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Soy Sauce

Girl Cooks World
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Soy Sauce

A staple ingredient for many Asian cuisines but also a great marinade for meats and vegetables, soy sauce should be found in everyone’s kitchen. Whether you are looking to try new recipes or just want to find a new favorite brand, it can be hard to tell them apart. There are certain boxes the best soy sauce needs to tick and we have found the products made to the highest standards.

In terms of taste and value, these can’t be beaten so the next time you’re making a stir fry or looking for something to dip your sushi into, make sure it is one of these reputable brands.

Quick Summary of Best Soy Sauces

San-J Tamari Gluten Free Soy Sauce
Check price on Amazon – more   Editor’s Choice 
Kishibori Shoyu (Pure Artisan Soy Sauce), Premium Imported Soy
Check price on Amazon – more   Best When Raw 
Lee Kum Kee Premium Dark Soy Sauce – 16.9 fl. Ounce
Check price on Amazon – more   Best Dark  
ABC Kecap Manis (Sweet Soy Sauce) – 600 ml
Check price on Amazon – more   Best Sweet 
Best of Thailand Premium Lite Soy Sauce Low Sodium
Check price on Amazon – more   Best Low Sodium 
Bourbon Barrel Foods – Bluegrass Soy Sauce – 100 ml
Check price on Amazon – more   Best Small Batch 
Pearl River Bridge Superior Dark Soy Sauce
Check price on Amazon – more   Best Affordable 
Note: We may earn a small commission when you buy through links on our site. Learn more

San-J Tamari Gluten Free Soy Sauce

soy sauce Editor’s Choice 

One of the most reputable soy sauce brands brings this large 64 oz container of gluten-free soy so you can make your need favorite recipe time and again. Because they use more soybeans in their recipe than other brands, it has an unmistakable taste that is richer than most.

The company itself has been around for over 200 years so you almost expect them to have nailed their recipe so with no artificial preservatives, you get one of the cleanest available and it is also non-GMO verified. Vegan-friendly and great as a marinade or just added to your stir-fry there are plenty of ways to enjoy this large bottle of a premium soy sauce.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Reputable brand
  • Large 64-oz container is good value
  • Non-GMO and with no artificial preservatives

CONS:

  • Not so great packaging bottle

Kishibori Shoyu (Pure Artisan Soy Sauce), Premium Imported Soy

soy sauce Best When Raw 

Sold in an eye-catching sleeve this is an artisan product that can be appreciated by anyone. Made in Japan in 100-year old barrels it has a full flavor that is on the mild side for a smoother taste. As with the other premium products, there are no preservatives used or additives but with added sun-dried sea salt and what it isn’t for those who don’t like their soy sauce too salty.

You can use it in any meal that suits a dash of soy but to enjoy the full taste, Kishibori Shoyu recommends the consumer eats it raw so dip your spring rolls. We’ve read that some people say using it as a marinade is a waste as you don’t get to experience the flavor in its best form.

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PROS:

  • Artisan product
  • Made in Japan
  • Zero additives

CONS:

  • Can be a little salty for some tastes

Lee Kum Kee Premium Dark Soy Sauce – 16.9 fl. Ounce

soy sauce Best Dark  

This handsome bottle is even better on the inside and is brewed with traditional methods to provide a rich flavor to improve a variety of dishes. The 16.9 fl oz bottle is good value but anyone who is gluten intolerant won’t get along with it as there is wheat flour in the ingredients.

It is made in China which is something you like to hear when it comes to soy sauce and because it is the dark variety with caramel it makes an excellent glaze or marinade. Non-GMO and free-from preservatives it is always good that you can grab a quality bottle as it comes with a balanced flavor that is hard to find.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Non-GMO
  • Made in China
  • Good value

CONS:

  • Contains wheat flour so not good for gluten intolerances

ABC Kecap Manis (Sweet Soy Sauce) – 600 ml

soy sauce Best Sweet 

This popular sweet soy sauce is from Indonesia and could be described as sweet thick soy sauce. Because of the thickness, it makes a great marinade for meats and the only complaint you hear is that it goes fast which isn’t such a bad sign.

Sweetened with cane sugar it is a good value way of getting a thick soy sauce although it doesn’t have as much of a presence on the pallet as some brands. The main grip we have is the preservative sodium benzoate but with so many repeat customers, it seems a lot of people get on with the Unami flavor and its syrupy consistency.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Good value and a thick soy sauce
  • Great for marinades

CONS:

  • Contains sodium benzoate as a preservative

Best of Thailand Premium Lite Soy Sauce Low Sodium

soy sauce Best Low Sodium 

Even a quick glance will tell you this lite soy sauce has a lot going for it as it is kosher friendly and made with no-MSG. The squeezable bottle is great for adding a quick squirt to a meal or a dipping bowl and the low sodium (70% less than regular soy sauce) recipe will be music to a lot of people’s ears.

You get two bottles in this pack which makes it great value, especially since this is an award-winning product. Like a lot of soy sauces, it contains the preservative sodium benzoate but it is so versatile it can be used with Pad Thai, Tom Yum, grilled fish, meat, sushi, and beyond.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Quality lite soy sauce
  • Squeezable bottle
  • 70% less sodium than regular soy sauce

CONS:

  • Contains the preservative sodium benzoate

Bourbon Barrel Foods – Bluegrass Soy Sauce – 100 ml

soy sauce Best Small Batch 

A lot of people like to see their products made in the USA, even their soy sauce so this will please them and anyone who likes micro-brewed produce. Using non-GMO soybeans it is the only of its kind brewed in the USA and is an all-natural formula made without preservatives.

You get a batch and bottle number written on the front of the bottle for that authentic micro-brewed touch and the bourbon barrels it is brewed in really gives it a sweet and smoky flavor. Expect a salty flavor, even for soy sauce but some people do find it a little too much. The taste is great but you might want a little more for your money as it’s only 100 ml.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Micro brewed in the USA
  • Non-GMO
  • Bourbon barrels give it a unique flavor

CONS:

  • Small bottle considering the price

Pearl River Bridge Superior Dark Soy Sauce

soy sauce Best Affordable 

If you are in the catering business or a chef who wants to find a quality soy sauce that lasts then this is a great option. It comes with the reputable brand name of Pearl River Bridge and in the 60 oz container, you’re going to be able to add it to a lot of meals.

