2 FORK-IN-THE-ROAD FAVORITES

Shopping For Equipment

With a well-stocked kitchen, you’ll be able to take on any recipe. But there’s so much equipment out there on the market, how do you figure out what’s what? Price often correlates with design, not performance. Over the years, our test kitchen has evaluated thousands of products. We’ve gone through copious rounds of testing and have identified the most important attributes in every piece of equipment, so when you go shopping you’ll know what to look for. And because our test kitchen accepts no support from product manufacturers, you can trust our ratings. Prices in this chart are based on shopping at online retailers and will vary. See AmericasTestKitchen.com for updates to these testings.

KNIVES AND MORE

POTS AND PANS

HANDY TOOLS

MEASURING EQUIPMENT

THERMOMETERS AND TIMERS

KNIVES AND MORE

CHEF’S KNIFE (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

High-carbon stainless steel knife
Thin, curved 8-inch blade
Lightweight
Comfortable grip and nonslip handle

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Victorinox Fibrox 8-Inch Chef’s Knife (formerly Victorinox Forschner)
$39.95

PARING KNIFE (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

3- to 3½-inch blade
Thin, slightly curved blade with pointed tip
Comfortable grip

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Wüsthof Classic with PEtec 3½-Inch Paring Knife (model #4066)
$39.95

Best Buy: Victorinox Fibrox 3¼-inch Paring Knife
$4.95

SERRATED KNIFE (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

10- to 12-inch blade
Long, somewhat flexible, slightly curved blade
Pointed serrations that are uniformly spaced and moderately sized

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Wüsthof Classic 10-Inch Bread Knife
$89.95

Best Buy: Victorinox Fibrox 10¼-Inch Bread Knife
$24.95

SLICING KNIFE (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Tapered 12-inch blade for slicing large cuts of meat
Oval scallops (called a granton edge) carved into blade
Fairly rigid blade with rounded tip

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Victorinox Fibrox 12-Inch Granton Edge Slicing Knife
$49.95

STEAK KNIVES

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Super-sharp, straight-edged blade
Sturdy, not wobbly, blade

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Victorinox Rosewood Straight Edge Steak Knife Set (model #46059)
$169.99 for a set of six

Best Buy: Chicago Cutlery 4-Piece Walnut Tradition Steak Knife Set
$23.99 for a set of four

SANTOKU KNIFE

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

6½-inch blade
Narrow, curved, and short blade
Comfortable grip

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

MAC Superior 6½-Inch Santoku Knife
$74.95

BONING KNIFE

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

6-inch blade
Narrow, highly maneuverable and razor-sharp blade
Comfortable grip and nonslip handle

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Victorinox Fibrox 6-Inch Straight Boning Knife (Flexible)
$19.95

MEAT CLEAVER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Razor-sharp blade
Balanced weight between handle and blade
Comfortable grip

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Global 6-Inch Meat Cleaver
$144.95

Best Buy: LamsonSharp 7¼-Inch Meat Cleaver
$48

HYBRID CHEF’S KNIFE

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

High-carbon stainless steel knife
Lightweight
Thin blade that tapers from spine to cutting edge and from handle to tip

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Masamoto VG Gyutou, 8.2 Inches
$162.50

ELECTRIC KNIFE

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Comfortable handle
Slices turkey skin without ripping and baked goods without crumbling

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Oster Electric Knife Set
$19.99

MANDOLINE

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Razor-sharp blade(s)
Hand guard to shield fingers
Gripper prongs to grasp food
Measurement-marked dial for precision cuts
Storage for extra blades

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Swissmar Börner Original V-Slicer Plus Mandoline
$29.99

Best Buy: Kyocera Adjustable Ceramic Mandoline Slicer
$26.96

CARVING BOARD

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Heavy, sturdy board
Deep, wide trench to trap juices
Central well to hold meat snugly

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Williams-Sonoma Medium Maple Reversible Carving Board
$58

CUTTING BOARD (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Roomy work surface at least 20 by 15 inches
Teak board for minimal maintenance
Durable edge-grain construction (wood grain runs parallel to surface of board)

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Proteak Edge Grain Teak Cutting Board
$84.99

Best Buy: OXO Good Grips Carving and Cutting Board
$21.99

INNOVATIVE CUTTING BOARD

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Sturdy, sink spanning bamboo board
Collapsible colander for easy multitasking

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Island Bamboo Over-the-Sink Cutting Board with Colander
$39.99

KNIFE SHARPENER (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Diamond sharpening material for electric sharpeners
Easy to use and comfortable
Clear instructions

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Electric: Chef’sChoice Model 130 Professional Sharpening Station
$139.95

Manual: AccuSharp Knife and Tool Sharpener
$7.99

POTS AND PANS

TRADITIONAL SKILLET (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Stainless steel interior and fully clad for even heat distribution
12-inch diameter and flared sides
Comfortable, ovensafe handle
Cooking surface of at least 9 inches
Good to have smaller (8- or 10-inch) skillets too

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

All-Clad Stainless 12-Inch Frypan
$135

INEXPENSIVE SKILLET

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Fully clad with stainless steel interior for even heat distribution
12-inch diameter and flared sides
Comfortable, ovensafe handle
Cooking surface of at least 9 inches

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Emeril Pro-Clad Stainless Steel Tri-Ply 12-Inch Fry Pan
$34.99

NONSTICK SKILLETS (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Dark, nonstick surface
12- or 12½-inch diameter, thick bottom
Comfortable, ovensafe handle
Cooking surface of at least 9 inches
Good to have smaller (8- or 10-inch) skillets too

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

T-Fal Professional Total Non-Stick 12½-Inch Fry Pan
$34.99

CAST-IRON SKILLET

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Thick bottom and straight sides
Roomy interior (cooking surface of 9¼ inches or more)
Preseasoned

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Lodge 12-Inch Skillet
$33.95

ECO-FRIENDLY SKILLET

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

PFOA-free (perfluorooctanoic acid) surfaces are nonstick and more durable than silicone coatings
Roomy interior (cooking surface of 9 inches or more)

NOTE: We prefer our favorite nonstick skillet for its superior performance.

