: I cannot praise it enough. My favorite part is obviously the non-stick capabilities, and growing assortment of shapes. I also love the fact that it’s lightweight, easy to wash, and won’t break like glass bakeware. Here’s an extra cute *PINK* silicone mini muffin pan from Tar-jay.

For those of you with multiple batches to bake, take a look at this *RED* 24 cup silicone muffin pan with sled (available at Target, too). Or if you’d really rather bake a whole cake, here’s a large heart shaped silicone pan (also available from Target).

I also found these heart shaped pancake molds from Lillian Vernon, and heart shaped waffle iron from Hearth Song. Why is it that food instantly seems more appealing when it’s heart shaped? I’ll never know. I like the idea of serving your loved ones “I

Presentation is everything, so after you’ve made your yummy cupcakes, you’ve gotta serve em’ up right! Treat all your Valentines to hand painted sugar-sweet place settings to go with their dessert. Each set is comprised of a heart shaped plate and mug, with an over all “candy heart” theme. They even have matching embroidered placemats.

So if you’re fretting over what your Valentine’s Day plans will be, try something different! Stock up on supplies and plan a sweets-sampling get together for all the loved ones in your life.

Original Source: http://mables.com/blog/household/diy-sweet-valentines-day.php

2007-04-23T19:15:00.000-07:00

Hot Heads Oven Mitts

hot heads oven mittA familiar theme here at Mable’s is functional things in attractive packages. I’m bored of household items in greys and whites, and I’m pleased to see that the creators of Hot Heads Oven Mitts feel the same. Who says kitchen safety has to be boring? These silicone oven mitts are heat resistant up to 446 degrees, and are flexible, strong, and lightweight. Now you can shield your hands from steaming temps while bringing a smile to your face. Much more durable and heat resistant than traditional woven oven mitts, these silicone mitts are, in the words of Howard Hughes, the way of the future! These would also make great hand puppets for the kiddos, so don’t be surprised if you get requests to borrow these for playtime. Choose from orange doggy or green froggy.

Original Source: http://mables.com/blog/household/hot-heads-oven-mitts.php

2007-04-22T20:44:00.000-07:00

Silicone bakeware: A good idea?

So, you're standing at your favorite housewares store looking for a new muffin tin. Or should I say pan, because what you're seeing is rack after rack of colorful silicone bakeware. You pick one up, it feels weirdly rubbery and floppy and you wonder "do I really want to use this?" I have that problem every time I go to the store looking for new bakeware items. I have yet to test out the silicone (aside from spatulas and scrapers, both of which I love).

I have two problems with silicone bakeware. First is the floppiness. I think if I've got 12 muffins worth of batter and this fragile "tin" requires both hands and all of my attention getting it to and from the oven -- I see potential big kitchen mess here. A recent New York Times article reviews the pros and cons of silicone bakeware. One of the cons they mention are brownies and cakes cracking as they come out of the oven because the pans were not kept completely flat, they bended as they came out. To solve this you'd have to bake them on a cookie sheet (preferably NOT made of silicone), but then you have to adjust cooking times and worry about browning issues. Personally, it sounds like too much trouble -- no matter how ragged-looking my muffin tins get!

The second issue is that of safety. Although assumed safe, no real long-term studies have been done on whether the silicone can leach out at high temperatures. I regularly use silicone spatulas and scrapers because I'm not baking with those and they're not in contact long enough with food items to really leach anything out (I'd like to think that, anyway).

For now I'll keep using my regular bakeware and wait to see if silicone products are a fad or the next wave in cooking.

Original Source: http://www.revolutionhealth.com/blogs/saltandpepper/silicone-bakeware-a--1448

2007-04-20T19:38:00.000-07:00

A Common Question: Which Bakeware and Cookware are Safe?

Before you use start firing your kitchen up, there is still strong concern and questions with non-stick varieties.

To be on the safe side, ultimately it’s smart to stop using cookware with non-stick finishes.

So what can you use? Look for aluminum and steel bakeware without nonstick finishes at many home good stores. Copper cookware is esteemed for its heat conductivity but should not be used unless it is lined with tin or stainless steel.

Glass, stainless steel, and cast iron (my favorite: Lodge) are all tried and true for safety. In fact, cast iron can add needed iron to your diet.

Pyrex bakeware can be used for many items. It is completely nontoxic and made from abundant natural minerals. They have cake pans, pie pans and various casseole dishes, but no muffin tins or baking sheets.

Use wholesome ingredients, cook wisely and safely, and bon appetite!

Original Source: http://healthychild.org/blog/comments/a_common_question_which_bakeware_and_
cookware_are_safe/

2007-04-19T20:59:00.000-07:00

Which Bakeware to Use?

I have been asked about baking pans — which materials perform best and are safest — teflon-coated aluminum, steel, glass or the new silicone.

I don’t use teflon pans. PFOA used in the manufacture of teflon is toxic, and the EPA has fined DuPont for releasing PFOA into the environment and covering up the danger.

Aluminum and steel are the best heat conductors for baking. If you use an aluminum pan, just line it with parchment paper, which you can find in rolls near the wax paper and plastic wrap. Parchment paper is a fantastic disposable, recyclable non-stick surface. If you use parchment, you don’t need to grease or oil the baking surface.

I have tried silicone baking utensils, but they are such good insulators that the baked goods come out raw. I’d avoid silicone for that reason alone.

Glass transmits heat too quickly, causing the bottoms to burn before the center can bake.
This might work for a crispy pie crust, but is not what you want for a cake or cookies.

Original Source: http://goodbaker.com/blog/?p=5

2007-04-18T19:57:00.000-07:00

Silicone Baking Products

The Quiet Revolution

One of my favorite pieces of kitchen kit has always been a simple plastic pastry mat I received as a gift many years ago. It did an excellent job of keeping flour off the counter and was imprinted with circles showing how far dough should be rolled out for different sizes of pie and tart pans. The mat also made it easier to get pie crusts into a pan, because you could invert the pan onto the dough and then just flip the entire assembly over. Try that with a countertop! Well, a few months ago, my faithful pastry mat finally gave up the ghost, so I headed down to my favorite kitchen supply store to buy a replacement.

Kitchen stores are dangerous places for me, just like hardware stores and computer stores. Everywhere I look there’s some newfangled, high-tech gadget calling out to me, and my mind races as I consider all the new things I could create if only I had this or that new tool. I thought I would be safe in the cookie-sheet aisle, though: all I needed was a simple US$5 plastic mat. And there it was, right next to…wait, what’s this? A $25 fiberglass-reinforced, nonstick, heatproof, silicone pastry mat! Although I did not immediately grasp how this technological wonder would improve on the old-fashioned plastic mat, it was shiny and had an irresistible texture, not to mention lots of impressive-looking words on the box. Guess which one I left with.