This soy sauce has a full flavor and a thick complexion which makes it ideal for use as a dipping sauce. It is combined with mushroom extract to give this dark soy sauce even more flavor.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Large 60 oz container makes it great for commercial use
  • Great for dipping or marinating

CONS:

  • Can be a little awkward to pour

Soy Sauce Guide

Although it seems like a simple ingredient, there is more to soy sauce than meets the eye. Some of the low-quality products are full of additives and junk you don’t want to put into your body but on top of that, a lot of people don’t even know they come in both light and dark form.

To help shed some light on this essential ingredient, we have created the following buyer’s guide. It details everything you need to know about this versatile sauce of ancient origins so you can understand it better, and know what to expect from the best products.

What To Look for in Soy Sauce

Gluten-Free

This isn’t important for everyone but if you have an intolerance to gluten, you’ll be pleased to know that various soy sauces do not contain wheat. Always check the label and do your research before buying any product and perhaps stick to one that has all the ingredients in English.

No-MSG

This flavor enhancer can be found in a lot of foods and although some of the health risks such as headaches, weakness, and heart palpitations that have been linked to it have been hotly debated, some people deem them as safe. Either way it can be cause for concern and there are plenty of soy sauces that don’t add it into their recipe.

No Artificial Flavors

A lot of mass produced soy sauce uses additivies or artificial flavors but they do not always use safe ingredients. If you are unusre it might be best to stay clear, especially since some excellent products include no artificial flavors or additivies.

Quality Packaging

The problem with some products we have researched is that the glass bottles have to travel a long way. This can result in broken packaging although this is still uncommon it is less of a risk with plastic containers. Not only are these easy to squeeze and pour a little extra soy sauce into your meal but they often carry larger quantities.

Versatility

Although you might have one meal planned and need to use soy sauce as part of the recipe it can be better to consider your future uses. Some products are only good for marinating and dipping whereas others can be added to a Pad Thai or stir fry but will also suffice as a dipping sauce.

Different Types of Soy Sauce

Light

This is the most common soy sauce so if you are cooking a Chinese meal and the recipe tells you to pour a little soy sauce in, the chances are it is the light version. As you might expect from the name it is thin when pouring, salty, and commonly used as a dipping sauce.

Dark

When it comes to taste, dark soy sauce tends to be less salty and is more likely to contain added sugar. Sometimes this comes in the form of caramel or molasses, making it sweeter and thicker than light soy. Aged for longer, it is often used as a marinade and has been found to contain many more antioxidants than red wine.

Thick Soy

Don’t confuse this with dark soy which can sometimes be described as thick soy, this contains more sugar and is often added to stir-fry and is even thicker than dark soy. You don’t need to use as much to add a lot of flavors.

Tamari

Traditionally this is a Japanese soy sauce that is only made from soybeans. Although you don’t get the same aroma as other types it is well balanced, and a lot of people consider it to have a richer flavor than Chinese soy sauce. One of the better products for dipping.

Does Soy Sauce Go Bad?

Because of the sodium content, it does take a lot for it to spoil but it can. This is hastened when it is not stored in a cool dark place or if the bottle is left open for a prolonged period.

This might not cause it to spoil but it can impact the flavor which is something you want to maintain for as long as possible. When opened, they should be fine for a couple of years but this can vary from product to product.

What Are The Health Benefits of Soy Sauce?

A lot of people believe that the diets of certain cultures are the key to a longer life. The jury is out on the influence of soy sauce but many health benefits are being studied and some of them are looking into the array of antioxidants as well as enhanced gut health.

Does Soy Sauce Contain A Lot Of Salt?

Because of the sodium content, a lot of people are reluctant to try certain brands. If this is high on your list of concerns then you might want to try a light soy sauce or one that is known for having less sodium.

The truth is, one tablespoon of soy sauce contains over a third (38%) of your RDA of sodium. However, you also have to consider the fact that there is a lot less sodium in soy sauce than the equivalent helping of salt.

If you suffer from any heart-related health issue or high blood pressure, it is best to consult your doctor before including it in your diet.

What Is the Best Soy Sauce?

The best soy sauce is often the one that is well matched to the type of meal you are making. Anyone looking to add it to Chinese food will enjoy a light sauce whilst using thick sauce as a marinade might be better.

However, it is hard to argue against the quality of one brand in particular and that is San-J Tamari Gluten Free Soy Sauce. Because of its rich flavor, it is well suited to all cooking methods particularly sauces and marinades. Made without wheat, and only 100% soybeans it is free-from MSG and comes in a large container so it will last a long time, enhancing the flavor of many meals.

Balsamic Vinegar

Girl Cooks World
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Balsamic Vinegar

Whether you are a ‘foodie’ or just someone who likes to have the ingredients to give a salad a bit of sparkle, you’ll know that not all balsamic vinegar is made the same. Although it is a staple ingredient in many meals that can brighten up the taste with a bit of a tang, it might not be aged for the right amount of time or falsely claim to be from reputable regions.

Although it originates from Italy, companies around the world are trying to emulate the unique taste although not many come close to the real thing. This is why we have identified the best balsamic vinegar in the world, to make sure you end up with a great tasting product that you want to use as much as you can. Some of them are from the famous regions, with a couple of surprises in there as well.

Quick Summary of Best Balsamic Vinegars

QO Organic Thick Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena | 4% Acidity
Check price on Amazon – more   Editor’s Choice 
Due Vittorie Oro Gold Balsamic Vinegar of Modena.in Glass Decanter
Check price on Amazon – more   Best With Decanter 
Giuseppe Giusti Gran Deposito Aceto Balsamico Di Modena 
Check price on Amazon – more   Best Luxury 
Ellora Farms | Greek Balsamic Vinegar
Check price on Amazon – more   Best Value 
Oliviers & Co Premium Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
Check price on Amazon – more   Best Gift 
Balsamic Vinegar of Modena Traditional 25 year old DOP certified
Check price on Amazon – more   Best For Special Occasions 
Note: We may earn a small commission when you buy through links on our site. Learn more

QO Organic Thick Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena | 4% Acidity

Balsamic Vinegar Editor’s Choice 

Top of our list is this quality product and it impresses in every way you would hope a balsamic vinegar would. To start with, it is certified organic so you know it is going to be one of the purest forms possible and because of the 4% acidity, it will please most pallets.

