By Brittany Rowland

The finest quality chefs knives are guaranteed to last you many years and provide versatile function in the kitchen. We looked for a variety of factors as we selected our top 10 knives, including:

1. Durable, strong forged steel
2. A full tang for extra strength
3. Comfortable, non-slip handle for big or small hands
4. A balanced feel
5. A sharp, rounded edge that allows a quick rocking motion
6. Lightweight enough not to tire the arm
7. Hefty enough to cut through tough foods
8. A polished, stain-resistant blade
9. Ease of cleaning and sharpening

While some knives advertise being dishwasher safe, it’s always advisable with top-quality chefs knives to hand wash them with a special cleanser to lengthen their lifespan.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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Knife Sharpening Tools and Tips

Sharpening your special kitchen knives when it’s required will keep them cutting and slicing away with speed and precision. Even though many knife manufacturers boast that their knives stay sharp and rarely need honing, it’s still smart to have a couple tools at hand for when your blades inevitably start getting dull… [more]

How to Use a Chef’s Knife

Whether you’re a professional or amateur cook, knowing how to use a chefs knife properly will save you a lot of time and effort, and be safer too. When you have a lot of meats, fish, or vegetables to go through, it’s helpful to know… [more]

Parts of a Chef’s Knife

If you’re hunting for a top-quality chefs knife, then it’s helpful to understand the basic components of a knife and what qualities makes it durable and strong. Forged steel is always preferable. The steel should run in one piece from the tip of the knife… [more]

Stocking Your Kitchen with Knives: The Key Considerations

So you’re in charge of your own kitchen now and you need to build up your collection of kitchen tools. As any professional or aspiring chef knows, the greatest tools you have at your disposal are knives. Different knives perform different functions… [more]

Storing Knives Safely: The Knife Block

The last thing you want to do is keep all your sharp knives—chefs, santoku, filleting, paring, etc.—is throw them all together in a drawer. Not only does it look untidy and fail to protect the blades, but it’s like sticking your hand in a land mine to fish one out… [more]

How to Wash Your Knives

After a lot of busy work in the kitchen, chopping up and cooking food, you just want to enjoy the fine meal you’ve prepared and get the kitchen cleaned as quickly as possible. It’s tempting to throw your nice knives in the dishwasher along with all the other cookware, but you should resist the urge… [more]

The Importance of Chefs Knives

When it comes to preparing food, the knife is of utmost importance. For the greatest control and versatility, a chefs knife cannot be topped. Featuring a blade between 8 and 10 inches long, it’s expensive and requires special care… [more]

The Essential Knives You’ll Find in Most Knife Sets

Knife sets vary in the types of knives they offer. Typically, the more knives in a set, the higher the price rises. While it’s awfully convenient to have a versatile collection for all your cooking tasks, you also don’t want to get saddled with a bunch of frilly knives that you never use… [more]

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Top 10 Santoku Knives

The finest quality santoku knives are guaranteed to last you many years and provide versatile function in the kitchen. The word santoku means “three virtues,” after all. We looked for a variety of factors as we selected… [more]

Top 10 Knife Sets

Knife sets can be a convenient solution if you want a complete set of all the essential tools but you don’t want to spend a fortune on each individual knife. Value was one of the key considerations…[more]

By Brittany Rowland

Nothing says comfort food like a rich, hot casserole. We looked at a number of casserole containers, both glass and stoneware, and found 10 that we believe do a superior job of baking casseroles, lasagna, bread, and other meals. We looked for the following qualities:

1. Safe to go in the oven, microwave, freezer, and dishwasher
2. Easy-grip handles
3. A secure fitting lid to seal in heat and moisture
4. Durable surface that doesn’t stain, chip, or crack
5. Nonporous material that doesn’t absorb odors or flavors
6. Pre-seasoned
7. Non-sticking
8. Even heat distribution

Stoneware Buying Guide

The Benefits of Cooking with Stoneware

Stoneware dishes made of fire clay harken back to the (very) old days before people started using metal pans for baking foods. Today, stoneware is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, due in part to its durability and effectiveness at heating food.

With proper care, stoneware dishes last for years and can be passed down to your children. Today’s pieces especially are built to last, with tough enamel finishes that don’t chip, crack, or break easily. Stoneware can put up with a light amount of abuse. They’re generally safe to go in the oven, microwave, freezer, and refrigerator. You can even wash them in the dishwasher.

Tough and nonporous…

Unlike earthenware, stoneware is clay fired at extremely high temperatures, about 2,185 degrees F, making them incredibly strong. Stoneware dishes also feature nonporous surfaces, which is good because they don’t stain or absorb odors and flavors. Also, unlike earthenware, stoneware is essentially waterproof. It can stand up to regular, day-to-day use.