Sticking Points

One of the major selling points of the silicone mat was that because it had a nonstick surface, it was not necessary to flour it before rolling out dough. I should have realized this claim was nonsense, though: I’ve found that moist dough sticks quite nicely even to a Teflon-coated rolling pin, whereas dry flour does not—making it harder in some cases, not easier, to roll out dough. The silicone mat behaves much the same way. Its slightly tacky surface keeps it from sliding around on the counter, which is good, but rolling out dough on the top is no different from rolling out dough on any other surface. The flour is still mandatory.

However, the claim of nonstickiness is not exactly false either. Silicone is, as the package said, heatproof—it can live quite happily in a 500°F (260°C) oven. If you bake something on it—cookies or pastries, say—they will indeed slide right off. Unfortunately, the mat I bought is too wide for my oven, though many smaller mats of similar design are made for the express purpose of lining baking sheets. In other words, silicone baking mats function as reusable parchment paper, which makes sense because parchment paper, after all, is simply silicone-coated paper. The mats simply replace the paper substrate with, in most cases, a finely woven fiberglass mesh that helps the silicone to keep its shape and prevent tearing.

Not long after I picked up the pastry mat, I began to notice an explosion of silicone baking products in kitchen stores: cake pans, muffin pans, cookie molds, oven mitts, spatulas, whisks, and so on. Silicone appears to be the trendy new kitchen wonder material. But is it really all that great? What makes it better than metal or plastic?

Versatility, Thy Name is Silicone

Silicone is not the name of a specific chemical substance but rather a whole class of polymers, all based on a particular arrangement of silicon and oxygen atoms. Unlike elemental silicon, the brittle material from which computer chips are made, silicone is generally flexible and translucent. Silicones vary in density and texture; some are liquid (used as sealants, adhesives, and lubricants), some are a gel (used in surgical implants), and still others, such as the ones used in baking products, are more solid.

Three properties in particular make silicone interesting as a bakeware material. First, unlike metal, it’s a poor conductor of heat. (Or, to look at it the other way around, it’s an excellent insulator.) This prevents whatever’s on the other side from burning—whether it’s a cookie or your hand. Second, it can tolerate a huge range of temperatures—from freezer to oven—without melting or cracking, so it can be used in situations that would destroy conventional plastic or rubber. And third, it’s flexible, which means removing Bundt cakes, muffins, and the like is a simple matter of flexing the mold. The combination of flexibility and light weight also makes silicone products easy to store.

So are there any downsides to this miracle substance? Well, the very properties that make silicone useful can, in some cases, cause problems. Because it’s a good insulator, it inhibits not only burning but browning. So if you’re baking something that should be crispy on the outside, silicone is not your friend—stick with metal. Also, silicone’s flexibility can cause large molds to deform when filled with dense, heavy batters. And because silicone baking mats, pans, and molds are not rigid, you often need to put them on a regular baking sheet just to get them into and out of the oven without spilling their contents. On the other hand, a whole stack of silicone baking sheets could fall off a shelf without waking up your downstairs neighbor. It’s arguably the world’s quietest bakeware, and I’ll gladly pay a premium for that.

Original Source: http://shop-silicone-bakeware.com/Blog/?p=10

2007-04-17T21:49:00.000-07:00

Silicone Bakeware

I ordered some silicone bakeware back in October of last year and I honestly am not a fan of it. I've used what I have a few times and each time it would bake the cake nicely, but my problem was getting it out of the bakeware itself. I've tried spraying it with the Pam with Flour spray to leaving it alone (since it's supposed to slide right out). Everytime, the top of the cake would split in two, half of the cake on my serving platter and the other half still stuck in the silicone bakeware.

I have exhausted all other means of trying to get my cakes out perfectly from the silicone bakeware I received. My question is, if you own silicone bakeware, do you have the same problems? Could it be the brand of silicone bakeware I have? (I ordered this from Collections Etc. in October, it's a holiday silicone bakeware set.) What kinds of things do you do to ensure you cake comes out perfectly?

Original Source: http://pieisthenewtoast.blogspot.com/2007/02/silicone-bakeware.html

2007-04-17T02:11:00.000-07:00

What are the Advantage’s of Silicone Bakeware?

Silicon bakeware has become very popular lately, and for many good reasons. You can still bake a perfectly good cake or loaf of bread in a metal, ceramic, or glass pan, but with all that silicon bakeware has to offer, you might not want to. Silicon bakeware is long-lasting, easy to store, lightweight, and portable. Once you try silicon bakeware, you may not want to bake with anything else.

One of the key benefits of silicon bakeware is that it is durable and long lasting. Silicon bakeware is relatively soft and flexible. It will not dent or rust like metal bakeware can. You can bump or drop silicon bakeware without worrying that it might break the way glass or ceramic bakeware can. These features of silicon bakeware also make it safer to use, because you do not have to worry about sharp edges or broken pieces.

Another selling point of silicon bakeware is that its flexibility makes it easy to store and transport. Not only is silicon bakeware flexible, but it tends to be much more lightweight than similar glass, ceramic, or metal bakeware. These features of silicon bakeware allow it to be more easily stored in small spaces. Its light weight makes it easier to lift into and out of the oven, a feature that any baker will appreciate.

Silicon bakeware is highly portable for the same reasons that it is easy to store. You can toss a silicon bread pan, muffin tin, or cake pan into a box or the back seat of a car without worrying that it will break anything. A silicon bakeware cookie sheet can be folded into a backpack or wrapped around a rolling pin. A single person could easily carry enough silicon bakeware to prepare food for a large party. Try carrying a backpack full of ceramic casserole dishes!

Perhaps the best thing about silicon bakeware is that it cooks just like other kinds of bakeware. You don’t need a special oven or utensils to use it, and the baked goods that you make will come out of the oven tasting just as delicious as if you had used an older, less convenient pan. Silicon bakeware is easy to clean with dish soap and warm water. Best of all, silicon bakeware is safe to use in the freezer, oven, microwave, and dishwasher.

Whether you need a cake pan or cookie sheet, a muffin tin or a madeleine mold, chances are you can find a silicon bakeware product that serves your needs. With so many useful features, it is no wonder that silicon bakeware is so popular and well loved among amateur and professional bakers alike.

Original Source:http://shop-silicone-bakeware.com/Blog/?p=3

2007-04-15T21:58:00.000-07:00

What should I consider when buying a cookie sheet?

Most people like to bake cookies, whether for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet tooth. Some bake cookies on whatever bakeware they have available, but a cookie sheet is really the best utensil for the job. A cookie sheet is usually a sheet of sturdy aluminum, often with a raised “lip” on one end so it can be handled with ease. Since cookies, unlike cakes or brownies, do not have to rise to fill a pan, sides are not necessary.

One of the first things to consider when buying a cookie sheet is size. How big a cookie sheet should a shopper buy? That may depend on the size of the oven. Some small apartment stoves have narrow ovens, and a large cookie sheet will not fit all the way inside. It’s never a bad idea to measure the length and width of the cooking rack if you have a smaller stove.

