subject: When Choosing Cooking Supplies Quality Makes A Difference [print this page] Whether you cook only at home, or if you are working your way up the Top Chef ladder, cooking supplies are an absolute necessity. Should you buy the cheapest and hope for good results, or should you look for quality? It might seem like a no brainer, but people often wonder whether quality matters. As youll see from the following examples, it certainly does.
Oven Mitts
You can buy an oven mitt for a few dollars if you want, but the likelihood of it functioning properly is slim. Made from a little bit of cotton padding and some cute fabric, one of these might work well as a decorative item, but it may not protect your hand well. A high quality oven mitt made from heat resistant material will protect you from high temperatures and perform well for years.
Cooks Aprons
If youre concerned about style, then definitely shell out a little extra for an apron that appeals to you. If you simply need to maintain a neat appearance and protect your clothing, then pick an inexpensive cooks apron made from easy to launder cotton. Perfectly functional, yet very inexpensive, options like these enable you to buy more than one so youll always have a fresh apron. Save your money for that mandoline youve been eyeing!
Chefs Knives
When it comes to knives, only the best will do. A real ally in the kitchen, and a necessity for performing every task from chopping chocolate for ganache to slicing into heavy melons, the right chefs knife will last for years when properly cared for and kept sharp. Avoid gimmicks, and pick a knife from a respected manufacturer.
Thermometers
Thermometers allow you to ensure the foods you are serving are safe to eat, and they enable you to ensure foods you are preparing will turn out just the way you need them to. While you can get a thermometer for only a few dollars, its probably going to give you more trouble than it is worth. A professional thermometer, on the other hand, will provide you with years of reliable service. Whether you choose a digital thermometer or a dial thermometer, ensure it can be recalibrated when necessary, and keep it in its case when not in use.
As you can see, there are some things that function well even when you dont spend a lot of money on them; in other cases, quality is key. Choosing the best of everything ensures youll only have to purchase items once, instead of needing to find replacements over and over.
