The Top Affordable Kitchen Gadgets of 2023
Discovering the best kitchen gadgets that simplify cooking tasks without cluttering up your drawers is a game-changer. And the good news is that some of the most practical ones are also budget-friendly. The recommendations in this list either come from personal use or are affordable alternatives to splurge-worthy items I eventually invested in after years of cooking. While not all of these kitchen tools are essential, they have all proven their worth when it comes to getting dinner on the table quickly.
Quick Overview:
- Victorinox Swiss Classic Honing Steel – $28 at Amazon
- Lavatools PT12 Javelin Digital Instant Read Thermometer – $27 at Amazon
- OXO Good Grips Food Scale – $56 at Amazon
- Prepworks by Progressive Magnetic Measuring Spoons – $22 at Amazon
- Microplane Professional Series Grater – $22 at Amazon
- Zwilling Fresh & Save Handheld Vacuum Sealer – $61 at Amazon
- Zulay Silicone Utensil Rest – $8 at Amazon
- Cuisinart JK-17P1 Cordless Electric Kettle – $70 at Amazon/Walmart
- Crate and Barrel Acacia Salt Cellar – $15 at Crate and Barrel
Victorinox Swiss Classic Honing Steel
The Victorinox Swiss Classic Honing Steel is a 10-inch tool designed to align and maintain the sharpness of your knives. With its comfortable handle, honing your knife becomes a breeze. Priced at under $30, this affordable option will keep your blades in top shape. Remember, honing steel doesn’t sharpen knives, but it ensures their alignment, reducing the frequency of sharpening.
Lavatools PT12 Javelin Digital Instant Read Thermometer
For accurate temperature readings when cooking meat, the Lavatools PT12 Javelin Digital Instant Read Thermometer is a must-have. Though not the fastest, it delivers precise readings within a single degree Fahrenheit. Its magnetic feature allows for easy storage on your fridge or knife holder. The IP65-certified casing is water-resistant and includes an antimicrobial coating to inhibit pathogen growth. Choose from nine vibrant colors, including “Wasabi” green.
OXO Good Grips Food Scale
Don’t underestimate the usefulness of a food scale beyond baking. The OXO Good Grips Food Scale streamlines your cooking process and provides more accurate measurements, making it essential for meal prep, calorie counting, and tracking macros. With a convenient pull-out display and an imperial/metric toggle, this stainless steel model stands out. While slightly pricier at under $60, its functionality and easy-to-clean design make it worth the investment.
Prepworks by Progressive Magnetic Measuring Spoons
When measuring ingredients, magnetic measuring spoons offer convenience and easy cleaning. The Prepworks by Progressive Magnetic Measuring Spoons are designed with both round and narrow ends, allowing you to measure spices even from most jars. These thoughtfully designed spoons simplify your cooking process and minimize clutter.
Microplane Professional Series Grater
Say goodbye to inefficient box graters and upgrade to a Microplane for grating and zesting tasks. The Microplane Professional Series Grater’s wide blade and sleek design make it easier to maneuver over bowls and other dishes. Choose the “Fine” model for zesting and the “Ribbon” variant for shaving chocolate and cheese.
Zwilling Fresh & Save Handheld Vacuum Sealer
Reduce waste and extend the shelf life of your produce and meat with a vacuum sealer. The Zwilling Fresh & Save Handheld Vacuum Sealer is an affordable option that supports an ecosystem of reusable bags and containers. These freezer- and dishwasher-safe bags are easy to sanitize, making the process convenient and eco-friendly. The only drawback is its micro-USB charging.
Zulay Silicone Utensil Rest
Make your cooking experience more organized and efficient with a silicone utensil rest. The Zulay Silicone Utensil Rest keeps your tools within reach while minimizing cleanup. After cooking, simply toss it into the dishwasher. For around $10, this simple yet indispensable tool is a valuable addition to your kitchen arsenal.
Cuisinart JK-17P1 Cordless Electric Kettle
While not a necessity, an electric kettle offers convenience and efficiency for both cooking and tea/coffee preparation. The Cuisinart JK-17P1 Cordless Electric Kettle boils water quickly, adds a touch of style to your countertop, and remains budget-friendly.
Crate and Barrel Acacia Salt Cellar
To store salt properly, consider a salt cellar. The Crate and Barrel Acacia Salt Cellar is an attractive option with an attached lid, ensuring the two parts never get lost or separated. This nifty salt cellar keeps your salt fresh and ready to enhance your dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about kitchen gadgets
What are the best affordable kitchen gadgets of 2023?