A seasoned, non-stick surface…

Some stoneware dishes come pre-seasoned with oil, but even if they don’t you can season them yourself periodically. Over time and multiple uses, the stoneware interior will turn a rich brown and the surface will absorb the oils and fats found in food and cooking spray. Your stoneware will naturally develop a non-stick surface, so you don’t have to worry about stuck-on foods.

If you choose to clean by hand…

If a stoneware dish isn’t specified as dishwasher friendly, you can easily clean it by hand with a nylon scraper. Some people don’t recommend soaking them in water or using soap for fear of the detergent being absorbed into the surface. A scraper can work off baked-on food before you clean it with running water and thoroughly dry it with a towel.

While most stoneware dishes sold these days are dishwasher safe, some people are set in their ways and prefer to clean them by hand. There is something to say for preserving the enamel finish.

The aesthetic appeal…

Let’s not forget that stoneware is essentially pottery. You can find pieces in decorative shapes and colors, some with painted patterns that add charm and beauty to your kitchen. Because they’re so attractive, you can take stoneware dishes right out of the oven and place them right on the dinner table.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Featured Casserole Articles

3 Tips for Maintaining a Dutch Oven

A Dutch oven, or a large covered pot of some heavy material like cast iron, is a versatile tool for cooking casseroles, stews, roasts, and other big meals. The thick-walled cooking vessel has been a time-tested tool for several centuries. While the old-fashioned kind used for hundreds of years featured thick, sturdy legs to hold the pot over the fire… [more]

Tips for Baking and Serving Casseroles

The casserole has long been a favorite American dish, even though the word is French in origin. Casseroles are easy to bake because you simply add all the ingredients to a casserole pan and bake it in the oven. They come out hot and ready to serve. You know that … [more]

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Features we considered while compiling the top 10 list for combination microwave ovens included convection baking, oven and microwave capacities, adjustable racks, attractive design, size, and, of course, cooking performance. While these units typically run expensive, there are some … [more]

Top 10 24″ and 27″ Wall Ovens

Wall ovens are becoming an increasingly popular alternative to traditional range units because of their compact size. Most wall ovens are either 24” or 27” wide, and they are powered by either gas or electric. As we examined wall ovens for our top 10 list, we considered many important factors … [more]

By Brittany Rowland

Knife sets can be a convenient solution if you want a complete set of all the essential tools but you don’t want to spend a fortune on each individual knife. Value was one of the key considerations we had when choosing the top 10 knife sets. Other factors included:

1. Number and types of knives
2. Convenient storage like a block or case
3. Sharpener included
4. Strong, sharp blades that retain their edges
5. Bolsters that provide excellent weight and balance
6. Ease of sharpening and cleaning
7. Attractiveness of design
8. Comfortable, non-slip grips

You can find some decent quality knives for relatively low prices. If you’re looking for top-notch quality, however, the sky’s the limit as far as pricing goes.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Related Knife Set Articles

Knife Sharpening Tools and Tips

Sharpening your special kitchen knives when it’s required will keep them cutting and slicing away with speed and precision. Even though many knife manufacturers boast that their knives stay sharp and rarely need honing, it’s still smart to have a couple tools at hand for when your blades inevitably start getting dull… [more]

Stocking Your Kitchen with Knives: The Key Considerations

So you’re in charge of your own kitchen now and you need to build up your collection of kitchen tools. As any professional or aspiring chef knows, the greatest tools you have at your disposal are knives. Different knives perform different functions… [more]

Storing Knives Safely: The Knife Block

The last thing you want to do is keep all your sharp knives—chefs, santoku, filleting, paring, etc.—is throw them all together in a drawer. Not only does it look untidy and fail to protect the blades, but it’s like sticking your hand in a land mine to fish one out… [more]

How to Wash Your Knives

After a lot of busy work in the kitchen, chopping up and cooking food, you just want to enjoy the fine meal you’ve prepared and get the kitchen cleaned as quickly as possible. It’s tempting to throw your nice knives in the dishwasher along with all the other cookware, but you should resist the urge… [more]

How to Use a Chef’s Knife

Whether you’re a professional or amateur cook, knowing how to use a chefs knife properly will save you a lot of time and effort, and be safer too. When you have a lot of meats, fish, or vegetables to go through, it’s helpful to know… [more]

The Importance of Chefs Knives

When it comes to preparing food, the knife is of utmost importance. For the greatest control and versatility, a chefs knife cannot be topped. Featuring a blade between 8 and 10 inches long, it’s expensive and requires special care… [more]

The Essential Knives You’ll Find in Most Knife Sets

Knife sets vary in the types of knives they offer. Typically, the more knives in a set, the higher the price rises. While it’s awfully convenient to have a versatile collection for all your cooking tasks, you also don’t want to get saddled with a bunch of frilly knives that you never use… [more]

