The bread-bakers list is great. Here's my contribution, an
overview of a few items used in the past year that, for the most part,
exceeded expectations:
An electronic scale for weighing ingredients (I convert everything
to grams for simplicity). I had no idea how functional this device would be
- in place of normal measuring cups. Highly recommended for ease of use,
less tools to clean, far greater accuracy and consistency.
I bought mine from King Arthur, the $45 Terraillon Scale, but the
top is a bit small, and the unit shuts off too soon are the only slight
shortcomings. I'd probably opt for KA's Baker's Dream scale from Slater
($60) next time. But using an electronic scale over measuring cups -
there's no comparison. Highly recommended.
Simple but functional: Oxo/Good Grips soap-dispensing cleaning
brush ($5, about 4" tall with black knob and soap button on top) for
cleaning pans and dishes. It's one of those tools that "just feels right in
the hand" and is very functional. The same can be said for most all
Oxo/Good Grips tools.
Wusthof Grand Prix knives - very comfortable handles with a
excellent gripping surface, plus the metallurgy is top notch. A lifetime
investment. Their bread knife, though, ($60) seems "just average" in
performance.
Storage containers for flour, etc.: Rubbermaid's blue-covered
"serve n'saver" clear-plastic containers (round or square) available in
grocery stores ($2-6) are very functional. The blue lids with large tab
make it easy to remove well-sealed covers. Units stack well. The 1.1 gal
(4.1L) model is perfect for a 5-lb bag of flour. Smaller sizes store a
multitude of items. Clear see-though allows a quick visual check of what's
inside.
Baking mitts: knitted cuff 10-inch model from King Arthur, $4.50.
Fit the hands well, very flexible, stay on, afford good dexterity. Most of
the fashionable "Martha Stewart" models are worthless.
Rubberized kitchen matt for shelves or counters - available in
most stores ($2-3) in an open weave. I use it for stabilizing cutting
boards, dishes, bowls, etc. on a slippery surface (besides their intended
use for lining drawers).
Convection oven, the "latest/greatest" KitchenAid Architect
Series, model KEBS177DSS7, a "thumbs up/thumbs down" piece of equipment:
Convection versus standard oven is a noteworthy upgrade - baking
uniformity regardless of shelf used, and no turning is required midway
through baking.
Stainless steel exterior is eye-catching... but a pain in the butt
to clean, much less keep clean.
Large viewing window is excellent.
Electronic keyboard is overkill and confusing.
Oven's cooling-fan operation is objectionably noisy.
Temperature accuracy and consistency has proved problematic after
several service calls.
Bottom line: Oven not recommended.
- Ed Okie