Here are my suggestions for the top kitchen tools to optimize your health:
A Blender – A counter top blender with a strong motor is a must for every healthy kitchen. Blenders are the most effective kitchen tool for making creamy protein shakes, vegetable drinks, mixing salad dressings or soup broths. When picking out a blender, shop wisely.
Look for a heavy glass tapered jar blender that will last over time in the dishwasher.
It is also important to choose a blender with the right voltage. The more you plan on using your blender, the higher the wattage should be to handle the job. Be sure to buy a large enough blender to suit your kitchen needs. That said, if you are storing your blender on your counter, you may want to choose a colour (red or stainless steel, for example) that matches your kitchen and is not a continual eyesore.
Lastly, take apart your blender after each use and clean thoroughly with hot water or run it through the dish washer. Unwanted old food particles can settle in the bottom of the blender, causing the unit to overheat and potentially become a health hazard.
A good set of kitchen knives – When it comes to kitchen knives, there are really only a few that are must-haves. If I were to name the top three knives for a healthy kitchen they would be;
• A paring knife with a firm, 3- to 4-inch blade for peeling vegetables and fruits
• A French knife (also called chef’s knife) has a broad tapered shape and a fine edge. It is the ideal knife for chopping vegetables
• An 8-inch serrated knife - or longer - for slicing soft vegetables such as tomatoes and slicing breads.
A durable cutting board – There has been great discussion as to which type of cutting board is the safest to use and is less likely to provide a breeding ground for bacteria. In truth, if not cleaned and used properly, any kind of board can become a vehicle for contamination. The cutting board options currently on the market are wooden boards, Corian, plastic or glass board. Regardless of the type of board you choose to purchase, all types should be cleaned with hot soapy water after each use. If your board becomes cracked and overly porous, it is time for a new one!
Page 1 of 2 - Read page 2 for two more great kitchen tools!