Then there is the fact that it is from the Modena region of Italy so the quality is ensured. The tangy sweetness is something that keeps people coming back to it and we like it because of all its qualities, but also because it is still affordable for a luxury product. If you want something a little different, it also comes in different fashions including hot chili, raspberry, citrus, and more.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • From the Modena region of Italy
  • Certified organic
  • 4% acidity
  • Attractive bottle

CONS:

  • Might be too sweet for some people

Due Vittorie Oro Gold Balsamic Vinegar of Modena.in Glass Decanter

Balsamic Vinegar Best With Decanter 

A world-famous balsamic vinegar that almost looks as beautiful as it tastes. In Italy, this is the best selling product in its niche and any home chef would appreciate its quality so it makes a great gift. What really impresses is that it is 100% natural, with no added preservatives, flavors, caramels, or anything you wouldn’t expect to be in a true Modena balsamic vinegar.

This version comes with a free pourer that has a cork top, just like the bottle. A lot of people know it from featuring on Masterchef and restaurants across Italy use it, to the benefit of the customers who get to savor the deep browns, full-bodied sweetness, and balanced after taste of blades cherry.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • 100% natural
  • Balsamic vinegar of Modena
  • Includes pourer
  • Impressive bottle
  • Featured on MasterChef

CONS:

  • Cork quality

Giuseppe Giusti Gran Deposito Aceto Balsamico Di Modena

Balsamic Vinegar Best Luxury 

With the appearance of a fine whiskey, this popular balsamic vinegar certainly jumps off the shelf at you. It is made with an ancient process of cooking sun-dried grapes that are selected from Modena or Reggio Emilia. Aged for a minimum of 12 years, the quality is a long time in the making so nothing is rushed in the deep browns and complex flavors.

The company was founded in 1605 so it has more than a few centuries of experience to bring to the table. Named as one of the 101 products you have to try before you die, it is an award-winning product and is IGP certified so you know it is a genuine product from reputable regions.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Made using an ancient process
  • Award winning balsamic vinegar
  • Complex taste with fruit jam flavors

CONS:

  • Can be expensive for some people

Ellora Farms | Greek Balsamic Vinegar

Balsamic Vinegar Best Value 

Although it originates from Italy, there are some reputable balsamic vinegar producers around the world, and one of them is Crete. Another Mediterranean climate, this balsamic vinegar spray is 100% natural which makes it free-from caramels, preservatives, and sulfates.

The sweet and sour taste is a favorite in many homes which only adds to the value that you get from this 2-pack of glass bottles. Aged for six months in oak barrels it is an affordable way of getting your hands on a delicious balsamic vinegar. Of course, because it originates from Crete, the makers are going to advise that it tastes great on a Greek salad, at the price, it is tempting.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • 100% natural
  • 2-pack is good value
  • Aged for six months in oak barrels

CONS:

  • Bottles aren’t reusable

Oliviers & Co Premium Balsamic Vinegar of Modena

Balsamic Vinegar Best Gift 

When it comes to balsamic vinegar, a premium product often comes at a premium price but in this easy to love bottle you certainly get what you pay for. Combining a rich and intense taste, it is bottled in Haute-Provence once the grapes have been picked from the Modena region of Italy.

There is no coloring, artificial flavors, or additives, making it 100% natural. With no bitterness, Oliver & Co. takes pride in their traditional production methods which is why this has proven to be one of their most popular products. Aged for a long time in premium wooden barrels, it can be enjoyed on several dishes, even vanilla ice cream!

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • 100% natural
  • Grapes from Modena
  • Reputable brand

CONS:

  • Not organic, although they do have an organic version

Balsamic Vinegar of Modena Traditional 25 year old DOP certified

Balsamic Vinegar Best For Special Occasions 

Aged for 25 years, this is no ordinary bottle of balsamic vinegar. This is reflected in the price tag which might make it something you break out on a special occasion. Because of its origins and production methods, this is the only type of bottle you can buy that is a guaranteed traditional bottle of Modena balsamic vinegar.

With the highest-scoring rating possible it is the variant known as Extra Vecchio and is known for being among the world’s best tasting. Before bottling, aeries of industry experts taste it for quality. It comes as part of a gift box that includes a recipe book and a pourer that comes with a ‘best taste or your money back’ guarantee. It’s a shame that all premium products don’t offer the same.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Has the world’s best scoring possible
  • Unique bottle
  • Includes pourer and recipe book
  • DOP certified

CONS:

  • Can be expensive for some people

Balsamic Vinegar Guide

If you talk to anyone in Italy, balsamic vinegar is more than an ingredient. Also, only grapes sourced from Modena can call itself true balsamic, and there are plenty of imitators. Although it is not the only quality source it is often heralded as the birthplace of a genuine product, the real deal.

To make sure you get a quality bottle of balsamic vinegar into your kitchen, you need to know what to expect from a good product. We have created the following guide to help make things a bit easier.

What To Look for in Balsamic Vinegar

D.O.P Certification

If you are buying a balsamic vinegar with the word Modena or Reggio Emilia on the bottle, you want to know that it is a genuine product. One way of proving this is through D.O.P (Denominazione di Origine Protetta). This guarantees its place of origin, as well as its quality.

Color and Texture

Look for dark browns that are glossy and thick that don’t move on a plate, move droop like a syrup. You’ll know what the shop-bought products look like but expect deeper and richer browns with the quality bottles.

Unique Bottle

This isn’t a major deal-breaker for everyone, but a genuine, traditional balsamic vinegar will come in a bottle with a certain shape (more on that later). Otherwise, it is perfectly reasonable to be drawn to a balsamic vinegar’s bottle. There are plenty of eye-catching designs that make an excellent gift for a food enthusiast or a loved one.

I.G.P Certification

This rating comes from within the European Union and means the product is made from varieties of grapes found in Modena such as Trebbiano, Lambrusco, Fortana, and others. The origins of the grapes can be from outside the region, in fact anywhere, with the production process being undertaken within Modena.

What Does Balsamic Vinegar Go With?

Although it is a versatile ingredient that can complement various dishes, some people advise that different types of balsamic vinegar are better suited to particular foods.