Related Top 10 Lists

Top 10 Chef’s Knives

The finest quality chefs knives are guaranteed to last you many years and provide versatile function in the kitchen. We looked for a variety of factors as we selected our top 10 knives, including: Durable, strong forged steel… [more]

Top 10 Santoku Knives

The finest quality santoku knives are guaranteed to last you many years and provide versatile function in the kitchen. The word santoku means “three virtues,” after all. We looked for a variety of factors as we selected… [more]

By Brittany Rowland

The finest quality santoku knives are guaranteed to last you many years and provide versatile function in the kitchen. The word santoku means “three virtues,” after all. We looked for a variety of factors as we selected our top 10 knives, including:

1. Durable, strong forged steel
2. A full tang for extra strength
3. Comfortable, non-slip handle for big or small hands
4. A balaned feel
5. A sharp, triangular glade for quick up-and-down chopping
6. Lightweight enough not to tire the arm
7. Hefty enough to cut through tough foods
8. A polished, stain-resistant blade
9. Ease of cleaning and sharpening
10. Less friction while cutting and food not sticking to the blade

While some knives advertise being dishwasher safe, it’s always advisable with top-quality santoku knives to hand wash them to lengthen their lifespan.

Related Santoku Knives Articles

Knife Sharpening Tools and Tips

Sharpening your special kitchen knives when it’s required will keep them cutting and slicing away with speed and precision. Even though many knife manufacturers boast that their knives stay sharp and rarely need honing, it’s still smart to have a couple tools at hand for when your blades inevitably start getting dull… [more]

Stocking Your Kitchen with Knives: The Key Considerations

So you’re in charge of your own kitchen now and you need to build up your collection of kitchen tools. As any professional or aspiring chef knows, the greatest tools you have at your disposal are knives. Different knives perform different functions… [more]

History of the Santoku Knife

These days, the santoku knife has become a ubiquitous kitchen tool, common in all home appliance stores and TV cooking shows. You hear a TV chef rave about the santoku knife, and you wonder if it’s an ancient Japanese knife… [more]

Storing Knives Safely: The Knife Block

The last thing you want to do is keep all your sharp knives—chefs, santoku, filleting, paring, etc.—is throw them all together in a drawer. Not only does it look untidy and fail to protect the blades, but it’s like sticking your hand in a land mine to fish one out… [more]

How to Wash Your Knives

After a lot of busy work in the kitchen, chopping up and cooking food, you just want to enjoy the fine meal you’ve prepared and get the kitchen cleaned as quickly as possible. It’s tempting to throw your nice knives in the dishwasher along with all the other cookware, but you should resist the urge… [more]

The Essential Knives You’ll Find in Most Knife Sets

Knife sets vary in the types of knives they offer. Typically, the more knives in a set, the higher the price rises. While it’s awfully convenient to have a versatile collection for all your cooking tasks, you also don’t want to get saddled with a bunch of frilly knives that you never use… [more]

Related Top 10 Lists

Top 10 Chef’s Knives

The finest quality chefs knives are guaranteed to last you many years and provide versatile function in the kitchen. We looked for a variety of factors as we selected our top 10 knives, including: Durable, strong forged steel… [more]

Top 10 Knife Sets

Knife sets can be a convenient solution if you want a complete set of all the essential tools but you don’t want to spend a fortune on each individual knife. Value was one of the key considerations…[more]

By Brittany Rowland

When it comes to pot racks, be they ceiling-mounted or wall-mounted, you want sturdiness, durability, and enough space to hold lots of pots, pans, and kitchen utensils. Some of the main factors we considered while compiling our top 10 list included:

1. Ease of assembly and installation
2. Style and attractiveness of design
3. Sturdiness of construction and materials
4. Number of hooks
5. Grid for extra storage space
6. Whether it needs to be mounted in wall studs or ceiling josts
7. Quality of screws, chains, and anchors included
8. Adjustable height

Whichever style you choose, a pot rack is a convenient feature for any kitchen, clearing the clutter from your cabinets and counters and organizing pots and pans in an accessible manner.

Pot Racks Buying Guide

The Benefits of the Pot Rack

Whether you’re hoping to organize your kitchen, clearing out the clutter from your cabinets, or you’re a fanatic cook, then you should consider a pot rack. Pot racks have long been a convenient kitchen accessory that gives you more space in your work area and yet keeps your cooking tools within easy reach.

Convenient access

Do you wish all your pots, pans, and utensils were in plain view and easy fingertip reach? It’s a hassle having to dig through drawers for that one ladle or pull out all your stacked pots to find the medium sized one you need. A pot rack provides quick and simple organization. Because you can see all of your tools, it’s easy to grab the one you need right away.

Saving space

We’ve all experienced the joy of opening up the cabinet and having a bunch of haphazardly stacked pots tumble out on the floor. Your kids have probably discovered the fun game of pulling them out, too. If you have limited cabinet space, then a pot rack can be a lifesaver. It also helps clear the counter and drawers of your most-used utensils. You’ll appreciate having a clean, tidy workspace without sacrificing easy access to your favorite tools.