Some cooks find a jellyroll pan, that is, a baking sheet with shallow sides, to be good for baking cookies. This may be a lifesaver for larger or heavier cookies that might slide off a regular cookie sheet. A jellyroll pan’s shallow sides do not interfere with how the cookies bake.

A cookie sheet may be aluminum, coated with a non-stick finish or “insulated.” An insulated cookie sheet has two layers of aluminum, with air in between. This helps ensure golden-brown, not burned, bottoms. However, the cook needs to remember that insulated bakeware of any kind should never be immersed in water for cleaning. Rather, it should be washed by hand and spray-rinsed. Otherwise, water could seep in through the seams in the metal, ruining the pan.

A cook should always have more than one cookie sheet. Cookies are rarely baked in a single batch, and a second, or even third, cookie sheet can help a cook bake multiple batches more efficiently. Quality and size usually determine the price of a cookie sheet. A medium cookie sheet may cost anywhere from 5 to 25 US dollars (USD), depending on maker and quality. The cookie sheet can serve many functions in a kitchen, and the wise cook will make sure to have one around.

Original Source: http://shop-silicone-bakeware.com/Blog/?p=6

2007-04-14T00:08:00.000-07:00

What are the different types of Bakeware?

There are many different types of bakeware, all designed for a specific end result when cooking or baking. The differences in bakeware are not just limited to the design, but also include the material from which the bakeware is constructed and the surface it is given. There are several different designs that may be specific to a recipe, but most bakeware can be used for multiple purposes.

Bakeware consists of all pans and dishes that can be used in an oven. There are square and rectangular dishes of different sizes, flat pans, fluted pans, cupcake pans, loaf pans, and many other various sizes and shapes of bakeware. Some recipes call for specific pans or dishes to produce the desired result, while others can be made using your personal preference. Size and shape can affect baking times, so it is important to have a recipe that outlines the required baking time for the selected bakeware. Cake recipes are a good example of when varying baking times to a certain pan size or shape is necessary.

Bakeware is made from various materials including glass, silicone, stone, cast iron, aluminum, and steel, and each type cooks differently. Bakeware constructed of ovenproof glass for instance, heats up faster and holds heat longer than metal bakeware, so it often requires a slight reduction in baking time. Similarly, silicone bakeware may require adjustments to baking time as it does not absorb the heat, but rather transfers heat evenly through the food. Silicone also stops cooking the minute it is removed from the heat source, eliminating further browning after being removed from the oven. Sometimes, experimenting with the various materials and types of bakeware, their performance in your oven, and the end result they produce is the only way to find your personal preference.

The different materials used to manufacture bakeware also affect the care required for maintaining them. For instance, stone and cast iron bakeware have a porous surface that requires curing before use. Cast iron should be dried quickly after washing in a warm oven or over low heat to avoid rusting. Stone bakeware should not be washed with soap unless its surface has been sealed. You should also avoid using metal utensils such as knives or spatulas on non-stick bakeware to avoid scratching the coated surface. Follow all manufacturers’ cleaning instructions, which will be specific to the product itself, to extend the life of your bakeware.

Original Source: http://shop-silicone-bakeware.com/Blog/?p=5

2007-04-13T00:36:00.000-07:00

Silicone KitchenTools

Silicone Kitchen Tools Can Really Take the Heat

Cooking and baking tools that can take the heat, now that’s a great concept. I decided to break into this new line rather small, I bought a spatula. And boy was I impressed. I can’t wait to branch out to silicone muffin pans, which feel and look like rubber that you can twist, and presto, muffins should pop right out!

I’ve put the spatula through a trial run, and after a year, it still looks new. And yes, I did use it! It has no missing corners; which was usually the case with the old style, which melted away with use. Silicone baking tools have longer handles, and are dishwasher safe.

But their best feature is that the silicone is rated to withstand heat temperatures without melting. However, these ratings vary by manufacturer. My spatula is rated and labeled to withstand 450 degrees.

I’ve noticed that some have higher heat ratings of 900 degrees. However, the handles or other parts may not be heat resistant.

They are also resistant to discoloring, and cool down very quickly. As far as pricing goes, they are just slightly more expensive than their counterparts, but with their great features, they’ll be around a lot longer.

Original Source: http://shop-silicone-bakeware.com/Blog/?p=11

2007-04-11T20:33:00.000-07:00

Rounding out your cookware with baking pans

When buying cookware, many people focus so much on pots and pans that they completely overlook an important cooking category: baking pans. The pans that you buy for baking are just as crucial to your success as the pans that you buy for cooking, so be sure to choose them carefully.

Bakeware comes in a variety of materials and shapes. If you are trying to decide whether to buy silicon or glass baking pans, here is a quick breakdown of the most common types of materials:

Aluminum – Aluminum baking pans are inexpensive and lightweight, and therefore popular. However, they do not brown baked items well, and they may react with acidic foods. The cheaper aluminum pans also tend to warp and stain quickly, meaning they must be frequently replaced. Nonstick and anodized aluminum may reduce some of the disadvantages of the less expensive aluminum pans.

Glass – Glass is a favorite material to use with baking pans because it is non-reactive, easy to clean, browns food nicely, and bakes evenly. It tends to last a long time without visible signs of wear. However, it tends to be on the pricey side, and it can shatter if cooled too quickly.

Stainless steel – Although stainless steel looks beautiful and has a highly reflective shine, it is a poor choice for bakeware because it does not transmit heat well. This will cause burning when you bake.

Stoneware – Stone is an excellent material for baking pans, because it transmits and retains heat beautifully. It helps to keep your baking warm long after removal from the oven. However, stone bakeware can be very expensive.

Silicone – Silicon baking pans are new on the market, and they work very well. They are flexible, inexpensive, can be frozen or microwaved, and they can be easily folded to take up less room in your cabinets. Furthermore, they do not retain any heat at all, meaning that baking will not burn when it is left in the pan.

When you are creating the budget for your cookware, be sure to remember to factor in your baking pans as well. Good baking equipment is a huge help in creating beautiful cakes, cookies, pies, and more.

Original Source: http://shop-silicone-bakeware.com/Blog/?p=7

2007-04-10T19:29:00.000-07:00

Get Cooking With Right Pots and Pans

Like so many brides-to-be, Sarah Lamb has faced some tough decisions. Style of invitation. Reception menu. Seating arrangements. And of course, which brand of pricey cookware belongs on her gift registry. And brand is just the start. Which style of which brand? Which pans in that style? Is a 9-inch skillet enough? Or should she go with the 12-inch? Will she need both? Copper core or aluminum? Nonstick or stainless steel?

The once simple act of buying pots and pans has become bewildering, thanks mostly to the continuing influx of high-end professional gear coming into the home kitchen - and with that the elevation of cookware to status symbol. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by options.

"There is more technology that you need to understand" than for items such as china or stemware, says Lamb, a 30-year-old Minneapolis resident with a June wedding date. "We researched online. We talked to people in the specialty stores. We got a lot of information."

Here's how to make sense of all that information and be sure your pans are as good a match for you as your mate. Maybe better.

