The appliances that deserve prime real estate in my kitchen. I do not have the kitchen appliances I rely on most buried in lower cabinets. They live permanently on the counter — always within reach and ready to use, with... The post Kitchen Countertop Essential Workhorses appeared first on Sharp Eye.
The appliances that deserve prime real estate in my kitchen.
I do not have the kitchen appliances I rely on most buried in lower cabinets. They live permanently on the counter — always within reach and ready to use, with the exception of my microwave which wouldn’t fit. Surveys show that these are the most used kitchen counter appliances. In each ‘old faithful’ category I’ve included the most current model recommended (in case you need an upgrade.)
Microwave Oven
This appliance is the most used kitchen appliance, hands down. I have hidden mine in a cabinet, but most people have them within reach on the counter.
Panasonic introduced its first microwave oven in 1963 and they still make a highly recommended product, the Cyclonic Wave Inverter model in particular. $344.95.
Electric Kettle
The electric Kettle was introduced to consumers in 1891 by the Chicago-based Carpenter Electric Company. The early models were primitive and took over 10 minutes to boil water because their heating elements were separate from the water being heated. In 1955 a company in the U.K. launched the first fully automatic electric kettle with an automatic shut-off mechanism so the water wouldn’t boil dry. These kettles are popular because they boil water much faster and more energy-efficiently than stovetop methods, Instant Hot faucets, or microwaves. They transfer heat directly into the water and automatically shut off the moment it boils. Ours is used often. A popular model is the Cuisinart CPK-17P1 PerfecTemp Cordless Electric Kettle $105.67.
ToasterThis appliance was created in Scotland in 1893. In 1909, GE brought it to the kitchen appliance market and the rest is history. The Breville BTA820XL Die-Cast Smart Toaster, 2 Slice is $167.70. It is a compact toaster. Users are able to check on toast or add extra toasting time without interrupting its cycle with “Lift & Look” and “A Bit More”.
Air Fryer
These are relatively new to the appliance world, developed in 2005, but are so popular they have earned ‘workhorse’ status. Air fryers create the crispy texture of deep-frying without the unhealthy aspects by using little to no oil. They are fast, healthy, and convenient. One of the newer models is very popular. The Ninja Crispi has a glass base that doubles as a food storage container and can reheat food. The 4 Qt.Ninja Crispi is $158.99.
Blender
Blenders were originally created to make milkshakes at soda shops. Today, the blender is in 90% of households, and capable of blending much more than milkshakes. Vitamix was one of the early makers of early blenders and they are still making high performance products. Try the Vitamix VX1 professional grade with 10 speeds. $329.95
Electric Stand Mixer
When this appliance was created in 1908, it transformed and simplified home baking and prep by providing powerful, hands-free mixing and kneading. Kitchen Aid was one of the earliest manufacturers and has always been a leader, producing sturdy, heavy duty, multi-functional mixers. They are pricey but I inherited my mother’s years ago when she upgraded models, and it’s still going strong. The Classic Series, 4.5 Qt. Tilt Head Stand Mixer is still fabulous. $299.00.
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