Visual appeal and design

Because they’re displayed so prominently in the kitchen, pot racks come in a wide variety of styles, materials, and designs. An attractive pot rack can be as elegant as it is functional, in such materials as wrought iron, wood, distressed steel, nickel, or pewter. An added benefit: If you’re a devoted chef and proud of your collection of fancy cookware, then you’ll love showing them off to visitors. A pot rack can add class, style, and hominess to any kitchen.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Featured Pot Racks Articles

Figuring Out the Best Height for a Pot Rack

A hanging pot rack ideally keeps pots and pans within easy reach above your head. However, you’ll need to consider the height of your ceiling and your own height to determine the best height for your pot rack. If it’s short or you hang it too high, you won’t be able to reach… [more]

Should I Get a Hanging, Wall-Mounted, or Freestanding Pot Rack?

Depending on your kitchen design and personal preferences, you may decide to buy a either a hanging, wall-mounted, or freestanding pot rack. Each variety has its special qualities and attractions, although they all serve basically the same purpose: organizing and … [more]

What to Look For in Stainless Steel Cookware

Stainless steel provides the most versatile functions in a cookware set. However, you need to know what to look for when you buy a stainless steel set, which is typically more expensive than other materials. Even Heating: While stainless steel has a gleaming … [more]

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Top 10 Cookware Sets

Cookware pieces come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. Some of the most common and popular materials for pots and pans are stainless steel and hard anodized aluminum with a non-stick surface. We looked at a number of cookware sets and selected our top 10 based on the following … [more]

By Brittany Rowland

Cookware pieces come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. Some of the most common and popular materials for pots and pans are stainless steel and hard anodized aluminum with a non-stick surface. We looked at a number of cookware sets and selected our top 10 based on the following factors:

1. Ease of cleaning—either dishwasher safe or easy to wash by hand with little sticking
2. Even and fast heating with no hotspots
3. Durable, sturdy construction
4. Easy-grip handles that stay cool to the touch
5. Good value for the price
6. A comprehensive mix of saucepans, pots, skillets, and other assorted tools
7. Safe to bake in the oven
8. No warping or staining
9. Tight-fitting lids

Cookware Set Buying Guide

Tips for Buying a Cookware Set

These days, people seem to be divided along the line of stainless steel vs. anodized aluminum, non-stick cookware sets. Both materials have their pros and cons, and both are popular. You need to decide what other features are important to you so you can select the best quality set for your budget.

Price

Most decent cookware sets start out at about $100. If you go too cheap, you could wind up with a low-quality set that warps, stains, and falls apart after regular use.

Versatile functions

A cookware set is a worthwhile investment because you get all the essential kitchen pieces you need for a reasonable price. The trick is to make sure the set you buy has the most important cookware items and not too many extraneous pieces that merely raise the price. Look for sets with a lidded saucepan, a skillet/frying pan, and a stockpot. A straight-edged saute pan is also useful. Sometimes the set offers a Dutch oven instead of a stockpot, but they both serve many of the same functions.

You don’t necessarily need multiple sizes of the same thing unless you’re an avid cook and you like to have a lot of pots and pans going at once. After you have all the essential tools in a set, any additional pieces either sweeten the deal or jack up the price, depending on your perspective. Compare sets and prices to get an idea of what’s a fair deal.

Material

Stainless steel is the most versatile material for cookware. It’s highly durable, not likely to warp or get dings if you set it down hard. Stainless steel also doesn’t pit or react to acidic and alkaline ingredients. But it has its downsides, too. Unless the pots and pans have an aluminum core or a base of aluminum or copper, the stainless steel won’t conduct heat very efficiently.

Aluminum is another common choice because it’s an effective conductor. You’ll see some cookware sets described as hard anodized, which means the aluminum went through a special process to be reinforced and made stronger. Some aluminum cookware have non-stick surfaces, which are ideal for easy hand washing. That’s a good thing, because putting aluminum cookware in the dishwasher normally isn’t advised.

Quality design

It’s the little things that make a big difference when it comes to cookware. You want the pots and pans to be heavy and sturdy enough to feel durable, but you don’t want them so heavy that they’re hard to maneuver on the stovetop.

Handles should stay cool to the touch even while you’re heating the pots to a boil. Contoured, easy-to-grip handles are beneficial for safety and comfort reasons. Lids should fit securely over the pots and pans to trap the heat, moisture, and nutrients of the food. If you have a pot rack, look for cookware with hooks on the handles so you can hang them up.