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Scanpan Professional 12½-Inch Fry Pan
$129.95

DUTCH OVEN (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Enameled cast iron or stainless steel
Capacity of at least 6 quarts
Diameter of at least 9 inches
Tight-fitting lid
Wide, sturdy handles

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Le Creuset 7¼-Quart Round French Oven
$304.95

All-Clad Stainless 8-Quart Stockpot
$279.95

Best Buy: Lodge Color Enamel 6-Quart Dutch Oven
$49.97

SAUCEPANS (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Large saucepan with 3- to 4-quart capacity and small nonstick saucepan with 2- to 2½-quart capacity
Tight-fitting lids
Pans with rounded corners that a whisk can reach into
Long, comfortable handles that are angled for even weight distribution

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Large: All-Clad Stain-less 4-Quart Saucepan with Lid and Loop
$224.95

Best Buy: Cuisinart MultiClad Unlimited 4-Quart Saucepan
$69.99

Small: Calphalon Contemporary Nonstick 2½-Quart Shallow Saucepan
$39.95

RIMMED BAKING SHEETS (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Light-colored surface (heats and browns evenly)
Thick, sturdy pan
Dimensions of 18 by 13 inches
Good to have at least two

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Wear-Ever 13-Gauge Half Size Heavy Duty Sheet Pan by Vollrath (formerly Lincoln Foodservice)
$14.99

SAUTÉ PAN

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Aluminum core surrounded by layers of stainless steel
Hefty but well-balanced pan
9½- to 10-inch diameter
Helper handle and tight-fitting lid

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Viking Stainless 7-Ply 3-Quart Sauté Pan
$219.95

Best Buy: Cuisinart MultiClad Pro Triple-Ply 3½-Quart Sauté Pan with Lid
$79.95

OMELET PAN

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Gently sloped sides for easy turning and rolling of omelets
Nonstick finish
Heavy construction for durability and even heat distribution
8-inch size for French omelets

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Original French Chef 8-Inch Black Nonstick Omelette Pan
$139.95

STOCKPOT

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

12-quart capacity
Thick bottom to prevent scorching
Wide body for easy cleaning and storage
Flat or round handles that extend at least 1¾ inches

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

All-Clad Stainless 12-Quart Stock Pot
$389.95

Best Buy: Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless 12-Quart Stock Pot
$69.99

ROASTING PAN (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

At least 15 by 11 inches
Stainless steel interior with aluminum core for even heat distribution
Upright handles for easy gripping
Light interior for better food monitoring

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Calphalon Contemporary Stainless Roasting Pan with V-Rack
$99.99

V-RACK

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Fixed, not adjustable, to provide sturdiness
Tall, vertical handles positioned on long side of rack

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

All-Clad Nonstick Roasting Rack
$24.95

COOKWARE SET

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Fully clad stainless steel with aluminum core for even heat distribution
Moderately heavy, durable construction
Lids included
Ideal mix of pans includes 12-inch skillet, 10-inch skillet, 2-quart saucepan, 4-quart saucepan, 8-quart stockpot

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

All-Clad Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set
$799.95

Best Buy: Tramontina 18/10 Stainless Steel TriPly-Clad 8-Piece Cookware Set
$144.97

HANDY TOOLS

KITCHEN SHEARS (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Take-apart scissors (for easy cleaning)
Super-sharp blades
Sturdy construction
Work for both right- and left-handed users

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Kershaw 1120M TaskMaster Kitchen Shears
$49.95

Best Buy: J. A. Henckels International Kitchen Shears—Take Apart
$14.95

TONGS (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Scalloped edges
Slightly concave pincers
Length of 12 inches (to keep your hand far from the heat)
Open and close easily

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

OXO Good Grips 12-Inch Locking Tongs
$12.95

WOODEN SPOON (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Slim yet broad bowl
Stain-resistant bamboo
Comfortable handle

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

SCI Bamboo Wood Cooking Spoon
$2.40

SLOTTED SPOON (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Deep bowl
Long handle
Enough holes for quick draining

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

OXO Good Grips Nylon Slotted Spoon
$6.99

BASTING SPOON

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Thin, shallow bowl
Handle at least 9 inches in length
Slight dip from handle to bowl

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Rösle Basting Spoon with Hook Handle
$28.95

ALL-AROUND SPATULAS (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Head about 3 inches wide and 5½ inches long
11 inches in length (tip to handle)
Long, vertical slots
Good to have a metal spatula to use with traditional cookware and plastic for nonstick cookware

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Metal: Wüsthof Gourmet Fish Spatula
$44.95

Plastic: Matfer Bourgeat Pelton Spatula
$8.23

RUBBER SPATULA (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Wide, stiff blade with a thin edge that’s flexible enough to conform to the curve of a mixing bowl
Heat-resistant

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Rubbermaid Professional 13½-Inch High Heat Scraper
$18.99

OFFSET SPATULAS

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Flexible blade offset from handle
Good to have a small spatula for icing cookies and cupcakes and a large one for layer cakes and sheet cakes

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Large: Ateco Offset Spatula
$5.75

Small: Wilton 9-Inch Angled Spatula
$4.79

COOKIE SPATULA

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Small, silicone blade with thin, flexible edge
Angled handle