The best affordable kitchen gadgets of 2023 include the Victorinox Swiss Classic Honing Steel, Lavatools PT12 Javelin Digital Instant Read Thermometer, OXO Good Grips Food Scale, Prepworks by Progressive Magnetic Measuring Spoons, Microplane Professional Series Grater, Zwilling Fresh & Save Handheld Vacuum Sealer, Zulay Silicone Utensil Rest, Cuisinart JK-17P1 Cordless Electric Kettle, and Crate and Barrel Acacia Salt Cellar. These gadgets offer convenience and functionality without breaking the bank.
What is the purpose of a honing steel?
A honing steel is used to realign the blade of a knife, ensuring it remains sharp and effective. It doesn’t actually sharpen the knife but helps maintain its edge. The Victorinox Swiss Classic Honing Steel is a great affordable option for this purpose.
Why should I invest in an instant-read thermometer?
An instant-read thermometer is essential for cooking meat safely and achieving the desired level of doneness. The Lavatools PT12 Javelin Digital Instant Read Thermometer offers accurate temperature readings and convenient storage options.
How can a food scale be useful beyond baking?
A food scale is valuable for precise measurements in various cooking tasks, including meal prep, calorie counting, and tracking macros. The OXO Good Grips Food Scale provides accurate measurements, a pull-out display, and an imperial/metric toggle for added convenience.
Why are magnetic measuring spoons recommended?
Magnetic measuring spoons, like the Prepworks by Progressive Magnetic Measuring Spoons, are easier to separate and clean. They offer versatility with both round and narrow ends, making them ideal for measuring spices.
What advantages does a Microplane grater offer over a box grater?
Microplane graters are easier to maneuver over bowls and dishes, offering more control and precision when grating and zesting ingredients. The Microplane Professional Series Grater, available in different models, provides efficient and accurate results.
How can a vacuum sealer be beneficial in the kitchen?
A vacuum sealer, such as the Zwilling Fresh & Save Handheld Vacuum Sealer, helps reduce waste and extend the shelf life of food. It supports reusable bags and containers, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice.
Why should I consider a silicone utensil rest?
A silicone utensil rest, like the Zulay Silicone Utensil Rest, keeps your cooking tools organized and easily accessible. It minimizes cleanup and is dishwasher-safe for added convenience.
What are the advantages of using an electric kettle?
An electric kettle, such as the Cuisinart JK-17P1 Cordless Electric Kettle, offers quick and efficient boiling of water, saving time and energy in the kitchen. It also adds a stylish touch to your countertop.
Why should I use a salt cellar?
A salt cellar, like the Crate and Barrel Acacia Salt Cellar, provides a proper storage solution for salt. The attached lid ensures that the salt remains fresh and easily accessible during cooking.
More about kitchen gadgets
- Victorinox Swiss Classic Honing Steel
- Lavatools PT12 Javelin Digital Instant Read Thermometer
- OXO Good Grips Food Scale
- Prepworks by Progressive Magnetic Measuring Spoons
- Microplane Professional Series Grater
- Zwilling Fresh & Save Handheld Vacuum Sealer
- [Zulay Silicone Utensil Rest](https://www.amazon.com/Zulay-Kitchen-Silicone-Utensil-Rest/dp/B07Q83LG6D/ref=as_li_ss_tl
3 comments
Wow, these kitchen gadgets are super helpful! I never knew a honing steel could make such a difference in keeping my knives sharp. The magnetic measuring spoons are a game-changer for my spice measurements. And that microplane grater is so much easier to use than my old box grater. Can’t wait to upgrade my kitchen with these gadgets!
omg these r the best kitchen gadgets ever!!!1111 the victorinox swiss classic honing steel is a must-have for any chef. the lavatools pt12 javelin digital instant read thermometer is so accurate, u won’t overcook ur meat. and the oxo good grips food scale is perf for meal prep. luv it! <3
Finally found the perfect vacuum sealer! The Zwilling Fresh & Save Handheld Vacuum Sealer is da bomb. No more wasted food and it’s eco-friendly too. Also, that silicone utensil rest is a total lifesaver, keeps my kitchen clean and organized. Gotta get my hands on these gadgets ASAP!