Even if you’re on a tight budget, it’s best to spring for the highest-quality set you can afford. Cheap pots and pans of poor quality will only cost you more in the long run when you have to replace them. Also consider saving up for specialty cookware items, such as stir-fry pans or cast-iron skillets. The more you build up your cookware collection, the more versatile cooking tasks you’ll be able to perform.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Featured Cookware Articles

What to Look For in Stainless Steel Cookware

Stainless steel provides the most versatile functions in a cookware set. However, you need to know what to look for when you buy a stainless steel set, which is typically more expensive than other materials. Even Heating: While stainless steel has a gleaming … [more]

Should I Get a Hanging, Wall-Mounted, or Freestanding Pot Rack?

Depending on your kitchen design and personal preferences, you may decide to buy a either a hanging, wall-mounted, or freestanding pot rack. Each variety has its special qualities and attractions, although they all serve basically the same purpose: organizing and … [more]

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When it comes to pot racks, be they ceiling-mounted or wall-mounted, you want sturdiness, durability, and enough space to hold lots of pots, pans, and kitchen utensils. Some of the main factors we considered while compiling our top 10 list included: 1. Ease of … [more]

By Brittany Rowland

You may think that there’s not much to consider when it comes to wine glasses, just as long as they hold wine, but you’d be surprised. We looked at a number of factors as we compiled our list of best 10 wine glasses:

1. Durability
2. Ease of cleaning — is it dishwasher safe?
3. How well it lets the wine breathe or concentrates the aroma.
4. Generous capacity
5. Elegance and classiness
6. Sturdiness and balance
7. Smoothness and thinness of the rim
8. How well it enhances the flavor and aroma of wine
9. Comfortable to hold

Wine Glasses Buying Guide

How Wine Glass Shape and Size Affects the Taste of Wine

You’d be surprised to know that experts have studied how the size and shape of wine glasses affects the taste and smell of wine. There’s a reason that there are a variety of glass shapes for different types of wine—each type enhances that wine’s special qualities.

You’re not only enhancing the taste of wine, but also the visual presentation. The right glass, with clear, brilliant clarity, shows off the rich color of the contents within. You feast as much with your eyes as with your mouth and stomach.

The shape and size of a wine glass determines how much of the surface of the wine is exposed to air. The level of oxidation, or exposure to air, has a subtle but noticeable affect on the chemicals within the wine that determine its taste and aroma. If the bowl of the glass is large enough, you can swirl the wine around to bring out all the flavor and smells.

Whites and Reds

But why are there different glasses for red and white wines? You can find all-purpose glasses that work for either kind of wine. They feature a tulip-shaped bowl that’s large enough for swirling but tapered enough to concentrate the bouquet.

However, wine connoisseurs appreciate a smaller version of the tulip glass for white wines. Whites generally don’t require much exposure to air, and the narrowed openings of white wine glasses keep the bouquet contained within and also help preserve the chill.

Full-bodied red wines benefit from aeration. The large burgundy glass features a large, open bowl that also makes an impressive presentation of these rich wines.

And of course, there’s also the champagne flute that you see at fancy occasions and New Year’s Eve parties. The long, narrow flute preserves the bubbles of champagne and also helps keep the drink chilled.

Rim, Stem, and Thickness

Even subtle qualities of the wine glass enhance the drinking experience. When the rim of the glass is thin and even, it directs wine to the right areas of the tongue for a full appreciation of the flavor. Depending on how wide the opening of the glass, the wine will either emit or retain its bouquet. Remember, reds generally require a glass with a wide opening, and whites taste better when the bouquet is concentrated in the glass.

The stem is also important, and not just for functional purposes. Yes, you hold the glass by the stem, so it should be long enough to be gripped comfortably. Doing so prevents the heat from your hand from altering the taste of the wine (yes, it has an effect).

With a stem firmly attached to both the bowl and the base, the wine glass should be sturdy enough to swirl the wine around. Thick glass is good for durability, but only at a minimum. The thinner the glass, the more you can appreciate the visual presentation of the wine.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Featured Wine Glasses Articles

Tips for Wine Glass Care

Regular wine glasses are designed to stand up to a lot of use. Typically possessing thick glass, they’re easy to throw in the dishwasher with all your other dishware. If you have some fine wine glasses, however, then you want to protect them and keep … [more]

Storing and Serving Red and White Wines

Wine connoisseurs are careful to store wines at specific temperatures depending on the type. Whites are generally chilled more than reds. Here’s a guide for the optimal storage temperatures for various wines … [more]

Proper Storage Temperatures for Wine

Many people buy and serve wine for social occasions: parties, holiday get-togethers, and nice dinners. They’re content just to have a handful of bottles at a time. Other people, though, are serious collectors who enjoy holding onto special bottles … [more]

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Top 10 Wine Coolers

Wine coolers allow collectors to store bottles at just the right temperature so they last longer and are perfectly chilled when served. As we compiled the top 10 wine coolers, we considered several factors that set the top models apart from the … [more]

An example of a filter from a range hood

You can effectively wash the top of a hood with warm, soapy water and a cloth. If it’s stainless steel, always rub it with the grain and dry it immediately to prevent water spots from developing.