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

OXO Good Grips Cookie Spatula
$6.99

ALL-PURPOSE WHISK (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

At least 10 wires
Wires of moderate thickness
Comfortable rubber handle
Balanced, lightweight feel

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

OXO Good Grips 11-Inch Balloon Whisk
$9.99

PEPPER MILL (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Easy-to-adjust, clearly marked grind settings
Efficient, comfortable grinding mechanism
Generous capacity

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Cole and Mason Derwent Gourmet Precision Pepper Mill
$40

ONE-HANDED PEPPER MILL

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Grinds quickly and easily
Accurately grinds in five textures from fine to coarse
Long-lasting rechargeable battery

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Peppermills Supreme Electric Pepper Mill
$39.95

SUGAR SHAKER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Mesh head that produces a fine, even dusting
Narrow cylinder that fits comfortably in your hand

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Ateco Stainless Steel Fine Mesh Shaker
$3.88

LADLE (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Stainless steel
Hook handle
Pouring rim to prevent dripping
Handle 9 to 10 inches in length

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Rösle Ladle with Pouring Rim
$31.95

CAN OPENER (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Intuitive and easy to attach
Smooth turning motions
Dishwasher safe

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Kuhn Rikon Slim Safety Lidlifter
$11.95

JAR OPENER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Strong, sturdy clamp grip
Adjusts quickly to any size jar

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Amco Swing-A-Way Comfort Grip Jar Opener
$6.99

GARLIC PRESS (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Conical holes that press garlic through efficiently
Solid, stainless steel construction
Comfortable handle
Easy to clean

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Kuhn Rikon Stainless Steel Epicurean Garlic Press
$39.95

Best Buy: Trudeau Garlic Press
$11.99

GARLIC PEELER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Thick, comfortable silicone sleeve
Removes skins without bruising
Easy to wash

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Zak! Designs E-Z Rol Garlic Peeler
$8.79

SERRATED FRUIT PEELER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Comfortable grip and nonslip handle
Sharp blade

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Messermeister Pro-Touch Serrated Swivel Peeler
$5.50

VEGETABLE PEELER (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Sharp, carbon steel blade
1-inch space between blade and peeler to prevent jamming
Lightweight and comfortable

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Kuhn Rikon Original 4-Inch Swiss Peeler
$3.50

RASP GRATER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Sharp teeth (require little effort or pressure when grating)
Maneuverable over round shapes
Comfortable handle

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Microplane Classic 8.5-inch Zester/Grater
$12.95

GRATER (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Paddle-style grater
Sharp, extra-large holes and generous grating plane
Rubber-lined feet for stability
Comfortable handle

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Microplane Specialty Series 4-Sided Box Grater
$34.95

ROTARY GRATER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Barrel at least 2 inches in diameter
Classic turn-crank design
Comfortable handle
Simple to disassemble for easy cleanup

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Zyliss All Cheese Grater
$19.95

MANUAL JUICER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Hand-held squeezer with comfortable handle
Sturdy, enameled aluminum construction
Sized specifically for lemons, limes, and oranges

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Amco Enameled Citrus Squeezers
$11.95, lime
$12.95, lemon
$15.95, orange

PORTION SCOOP

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Perfect half-sphere shape for easy portioning of batter and dough
Easy-to-squeeze handles to eject dough
Size number indicates how many portions per quart

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Fante’s Stainless Portion Scoop #16 (2-ounce)
$11.99

ICE CREAM SCOOP

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Stainless steel
Slim, comfortable handle
Thin bowl edge for easier scooping

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Rösle Ice Cream Scoop
$20

MEAT POUNDER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

At least 1½ pounds in weight
Vertical handle for better leverage and control

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Norpro Grip-EZ Meat Pounder
$17.50

BENCH SCRAPER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Sturdy blade
Beveled edge for easy cutting and scraping
Comfortable handle with plastic, rubber, or nylon grip

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Dexter-Russell 6” Dough Cutter/Scraper–Sani-Safe Series
$7

BOWL SCRAPER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Curved shape with comfortable grip
Rigid enough to move dough but flexible enough to scrape up batter
Thin, straight edge doubles as dough cutter or bench scraper

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

iSi Basics Silicone Scraper Spatula
$5.99

ROLLING PIN (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Moderate weight (1 to 1½ pounds)
19-inch straight barrel
Slightly textured wooden surface to grip dough for easy rolling

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

J.K. Adams Plain Maple Rolling Dowel
$13.95

MIXING BOWLS (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Good to have both stainless steel and glass (for mixing, microwaving, and holding prepped ingredients)
Sets of 6 to 9 nesting bowls ranging in capacity from about 1¼ ounces to 4 quarts (for glass) and 2 cups to 8 quarts (for stainless steel)

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Little difference among various brands

MINI PREP BOWLS

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Sturdy and somewhat heavy bowls to prevent tipping
Roomy 6-ounce capacity
Glass to resist stains and not absorb odors
Dishwasher- and microwave-safe

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Pyrex 6-Ounce Dessert Dishes, Set of 4
$6.99

OVEN MITT (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Form-fitting and not overly bulky for easy maneuvering
Machine washable
Flexible, heat-resistant material

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Kool-Tek 15-Inch Oven Mitt by KatchAll
$44.95

Best Buy: OrkaPlus Silicone Oven Mitt with Cotton Lining
$14.95

COOKIE CUTTERS

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Metal cutters
Thin, sharp cutting edge and round or rubber-grip top
Depth of at least 1 inch

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Little difference among various brands

PASTRY BRUSH

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Silicone bristles (heat-resistant, durable, and easy to clean)
Perforated flaps (to trap liquid)
Angled head to reach tight spots
Comfortable handle

