subject: Ice cube trays - The most versatile gadgets in the home [print this page] Ice cube trays - The most versatile gadgets in the home
We all know that ice cube trays are useful for making ice, this is obvious and they generally do it well. But, did you know that these otherwise boring little pieces of kitchen gadgetry are one of the most versatile tools in the home? Not to mention the watery little cubes that inhabit them.
Firstly, and to be honest this is an old one, a painter's palette. A plastic ice cube tray is perfect as a childs paint palette, great for holding and mixing colours. It's strong, cheap and most obviously can hold a variety of shades and if they're water colours it's easy to wash out and use again. Just remember not to put it back into the freezer when it's full of paint, however tempting and curious this may be.
How can we top that I hear you cry? How about freezing eggs for future baking projects? Yep, plop an egg into each compartment then when they are good and frozen simply pop them out and keep in a freezer bag. Then simply defrost as many as you require when the time comes. This idea can be extended to other culinary delights such as freezing the juices from a recently roasted chicken to save as future stock.
If you want to use your ice cube tray for it's intended purpose then fear not, there's loads of uses for the ice cubes themselves too. Here's just a couple.
Removing a splinter is quite a nasty prospect, no matter how macho you think you are everyone knows that pulling out the spikey invader really hurts. An ice cube applied to area does wonders to numb the pain, even more of an advantage when a crying child is the victim of the splinter.
Lets not forget - ice cubes are also pretty darn good at keeping your drink cool on a summers day. I also find the tinkling sound they make as they clatter together rather appealing and indicative of a summers day.
Lastly, smoothing sealant. Getting the sealant bead smooth around a bath or basin can be tricky if you dont have much call to do it often. Running an ice cube along the sealant will smooth it down a treat and because it's ice the sealant wont stick. Easy solution to get a professional finish.
In conclusion, the most versatile piece of gear in the house? Yes I think they might be.