In general, balsamic vinegar tends to go well with soft cheeses, salads, fresh pasta, cooked meats, and even ice cream.

How To Store Balsamic Vinegar

A traditional, genuine product won’t spoil over time but to preserve its unique flavors it is always best to keep it in a cool dry place. You should expect to be able to keep a special bottle for years and still enjoy the fine taste.

Keep it airtight as well as leaving the lid or cork off can cause it to lose some of its flavors.

What Are The Health Benefits of Balsamic Vinegar?

It is no surprise that the Mediterranean diet is often linked with longevity in some way or another. Balsamic might have something to do with it, considering the following benefits:

Lower Cholesterol – By keeping cholesterol levels down, balsamic vinegar helps to prevent cardiac arrest and obesity. The antioxidants work to prevent clogged arteries and keep cholesterol under control.

Digestive System – The acetic acid in balsamic vinegar which works as a probiotic to improve digestive health.

Blood Sugar – Consuming balsamic vinegar as part of a meal can help to prevent your blood sugar levels from fluctuating after eating.

Immunity Boost – Because it contains polyphenols, balsamic vinegar can give a boost to our immune system.

Where Is Balsamic Vinegar Made?

To call itself a genuine balsamic vinegar, Italians won’t look twice unless it is from the famed Modena or Reggio Emilia regions. To keep with traditional practices, a Modena balsamic vinegar must be sold in a 100ml bottle that is bulb-shaped, and for Reggio Emilia, if it is traditional balsamic vinegar it must be 100ml inverted tulip-shaped bottle.

Different Types of Balsamic Vinegar

To the uninitiated, it might come as a surprise that balsamic vinegar covers three main types that are different from one another.

Traditional Balsamic Vinegar

Typically, the more expensive of the three, traditional balsamic vinegar and will not contain any preservatives or additives. Look on the label for the words Aceto balsamico tradizionale. Buying a traditional balsamic vinegar might cost more but you unlock all the health benefits that the others strip out.

Anything with additives can have the opposite effect on your health.

Commercial Balsamic Vinegar

It is affordable because the process in which it is made does not take as long and contains artificial ingredients. To give it an authentic texture and taste it might contain caramel and other flavors to make it more appealing as well as wine vinegar. This dilutes the quality so don’t expect it to taste like the real thing.

Condimentio Balsamic Vinegar

Quite often, this type of balsamic vinegar will be a mix of the previous two. It will often be aged but not for as long as the traditional variety even though it will contain a certain level of traditional vinegar. Look for a product that is produced outside of the two powerhouse regions as an indicator for a product that should be considered Condimento Balsamic Vinegar.

Can Balsamic Vinegar Go Bad?

Although balsamic vinegar does not go bad, over time it will lose some of the quality and flavor but will be edible for some time. The best thing you can do to prolong its best years is by keeping it in a cool dry place and preventing exposure to air.

How To Use Balsamic Vinegar

With certain ingredients, there is no right or wrong way to use them as part of a meal. When it comes to using balsamic vinegar, there are certain things to remember to make sure you enjoy it to its full potential.

Because a traditional balsamic vinegar will have a more complex and fuller flavor you need less of it so pour it drop by drop whereas you can use those that are not aged for so long less sparingly.

Don’t cook with balsamic vinegar as high temperatures negatively impact the health benefits and flavor. If using it on a hot pasta dish or cooked meat, applying as close to eating as possible.

When using balsamic vinegar and olive oil, apply the vinegar first or the oil won’t allow it to spread.

How does a Roasted Balsamic Strawberry Parfait sound? Give it a try and let me know how you like it.

Best Popcorn

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Best Popcorn

Popcorn is a food that’s been enjoyed for thousands of years and is currently one of the best-selling snack foods in the world. It’s a snack that’s tasty, salty and crunchy, so it’s quite understandable that so many people choose this product when they’re in the mood for a snack. Unfortunately, its rise in popularity has also resulted in the rise of sub-par popcorn products being released on the market. This is why we’ve decided to cut through all of the marketing hype often associated with snack foods so that we can help our readers choose the best popcorn products currently available.

Quick Summary of Best Popcorn

popcorn
 Best Overall 
Pop Secret Movie Theater Butter Microwave Popcorn

Check price on Amazon – more

popcorn
 Also Recommended 
Amish Country Variety Gift Set Popcorn
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popcorn
 Also Consider 
Jolly Time All-In-One Popcorn Machine Kit
Check price on Amazon – more

popcorn
 Also Consider 
Popcornopolis 12-Cone Popcorn Snack Pack

Check price on Amazon – more

Note: We may earn a small commission when you buy through links on our site. Learn more

Pop Secret Movie Theater Butter Microwave Popcorn

 Best Overall 

Anyone who has spent any amount of time sitting in a darkened theater enjoying their tasty, buttery popcorn has probably wondered how they could replicate that popcorn in their own home. Movie theater popcorn is just so salty and buttery, that consumers can’t seem to get enough of it, especially when it’s washed down with a tasty beverage. Unfortunately, too may popcorn brands claim to deliver that great movie theater taste, but fail to do so. However, this Pop Secret popcorn is a little bit different. They claimed to be able to bring movie theater goodness to microwave popcorn and we believe that they’ve succeeded in their goal.

This popcorn has a taste that’s not exactly like movie theater popcorn but comes pretty close. It’s light, airy and salty, and has that rich buttery flavor that we all want out of our popcorn. It’s also a product that’s is quite easy to make as well. Remove the plastic, lay the bag in the right position in the microwave and in a couple of minutes popcorn is done. And since it produces less unpopped kernels than traditional microwave popcorn varieties, consumers don’t get that twinge of disappointment when they open the bag. In other words, this is the best microwave popcorn that can be purchased. It’s a big step up from the sub-par microwave popcorn varieties that can be found in grocery stores all over North America.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • This popcorn pops up extremely well.
  • This product has a great movie theater butter flavor.

CONS:

  • It’s not a low-calorie popcorn.

Amish Country Variety Gift Set Popcorn

 Also Recommended 

Even though the popcorn kernels in this variety pack aren’t as easy to make as microwave popcorn, they still pop up extremely well. Besides, the whole purpose of this variety pack isn’t just to get some good popcorn, but it’s also to give the consumer a wide range of different popcorn varieties. In this set, consumers will find a delectable assortment of kernels. You will find 10 4-ounce bags of some of the best popcorn varieties available including mushroom, purple, extra-large, baby white, and baby red. Although the packaging wasn’t as durable as we would’ve liked, it was nice to have an assortment of kernels in one set to give away as gifts.