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

OXO Good Grips Silicone Pastry Brush
$6.99

SPLATTER SCREEN

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Diameter of at least 13 inches
Lollipop-shaped design
Tightly woven mesh face

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Amco 13-Inch Splatter Screen
$15.95

BOUILLON STRAINER/CHINOIS

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Conical shape
Depth of 7 to 8 inches
At least one hook on rim for stability

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Winco Reinforced Extra Fine Mesh Bouillon Strainer
$33.78

COLANDER (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

4- to 7-quart capacity
Metal ring attached to bottom for stability
Many holes for quick draining
Small holes so pasta doesn’t slip through

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

RSVP International Endurance Precision Pierced 5-Quart Colander
$25.99

FINE-MESH STRAINER (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

At least 6 inches in diameter (measured from inside edge to inside edge)
Sturdy construction

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

CIA Masters Collection 6¾ Inch Fine Mesh Strainer
$27.50

SPIDER SKIMMER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Long, angled metal handle
Woven wire basket
Shallow, flat basket lip

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

WMF Profi Plus 13-cm Wok Mesh Strainer
$18

FOOD MILL

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Interchangeable disks for fine, medium, and coarse purees
Stainless steel
Easy to turn

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Cuisipro Stainless Steel Food Mill
$105

FAT SEPARATOR

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Pitcher-style
Wide-shaped spout for pouring
Strainer for catching solids
4-cup capacity

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Trudeau Gravy Separator with Integrated Strainer
$11.41

POTATO MASHER (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Solid mashing disk with small holes
Comfortable grip

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

WMF Profi Plus Stainless Steel Potato Masher
$15.99

SALAD SPINNER (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Ergonomic and easy-to-operate hand pump
Wide base for stability
Flat lid for easy cleaning and storage

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

OXO Good Grips Salad Spinner
$29.99

STEAMER BASKET

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Collapsible stainless steel basket with feet
Adjustable and removable center rod for easy removal from pot and easy storage

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

OXO Good Grips Pop-Up Steamer
$16.99

MORTAR AND PESTLE

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Heavy, stable base with tall, narrow walls
Rough interior to help grip and grind ingredients
Comfortable, heavy pestle

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Frieling “Goliath” Mortar and Pestle Set
$49.95

INNOVATIVE MORTAR AND PESTLE

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Heavy ceramic ball quickly crushes spices and garlic
Dishwasher-safe

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Jamie Oliver Flavour Shaker
$29.95

MEASURING EQUIPMENT

DRY MEASURING CUPS (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Stainless steel cups (hefty and durable)
Measurement markings that are visible even once the cup is full
Evenly weighted and stable
Long handles that are level with the rim of the cup

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Amco Houseworks Professional Performance 4-Piece Measuring Cup Set
$14.95

LIQUID MEASURING CUPS (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Crisp, unambiguous markings that include ¼ and ⅓ cup measurements
Heatproof, sturdy cup with handle
Good to have in a variety of sizes (1, 2, and 4 cups)

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Pyrex 2-Cup Measuring Cup
$5.99

ADJUSTABLE MEASURING CUP

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Plungerlike bottom (with a tight seal between plunger and tube) that you can set to correct measurement, then push up to cleanly extract sticky ingredients (such as shortening or peanut butter)
1- or 2-cup capacity
Dishwasher-safe

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

KitchenArt Pro Adjust-A-Cup
$12.95

MEASURING SPOONS (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Long, comfortable handles
Rim of bowl flush with handle (makes it easy to “dip” into a dry ingredient and “sweep” across the top for accurate measuring)
Slim design

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Cuisipro Stainless Steel Measuring Spoon Set
$11.95

KITCHEN RULER (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Stainless steel and easy to clean
18 inches in length
Large, easy-to-read markings

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Empire 18-Inch Stainless Steel Ruler
$8.49

DIGITAL SCALE

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Easy-to-read display not blocked by weighing platform
At least 7-pound capacity
Accessible buttons
Gram-to-ounce conversion feature
Roomy platform

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

OXO Food Scale
$49.99

Best Buy: Soehnle 65055 Digital Scale
$29.75

THERMOMETERS AND TIMERS

INSTANT-READ THERMOMETER (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Digital model with automatic shut-off
Quick-response readings in 10 seconds or less
Wide temperature range (-40 to 450 degrees)
Long stem that can reach interior of large cuts of meat
Water resistant

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

ThermoWorks Splash-Proof Super-Fast Thermapen
$96

Best Buys: ThermoWorks Super-Fast Pocket Thermometer
$19

CDN ProAccurate Quick-Read Thermometer
$16.95

OVEN THERMOMETER (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Clearly marked numbers for easy readability
Hang model or stable base
Large temperature range (up to 600 degrees)

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Cooper-Atkins Oven Thermometer (model #24HP)
$6

CANDY THERMOMETER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Digital model
Easy-to-read console
Mounting clip (to attach probe to the pan)

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Thermoworks ChefAlarm
$59

MEAT-PROBE THERMOMETER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Long cord
Clear digital display

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

ThermoWorks Original Cooking Thermometer/Timer
$24

BARBECUE THERMOMETER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Simultaneously checks food and grill temperature
Easy to read
Heatproof finger-grip
Dishwasher-safe

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Polder Dual Sensor Meat and Oven Thermometer
$10

REFRIGERATOR/FREEZER THERMOMETER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Clear digital display
Wire probe for monitoring refrigerator and freezer simultaneously

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Maverick Cold-Chek Digital Refrigerator/Freezer Thermometer
$19.99

REMOTE THERMOMETER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Temperature probe attached to base that rests outside oven or grill and pager for notification
Easy to use

