Mama's Favorite Things - Apple Peeler, Corer, & Slicer



As I've told you all before, I absolutely love kitchen gadgets.  So when I discovered there was a contraption that peeled, cored, and sliced apples with the turn of a handle, I had to check it out.  Especially since I was getting ready to can pie filling.  I don't know about you guys, but my least favorite part of making apple pies is all the peeling and coring - it takes forever!  But not anymore...

 

For about $20, this peeler has a vacuum seal base and is capable of peeling, coring, and slicing apples, pears, potatoes, etc.  I've only tried it with apples so far, but after 12 lbs. of apples, it's still working great. 

Countdown to Christmas: Gift Ideas for the Kitchen

One week 'til Christmas!  It's Christmas shopping crunch time! 

Depending on who you are shopping for, kitchen gifts are some of the best.  I say that cautiously because there are always those people who don't want something they need for Christmas, but rather something they want, and unlike this mama, kitchen gadgets don't always top that list.  Personally, I love getting kitchen items as gifts because I think about that person every time I use it.  My mixer reminds me of my parents and graduating from pharmacy school... my favorite salad tongs - Dan & Shawna and their trip to Costa Rica... my what-did-I-ever-do-without-this tiny egg beater - my mother-in-law and her awesome stocking stuffers... my pink silicone pancake turner - my lil sis... my new favorite blue dutch oven - my dear husband.  I could go on forever!  If you have a sentimental cook in your life, here are some great gift ideas for his/her kitchen.

Mama's Favorite Things - Avocado Slicer

 



As I've said before, I absolutely love kitchen gadgets.  Honestly, I like gadgets of all kinds, but the kitchen variety are by far my favorite.  I could spend hours in the section of Bed Bath & Beyond where they have floor to ceiling shelves of random kitchen tools.  I will spend forever pondering over each one, trying to decide if it's a huge time-saver/life-changer or just a waste of money.  I have been both pleasantly surprised and disappointed, but this time, I have to say I was amazed. 

I'm sure some of you are thinking, how hard can it really be to slice an avocado?  Why would you spend money on something that can be done with a paring knife?  Well, my friends, watch and see!  This little guy has a serrated edge on one side to cut the avocado in half, a 4-pronged thingy (very technical term, right?) in the center to remove the pit, and the rounded slicing tool on the other side.  It makes beautiful little slices that are all the same width and perfect for sandwiches, salads, and most frequently for us, baby food! 

ok, I'm listening...