Great Kitchen Gadgets Make Cooking Healthier Easier

by Heather McLaughlin

One nice thing about the times we live in is the availability of tools that make cooking and food preparation easier. Here are a few of my favorite kitchen tools and why I like them.

• Electric Indoor Grill There are many different manufacturers of electric indoor grills, but my experience is with a Foreman Grill. It comes in a number of different sizes to accomodate a single person or a family. These types of grills cook foods on both sides at the same time, and drain off excess fat from burgers, steaks, pork chops and chicken. This method of cooking requires a lot less time than a traditional style grill and clean up is quick and easy.
• A Steamer A steamer is another hassle free way to prepare your food without adding oils or other fats. It can be used to steam rice, vegetables, or cook boneless, skinless chicken breast or fresh fish. Some steamers have “infusers” that you can use to steam complimentary spices right in. They are also very easy to operate and don’t require a lot of clean-up time.
• Food Processor A food processor can be used to make your own fresh salsa from your garden or from fresh vegetables at your grocer. You can make it as mild or wild as you’d like. It can also be used to make fruit purees and other healthy snacks and foods.
• A Wok A wok is a great way to make oriental dishes that require shorter cooking times for crispy vegetables. There are both electric woks and woks made for use on your stovetop. I use the stovetop wok myself.

What are your favorite cooking tools and/or kitchen gadgets and why do you like them?