Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Chefmate 2 Slice Sandwich Maker Grill Nonstick Plates Upright Storage Review

Chefmate 2 Slice Sandwich Maker Grill Nonstick Plates Upright Storage
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My wife and I bought the Chefmate grill from Target for $10.40. First of all, it makes great grilled sandwiches. It takes about five minutes to warm up, then about four minutes or so to make your sandwich. Most of our sandwiches have been grilled nearly to perfection.
Now for the negatives. You have to use fairly small-sized loaf bread to fit on the plates. The correct size bread is easy to find in most supermarkets, so that's not a big problem, but don't expect the Chefmate to work well with big slices of bread. The other negative is that we use the Chefmate mostly for making variations of grilled cheese sandwiches. It melts the cheese just fine, but if any cheese runs out onto the grill (which usually is the case for us), it's a pain to clean afterward. The plate surfaces are nonstick, but you end up using toothpicks to clean out the congealed cheese after the Chefmate cools off. This isn't a huge problem, but it is annoying to know that you're going to spend several minutes cleaning the cheese off. This is the reason that I only gave the Chefmate four stars.
Overall, for about $10, it's a good buy.

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Easy to use convenient way to make hot sandwiches.

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Monday, October 22, 2012

Cuisinart CBK-100 Programmable Breadmaker Review

Cuisinart CBK-100 Programmable Breadmaker
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We bought this machine based on a recommendation from a friend at work and other reviews we read on Amazon. First of all, let me say that this is a great product. The recipes are easy to follow and the bread is outstanding. We brought the machine with us when we visited relatives over the holidays, and two of them are now going to get machines for their families.
FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO WROTE NEGATIVE REVIEWS, AND THOSE WHO HAVE READ THEM, PLEASE READ THIS!! For my first loaf I went to the store to get flour. At the store I talked to the guy stocking the flour aisle about what kind of flour to use (note that the recipes specify "bread flour"). The grocery store guy and another woman who joined in the discussion assured me that I could use all purpose flour, so that's what I bought. The loaf came out so-so. It was quite dense, and the middle of the loaf was sunken instead of nicely puffed up (many of the negative reviews describe exactly this problem). So I googled "bread flour" and found out that it is significantly different from all purpose flour. It's higher gluten and protein content produces stretchier, chewier bread, but more importantly, it traps more of the carbon dioxide from the yeast so that the dough rises properly.
Equipped with this information, I went back to the store and bought King Arthur BREAD FLOUR. What a difference! My son described it as a 1000% improvement. Every loaf since then has been outstanding.
One more thing. The recipe instructions tell you to set the loaf size and crust color, then select the bread program (white, wheat, gluten free, etc.). You actually want to SELECT THE BREAD PROGRAM FIRST, then the loaf size and crust color, because setting the bread program first will RESET the loaf size and crust color to the defaults (2 lb. loaf, medium crust).

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Wake up to the smell of freshly baked bread with this programmable bread machine. Simply add the ingredients, choose from several options using the touch-pad controls, and it takes care of the rest. It will mix the ingredients, knead the dough, let it rise, and bake it to perfection--soft on the inside and crispy on the outside. Choose from 12 preprogrammed menu options; 1-, 1-1/2-, and 2-pound loaf sizes; and three crust settings--light, medium, or dark. Other highlights include a 13-hour delay-start timer, a removable lid with a viewing window, power-failure backup, sturdy stay-cool handles, and a removable kneading paddle and bread pan for easy cleanup. Accessories include a measuring cup, a measuring spoon, and foolproof recipes for gluten-free breads, as well as jams and sauces. With its modern design and embossed logo, the bread machine measures 18 by 12-1/5 by 15 inches. From the Manufacturer Easy-to-Use Control Panel Handy Options
Mix-Ins:During the last 8 minutes of the second kneading cycle for several on selected programs an audible signal of 5 short beeps will sound to remind you to add any additional ingredients your recipe requires (such as nuts and seeds, raisins and dried fruits, shredded chesses, chocolate morsels).
After Mixing/Kneading is completed there will be an audible signal of 6 short beeps, before the last rise cycle, indicating the point at which the mixing/kneading is complete.At this point in the bread making process you have the option of removing the kneading paddle, to avoid a small hole in the bottom of your baked loaf, and/or re-shaping the dough, though neither is necessary.
After Breadmaking There will be a series of 15 beeps to signal the end of the baking cycle: the bread display window will read 00:00 and the unit will be in the Warm Cycle.Your bread will be kept warm for 60 minutes to prevent it from becoming soggy.For optimal results, we recommend removing the loaf as soon as the baking cycle is complete and letting it cool on a baking rack.All breads slice best when allowed to cool for a minimum of 30 minutes before slicing. Bringing the Good Life Home Cuisinart products are designed to make life delicious all day long. Specialty items, like this programmable breadmaker, offer today's consumers a variety of menu options, and fun and easy new ways to entertain family and friends. Cuisinart first came into home kitchens over 30 years ago when it introduced the now legendary food processor. People discovered that routines could be broken and creative cooking quickly became part of the new lifestyle. Preparing fresh ingredients with products that offered easy and interesting new techniques meant healthier meals and more free time. Today Cuisinart develops products to make every meal memorable. From breakfast toast and coffee to elegant five-course dinners, the preparation and cooking have become a pleasurable part of the total experience. Today's relaxed lifestyles and the convenience of Cuisinart products make it easier than ever to Savor the Good Life, right at home with family and friends.