We also liked that this popcorn gift set comes from Amish country and is homegrown in Indiana. The corn is not only high-quality but has been raised and harvested according to strict standards. This product is gluten-free, GMO-free, and free of added flavoring, preservatives, or oil. It’s even free of tree nut particles, so consumers with tree nut allergies can enjoy it with confidence. It’s also dairy-free as well. All of which makes it a wonderful addition to any pantry.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Popcorn kernels pop up extremely well.
  • Variety set makes a great gift.

CONS:

  • Packaging is a bit flimsier than what we would’ve liked.

Jolly Time All-In-One Popcorn Machine Kit

 Also Consider 

Regardless of whether the consumer needs popcorn kernels that can be used in a popcorn machine or for cooking on the stovetop, they are going to want to try out this popcorn kit. Each kit weighs approximately 8-ounces and contains enough kernels to make 7-servings of popped corn. Popcorn that’s salty, buttery and delicious. Each pouch contains three pre-measured compartments that have sections for the oil, for the salt and of course, for the popcorn. This product uses nothing but non-GMO yellow corn kernels, seasoning salt and coconut oil to deliver a great flavor any lover of popcorn can enjoy.

Because this product is made by Jiffy in the United States, the consumer can expect them to be high-quality and to have a decent shelf-life. After all, Jolly Time is a company that’s been making quality popcorn products since 1914 and it’s a family company that’s operated for over four generations. Each pack contains 36 kits, so consumers have plenty of popcorn for their air popper or their movie theater popcorn machine. That means that for under twenty cents an ounce, just about anyone can enjoy delicious and tasty popcorn any time of the day or night.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Is easy to use in popcorn machines.
  • Has a nice flavor to it.

CONS:

  • Popcorn is very salty.

Popcornopolis 12-Cone Popcorn Snack Pack

 Also Consider 

Popcornopolis is a company that’s been making quality popcorn products for quite some time now, so it should be no surprise to anyone that one of their products has made it on our list. This product contains 12 cones of popcorn in four exciting flavors. Included in this set is Zebra popcorn, popcorn that’s caramel corn that’s been drizzled with white and dark chocolate, kettle corn, caramel corn, and cheddar cheese popcorn. This snack cone set has an average shelf life of 9-months, so it’s great to keep around for the holiday gift-giving season, or for keeping in the pantry to be used for snacks.

Although this product is a little bit more expensive than comparable brands of popcorn, we do love the quality, freshness, and flavor of this popcorn. Each of the popcorn varieties in this set is gluten-free, GMO-free, free of high-fructose corn syrup, and are made using quality coconut oil. This is a product that contains 0-grams of trans fats, and when eaten responsibly can be part of a healthy diet. Keeping all of this in mind, we do have to say that we recommend this product for anyone who loves flavored popcorn or who wants to add a little bit of excitement into their snack time.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • A great assortment of flavors.
  • Great to give away as a gift.

CONS:

  • This popcorn is a bit expensive.

A Nifty Guide to Popcorn

Without a doubt, popcorn is the newly appreciated snack food of the Millenium. It’s healthier than either chips or crackers with a wonderful smell and flavor many people enjoy snacking on. So many people enjoyed this food as children, it’s also a snack that will stir up feelings of nostalgia. Having said that, we wanted to give our readers more information on this subject so they can buy the best popcorn.

The History & Meaning of Corn

Although no one knows just how far people have been cultivating corn for popping, we do know that it goes back at least 4,000-years in the Americas. That’s because ears of popcorn that were that old were found in the Bat Cave of New Mexico between 1948 and 1950.

Yes, we know that many people claim that they have proof that popcorn was even older than that because there are biblical accounts of Egyptians storing corn in the pyramids. However, what these people fail to account for is that the word “corn” that was used from that time up through the middle ages was a term for whatever grain was the most common at a particular place and time. The word means “small seeds,” so it was often used to refer to barley, wheat, rye, and other bread grains. That means that the corn that was stored in the pyramids was most likely barley.

So, if the word corn was used to refer to other types of grains, then why was American maize eventually known as corn? That’s because it was the most common type of grain in the Americas, so it was given the name corn. However, in this instance, the name just stuck for some reason, while other grains reverted to their original names.

The Different Types of Popcorn

Even as we began writing this section of this guide, we knew it was futile to try to list all of the popcorn varieties available. There simply isn’t enough space to do that. However, we knew that we wanted to give our readers a sampling of some of the different popcorn varieties. So, that’s what we did. The following list is just some of the popcorn varieties that exist out there.

Mushroom Popcorn

People often see the term mushroom popcorn but really have no idea what it is. That’s understandable because we didn’t realize that this type of popcorn even existed until we began researching and reviewing popcorn. It’s called mushroom popcorn because when it pops up it looks like the top of a mushroom. These popcorns are used for caramel popcorn because they hold up so well and they don’t crumble easily.

Yellow Popcorn

Yellow popcorn is the most popular variety and the one that’s most commonly used by movie theaters. That’s probably because it has a yellow tint to it that looks buttery before butter is added to it. This popcorn comes in a variety of sizes, and usually have smaller hulls than other popcorn varieties. It’s not good for caramel or candy coatings, however, because the kernels are a bit on the fragile side.

White Popcorn

This popcorn stays a nice shade of white and has a flavor that’s kind of flat. As such, that makes it a great base for adding seasonings or cheese flavoring to. Because of its mild neutral flavor, this type of popcorn is usually used for making white cheddar popcorn. All in all, it’s a great product but it doesn’t have much pizzazz to it. However, it’s mild flavor is why so many people choose it as a snack food. After all, there’s nothing to get in the way of the real stars of the show: salt and butter!

Other Types of Popcorn Varieties

Before we go, we’d like to list a few of the other popcorn varieties that exist. So, let’s just jump into this list of the most common popcorn varieties currently available. We hope that you’ve enjoyed this article and wish all of our readers a very happy popping!

If you want to know how to make the best homemade popcorn, then check out this article.