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Taylor Wireless Thermometer with Remote Pager Plus Timer
$21.95

KITCHEN TIMER (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Lengthy time range (1 second to at least 10 hours)
Ability to count up after alarm goes off
Easy to use and read

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Polder 3-in-1 Clock, Timer, and Stopwatch (model #898-95)
$15.12

MULTI-EVENT KITCHEN TIMER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Easy to read and set timers
Shows at a glance which timer is going off
Durable, solid construction

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

American Innovative Chef’s Quad Timer
$29.99

BAKEWARE

GLASS BAKING DISH (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Dimensions of 13 by 9 inches
Large enough to hold casseroles and large crisps and cobblers
Handles

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Pyrex Bakeware 9 × 13-Inch Baking Dish
$12.99

BROILER-SAFE BAKING DISH

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Large, easy-to-grip handles
Straight sides for easy serving
Lightweight porcelain

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

HIC Porcelain Lasagna Baking Dish
$29.95

METAL BAKING PAN (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Dimensions of 13 by 9 inches
Straight sides
Nonstick coating for even browning and easy release of cakes and bar cookies

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Williams-Sonoma Goldtouch Nonstick Rectangular Cake Pan
$32.95

SQUARE BAKING PANS (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Straight sides
Light gold or dark nonstick surface for even browning and easy release of cakes
Good to have both 9-inch and 8-inch square pans

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Williams-Sonoma Nonstick Goldtouch Square Cake Pan
$26, 8-inch
$27, 9-inch

Best Buy: Chicago Metallic Gourmetware 8-Inch Nonstick Square Cake Pan
$6

ROUND CAKE PANS Best all-around (Must-Have Items)

Best for cake
Straight sides
Light finish for tall, even baking
Nonstick surface for easy release

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Nordic Ware Naturals Nonstick 9-inch Round Cake Pan
$14.32

Best for browning (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Dark finish is ideal for pizza and cinnamon buns
Nonstick

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Chicago Metallic Non-Stick 9” Round Cake Pan
$10.97

PIE PLATES (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Glass promotes even browning and allows progress to be monitored
½-inch rim (makes it easy to shape decorative crusts)
Shallow angled sides prevent crusts from slumping
Good to have two

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Pyrex Bakeware 9-Inch Pie Plate
$8.16

LOAF PANS (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Light gold or dark nonstick surface for even browning and easy release
Good to have both 8½ by 4½-inch and 9 by 5-inch pans

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Williams-Sonoma 8½ × 4½-Inch Nonstick Goldtouch Loaf Pan
$21

Best Buy: Baker’s Secret 9 × 5-Inch Nonstick Loaf Pan
$5

SPRINGFORM PAN

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Nonstick coated base
Tight seal between band and bottom of pan (prevents leakage)
Even browning

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Nordic Ware Pro Form 9-Inch LeakProof Springform Pan
$15

COOKIE SHEET

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Thick aluminum heats and browns evenly
Won’t warp with repeated use
Raised edges for easy maneuvering
Nonstick, spacious surface

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Vollrath Wear-Ever Cookie Sheet (Natural Finish)
$15.99

MUFFIN PAN (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Nonstick surface for even browning and easy release
Wide, extended rims and raised lip for easy handling
Cup capacity of ½ cup

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Wilton Avanti Everglide Metal-Safe Nonstick 12-Cup Muffin Pan
$13.99

COOLING RACK (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Grid-style rack with tightly woven, heavy-gauge bars
Should fit inside a standard 18 by 13-inch rimmed baking sheet
Dishwasher-safe

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

CIA Bakeware 12 × 17-Inch Cooling Rack
$15.95

Best Buy: Libertyware Half-Size Sheet Pan Grate
$5.25

BAKER’S COOLING RACK

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Sturdy rack
Four collapsible shelves
Unit folds down for easy storage

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Linden Sweden Baker’s Cooling Rack
$17.99

BISCUIT CUTTERS

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Sharp edges
A set with a variety of sizes

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Ateco 11-Piece Plain Round Cutter Set
$14.99

BUNDT PAN

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Heavyweight cast aluminum
Silver platinum nonstick surface for even browning and easy release
Clearly defined ridges
15-cup capacity

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Nordic Ware Anniversary Bundt Pan (model #50037)
$26.95

TART PAN

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Tinned steel for even browning and easy release
Removable bottom
If you bake a lot, it’s good to have multiple sizes, though 9 inches is standard

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Kaiser Tinplate 9-Inch Quiche Pan with Removable Bottom
$9

TUBE PAN

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Heavy pan (at least 1 pound)
Heavy bottom for leak-free seal
Dark nonstick surface for even browning and easy release
16-cup capacity
Feet on rim

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Chicago Metallic Professional Nonstick Angel Food Cake Pan
$19.95

PULLMAN LOAF PAN

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Squared-off pan (4 by 4 inches)
Nonstick aluminized steel for easy cleanup
Light surface for even browning

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

USA Pan 13 by 4-inch Pullman Loaf Pan and Cover
$33.95

BAKER’S EDGE PAN

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Attached cutting grid
Dark nonstick surface for easy release

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Baker’s Edge Brownie Pan
$34.95

RAMEKINS

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Sturdy, high-fired porcelain (chip-resistant and safe for use in oven, broiler, microwave, and dishwasher)
For one all-purpose set, capacity of 6 ounces and diameter of 3 inches

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Apilco 6-Ounce Ramekins
$29 for a set of four

BAKING STONE

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Substantial but not too heavy to handle
Dimensions of 16 by 14 inches
Clay, not cement, for evenly browned crusts