Range hoods with a painted finish are cleaned in much the same way. While some special cleaning agents guarantee a better shine, you want to be careful using them for fear of the chemicals reacting with heat from the stove to remove the paint.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

More Top 10 Lists

Top 10 Range Hoods

Range hoods come in a number of formats: chimney, island, professional, and built-in. No matter which style you choose, you should keep in mind certain factors that ensure quality performance: adequate air flow for the cooktop and length of duct… [more]

Top 10 Combination Ovens

Features we considered while compiling the top 10 list for combination microwave ovens included convection baking, oven and microwave capacities, adjustable racks, attractive design, size, and, of course, cooking performance. While these units typically run expensive, there are some … [more]

Top 10 24″ and 27″ Wall Ovens

Wall ovens are becoming an increasingly popular alternative to traditional range units because of their compact size. Most wall ovens are either 24” or 27” wide, and they are powered by either gas or electric. As we examined wall ovens for our top 10 list, we considered many important factors … [more]

Top 10 Electric Ranges

As we came up with a top 10 list of electric ranges, we considered several factors: 1. Number and size of coil/radiant elements, 2. Oven capacity and baking functions, 3. Appearance and style, 4. Ease of use and cleaning, 5. Cooking power of stovetop, 6. Convenient features like delay … [more]

Sharpening your special kitchen knives when it’s required will keep them cutting and slicing away with speed and precision. Even though many knife manufacturers boast that their knives stay sharp and rarely need honing, it’s still smart to have a couple tools at hand for when your blades inevitably start getting dull.

Remember, sharpening knives isn’t just for keeping them in peak condition; it’s also a matter of safety. A dull knife is more likely to slip and cut you than a razor-thin blade.

Whetstone

A whetstone is a great tool for sharpening knives because it doesn’t wear away too much of the blade. The task is fairly straightforward and takes only a couple minutes.

• Position the whetstone on the cutting board, scratchy side up.
• Hold the knife’s edge against the whetstone at a 22 ½ degree angle and slide it forward against the stone, covering all parts of the edge.
• Repeat this movement 10 times, and then flip the knife over to do the other side 10 times.
• Flip the whetstone over so the finer side is facing up. Repeat the previous steps.

The whetstone works away parts of the blade’s edge to get it sharp again. However, the process leaves the edge rough and uneven. After whetting the knife, you’ll need to use the knife sharpener to get the blade’s edge smooth again.

Sharpening Steel

A steel smooths, or hones, the knife’s edge to a straight line, close to the way you originally had it. The steel should be at least as long as the knife you’re sharpening.

• With your non-dominant hand, hold the steel up with the point resting against the cutting board, your hand at the top of the steel.
• Position the knife perpendicular to the steel, with the back of the blade (the part closest to the handle) against the steel. Once again, the knife should be angled 22 ½ degrees against the steel.
• In one fluid motion, simultaneously pull the knife back toward you and down the length of the steel. This motion should cover the entire edge of the blade.
• Do this stroke 10 times, and then turn the knife over and give that side 10 strokes.

After whetting and honing the knife, carefully rinse any miniscule metal filings off the blade and dry it with a cloth. These simple steps will preserve the fine quality and angle of your knife’s edge. Whatever you do, avoid rinky-dink electric sharpeners, which can seriously damage the fine craftsmanship of the blade.

As you get used to the sharpening process, you’ll notice the difference between a sharp and dull blade right away. Some chefs sharpen their knives frequently—at least once a week. You’ll appreciate your whetstone and steel when you see how smoothly your knife cuts through tomatoes, cheese, and carrots.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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If you’re hunting for a top-quality chefs knife, then it’s helpful to understand the basic components of a knife and what qualities makes it durable and strong.

Forged steel is always preferable. The steel should run in one piece from the tip of the knife to the tang, or the part that’s secured within the handle. This one-piece construction will make the knife last for years without breaking or becoming disjointed.

Material

The best chefs knives are forged from high carbon stainless steel, which is an extremely strong, hard metal that resists stains and rust. Hard steel is tougher to sharpen, but it already stays sharp for long periods. Some people like the softer carbon steel material because it’s easier to sharpen, but those knives go dull faster.

Length and shape of blade

Chefs knives are typically 8 to 12 inches long. The longer the blade, the more surface area the knife can cover in a single stroke.

You’ll notice some knives described as French- or German-style. French chefs knives have a flatter, more triangular blade which is ideal for slicing foods in a pull-back motion. German knives have a rounded blade that’s good for an up-and-down rocking motion, a faster, easier movement.

There are also special Japanese knives called santoku, which feature spaced-out dimples, or indentations, along the edge of the blade. These marks in the blade allow air pockets to form between the food and the knife, cutting down on friction and sticking.