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Saturday, October 20, 2012

KitchenAid Hand Mixer Dough Hooks Review

KitchenAid Hand Mixer Dough Hooks
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They work great and do not over beat the dough as we were doing with our food processor. Has made the KithchenAid hand mixer the most used of our processing tools.

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KitchenAid's Hand Mixer Dough Hooks are sold in sets of two. Now you can handle bread dough without the hassle of hand kneading. You won't believe how quickly you'll have the job done and ready for the oven.

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Thursday, October 18, 2012

Mario Batali Panini Grill and Press, Persimmon Review

Mario Batali Panini Grill and Press, Persimmon
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I received this pan today and I love it. It made two fantastic sandwiches in less than 5 minutes. The bread was crispy and had nice dark grill marks without being burnt. The lid is heavy enough to compress the sandwich without any additional pressing.

If you have a large family this pan might be a little small. I made two large sandwiches (approx 4 by 8 inches) with focaccia bread and had room for maybe one more sandwich.
This pan was very simple to clean as well. Cheese that melted in the interior of the pan easily released after soaking in warm water for 5 minutes.
The exterior of the pan is enameled, as the description states. However, the interior of the pan appears to be seasoned cast iron, not enamel as is reflected in the description. This in no way detracts from the functionality of the pan. I prefer the cast iron to the enamel. Properly seasoned cast iron is more non-stick than enamel.
I would highly recommend this pan to anyone that wants to make panini but doesn't want another appliance to sit on the counter.

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A versatile performer, this panini grill and press set in persimmon from Mario Batali is perfect for grilling Italian panini sandwiches made thin and crisp with the heavy press/lid as well as searing steaks, chicken and fish filets. The pan's cast iron core guarantees even heat distribution, so your food won't burn, and it's been given a matte enamel coating on the interior of the pan that requires no seasoning or special care. Oils used and created when cooking penetrate the pores of the matte enamel to create a natural, smooth, nonstick surface, which provides easy food release and quick cleanup. The grilling surface measures 11 by 11 inches. The heavy lid is accented with a cast stainless steel knob, and it's further complemented by a helper handle for easy lifting and transport to the table. Safe for gas, electric and ceramic-top ranges. Hand wash only. Backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
Joining forces with Copco, a leading manufacturer of kitchenware products, famed restauranteur, cookbook author and Food Network personality Mario Batali has created The Italian Kitchen--a unique line of cast iron cookware, kitchen tools and serveware. Each item includes new features that modernize traditional cooking tools and are sure to be a help to anyone in the kitchen, from novices to the most seasoned cooks.

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Tuesday, October 16, 2012

The Jesus Toaster Review

The Jesus Toaster
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This toaster is NOT just a gag gift. It is a working toaster which just happens to imprint a stylized picture of Jesus. There are instructions enclosed with it recommending to cycle it without toast initially, I suppose to get rid of funny odors from manufacture. Also one should plan on having to cycle and adjust it a couple of times with their toast before they get the color right, as with any toaster. The primary control is an analog dial and I ignore the buttons. (I have no idea why manufacturers insist on complicating common-use appliances with lots of buttons.)
I'd love it if they would also make them for world religious figures, particularly The Buddha, and members of the Hindu pantheon, but realize there's probably not so much of a market for such icons in the US. There might however be markets for other figures such as Einstein or Elvis, so the makers should consider them. They already make a peace symbol toaster and a marijuana leaf symbol toaster but those just don't have the appeal of the Jesus toaster.

