Tried and true kitchen gadgets are comfortable, but sometimes it’s nice to make a culinary fashion statement with a sleek, modern tool. The high-tech items from Chef’s catalog are as beautiful as they are utilitarian.
The warming tray is a design classic selected by the Museum of Modern Art in New York for its permanent collection. Functionally, the tray keeps foods at the perfect temperature for serving, and a hot spot keeps sauces or beverages 40 degrees hotter than the surrounding area. Large, stay-cool handles make lifting easy, black tempered glass makes surface cleanup a breeze and an adjustable thermostat allows for precise temperature control. It provides 400 watts of power, is 21 1/2 inches long by 11 3/4 inches wide and sell for $69.99.
The punch bowl with champagne rack will see you through your holiday parties and into the new year as well. The 12-quart capacity stainless-steel bowl can be used for punch or egg nog, and the removable three-bottle rack for holding champagne on ice is cause for celebration. It’s 17 inches in diameter, 9 1/2 inches high and costs $149.
The instant-read thermometer and timer by Polder sits outside the oven so you will never again wonder whether or not the roast is done. The stainless-steel sensor is inserted into the cooking item and connected by a 3-foot wire to an easy-to-read digital display that remains outside the oven. An added benefit: The oven temperature stays stable because you’re not opening and closing the oven door to test for doneness. The thermometer works on the barbecue grill, too, and lets you can test meats without scorching your knuckles. The Polder runs on one AAA battery (included) and costs $29.99.
Chef’s Catalog stores are at 3009 N. Clark St., Chicago, 773-327-5210; 151A Skokie Blvd., Highland Park, 847-831-1100. Order by phone: 1-800-338-3232; by fax, 1-800-967-3291, or on-line at www.chefscatalog.com.
