Kitchen Deals -> Dinnerware

We recommend 2 strainers for every kitchen. The first is a solid stainless steel colander (one big enough to wash a lot of lettuce at once). The second strainer is a fine mesh conical strainer (called a chinois) which is a must for any serious sauce or stock making. A chinois is an expensive purchase, but with care it will last many years.

Many still consider a whip as a "gourmet" piece of kitchen equipment. Nothing could be further from the truth. It is as essential as a kitchen stove and should be in everyone's kitchen. Nothing works better for mixing a multitude of different preparations or for making sauces or gravy. Buy a solid stainless steel whip with moderately stiff wires. Very thin wires are for mixing delicate things like egg whites or whipped cream. Very thick, solid wires are for mixing stiff dough.

Energy efficiency is of paramount importance, not only to save money on electricity bills but also to help reduce power station emissions that contribute to global warming. Look for brands with low energy consumption (energy efficiency ratings will be displayed in the showroom). Levels are now as low as 1.3kW/hr on some slimline models largely because of reduced water consumption. A delay timer can help take advantage of cheap overnight electricity.