Look for ladles that are made of one piece of stainless steel rather than a handle and dome which are spot welded together. With use, spot welded ladles tend to come apart. Buy several differnet sizes.

If you enjoy eastern cuisine, you can buy a speciality hob with a wok burner. Similarly if you are a BBQ fan, choose a BBQ grill. If you are left handed, go for front rather than right hand side controls as this eliminates the risk of reaching across the heat. If you cook for a large family, more than four rings may be useful, and if you have young children it may be worth considering paying a little extra for a hob guard or in the case of gas, choosing an automatic re-ignition or cut off device should the flame blow out.

Thaw frozen fish in milk to help remove the frozen taste and provide for a fresh fish flavor