  • Butterfly Popcorn
  • Ladyfinger Popcorn
  • Red Popcorn
  • Purple Popcorn
  • Blue Popcorn

Tea Kettles

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Tea Kettles

Whistling or not, the best tea kettles make pouring a brew that little bit special, especially compared to some of the bland run of the mill options that most people opt for. Not only can they add a little panache to a tea party but they can make brewing tea easier and are more functional than a lot of people think.

This is only the case when you buy a quality product as there are plenty of low-quality options. Because of this, we have outlined the very best tea kettles on the market. Each one has the quality to make years of great-tasting brews and each one is unique in its own way. Whichever one you go for, one thing you can guarantee is that you’re going to love it compared to your current kettle.

Quick Summary of Best Tea Kettles

Whistling Tea Kettle with Wood Handle
Check price on Amazon – more  Best Overall 
Circulon 2-Quart Enamel on Steel Whistling Kettle
Check price on Amazon – more  Also Consider 
Hario VKB-120HSV V60 Coffee Drip Kettle ‘Buono’, Silver
Check price on Amazon – more  Best for Safe Pouring 
Cuisinart CTK-SS17 Aura Stainless Steel Stovetop Teakettle
Check price on Amazon – more  Most Durable 
Le Creuset Stove-Top Kettle with Whistle
Check price on Amazon – more  Best High-end 
Café Brew Collection 12-Cup Glass Whistling Kettle
Check price on Amazon – more  Best Large Capacity 
Note: We may earn a small commission when you buy through links on our site. Learn more

Whistling Tea Kettle with Wood Handle

 Best Overall 

This impressive tea kettle has all the features you might expect from a quality product and then some. Not just that- it’s also great value. It whistles when the water is boiling and when you take it off the stove. The handle cools down within a couple of seconds. Because of the multi-layered base, it heats up fast and is fine to use with all stovetops including induction variants. What we liked was that it comes with 2 free tea infusers so when the water is brewed you and a friend can enjoy a loose-leaf tea together. The 3-quart capacity is one of the largest in our list of the best tea kettles so you can entertain without having to make two lots of boiling water. The 1-year warranty is good to see, as is the gift box it comes in if you want to send it as a present.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Large 3-quart capacity
  • Comes with 2 free tea infusers
  • Heats water fast
  • Has a whistle when the water is boiling
  • Includes a 1-year warranty

Circulon 2-Quart Enamel on Steel Whistling Kettle

 Also Consider 

One of the most impressive tea kettles available and with its stand out blue design among the variety of punchy colors it is no wonder this is such a popular product. The 2-quart capacity is pretty generous and means it can be used to make up to 8 cups at a time, ideal for entertaining. The textured handle is easy to hold and has a squeeze and pour function to make it safe and the stainless steel lid keeps the boiling contents secure. The enamel exterior is resistant to stains and when the water is boiling its high pitched shrill will let you know. It comes with a lifetime warranty which is something we always like to see.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Large 8 cup capacity
  • Great color options
  • Squeeze and pour handle
  • Stain resistant

Hario VKB-120HSV V60 Coffee Drip Kettle ‘Buono’, Silver

 Best for Safe Pouring 

This neat little tea kettle can make 3-4 cups at a time and is simple yet effective. You can use on an electric, gas or IH stovetop and the smooth stainless steel is easy to wipe clean. You can buy it in three sizes with the smallest being made from copper although this is the largest in terms of capacity. Still, because it isn’t as big as most of the competition, it is better for personal use as it heats up fast. The long gooseneck spout gives you a lot of control when pouring, keeping the steam away so you don’t burn your hand. This also makes it ideal for using with pour-over coffee but even the die-hard tea drinkers will appreciate the accuracy you get with this quality kettle. There is no whistle. That might put off a few people but if you can live without one, then it is a great option.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Long spout gives you added control
  • Available in three sizes
  • Easy to hold

CONS:

  • Does not whistle when the water is boiling

Cuisinart CTK-SS17 Aura Stainless Steel Stovetop Teakettle

 Most Durable 

The two-quart capacity is impressive here and there is a lot to like about the stainless steel tea kettle. It might be best for making tea but the benefits don’t stop there. With a loud whistle when the water is boiling, you’re never going to forget that you put the kettle on and not only that, it retains heat for a long time so you don’t need to rush over to pour. A lot of customers like the fact that it has a clean pour from its spout to make spills less likely and in terms of heating up, it does so faster than most. You don’t expect it to rust because of the stainless steel but some customers have reported this but it does come with a limited lifetime warranty.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Heats up fast
  • Appealing stainless steel look
  • Retains heat for a long time

CONS:

  • Some customers say it can rust

Le Creuset Stove-Top Kettle with Whistle

 Best High-end 

You might be paying for the reputable brand name but any Le Creuset product is going to be worth considering. Owing a lot to its quality, it is stove-top ready and has a three cup capacity. This might not be the biggest but you get rigged material including a heat-resistant phenolic handle. Available in deep red, orange, or black they are some of the most appealing tea kettles around and come with a pleasant whistle when the water is boiling. The upright handle position ensures you get stable pouring that does not burn the hands and each purchase comes with a 5-year warranty. Made from enamel on steel expect excellent resistance to rust and a wide lid for easy refilling.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Quality materials including ceramic on steel
  • Comes with a 5-year warranty
  • Heat resistant handle up to 190 C

CONS:

  • Can be expensive for some people

Café Brew Collection 12-Cup Glass Whistling Kettle

 Best Large Capacity 

With a large 12-cup capacity this is one of the best tea kettles for anyone on a budget. It feels sturdy and is made from BPA-free materials. Fine to go in the dishwasher it is one of the easiest products on our list when it comes to cleaning and the heat-resistant handle is sturdy for an easy pour. It is made in the USA using heat resistant glass and has that traditional whistling sound when everything inside starts to boil. It might not be the prettiest but the design is certainly eye-catching and it is unlikely that your friends will have a similar one if you want to stand out a little when it comes to entertaining.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Large 12-cup capacity
  • Heat resistant glass
  • Can go in the dishwasher
  • Good value

CONS:

  • Have to heat it on a low setting

Tea Kettle Guide

Upgrading your tea-making kit feels good and is sure to get the conversation started when entertaining. Because you will want to use it around friends you need to make sure the product you are buying is easy to use and reliable but this isn’t always easy to find in a tea kettle.