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

The Baker’s Catalogue Pizza Baking Stone by Old Stone Oven
$54.95

SMALL APPLIANCES

FOOD PROCESSOR (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

14-cup capacity
Sharp and sturdy blades
Wide feed tube
Should come with basic blades and discs: steel blade, dough blade, shredding/slicing disc

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Cuisinart Custom 14-Cup Food Processor
$199

STAND MIXER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Planetary action (stationary bowl and single mixing arm)
Powerful motor
Bowl size of at least 4½ quarts
Slightly squat bowl to keep ingredients in beater’s range
Should come with basic attachments: paddle, dough hook, metal whisk

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Kitchen-Aid Pro Line Series 7-quart Bowl Lift Stand Mixer
$549.95

Best Buy: KitchenAid Classic Plus Series 4.5-quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer
$229.99

HAND-HELD MIXER (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Lightweight model
Slim wire beaters without a central post
Digital display
Separate ejector buttons (not part of the speed dial)
Variety of speeds

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Cuisinart Power Advantage 7-Speed Hand Mixer
$59.95

BLENDER (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Mix of straight and serrated blades at different angles
Jar with curved base
At least 44-ounce capacity
Heavy base for stability

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Vitamix 5200
$449

Best Buy: Breville BBL605XL Hemisphere Control Blender
$200

IMMERSION BLENDER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Easy to operate and lightweight
Detachable shaft for easy cleaning
Wide blade cage so food can circulate

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

KitchenAid 3-Speed Hand Blender
$59.99

ELECTRIC GRIDDLE

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Large cooking area (about 21 by 12 inches)
Attached pull-out grease trap (won’t tip over)
Nonstick surface for easy cleanup

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

BroilKing Professional Griddle
$99.99

ELECTRIC JUICER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Ideal for making a large amount of fruit or vegetable juice
Centrifugal, not masticating, model for fresher-tasting juice
3-inch-wide feed tube
Easy to assemble and clean

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Breville Juice Fountain Plus
$149.99

ADJUSTABLE ELECTRIC KETTLE

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Heats water to a range of different temperatures
Automatic shutoff
Separate base for cordless pouring
Visible water level

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Zojirushi Micom Water Boiler & Warmer
$114.95

Best Buy: Chef’sChoice 688 Electric Smart Kettle
$99.99

COFFEE MAKER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Thermal carafe that keeps coffee hot and fresh with capacity of at least 10 cups
Short brewing time (6 minutes is ideal)
Copper, not aluminum, heating element
Easy-to-fill water tank
Clear, intuitive controls

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Technivorm Moccamaster 10-Cup Coffee Maker with Thermal Carafe
$299

Best Buy: Bonavita 8-Cup Coffee Maker
$149

MEAT GRINDER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

All-metal machine
Motorized grinder with reverse mode for unclogging stuck pieces
Easy to assemble

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Waring Pro Professional Meat Grinder
$199.99

Best Buy: KitchenAid Food Grinder Attachment
$48.74

DEEP FRYER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Large, wide basket ensures even heat exposure
Recovers heat quickly after food is added

NOTE: We prefer to deep-fry in a Dutch oven for superior temperature control and larger capacity, but a deep fryer can be useful for French fries and other low-temperature fried foods.

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Waring Pro Professional Deep Fryer
$139.95

PORTABLE INDUCTION BURNER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Large cooking surface for even heating of pans
Basic push buttons and dial controls for ease of use

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Max Burton Induction Cook Top
$124.25

ICE CREAM MAKER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Minimum 1½-quart capacity
Removable canister and blade for easy cleaning

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Whynter SNÖ Professional Ice Cream Maker
$330.99

Best Buy: Cuisinart Automatic Frozen Yogurt, Ice Cream, and Sorbet Maker (model #ICE-21)
$49.95

PRESSURE COOKER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Stainless steel rather than aluminum for more durable construction that doesn’t react to acidic foods
Stovetop model with low sides and wide base for easy access and better browning and heat retention
Pressure indicator that is easy to see and interpret at a glance

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Fissler Vitaquick 8 Liter Pressure Cooker (8.5 quart)
$280

Best Buy: Fagor Duo 8-Quart Pressure Cooker
$109.95

SLOW COOKER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

At least 6-quart capacity (4-quart capacity for small slow cookers)
Insert handles
Clear lid to see progress of food
Dishwasher-safe insert
Intuitive controls with programmable timer and warming mode

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Large: Crock-Pot Countdown Touchscreen Digital Slow Cooker
$129.99

Small: Cuisinart 4-Quart Cook Central 3-in-1 Multicooker
$129.95

TWO-SLOT TOASTER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Quartz heating element for even heating
Clear window to monitor browning
Ample room for large or thick bread slices or bagels

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Magimix by Robot-Coupe Vision Toaster
$249.95

Best Buy: KitchenAid 2 Slice Manual High-Lift Lever Toaster with LCD Display
$89.99

TOASTER OVEN

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Quartz heating elements for steady, controlled heat
Roomy but compact interior
Simple to use

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

The Smart Oven by Breville
$249.95

Best Buy: Hamilton Beach Set & Forget Toaster Oven with Convection Cooking
$99.99

TABLETOP GRILL

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Large grilling area
Easy to clean

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Delonghi Alfredo Healthy Indoor Grill
$53.99

WAFFLE IRON

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Audible alert
Heat-resistant handles
Multiple doneness settings

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Chef’sChoice WafflePro Express
$69.95

GRILLING EQUIPMENT

GAS GRILL

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Large grilling area (at least 350 square inches)
Built-in thermometer
Two burners for varying heat levels (three is even better)
Attached table
Fat drainage system