THE ESSENTIALS

Last year, Americans spent $3.2 billion on 512 million pieces of cookware and bakeware, according to Hugh Rushing, executive vice president of the Cookware Manufacturers Association. That's a lot of cookware. How much of it was essential?

Experts agree on four must-have pots and pans - a skillet, a saucepan, a Dutch oven and a stockpot.

The skillet - which is used for eggs, pancakes, burgers, and stir-frying - is the most popular piece, accounting for nearly a third of sales. They come in numerous sizes, but those in the 10- to 12-inch range (measured at the rim) are the best-sellers, according to Rushing.

There's good reason for that, says Lisa McManus, senior editor and equipment tester at Cook's Illustrated magazine. Most recipes call for large skillets, and she advises people to go with a 12-inch model.

The other kitchen workhorse is the saucepan, which is as useful for heating soups and sauces as for boiling pasta and cooking rice. Because the saucepan is used so much, Rushing recommends two of varying sizes, such as a 2-quart and a 4-quart.

Dutch ovens (heavy, lidded pots with double handles and a thick bottom) are used less frequently, but are no less essential.

They are great for stews (the meat can be browned in the pan before the other ingredients are added) and frying, and can go in the oven.

Most Dutch ovens come in 5- to 8-quart models, but McManus says a 5-quart would suffice for most home cooks.

Stockpots are used for cooking soup, pasta, lobster and vegetables, such as corn on the cob.

Many come with colander inserts, which make it easy to drain pasta. These inserts can double as steamer baskets.

Celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck favors an 8-quart stockpot.

THE SURFACE

With most cooking surfaces, such as stainless steel, some sort of liquid or fat is needed to prevent sticking. Nonstick pans, which outsell stainless steel 2-to-1, are the exception. These pans have special coatings that make cooking and cleanup easy.

However, nonstick pans have drawbacks.

Many scratch easily, which means metal utensils cannot be used on them. And though they have improved in recent years, the coatings still deteriorate over time. Using the pans over very high heat can accelerate that process.

Most manufacturers also recommend against putting nonstick pans in the dishwasher, as the heat can damage the surface. For the same reason, nonstick pans cannot be used with high heat (500 F or more) or left empty inside a hot oven or over a hot burner.

But for some delicate dishes, a nonstick pan is almost essential. Crepes, for example. This is why many experts suggest having one nonstick pan, usually a medium skillet. These also are good for low-fat cooking, as little or no fat is needed.

THE MATERIALS

Quality cookware heats quickly and evenly. How well pots and pans do that depends on what they are made of. Common choices include copper, aluminum, stainless steel, cast iron and enameled cast iron, and each reacts differently to heat.

Copper and aluminum conduct heat best, meaning the heat spreads quickly and evenly through the pan. But copper is expensive and tarnishes easily. Aluminum is soft, scratches easily and can react with acidic foods, such as tomatoes, producing off tastes.

Stainless steel has low conductivity, but resists scratches and is easy to clean.

Most cooks will want what is referred to as clad cookware, which is a combination of metals.

In the latter, a layer of copper or aluminum is bonded between layers of stainless steel, providing great heating with a strong, easy-to-clean surface.

Another good option is anodized aluminum. These are aluminum pans that have been specially treated with a process that hardens the metal (and gives it a distinctive dark color) and makes it resistant to scratches and dents. Anodized aluminum will not react with acidic foods.

Cast iron and enameled cast iron heat very well. However, both are extremely heavy. And while cast-iron pans are inexpensive, many brands of enameled cast iron are not. The weight of these pans can make them impractical for daily use.

A SET OR A LA CARTE?

Though buying cookware piece-by-piece is far more popular than by the set, opinion is divided over which is the better bargain.

While Consumer Reports magazine, which rated cookware in December 2005, says sets generally are the best value, others warn shoppers should take care that they are getting everything they need.

Cook's Illustrated's McManus, however, says go with the individual pieces.

"We never really like sets. It's like anything that gets bundled together. You get a bunch of stuff that you don't really need and you may come out saving money if you bought one-by-one," she says.

HOW TO BUY

Let your hands guide you, says Rushing. When buying cookware, pick up the skillet or saucepan and test how comfortable it is in your hand. Make sure the handle is sturdy, durable and fits well in your grip.

How much to spend? Consumer Reports found that higher costs don't necessarily equal better performance for basic cooking. In fact, the magazine's recommended best value buy was a 14-piece set by Kirkland Signature for sale at Costco for $150.

But Consumer Reports' findings don't jibe with those who spend their days in the kitchen.

"If you spend a little more you will get something that will perform better and last longer," says McManus. She is partial to the All-Clad stainless steel, which has an aluminum core. The 10-inch skillet goes for $105, while the company's 2-quart saucepan runs $140.

"You can overspend on cookware, paying thousands of dollars buying fancy French copper pots," Rushing says. "But you can also buy a perfectly good set for $39." The difference is the $39 set isn't going to last.

"Spend about $175 and it will last for the next 10 years, but not a lifetime," he says. "So don't buy the cheapest and not the most expensive. Buy the best cookware you can afford with your budget and try not to be cheap about it."

If you must go cheap on one pan, make it the stockpot. Because these most often are used to boil pasta or steam corn, quality is less of a concern. Be careful when making soups and stews, however, as cheap pans can leave scorched bottoms.

Lamb, the soon-to-be bride, is likely to go big. "We did a lot of research and we're leaning toward the All-Clad stainless steel 10-piece set for about $639," she says. "My fiance likes to cook."

Original Source: http://www.theledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070405/NEWS/704050458/1326

2007-04-09T21:08:00.000-07:00

Silicone Bakeware

When I first saw silicone bakeware at David Jones over a year ago I couldn't help but be intrigued. With the prices starting at around $30 for a 6-muffin tray I couldn't really afford to be tempted at the time, but now silicone bakeware has even started appearing at Coles and Woolworths and the prices have fallen, so when Myer had a bunch of it on special a couple of weeks ago Gam and I bought a silicone tart dish. I'd already decided that a silicone cake or loaf tin would be a bad idea because its flexibility meant there was a distinct possibility of slopping cake batter over the side of the tray on the way to the oven. A bicuit tray was a possibility, but as we didn't have a dedicated tart dish and Gam wanted to give it a go with his pecan pie we got the tart dish.

According to Gam, putting the pastry into the dish for blind-baking was 'about the same' in terms of difficulty. After blind-baking the pastry crust he thought it needed more support because the flexibility of the dish meant there was a possibility of breaking the crust while carrying it from the oven. There was also potential for spilling the contents once the pastry had been filled, so he put the dish on a pizza tray for support. The best feature of the silicone tart tray was the ease with which the tart could be removed; usually we just cut it up and serve it from the dish in which it is baked, so it was nice to be able to remove the whole tart so easily.