To avoid making a mistake and ending up with a product that burns your hands or doesn’t tell you when the water is boiling, we have created the following buyer’s guide. It details everything you need to know before you can think about putting the kettle on.

Tea Kettle on stove

What To Look for in A Tea Kettle

Whistle

A whistle is the feature that most people tend to seek from a tea kettle. There isn’t going to be a lot of variety. Most products have one but whatever you choose, the whistle is most likely to be high, shrill, and will easily notify you when everything is ready.

Some tea kettles are known for having better whistles than others so it is something to check on.

Quality Handle

This is a big factor in deciding what tea kettle to go for. The better products will have a grippy handle making it easy to maintain a sturdy hold, especially important around a hot stove and water. Not only this, but they need to be heat resistant.

Some products go a little further and give you a press and hold button on the handle that allows the tea kettle to pour. The benefit of this is of course safety and the more ways it can keep the user safe the better.

Capacity

This is mostly down to personal preference as there is little point in buying a large capacity tea kettle if you are only going to be using it for you and your partner. There are plenty of great options for those who want something a little smaller.

Accurate Pouring

Some products are known for having an easy to pour spout and a lot of it is down to the shape. The gooseneck types tend to be easier and because of the increased accuracy they are ideal for a coffee drip as well as tea.

If you can find a product that has a lid on the spout then it gives you another layer of protection against unwanted spills.

Easy Filling

The lid is key here and anything too small or awkward is going to make life difficult. Any product we recommend is easy to fill because of a wide lid. Just make sure it also stays on securely once you have filled it.

Design

The color and shape are high on a lot of people’s priorities when it comes to tea kettles. It can either turn heads in the right way or be something a little simpler but a lot of people tend to match the color to their current kitchenware. Some of the best products we have reviewed come in different colors so take your pick.

Tea Kettle Materials

This goes hand in hand with the design because certain finishes and materials are what attracts a lot of us to a certain tea kettle. Here are the most common:

Cast Iron – Expect durability but at a price. That’s right, cast iron tea kettles are among the most expensive. You will have to wait longer for the kettle itself to boil. However, they do retain the heat for longer so you can leave a fair amount of time between refills.

Stainless Steel – An affordable option hence why it is so popular but also one with a neutral design. This means it fits into most kitchens without looking unsightly and is fairly durable. The main issue is that they can be susceptible to rust and it maintains its heat for a while so make sure the handle is heat resistant.

Copper – The maintenance and upkeep of a copper kettle are what puts some people off as they need a bit of a shine from time to time and tend to scratch easily. If you can keep it looking its best then you can enjoy a kettle that heats fast and looks good.

Enamel – Most of the time enamel is used as a coating and gives the kettle a nice smooth finish. Often used alongside a pop of color that is vibrant but they are not so hard-wearing and can chip easily.

Stovetop Kettle Vs Electric Kettle

For many people this is the main decision they will have to make and whilst both offer their benefits, the main decision will be down to your personal preference.

In terms of safety, they both have their positives and negatives. An electric kettle will just shut off when the water has boiled which is always good but then you have the issue of water around electricity. A stovetop kettle usually comes with a built-in whistle to notify when the water is boiling but relies on human interaction to take it off the stove.

There isn’t a lot to split the two when it comes to appearance as although the stovetop designs tend to be more traditional, creative, and sometimes eye-catching, a lot of electric kettles come in similar designs. The olden day’s appearance and feel of a stovetop kettle will likely please and sway the tea-drinking purists of the world. They both come in similar materials and capacities but you’re most likely to get a whistle with a stovetop kettle which is something that most electric products don’t offer. Whichever you go for, it is important to ensure it is the right one for you by researching so you know what is out there. Only then can you know what the better tea kettles are capable of, so you can get the benefits into your home.

Oven Cleaners

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Oven Cleaners

It’s one of the jobs that everyone puts off. Because it takes time and effort, cleaning the oven is a thankless task but can be made easier when you use a quality oven cleaner. This is where you need to make a sensible purchase though as some can be difficult to use, whilst others are close to dangerous.

The better oven cleaners make the process simple and safe and will be easy to use. How do you tell a good product from a bad one? We have created a list of the best products to take the pain out of researching and you should find that any of the following does a great job of making your oven sparkle.

Quick Summary of Best Oven Cleaners

Easy Off Professional Fume Free Max Oven Cleaner
Check price on Amazon – more  Editor’s Choice 
Puracy Natural All Purpose Cleaner
Check price on Amazon – more  Best Natural Oven Cleaner 
Astonish️ Oven & Cookware Cleaner 150g
Check price on Amazon – more  Best Oven Cleaner Paste 
Cleaning Heroes Oven and Grill Cleaner
Check price on Amazon – more  Also Consider 
TriNova Premium Cooktop Cleaner and Scrubbing Pads
Check price on Amazon – more  Best For Cooktops 
Zep Heavy-Duty Oven and Grill Cleaner 
Check price on Amazon – more  Also Recommended 
Note: We may earn a small commission when you buy through links on our site. Learn more

Easy Off Professional Fume Free Max Oven Cleaner

Easy Off Professional Fume Free Max Oven Cleaner

 Editor’s Choice 

Professional grade and fume-free are two of the things you want to see on the label of an oven cleaner and when it comes to reputable brands, you also want to see Easy Off. Their popular oven cleaner is tough on baked-on spills and is ideal for larger jobs as well as everyday uses like spot cleaning. There is no need for protective gloves which says a lot about the safety of this product. With a pleasant lemon scent, it can be used on ovens and grills without the risk of harmful fumes. It is one of the easiest products to use since it doesn’t require having to scrub intensely to lift old stains. An all-round impressive oven cleaner that makes a daunting task easy.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • No need for protective gloves
  • Lemon scent
  • Can be used for spot cleaning
  • Easy to wipe off without scrubbing

CONS:

