Step 1: Identify the Tool
Before you can use it, you need to figure out what it is. Here are some common “strange” kitchen tools and their purposes:
1. Mandoline Slicer
What It Looks Like : A flat board with adjustable blades.
Purpose : Quickly slices fruits and vegetables into uniform thicknesses for salads, gratins, or chips.
How to Use It :
Adjust the blade setting for desired thickness.
Hold the food firmly with a hand guard (never use bare hands!) and slide it across the blade.
Perfect for making potato chips, zucchini noodles, or cabbage shreds.
2. Meat Tenderizer Hammer
What It Looks Like : A hammer-like tool with textured sides.
Purpose : Breaks down tough fibers in meat to make it more tender.
How to Use It :
Place the meat between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
Gently pound the meat with the textured side until it’s evenly flattened.
Great for chicken cutlets, schnitzel, or marinated steaks.
3. Citrus Zester/Microplane
What It Looks Like : A small grater with sharp holes.
Purpose : Zests citrus fruits or finely grates ingredients like garlic, ginger, or hard cheeses.
How to Use It :
Rub the fruit or ingredient against the microplane, applying gentle pressure.
Avoid grating the bitter white pith when zesting citrus.
Perfect for adding lemon zest to desserts or grating Parmesan over pasta.
4. Egg Separator
What It Looks Like : A small silicone or plastic tool shaped like a fish or cup.
Purpose : Separates egg yolks from whites without breaking the yolk.
How to Use It :
Crack the egg into a bowl.
Hover the separator over another bowl and pour the egg mixture into it—the white drips through, leaving the yolk behind.
5. Silicone Pastry Brush
What It Looks Like : A flexible brush with soft bristles.
Purpose : Brushes oil, butter, or glaze onto food.
How to Use It :
Dip the brush into the liquid and gently spread it over meats, pastries, or veggies.
Ideal for basting roasts, glazing cookies, or greasing pans.
6. Avocado Slicer
What It Looks Like : A multi-functional tool with a knife edge, a pit remover, and a slicing grid.
Purpose : Safely cuts, pits, and slices avocados.
ADVERTISEMENT