Aside from the sheer novelty of silicone bakeware I must say that it doesn't hold a lot of appeal on practical terms, given that another silicone product -silicone-impregnated baking paper- already makes baking cakes and biscuits so goddamn easy. Armed with a regular bicuit tray, springform tin or regular square cake tin and a roll of the aforementioned baking paper there is no need to bother with greasing and flouring and gingerly easing the cake from the tin for fear of it sticking. For biscuits I just grab the edge of the paper and slide the whole batch, paper and all, onto a cooling rack. For cakes you can leave it to cool a little then grab the edges of the paper and lift the cake out of its tin and onto the cooling rack.

Original Source: http://todaysapatheticyouth.blogspot.com/2007/01/silicone-bakeware.html

2007-04-08T20:06:00.000-07:00

Final thoughts on silicone bakeware

Don't. Buy. It.

Today, I finally used the muffin pan. I made blueberry muffins, which I have been craving for ages. The muffins are OK, but not great. First, they are kind of flat (this seems to be a theme for me with the silicone ware). I guess the different conductive properties of silicone result in less well-risen baked goods. Secondly, the muffins didn't brown at all on the bottoms (again with the different conductive properties). This is not just a cosmetic issue--browning is a form of caramelization and has important flavor implications! Thirdly, the muffins have a faint chemical flavor. I think. I'm not totally positive. I might be just imagining it, because the final negative aspect of the silicone pan is that while the muffins were baking, there was an unpleasant chemical odor. I think I detect the same odor as part of the flavor make-up of the muffins, but I might just be projecting it. In any case, the strong chemical odor is definitely unpleasant. And I was denied the a significant positive externality of baking: that wonderful scent of something baking.

The one positive thing: the muffins absolutely, positively did not stick.

So, old-fashioned metal bakeware 3, silicone bakeware 1/2 (because the muffins didn't stick). I guess the silicone pans will be on the yard sale pile this summer.

Original Source: http://republicofheaven.blogspot.com/2006/05/final-thoughts-on-silicone-bakeware.html

2007-04-07T00:45:00.000-07:00

The Flexible Approach to Baking

Thanks to cosmetic surgery, colorful, flexible bakeware may not be the first thing you think of when you hear or see the word ‘silicone.’ Yet food-grade silicone is rapidly finding a place on our kitchen shelves. First there was the roll-up nonstick baking mat, followed by spatulas, whisks and other little accessories. Now, there’s a whole range of eye-pleasing, brightly colored pans for baking muffins, various shaped cakes and breads. There’s even a silicone rolling pin to complete the nonstick, silicone baking experience. So what’s the big deal?

For my two young daughters, the color’s the thing, and how “feely,” or tactile, it is. For grown-ups, its inherent nonstick qualities combined with its flexibility are the key. The promise of being able to peel out a cake, or have your muffins slip out without being coaxed by a knife, is appealing to say the least.

Theoretically, you can do away with greasing and flouring (although some makers of the bakeware suggest you still do so if the recipe requires it), making it an ideal tool for low fat baking.

The pans are undoubtedly versatile. They can be rolled up for storage, and twisted and misshapen any number of ways (though why you would want to beats me!). The pans can be used in the freezer, the microwave or the oven, and are generally dishwasher-safe. Silicone bakeware is non-porous so it doesn’t retain odors or flavors. It takes only a minute or two to cool down after use, and because of its nonstick qualities, clean-up is a breeze.

Silicone seems to distribute heat evenly, but as with dark metal pans or regular nonstick tins, cakes baked in silicone pans may require less time in the oven. And despite withstanding a wide range of temperatures, not all pans can withstand the highest heats. Some claim to work up to 500 degrees, others set an upper limit of 428 degrees, which could rule out some of your favorite muffin recipes.

Finally, because the pans are flexible they should be handled with care. It is best to place them on a tray or cookie sheet before filling them and taking them to the oven or freezer. Taking a filled muffin pan to the oven without doing so would be challenging to say the least.

So whether silicone bakeware is ideal for all our baking needs remains to be seen, but there seem to be enough good reasons to add a splash of color to our kitchens and be rid of those rusty old cake tins.

Original Source: http://lowfatcooking.about.com/od/lowfatcookingtools/a/silicone1004.htm

2007-04-06T00:18:00.000-07:00

Silicon Bakeware :: Tips on Using and Keeping

Silicone Bakeware Basics - Tips on How to Use Silicone Bakeware

While many home chefs have embraced this newest line of bakeware products, some of us have been slightly reluctant to depart from our traditional metal and glass baking pans that have stood the test of time, long enough to even 'test drive' a silicone pan.

Their cheerfully bright colors do attract our attention, but it's their general flimsiness that raises a few skeptic baker's eyebrows. However, manufacturers have been very quick to allay our visions of folding pans and overflowing batter, by designing optional or companion racks or 'sleds' that provide the much-needed stability especially for the larger pans.

If you haven't yet ventured out to try one of these, you may be pleasantly surprised, I certainly was. I started out slowly at first, with spatulas which were very economical - no big risk, and these quickly captured this baker's heart and were rewarded with a spot in the handy main tool holder.

Goodbye rubber - hello silicone spatulas! They really are that good - no melting and no more scissor-trimming to remove worn edges. They can take the heat and you can even use them in a hot skillet to scramble your eggs. After a year and considerable mileage, they still look like new.

Since the spatulas passed the test, it was on to bigger silicone baking tools - a general purpose loaf pan. To grease or not to grease the bakeware was the question, and I opted for 'not' trusting the silicone would work its releasing magic.

Results were terrific - quick even baking and cooling. But what was most impressive was the easy loaf removal. A slight twist or should I say movement of the pan, and sides just pulled away, revealing an evenly baked delicious banana loaf that gently rolled out onto the cutting board.

The only drawback was the size of the pan, slightly smaller than a regular bread pan, which required transferring a small amount of batter to a single-serving pan. No problem, neighbors were happy to share in the baking.

Silicone bakeware is made of FDA-approved food grade silicone, and should denote this on the packaging label. Each piece of silicone has its own limitation as to manufacturer recommended maximum oven temperature, and this is usually stamped right on the product.

Benefits of Silicone Bakeware

No greasing or oiling of pans required
Pans heat quickly and bake evenly with no burnt or dark edges or bottom.
Removal from pans is super easy - a slight twist or gently pulling on the sides, and roll out your baking.
Freezer, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher and oven safe.
Bake, store, freeze and reheat right in the pans.
No rusting or staining.
No need to alter your batter or temperature - bake as usual.
Cleanup is a breeze.
Lightweight and perfect for a camper or RV.
Storing is easy - although they do not easily nest, no special attention is required, they retain their shape.

Notable Tips for Successful Baking

Follow manufacturer's maximum heat ratings.
Pans are hot to touch while in the oven but cool down quickly; use hot pads to remove them.
Using a cookie sheet underneath will provide stability even for smaller pans.
Always use a metal baker's sheet or specially designed sled or rack underneath wider or larger silicone pans.
Wash pans thoroughly before first use.
Warranties tend to vary.
Do not use knives or sharp objects - they could damage your pans.
Never use on an open flame or on stovetop burners.