Handle

Try handling a knife to see how easily it fits in your hand. Is the handle textured or contoured to prevent slips and provide comfort? It should be long enough to hold easily and provide proper balance to the knife.

Handles used to be exclusively made of wood, but now we recognize that there are disadvantages to that material. For one, wood can warp and crack if exposed to water for long periods. Also, wood is porous, meaning bacteria from food particles can grow in the handle or at the bolster where the handle meets the blade. For sanitary purposes, plastic or rubber handles are preferred for commercial kitchens. Of course, there’s always a compromise: wood infused with plastic resin, a composite that resembles wood but doesn’t pose hygienic risks.

Weight and heft

The longer the knife, the greater leverage you’ll have while cutting hard, large food objects. The heel, or widest portion of the blade, is responsible for cutting through carrots and other hard foods. You may prefer a hefty knife with enough cutting force to handle these tasks. Just be aware that a heavier knife will tire your arm out after extended periods of use.

Tang and rivets

Full tang knives are the best. Period. The tang may or may not be visible in the handle, but you can usually see the rivets, which secure the handle to the tang. They should not protrude from the handle or include crevices where crumbs and juices can get stuck.

Forged vs. stamped

If the knife has a bolster, or thick shoulder at the top of the blade, that indicates that the knife was forged from a big piece of steel. These types of knives are strongest, and the bolster keeps your hand from slipping or getting tired.

Stamped knives, in contrast, are made from a roll of sheet metal and aren’t as sturdy or long-lasting as forged knives. They do, however, have the advantage of being lighter and more comfortable to handle for long periods of time.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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Whether you’re a professional or amateur cook, knowing how to use a chefs knife properly will save you a lot of time and effort, and be safer too. When you have a lot of meats, fish, or vegetables to go through, it’s helpful to know how to wield and maneuver the knife effectively.

The grip

Most people are used to gripping a knife by the handle—that’s what the handle is there for, right? Professional chefs actually learn to use a chefs knife by gripping the top of the blade with the thumb and forefinger, and wrapping the other fingers around the bolster. The tightest part of your hand should be at the thumb and index finger; the rest of the hand gently curls around the handle. This grip may seem uncomfortable or awkward at first, but it offers the greatest control and maneuverability.

The guiding hand

You may have initially balked at gripping the knife partially by the blade, but the hand that’s actually at risk of being cut is the guiding hand, which holds the food steady. There are ways to avoid cutting yourself, luckily. Keep your fingers curled inward, like a claw, with only the fingernails gripping the food. The edge of the blade can rest against your first knuckle to keep the knife perpendicular to the cutting board, but your fingertips will be safely out of the way.

Safety

Cuts are almost unavoidable if you spend hours in the kitchen and if you work quickly. Just remember to always cut away from yourself, and don’t go too fast until you’re comfortable with the grip and the chopping motion. Never secure the food with an awkward hand position that puts your fingers at risk or requires you to cut sideways.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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So you’re in charge of your own kitchen now and you need to build up your collection of kitchen tools. As any professional or aspiring chef knows, the greatest tools you have at your disposal are knives. Different knives perform different functions, of course, be it chopping, mincing, dicing, slicing, paring, scooping, sawing, or deboning.

With knives, you generally get what you pay for. There are plenty of decent knives out there for reasonable prices. For better quality performance, however, you should expect to shell out more money. Before you make any expensive purchases you need to decide exactly what you need and how much you’re willing to pay for it.

Do you need a whole set?

One of the first decisions you should make is whether to look for one really good open stock knife or a complete knife set. Often this choice boils down to your budget. Knife sets can be really economical if you find a decent set for a fair price. But you may also just want a good chefs knife or a basic utility knife. Perhaps you already have a knife set but a piece or two broke or went missing, and you really just want to replace those.

While a fine-quality chefs or santoku knife can serve you well in the kitchen, handling most of the basic cutting tasks, it can also be quite expensive—sometimes more expensive than a basic knife set that offers a bit of everything: paring, bread, utility, and steak knives. Sets typically come with a sharpening steel so you can keep the edges fine and sharp. Another benefit of the knife set is the convenient knife block that stores and protects your knives and looks so fancy on the counter.

Regular or professional quality

It’s perhaps unfair to compare regular kitchen knives to professional knives, because the knives you find in most kitchens are perfectly adequate for the tasks they’re assigned. Professionals look for knife sets with extra fine edges and ceramic blades. These knives are top-quality, but they also require a lot of maintenance—more maintenance than they’re worth if you’re just a regular person looking for regular kitchen knives. Regular knives, while still great quality, are much easier to upkeep. The stainless steel kind hold up well, don’t stain or rust with proper care, and sharpen easily.