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Creates Image of Jesus Christ on your daily bread. Great Christmas Gift

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Sunday, October 14, 2012

Paderno World Cuisine Fresh Butter Maker Review

Paderno World Cuisine Fresh Butter Maker
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I like churning butter by hand. When the butter appears it's kind of like a miracle. I've been using "Lehman's Best" churn and this little honey is so far superior there is no comparison. The butter comes in a third the time and with a lot less effort. This is the one to get. You can get a pint and a half of cream into this one. The Lehman's churn holds a gallon but, really, who has a gallon of cream?

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The Paderno World Cuisine fresh butter maker is a clever device designed to create fresh, home-made butter, which brings unparalleled taste to any dish. Cream is poured into the jar and rotated with the hand crank until it stiffens. Then the whey is discarded, the butter is rinsed with cold water and kneaded.

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Friday, October 12, 2012

Bosch Universal Plus with Blender Model: MUM6N10UC Review

Bosch Universal Plus with Blender Model: MUM6N10UC
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I have now had my Bosch for a couple of months. The model I have is a slightly more powerful (1000W) European version with the metal bowl, but otherwise it is the same. It replaces a much-loved Kitchen Aid mixer which I had in the States. I must say that as much as I loved my Kitchen Aid, this Bosch model outperforms it as well as many other mixers. My first impression of the machine upon using it to make bread was that it was way too easy. After using industry-grade Hobart machines, Kitchen Aid, Electrolux, and Kenwood for many years in work and home, I was amazed at how well and effortlessly the Bosch kneaded the dough. I have not one time need to scrape down the sides and there is no spillage.
The capacity is truly enough to make 4 loaves of bread at a time. The lid performs wonderfully, leaving no place for ingredients to escape. Further, the removable part of the lid allows the most space for adding ingredients of all home machines which I have tried. As comparisons: I use an Electrolux Assistant (same capacity bowl)at work every week to make 8 loaves of bread and pizza dough and am frustrated with every batch as the ingredients leap over the backside of the bowl nearly every time no matter how diligently I guard it. The splash guard on my Kitchen Aid I also found to be undersized for adding dry ingredients and I spilled them every time, in the end removing the guard completely. The kneading mechanism on the Bosch looks strange as it has a stationary dough blade as well as a dough hook, but it functions beautifully.
The double whisk works well to mix cake batters. The beaters fit snug in the bowl without hitting the sides. I have experienced that only minimal scraping is sometimes required for cake batters. While this has been occasional and quite optional (perfectionist), it does require that the splash-guard be removed first. I cannot yet give an opinion on its whisk ability regarding cream or eggwhites as I have not had occasion to test that yet. The beaters snap on and off of the head (much like traditional beaters) for easier cleaning and storage.
The plastic blender is of solid and sturdy material and the lid locks onto the blender bowl in addition to having a rubber seal. The blender is driven by a second rotor hidden under a removable cover on the tower part of the mixer base. It locks securely on the base and is as powerful as any free-standing blender I have used. Keep in mind that I do have a 1000W model, so your 800W experience may be slightly different.
Clean up is the only more complicated part of the process. There are not so many more parts, but the design makes it trickier to clean properly. With a tower in the middle of the mixing bowl (similar to a tube pan), it just plain takes more attention and time to clean and the angles of the dough hook makes it a bit trickier than the Kitchen Aid. The whisks are no more difficult than any balloon whisk. All this said, I am so satisfied with the machine that I actually enjoy the more complicated clean up as I get to baby it. And as the other reviewer noted, most parts are dishwasher safe.
I will edit this review as I have more information to add.
I have also attached a customer image which shows the blender attached, the dough hook placed in the bowl, and the double whisk attachment for a bit of visual information.
Enjoy your Bosch! :-)

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Features: . 800 Watts . 6 ?? quart bowl . Blender . 4 speed settings + momentary switch . Cord storage . Suction feet for a secure standing . Wide range of optional accessories . Overload and start motor protection . 3 year motor / transmission warranty Selling Features: . BOSCH quality - making mixers for decades . The most powerful motor in its class . Unique and modern design . Large mixing bowl will handle up to 15 lbs of dough . Ergonomic and easy handling with rim at top of bowl . Works perfect whether small or large quantities (as little as one egg white) . Endless possibilities with optional accessories . Removable drive shaft is easy to clean . Whisk holder is dishwasher safe . Splash ring allows for easy adding of ingredients . Dough hook is designed to replicate hand kneading - 100% gluten development in minimal time Benefits: . BOSCH quality - higher than average lifetime for mixers in its class . High customer satisfaction . BOSCH has sold this series of mixer since the 1950's. . Long term proven quality and performance . Easy to clean

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