Imagine the uses for silicone bakeware, you can freeze conversation- inspiring shaped ice cubes for the punch bowl or use the pans for your favorite gelled salads or desserts. And no more fears of your special coffee cake not releasing from the pan.

Silicone bakeware has been in use commercially for several years, but it's still quite new to the home market. Will it survive the test of time? I think it will - like anything new, we just need to give it a chance to show off its great features.

Original Source -http://kappadiva.typepad.com/divablog/2006/10/silicon_bakewar.html

2007-04-05T01:37:00.000-07:00

BAKEWARE BUYING TIPS

Be sure to select materials and styles that reflect your cooking style.
Consider registering for a few different types of pans. Stainless steel requires the least maintenance and can go in the dishwasher, and sometimes you really don't feel like washing the pans by hand.
Copper pans are the best heat conductors, yet cool quickly allowing for maximum heat control. They are also oven safe, however you will have to hand wash them and occasionally polish them too.
Stainless Steel pans have a clean look, and are easy to take care of. They're also oven and dishwasher safe (bonus!).
Enameled Cast Iron pans heat slowly, but distribute heat effectively. The ones with porcelain- enamel insides are stick-resistant and the ones with the porcelain-enamel outsides are quite durable and cute. Plus, the enameled ones are dishwasher and oven safe.
If you don't like baking, then there's probably no need for specialty pans such as springform or popover. You may decide to register for more dinnerware or appliances instead.
Consider registering for pan sets as well as individual pieces. This way you'll break apart the range of prices your guests can choose from.
Cookware should feel good and sturdy in your hands. Also note the weight. If you find the pot too heavy to carry while empty, imagine it full of food.
Be sure to include at least 2 round cake pans and a square or rectangular cake pan. Also most muffin/cupcake recipes yield 24, so you may consider adding two to your registry.

2007-04-03T23:08:00.000-07:00

Anolon Bakeware 9 Springform

Anolon SureGripTM Bakeware is designed to make baking more efficient, safer and easier, while standing up to the rigors of serious baking. Our Bakeware is constructed of carbon steel, which conducts heat better than stainless steel making it better to use for all baking tasks.

The handles are covered in silicone, which is oven safe up to 240oC/475oF (o needs to be in superscript) Gas Mark 9 and is non-slip providing the cook with a secure grip, even when using oven gloves. For added convenience the bakeware has a dual layer non-stick coating inside and outside for easy food release and cleaning.

Features:

Anolon SureGripTM Bakeware is designed to make baking more efficient, safer and easier, while standing up to the rigors of serious baking. Anolon SureGripTM Bakeware is constructed of carbon steel, which conducts heat better than stainless steel, it is ideal to use for all baking tasks.

The handles are covered in silicone, which is oven safe up to 240?C/475?F Gas Mark 9 and is non-slip providing the cook with a secure grip, even when using oven gloves.

For added convenience the bakeware has a dual layer non-stick coating inside and outside for easy food release and cleaning.

Check more bakeware products at Blue Shoots Ltd.

2007-03-30T20:48:00.000-07:00

Non-Stick Bakeware

From springform cake tins to 12 cup muffin pans we have an extremely large range of everyday bakeware to, including Mermaid traditional.

Hard Anodised Bakeware

Mermaid and Silverwood both provide
hard anodised bakeware with it's thicker than steel finish and long lasting attributes coupled with it's easy to release qualities.

Silver Anodised Bakeware

Often the preferred choice of many pastry chefs, silver anodised bakeware gives excellent results due to the even spreading of heat, easy release and non-stick qualities.

Silicone Bakeware

Silicone bakeware has become increasingly popular due to it's flexibility, non-stick, freezer safe, dishwasher safe odour free properties, among other attributes.

2007-01-04T06:20:00.000-08:00

Various types of bakeware

Cake pans can include square pans, round pans, and specialty pans such as angel food cake pans and springform pans often used for baking cheesecake.

Casserole dishes are commonly made of glazed ceramics or pyrex. They have high sides and usually have handles.

Roasters or roasting pans are a casserole variant with higher sides designed for roasting of meats. Roasters are usually made of heavy gauge metal so that they may be used safely on a cooktop following roasting in an oven.Sheetpans or cookie sheets are bakeware with large flat surfaces.

Kitchen Bakeware Information Posted By: Blueshoots.com

2006-12-29T05:32:00.000-08:00

Users benifits of kitchen bakeware

Bakeware - If you're going to try your hand at baking cakes, try to choose an all purpose cake tin that you can use over again. The type with a loose bottom or spring-loaded sides make getting the cake out of the tin much easier. For bread, a loaf tin is a must, but you can also use this for meat loaf or paté.

A couple of flat baking trays are handy for meringues, biscuits (cookies), sausage rolls and similar items. For individual cakes, buns, tarts, mince pies or Yorkshire puddings a twelve hole tin is a must, preferably non-stick.

Bakeware Information Posted By : Blueshoots.com

2006-12-19T06:19:00.000-08:00

Kitchen bakeware and much more things...

Product Information

Simax deep cake pan (8 1/2'' diameter x 2''). Heat resistant glass. Easy to see food while baking. Heat evenly distributed by glass. Safe in the oven and the microwave. Dishwasher safe.

Blue Shoots Ltd is a provider of high quality kitchenware, including a large range of cookware, cutlery, kitchen knives, knife sharpeners, toasters, kettles, blenders, food processors and mixers, a wide selection of aprons and so much more. Key brands available include Sabatier, Stellar, Magimix, Zyliss, Dualit, KitchenAid, Judge Vista amongst others. For More Information Visit : www.blueshoots.com

Bakeware Information Posted By : Blueshoots.com

2006-12-11T04:56:00.000-08:00

Heat Resistant Quality Bakeware

Product Information

Simax Sculptured Cake Form, 8''. Heat resistant glass. Microwave, oven, and dishwasher safe. Provides ability to see the entire cooking process. Even heat distribution. For cakes, casseroles, and cold desserts.

Bakeware supply

If you are considering purchasing new cookware, you probably are wondering how to make the most sensible purchase and still get all the pieces and features you need. Price is always a major factor in deciding which cookware set is right for you. For those looking for a fun way to enjoy fruits and vegetables, why not make some popsicles? Popsicles are not just for kids anymore, and pouring fruit or vegetable juice into a popsicle mold is a great way to make a delicious and nutritious snack. Even a plain green salad of lettuce and tomatoes can be enhanced through the use of colorful fruits and vegetables. Adding vegetables like carrots, bean sprouts, and spinach leaves, and fruits like mandarin oranges, apple slices, nectarine slices, grapes, apple slices, pineapples and raisins, adds both beauty and taste to any salad.

