When it comes to preparing a Thanksgiving meal, the right kitchen tools can make the experience much easier. Unfortunately, the sheer number of kitchen gadgets available can be overwhelming, especially to the new or inexperienced home cook. This list of must-have kitchen gadgets can help you figure out what you really need this holiday season.
Stand mixer: Regardless of whether your mixer is a Kitchenaid or another brand, no one will argue the benefits of a stand mixer on a busy Thanksgiving in the kitchen. Get those rolls or the whipped cream for pie made up in a jiffy with one of these bad boys.
Food processor: Did you know that you can make pie crust in the food processor? It can also make a mean cranberry relish. The food processor is a definite must-have for your holiday preparations.
Mandolin slicer: Nothing saves time and cleanup quite like a mandolin slicer. These ultra-sharp slices can prepare vegetables like onions, potatoes, yams, and peppers quickly and conveniently.
Vegetable peeler: Get all of those yams and russets peeled and onto the mandolin or into a pot quickly with a good vegetable peeler. All veggie peelers are not created equal—try out a few in the store to see which one fits your hand best.
Meat thermometer: A good meat thermometer is handy to have year-round, but it’s especially useful on Turkey Day. The pop-up timer in your turkey isn’t always reliable, and you don’t want to be that person who serves an under- or overcooked turkey.
Wire whisk: Whisks aren’t just for eggs anymore. A good whisk has so many applications in the kitchen, from easy batters to sauces and beyond.
Candy thermometer: You can try eyeballing that homemade toffee or sugar syrup, but why risk it when a suitable candy thermometer will only set you back a few dollars?
Zester: From oranges to nutmeg, a zester is a versatile tool that will help you put together dishes easily and a lot less expensively. Why buy candied orange zest or a jar of lemon zest when you get it fresh for a fraction of the cost?
Carving knife: A good, sharp carving knife will give you beautifully even slices of that delicious turkey or ham. A carving knife really does do a better job than a plain kitchen knife.
These kitchen gadgets are not just for the holidays. These tools can all make your everyday cooking easier, faster and tastier. You might even be tempted to tackle that dish that you’ve been thinking about for years.