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Weber Spirit E-210
$399

CHARCOAL GRILL

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Sturdy construction to efficiently maintain heat
Well-designed cooking grate, handles, lids, and wheels
Generous cooking surface
Large charcoal capacity
Well-positioned air vents
Gas ignition to instantly and easily light coals
Ash catcher for easy cleanup

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Weber Performer Platinum 22.5-Inch Charcoal Grill with Touch-n-Go Gas Ignition
$349

Best Buy: Weber One-Touch Gold 22.5-Inch Charcoal Grill
$149

PORTABLE CHARCOAL GRILL

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Ample cooking surface with raised lip
Cover that can be secured for travel
Lightweight but durable

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Weber Smokey Joe Gold Portable Charcoal Grill
$34.70

SMOKER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Large cooking area
Water pan
Multiple vents for precise temperature control

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker Smoker, 18½ Inch
$299

CHIMNEY STARTER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

6-quart capacity
Holes in canister so air can circulate around coals
Sturdy construction
Heat-resistant handle
Dual handle for easy control

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Weber Rapidfire Chimney Starter
$14.99

GRILL TONGS

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

16 inches in length
Scalloped, not sharp and serrated, edges
Open and close easily
Lightweight
Moderate amount of springy tension

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

OXO Good Grips 16-Inch Locking Tongs
$14.99

GRILL BRUSH

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Long handle
Replaceable, long-lasting steel pads for scrubbing

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Grill Wizard 18-inch China Grill Brush
$31.50

GRILL SPATULA

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Handle at least 12 inches in length
Sharp cutting edge

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Weber Original Stainless Steel Spatula
$14.99

BASTING BRUSH

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Silicone bristles
Angled brush head
Handle between 8 and 13 inches
Heat-resistant

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Elizabeth Karmel’s Grill Friends Super Silicone Angled Barbecue Basting Brush
$9.95

BARBECUE GLOVES

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Excellent heat protection
Gloves, rather than mitts, for dexterity
Long sleeves to protect forearms

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Steven Raichlen Ultimate Suede Grilling Gloves
$29.99 per pair

SKEWERS

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Flat and metal
3/16 inch thick

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Norpro 12-Inch Stainless Steel Skewers
$6.85 for a set of six

RIB RACK

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Sturdily supports six racks of ribs
Doubles as roasting rack (when flipped upside down)
Nonstick coating for easy cleanup

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Charcoal Companion Non-Stick Reversible Roasting/Rib Rack
$14.95

GRILL LIGHTER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Flexible neck
Refillable chamber with large, easy-to-read fuel window
Comfortable grip

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Zippo Flexible Neck Utility Lighter
$18.35

ELECTRIC CHARCOAL STARTER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Long, offset heating element
Quick-to-heat

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Grill Dome Rapid-Lite Electric Charcoal Starters
$34.95

DISPOSABLE GRILL

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Kit includes aluminum pan, metal grate, and charcoal
Large grilling area (about 12 by 10 inches)
After use, can be thrown away or recycled

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

EZ Grill Disposable Instant Grill, Large
$10.99

OUTDOOR GRILL PAN

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Narrow slits and raised sides so food can’t fall through or off
Sturdy construction with handles

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Weber Style 6435 Professional Grade Grill Pan
$19.99

ROTISSERIE ATTACHMENT

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Easy to assemble
Multiple meat-stabilizing prongs

NOTE: To ensure it fits, we recommend you purchase a rotisserie attachment from the manufacturer of your grill.

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Gas: Weber Gas Barbecue Rotisserie
$79.99

Charcoal: Weber Kettle Rotisserie
$119.99

SMOKER BOX

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Cast iron for slow heating and steady smoke
Easy to fill, empty, and clean

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

GrillPro Cast Iron Smoker Box made by Onward Manufacturing Company
$12.79

WOOD, FOR SMOKING

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Hickory wood for bold, smoky flavor
Long-lasting chunks for charcoal grills
Wood chips for gas grills

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Little difference among various brands

VERTICAL ROASTER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Helps poultry cook evenly
8-inch shaft keeps chicken above fat and drippings in pan
Attached basin catches drippings for pan sauce
Sturdy construction

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Norpro Vertical Roaster with Infuser
$27.95

Best Buy: Elizabeth Karmel’s Grill Friends Porcelain Chicken Sitter Stand, 12 Inches
$11.99

PROPANE INDICATOR

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Easy-to-read dial
Accurately measures propane by weight

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Grill Gauge Propane Tank Scale
$13.99

SPECIALTY PIECES

APPLE CORER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Comfortable grip
Sharp teeth
Blade diameter at least ¾ inch and length at least 3½ inches

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

OXO Good Grips Corer
$6.50

APPLE SLICER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Sharp, serrated corer with 1-inch diameter
Ability to cut 8 or 16 slices
Comfortable handle

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Williams-Sonoma Dial-a-Slice Apple Divider
$19.95

CORN STRIPPER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Safer than using chef’s knife
Attached cup to catch kernels
Comfortable grip and sharp blade

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

OXO Good Grips Corn Stripper
$11.99

NUT CHOPPER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Sharp, sturdy stainless steel chopping tines
Dishwasher-safe

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Progressive International Heavy Duty Nut Chopper
$8.89

GRILL PAN

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Cast-iron pan with enamel coating for heat retention and easy cleanup
Tall ridges (4 to 5.5 mm high) to keep food above rendered fat
Generous cooking area

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Staub 12-Inch American Square Grill Pan and Press
$219.95

Best Buy: Lodge Pre-Seasoned Square Grill Pan & Ribbed Panini Press
$18.97 (press sold separately for $14.58)

STOVETOP GRIDDLE

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Anodized aluminum for even heating
Nonstick coating
Lightweight (about 4 pounds)
Heat-resistant loop handles
At least 17 by 9 inches (large enough to span two burners)
Pour spout for draining grease