Bakeware Information Posted By : Blueshoots.com

2006-11-23T05:35:00.000-08:00

Benefits of Silicone Bakeware

No greasing or oiling of pans required
Pans heat quickly and bake evenly with no burnt or dark edges
or bottom.
Removal from pans is super easy - a slight twist or gently
pulling on the sides, and roll out your baking.
Freezer, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher and oven safe.
Bake, store, freeze and reheat right in the pans.
No rusting or staining.
No need to alter your batter or temperature - bake as usual.
Cleanup is a breeze.
Lightweight and perfect for a camper or RV.
Storing is easy - although they do not easily nest, no special
attention is required, they retain their shape.

Notable Tips for Successful Baking

Follow manufacturer's maximum heat ratings.
Pans are hot to touch while in the oven but cool down quickly;
use hot pads to remove them.
Using a cookie sheet underneath will provide stability even
for smaller pans.
Always use a metal baker's sheet or specially designed sled or
rack underneath wider or larger silicone pans.
Wash pans thoroughly before first use.
Warranties tend to vary.
Do not use knives or sharp objects - they could damage your pans.
Never use on an open flame or on stovetop burners.

Bakeware Information Posted By : Blueshoots.com

2006-11-16T03:52:00.000-08:00

Jamie Oliver Silicone Bakeware Tarte

-Exclusive stainless steel ring
-Perfect Release
-Dishwasher safe

Other Features:
-Freezer safe
-Superb performance in all ovens up to 250C
-Microwave safe
-Food safe

Bakeware Information Posted By : Blueshoots.com

2006-11-10T01:26:00.000-08:00

Jamie Oliver Silicone Bakeware Sandwich 26Cm

-Exclusive stainless steel ring
-Perfect Release
-Dishwasher safe

Other Features:
-Freezer safe
-Superb performance in all ovens up to 250C
-Microwave safe
-Food safe

Bakeware Information Posted By : Blueshoots.com

2006-11-02T04:35:00.000-08:00

Jamie Oliver Silicone Bakeware Square Cake 23Cm

-Exclusive stainless steel ring
-Perfect Release
-Dishwasher safe

Other Features:
-Freezer safe
-Superb performance in all ovens up to 250C
-Microwave safe
-Food safe

Bakeware Information Posted By : Blueshoots.com

2006-10-25T05:01:00.000-07:00

Discounted Mermaid Traditional Bakeware Cake tin (loose base) 20.3cm x 8.2cm

Mermaid Bakeware is manufactured from high quality single sheet aluminium to produce a seamless and totally hygenic products with a satin finish. Aluminium is an excellent heat conductor which prevents hot spots. Made to last, Mermaid Bakeware is well finished and extremely durable.

Bakeware Information Posted By : Blueshoots.com

2006-10-19T10:42:00.000-07:00

Mermaid Hard Anodised Multi bake rack (14 x 12 inches)

Mermaid has a reputation for making high quality bakeware, and it’s “professional choice” hard anodized selection is renowned for it’s durability and cookability, making it the choice of many professional chefs and a regular on many food programmes. The hard anodizing process provides properties of extreme hardness and resistance making the bakeware scratch resistant and ensures it doesn’t warp, twist or buckle with heat, nor will it’s surface peel or flake off. It provides an even heat distribution for perfect baking and can be used on both the hob and in the oven. All in all, this range of bakeware is of the highest quality.

Key benefits of Mermaid's Hard Anodised Bakeware.
It’s heavy gauge construction
Resistance to abrasion
Use with metal tools
Surface cannot peel or flake
Easy food release surface over time giving effortless hand washing
Durability
Lifetime of service
A serious product for a serious cook

Bakeware Information Posted By : Blueshoots.com

2006-08-12T18:05:00.000-07:00

Bakeware supply

If you are considering purchasing new cookware, you probably are wondering how to make the most sensible purchase and still get all the pieces and features you need. Price is always a major factor in deciding which cookware set is right for you. For those looking for a fun way to enjoy fruits and vegetables, why not make some popsicles? Popsicles are not just for kids anymore, and pouring fruit or vegetable juice into a popsicle mold is a great way to make a delicious and nutritious snack. Even a plain green salad of lettuce and tomatoes can be enhanced through the use of colorful fruits and vegetables. Adding vegetables like carrots, bean sprouts, and spinach leaves, and fruits like mandarin oranges, apple slices, nectarine slices, grapes, apple slices, pineapples and raisins, adds both beauty and taste to any salad.

disposable ovenproof bakeware

When it comes to cooking vegetables, it is always best to use as little water as possible. That is because over cooking, especially when boiling, can destroy some of the important nutrients that make vegetables so important. A plain old green salad can be perked up by including colorful fruits and vegetables like carrots, spinach leaves, tangerine slices, nectarines, grapes, slices of apples, pineapples and raisins. When freezing leftovers, however, it is important to label the containers carefully, using freezer tape and a permanent marker. Try to keep the oldest foods near the top to avoid having to throw away expired items.

Bakeware Information Posted By : Blueshoots.com

Original Source : http://www.shopingtopper.com/bakeware-supply/394/

2006-08-12T17:56:00.000-07:00

cook essentials bakeware

Using flavored vinegars, herbs and fruit juices are novel approaches to salad dressing, in addition to the many nonfat and low fat versions of commercial salad dressing. What is a saut pan? It is a pan with a wide flat bottom, straight sides, long handle and a lid. Saut pans come in a variety of sizes. If you want versatility, choose a medium-sized pan.

Did you know that a soup pot is not just for soup? You can make pasta, meats and stocks as well. You need cookware that allows heat to be distributed evenly. You are probably very familiar with pans that have hot spots. Hot spots are places in the pan where the food cooks disproportionately faster than in the rest of the pan. Cookware with even heat distribution is imperative if you are serious about the food you cook.

Bakeware Information Posted By : Blueshoots.com

Original Source : http://www.shopblob.com/cook-essentials-bakeware/386/

2006-08-12T17:48:00.000-07:00

Smartware Bakeware

Smartware bakeware can be used in the oven, microwave and freezer.

Smartware bakeware transfers heat more efficiently than conventional pans—that's why the best pastry chefs in Europe have relied on it for years. Smartware bakeware heats evenly and cools quickly. Even heat transfer means everything you cook and bake—from bread to lasagna, roasts to fresh cookies—will cook more evenly. You'll eliminate hot spots and cold spots. Everything you cook will have better results every time. You can store it in the fridge or freezer, use it in the oven or microwave and it is always dishwasher safe. Also, Smartware bakeware allows you to use less fat and oil when you cook, lowering calories and increasing flavor. Now that's smart!

Smartware Feature Benefits

Designed to withstand temperatures from 58°F below to 428° Fahrenheit—without warping, melting or flaking.
Revolutionary silicone bakeware with Temperflex is better than metal.
High gloss, non-stick finish will not retain odors or flavors.
Even heat distribution.
Quick and even cooling.
Flexible for easy removal of baked goods.
Goes from oven to freezer in a flash.
Microwave and dishwasher safe.
Baking with Smartware is a breeze.

