Dipping into flavor
We liked the bright, fresh flavors of Dean’s World Famous sauces and dips from Chicagoan Dean Batogowski. Horseradish sauce, honey mustard, spicy mustard and curry dip can amp up snacks or sandwiches. Each 7-ounce jar costs $3.90-$6 at Sunset Foods, Foodstuffs (horseradish and curry only), DeVries Grocery and Market in La Grange and Olivia’s Market in Chicago; to order by mail, visit deansworldfamous.com.
Cutting edge
The Pastry Pro pastry cutter from chef Jamie Gwen worked like a charm, cutting through cold butter and blending nicely. An easy-to-grip plastic handle tops sturdy stainless-steel blades that make quick work of mixing. We also loved the curved frame, which picked up ingredients that typically stick to the sides of the bowl. It’s also designed to mash potatoes, but we prefer it for baking tasks. Dishwasher-safe. It’s $20 at Sur La Table in Chicago and Naperville and by mail-order (surlatable.com or 800-243-0852 and chefjamie.com).
We won’t tell
This tasty “Mile High Apple Pie” from Deerfields Bakery will impress guests–especially when you pull it from the oven and it looks like you made it from scratch. The bakery sells unbaked, 8-inch pies with directions (it requires about 11 /2 hours), but you can buy it baked too. It’s $15 unbaked, $17 baked. Order in advance (48 hours is requested) at the Buffalo Grove, Deerfield or Schaumburg locations, call 847-520-0068 or visit deerfieldbakery.com.