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Anolon Advanced Double Burner Griddle
$48.95

FONDUE POT

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Finely adjustable electric heat control
Removable insert for easy cleanup

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Trudeau Electric 11-Piece 3-in-1 Fondue Set
$79.99

OYSTER KNIFE

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Sturdy, flat blade with slightly curved tip for easy penetration
Slim, nonstick handle for secure, comfortable grip

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

R. Murphy New Haven Oyster Knife
$16.65

SILICONE MICROWAVE LID

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Thin, silicone round to cover splatter-prone food during microwave heating
Easy to clean
Doubles as jar opener

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Piggy Steamer
$18

PASTRY BAG

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Plastic-coated canvas pastry bag (for durability and easy cleanup) or disposable bags
Large bag (about 18 inches in length) for easier gripping and twisting
Accommodates standard-size tips

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Ateco 18-Inch Plastic-Coated Pastry Bag
$4.45

CHEESE WIRE

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Comfortable plastic handles
Narrow wire

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Fante’s Handled Cheese Wire
$2.99

PIZZA WHEEL

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Clear plastic wheel to prevent damage to pans
Comfortable, soft-grip handle
Thumb guard to protect fingers

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

OXO Good Grips 4-Inch Pizza Wheel for Nonstick Pans
$11.95

OXO Good Grips 4-Inch Pizza Wheel
$13.50

POTATO RICER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Large hopper that can hold 1¼ cups sliced potatoes
Interchangeable fine and coarse disks
Sturdy, ergonomic handles

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

RSVP International Potato Ricer
$13.95

CUPCAKE AND CAKE CARRIER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Fits both round and square cakes and cupcakes
Snap locks
Nonskid base
Collapses for easy storage

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Progressive Collapsible Cupcake and Cake Carrier
$29.99

CAKE LIFTER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Sturdy but small and slightly flexible
Rounded corners for visibility
Comfortable offset handle

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Fat Daddio’s Cake Lifter
$11.88

REVOLVING CAKE STAND

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Elevated rotating stand so you can hold the spatula steady for easy frosting

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Ateco Professional Icing Turntable
$66.99

Best Buy: Ateco Plastic Revolving Cake Stand
$19.95

CREAM WHIPPER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Slim canister for one-handed squeezing
Slender metal tip to make rosettes and mounds

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Liss Professional Polished Stainless Steel Cream Whipper (1-pint)
$149.95

SPICE/COFFEE GRINDER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Electric, not manual, grinders
Deep bowl to hold ample amount of coffee beans
Easy-to-control texture of grind
Good to have two, one each for coffee grinding and spice grinding

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Krups Fast-Touch Coffee Mill
$19.99

TEAPOT

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Contained ultrafine-mesh strainer keeps tea leaf dregs separate
One-piece design for easy cleaning

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Adagio Teas IngenuiTEA
$14.95

TRAVEL MUG

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Simple, leakproof lid design
Good heat retention
Easy-to-clean and dishwasher safe

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Timolino Icon 16-Ounces Signature Vacuum Travel Mug
$28

WINE OPENER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Easy-to-grip chrome body
Hinged fulcrum for leverage
Teflon-coated worm with zero friction

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Pulltap’s Classic Evolution Corkscrew by Pulltex
$39.95

ELECTRIC WINE OPENER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Sturdy, quiet corkscrew
Broad base that rests firmly on bottle

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Waring Pro Professional Cordless Wine Opener
$39.95

WINE AERATOR

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Long, tubelike design that exposes wine to air as it is being poured
Neat, hands-free aerating

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Nuance Wine Finer
$49.95

COCKTAIL SHAKER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Double-walled canister to prevent condensation for slip-free gripping
Convenient pop-up spout
Tight-sealing lid

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Metrokane Fliptop Cocktail Shaker
$29.95

BEER SAVERS

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Fit both glass and plastic bottles
Preserve carbonation for up to 48 hours

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Savebrands Beer Savers
$6.99 for six-pack

COOLER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Insulating layer of plastic lining
Lightweight, durable, sturdy, and easy to move, even when full
Easy to clean

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

California Cooler Bags T-Rex Large Collapsible Rolling Cooler
$75

SELTZER MAKER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Easy to use and easy to control level of fizz
Large charger (producing about 60 liters of seltzer)

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Penguin Starter Kit by SodaStream
$199.95

VACUUM SEALER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Thick, strong plastic to keep food sealed and frost-free
Rolls of plastic for custom-size bags
Countertop, heat-sealed models

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Pragotrade Vacuum Sealer Pro 2300
$469.95

Best Buy: Food Saver V2450 Vacuum Sealer Kit
$99.99

COMPOST BUCKET

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Plastic pail to collect food scraps for composter
Carbon filter prevents odors from escaping and allows oxygen to enter so decomposition can occur
Easy to open lid that latches securely in place
2.4-gallon capacity

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Exaco Trading Kitchen Compost Waste Collector
$19.98

FIRE EXTINGUISHER

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Easy to operate
Powerful, controlled spray

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Kidde Kitchen Fire Extinguisher (model #21005753/FX10K)
$18.97

KITCHEN SUPPLIES

PARCHMENT PAPER (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Sturdy paper for heavy doughs
Easy release of baked goods
At least 14 inches wide

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Reynolds Parchment Paper
$2.50

PLASTIC WRAP (Must-Have Items)

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Clings tightly and resticks well
Packaging with sharp teeth that aren’t exposed (to avoid snags on clothing and skin)
Adhesive pad to hold cut end of wrap

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITES

Glad Cling Wrap Clear Plastic
$2.59

BUTTER SAVER