Bakeware Information Posted By : Blueshoots.com

Original Source : http://www.infomercials-tv.com/blog/2006/07/smartware.html

2006-08-12T17:36:00.000-07:00

Cooking - The Basic Equipment

If you're just starting out on your culinary journey, you may find the array of kitchenware available on the market a bit baffling, so here's a quick guide to the must-haves for the first-time cook.

Pots and Pans - A student or single person may get away with one frying pan and a couple of saucepans, but a keen cook or a family would certainly need more. Ideally, I would recommend a small (20 cm) frying pan and a large one (24-28cm), preferably non-stick or very well-seasoned stainless steel. In addition, at least three stainless steel saucepans between 16 and 24 cm plus a large (24cm) and small (18cm) non-stick. The stainless steel ones will be fine for boiling eggs, rice, pasta, potatoes and vegetables and the non-stick ones for sauces or frying off meat and onions for chilli or a casserole. Buy the best quality you can afford, but avoid cast iron, which is just too heavy to be lifted by a single handle, especially if it's full of boiling water and potatoes.

Oven Dishes - Casserole dishes of varying sizes are useful. I like Le Creuset cast iron because you can use it on top of the stove to seal meat and prepare your dish, put it in the oven to cook, then put it on the table to serve, thus saving on the washing up! Because they have two handles, the weight isn't such a problem. A baking dish is also a must if you're going to make lasagne, cannelloni or pies of any kind topped with sliced or mashed potato - earthenware, glass or cast iron is fine.

Bakeware - If you're going to try your hand at baking cakes, try to choose an all purpose cake tin that you can use over again. The type with a loose bottom or spring-loaded sides make getting the cake out of the tin much easier. For bread, a loaf tin is a must, but you can also use this for meat loaf or paté. A couple of flat baking trays are handy for meringues, biscuits (cookies), sausage rolls and similar items. For individual cakes, buns, tarts, mince pies or Yorkshire puddings a twelve hole tin is a must, preferably non-stick.

Bakeware Information Posted By : Blueshoots.com

Original Source : http://ezinearticles.com/?Cooking---The-Basic-Equipment&id=211942

2006-08-12T07:12:00.000-07:00

Bakers Pride Round cake mould silicone 24cm, non-stick

The Bakers Pride collection of Bakeware is renowned for it's quality.

Silicone, with it's flexibilty, non stick qualities makes it perfect for baking. Plus, with it's ability to to withstand a wide range of temperature (-40C - +220C) these pans go from the fridge to the freezer to the oven and microwave. A really practical product for those who are practically minded.

Bakeware Information Posted By : Blueshoots.com

2006-08-11T07:57:00.000-07:00

Mermaid Hard Anodised 10" Flan Tin (10 x 10.4 inches)

Mermaid has a reputation for making high quality bakeware, and it’s “professional choice” hard anodized selection is renowned for it’s durability and cookability, making it the choice of many professional chefs and a regular on many food programmes. The hard anodizing process provides properties of extreme hardness and resistance making the bakeware scratch resistant and ensures it doesn’t warp, twist or buckle with heat, nor will it’s surface peel or flake off. It provides an even heat distribution for perfect baking and can be used on both the hob and in the oven. All in all, this range of bakeware is of the highest quality.

Key benefits of Mermaid's Hard Anodised Bakeware.
It’s heavy gauge construction
Resistance to abrasion
Use with metal tools
Surface cannot peel or flake
Easy food release surface over time giving effortless hand washing
Durability
Lifetime of service
A serious product for a serious cook

Bakeware Information Posted By : Blueshoots.com

2006-08-10T08:15:00.000-07:00

Bakers Pride Kuglehopf mould silicone 22cm, non-stick

2006-07-17T02:13:00.001-07:00

Kaiser Bakeware

Kaiser are committed to creating bakeware with you, the home baker, in mind. Choose from La Forme, Classic and Tinplate Brands featuring Spring Form Pans, Cookie Sheets, Loaf Pans and Accessories. La Forme is Kaiser Bakeware's top of the line bakeware. All La Forme baking pans are constructed with commercial weight steel, almost 3 times as thick as other bakeware brands. Classic Brand is constructed of high-quality steel which provides even and gentle heat distribution for consistent browning and baking. Tinplate is made the "Kaiser Way," and features the high-quality tinned steel preferred by traditional bakers for its performance. Shop with confidence, as Acooksbestfriend.com features.

9" Classic Springform by Kaiser Bakeware

Classic 9" Springform
High-quality steel provides even and gentle heat distribution for consistent browning and baking
Nonstick coating allows for quick and easy release of baked goods and easy cleanup
Black exterior absorbs heat, providing excellent heat distribution for better and even browning and shorter baking
Lifetime Warranty on Springform buckles.

Bakeware Information Posted By : Blueshoots.com

2006-07-05T04:52:00.000-07:00

Types of bakeware

Baking pans are designed for use in the oven (for baking) and encompass a variety of different styles of bakeware such as cake pans, pie pans, and loaf pans. These are often made from light or medium gauge metal.

Cake pans can include square pans, round pans, and specialty pans such as angel food cake pans and springform pans often used for baking cheesecake.

Casserole dishes are commonly made of glazed ceramics or pyrex. They have high sides and usually have handles.

Roasters or roasting pans are a casserole variant with higher sides designed for roasting of meats. Roasters are usually made of heavy gauge metal so that they may be used safely on a cooktop following roasting in an oven.

Sheetpans or cookie sheets are bakeware with large flat surfaces.

Kitchen Bakeware Information Posted By: Blueshoots.com

2006-07-04T23:41:00.000-07:00

Cookware and bakeware are types of food preparation containers commonly found in the kitchen. Cookware comprises cooking vessels, such as saucepans and frying pans, intended for use on a stove or range cooktop. Bakeware comprises cooking vessels intended for use inside an oven. The terms cookware and bakeware are not exclusive, and it is possible for a single utensil to be used as both cookware and bakeware.

Non-metallic bakeware can be used in both conventional and microwave ovens.

Glazed ceramics, such as porcelain, provide a nonstick cooking surface. Unglazed ceramics, such as terra cotta, have a porous surface that can hold water or other liquids during the cooking process.

Borosilicate glass, such as Pyrex, are safe at oven temperatures. The clear glass also allows for the food to be seen during the cooking process.

Glass-ceramics are used to make products such as Corningware, which have many of the best properties of both glass and ceramic cookware. While Pyrex can shatter if taken between extremes of temperature too rapidly, glass-ceramics can be taken directly from deep freeze to the stovetop. Their near-zero coefficient of thermal expansion makes them almost entirely immune to thermal shock.

Silicone bakeware is light, flexible, and able to withstand sustained temperatures of 675°F (360°C) [1]. It melts around 930°F (500°C), depending upon the fillers used. Its flexibility is advantageous in removing baked goods from the pan. This rubbery material is not to be confused with the silicone resin used to make hard, shatterproof children's dishware, which is not suitable for baking.

Bakeware Information Posted By: Blueshoots.com