Picking the best knives

Sometimes what qualifies as the best in knives comes down to personal preference. Some people like a heavy, sturdy feel. Forged stainless steel blades with bolsters fit big hands well and feel powerful. Other people prefer a lighter feel, a bit more flexibility. Stamped blades tend to be a little lighter and easier to handle.

Handle material also comes into play.

• Wooden handles are attractive and traditional, but if they’re left in water too long they can crack or warp. Bacteria also likes to hide in the wood’s porous surface.
• Plastic handles are usually of some cushioned, non-slip material. They’re hygienic and look fine if you like a contemporary style.
• Some knife handles use a composite of wood and plastic, providing the heft and aesthetic appeal of one and the sanitary features of the other.

Ultimately, you’re the best judge when it comes to determining what works for you. Shop around, read reviews, and compare prices before making your final purchase. Whenever possible, go to a store and handle different knives yourself to get a feel for the weight, balance, and style you prefer.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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These days, the santoku knife has become a ubiquitous kitchen tool, common in all home appliance stores and TV cooking shows. You hear a TV chef rave about the santoku knife, and you wonder if it’s an ancient Japanese knife only recently brought to the West. After all, companies that forge santoku knives in Japan describe using authentic sword-making techniques to craft the steel.

In fact, the santoku knife’s history goes back only so far, to mid-1940s, when World War II was ending. Western and Japanese cultures blended together, in a way. The Japanese had discovered new styles of cooking popular in the West, so they developed the santoku knife as their own version of the chefs knife. So the santoku knife is a sort of hybrid of Eastern and Western cultures, unlike the sashimi knife, which is a true traditional Japanese knife.

How exactly does a santoku knife differ from a basic chefs knife? The answer lies in the oval indentations along the edge of the blade. This “hollow edge” allows air pockets to form between the knife and the food it’s slicing. You’ll notice when using a santoku knife that there’s less friction and struggling to cut through dense foods. Also, food slides right off the blade instead of sticking to it—something you’ll really appreciate when it comes to cheese.

The word santoku itself means “three virtues.” What those three virtues, or uses, are, no one can quite agree. Some theories include:

• The knife is used primarily for chopping, mincing, and dicing.
• The knife has three distinct sections: the tip, the edge, and the heel.
• The knife can cut through anything: fish, meat, or vegetables.

Whichever theory you believe, you have to agree that the santoku knife is pretty unmatched when it comes to versatility.

The santoku knife has other distinct qualities that set it apart:

• Typically smaller than the traditional chefs knife, it’s a preferred tool for many women and people with smaller hands.
• Because it’s made of harder steel, the blade can be forged thinner without losing any of its cutting strength.
• The blade is also wider than that of a chefs knife, making it a useful tool for scooping and transferring food.
• It has a straighter edge than the rounded chefs knife, meaning it requires a different cutting motion. You push the tip forward slightly as you do a straight up-and-down chopping.

If you’re an aspiring chef in your kitchen at home, then you’ll appreciate a versatile knife like the santoku. Its lightweight and thin design belie its true power.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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The last thing you want to do is keep all your sharp knives—chefs, santoku, filleting, paring, etc.—is throw them all together in a drawer. Not only does it look untidy and fail to protect the blades, but it’s like sticking your hand in a land mine to fish one out.

Some knives come with a protective sheath, including the kind with sharpening teeth that keep the edge sharp. But the most convenient solution is to look for a knife block. Blocks are now available for purchase separate from knife sets. They look nice on the counter and make it fast and easy to pull out whichever knife you need. Some have slots for over 20 knives and include space for scissors and steak knives.

When you place your knives in the block, be sure to slide them in with the edge facing up. This position prevents the edge from going dull.

Other options

• Of course, if you can’t afford to give up the counter space, there are under-counter, in-drawer, and wall-mounted storage units that also help keep the knives organized.
• If you have a really nice set of knives that you’re proud to show off, there are attractive knife magnets that either sit on the counter or hang on the wall.
• For transporting knives, individual sheaths work great, as do knife rolls or cases. Professional cooks use these methods to take their knives with them wherever they go.

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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After a lot of busy work in the kitchen, chopping up and cooking food, you just want to enjoy the fine meal you’ve prepared and get the kitchen cleaned as quickly as possible. It’s tempting to throw your nice knives in the dishwasher along with all the other cookware, but you should resist the urge… [more]

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Knife sets vary in the types of knives they offer. Typically, the more knives in a set, the higher the price rises. While it’s awfully convenient to have a versatile collection for all your cooking tasks, you also don’t want to get saddled with a bunch of frilly knives that you never use… [more]

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The finest quality santoku knives are guaranteed to last you many years and provide versatile function in the kitchen. The word santoku means “three virtues,” after all. We looked for a variety of factors as we selected… [more]

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Knife sets can be a convenient solution if you want a complete set of all the essential tools but you don’t want to spend a fortune on each individual knife. Value was one of the key considerations…[more]