  • Fume free but still have to open windows

Puracy Natural All Purpose Cleaner

Puracy Natural All Purpose Cleaner

 Best Natural Oven Cleaner 

The words natural and oven cleaner don’t often go hand in hand but this product from Puracy only enhances their impressive reputation. The New York Times voted it the best all-purpose cleaner so it is no surprise that it was created by Drs. We like that it cleans any surface without leaving streaks and the plant-based formula is tough on various stains such as oil, grease, soda, tree sap, grime, lipstick, and a lot more. You can use it on pretty much any hard surface so ovens, hardwood floors, kitchen tops, painted surfaces are just a few of the areas you can spray this 25 oz bottle on. The non-toxic formula is safe to use in households with children and pets and is hypoallergenic and made in the USA. You get around 250 applications per bottle but a lot of people opt for this 2-pack to make sure they always have some to hand.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Natural non-toxic formula
  • Tough on grease, oil, and various stains
  • NY Times voted it the best all-purpose cleaner
  • Made in the USA

CONS:

  • Not as effective on glass

Astonish️ Oven & Cookware Cleaner 150g

Astonish️ Oven & Cookware Cleaner

 Best Oven Cleaner Paste 

This effective oven cleaner offers good value at the price and is available in larger packs for those who like to clean their oven regularly. It is great for general use as not only is it tough on oven stains but it can also clean and brighten bathtubs, pans, chrome, metal, glass or ceramic stoves, shower doors, and a lot more. You’ll be pleased to know that it is biodegradable, cruelty free, and not harsh on the skin. It comes as an easy to use paste that is tough on old stains. Just be sure to keep the container closed tight to keep it from drying out.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Good value
  • Tough on stains and works on a multitude of surfaces
  • Cruelty free

CONS:

  • Does require some scrubbing

Cleaning Heroes Oven and Grill Cleaner

Cleaning Heroes Oven and Grill Cleaner

 Also Consider 

What you want from an oven cleaner is a product that is safe to use. Cleaning Heroes has created this versatile product so that it does not create toxic fumes. It also requires minimal effort and there is not much scrubbing involved with this formula. With a high ph content but one that is non-corrosive to skin. It clings to vertical surfaces so it is fine to spray it on the walls of your oven and stays there for a long time to work its magic. We like it because you don’t have to buy a separate formula for your grills, smokehouse, range hood, and other food prep equipment and it is tough on grease, oil, fats, soot, and more.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Non-corrosive to skin
  • No toxic fumes
  • Clings to vehicle surfaces

CONS:

  • Not as tough on carbon

TriNova Premium Cooktop Cleaner and Scrubbing Pads

TriNova Premium Cooktop Cleaner and Scrubbing Pads

 Best For Cooktops 

TriNova has thrown in some scrubbing pads with this purchase but the formula is so effective, you won’t need to do a lot of hard scrubbing. The non-abrasive polish is great for leaving the surface with a shine and gets rid of residue. It is one of the better products for getting rid of grease on glass and ceramic. Plus, it doesn’t have an unpleasant smell which makes the cleaning process more bearable. The streak-free formula leaves a pleasant, shiny finish that is hard to replicate with other brands.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Pleasant scent
  • Tough on burnt on grease
  • Comes with scrubbing pads

CONS:

  • Tailored towards cooktops

Zep Heavy-Duty Oven and Grill Cleaner

Zep Heavy-Duty Oven and Grill Cleaner

 Also Recommended 

Sometimes you just need a heavy-duty oven cleaner and that is what Zep is giving you with this product. The formula is strong so it is ideal for neglected ovens that have gone way past the light cleaning stage. It eliminates grease, carbon deposits, and baked-on foods with ease and can be used on ovens, grills, pans, stainless steel, and a lot more. Because you have to wear protective clothing to use it and make sure the room is well ventilated you aren’t getting a natural product here, far from it. However, when you need a solution for a dirty oven, it is an effective oven cleaner that doesn’t take long to use.

Buy it on Amazon

PROS:

  • Tough on a variety of stains and grease
  • Strong formula

CONS:

  • Has a strong smell

Oven Cleaner Guide

It doesn’t matter how long you have left it, even a couple of weeks’ worth of grease can be near impossible to remove from your oven without an effective product. Those who put it off for months will need something that is particularly tough on stains and although you can pick up an oven cleaner from your local store, it can be hard to know which ones are effective.

This is why we have created the following guide. It helps to make sure you know exactly what a quality product looks like so when you use it, the formula will leave your oven looking its best.

What To Look for in an Oven Cleaner

No Toxic Fumes

Your safety is paramount. It doesn’t matter what type of product you use, no one in your home should be consuming toxic fumes. Although it is always advisable to use a cleaning product in a well-ventilated area, some products are just safer than others. Before you buy the strongest formula, make sure you understand how safe it is.

Easy To Remove

The easier the oven cleaner is to remove, the less you will have to work. Scrubbing off grease can be hard work but some formulas have an easy on easy off approach. The compromise might be in the ingredients as chemicals tend to be harsher on grease making it easier to remove.

Multi-Surface Formula

After you have cleaned your oven, you might have ideas for some of the other surfaces around your home. This is where you can save money on different cleaning products. There are plenty of oven cleaners that are fine to use on your outdoor grill, cooktop, shower door, ceramic tiles, bathtub and a lot of other surfaces.

Fast Cleaning

Although you’d rather wait for an oven cleaner to lift grease and stains that have to scrub for minutes at a time, it is always better if you aren’t having to open all your windows and keep everyone out the kitchen for 20 minutes. There are plenty of products that can be left for 5 – 10 minutes before you can clean them off.

Heavy-Duty Vs Gentle Oven Cleaners

Sometimes you just want to go with the strongest product possible to make the process easier. No one wants to have to use elbow grease to get rid of the real stuff. However, there is something to be said for the gentler cleaners and a lot of them are as tough on stubborn, aged stains as the heavy-duty counterparts. Here is what to expect from both:

Heavy-Duty Oven Cleaners

As the name suggests, you are more likely to encounter a long list of chemicals in the formula for these products. They are better suited to ovens that have been left a while between cleans and are hard on grime that has been baked on time and again.

Always read the safety precautions and instructions before using as you will need protective clothing including gloves but what you do get is a strong formula that does more of the lifting so you spend less time scrubbing.

Gentle Oven Cleaners

Some very effective oven cleaners don’t use chemicals that you can’t pronounce and they are well suited to those who are particularly sensitive to the harsher ingredients.

These are also good for homes with pets and young children although some are more natural than others. A lot of the time you will have to scrub a little harder and even apply two or three times but the benefit is in the safety.

How To Use An Oven Cleaner

This will vary depending on the brand you use as their instructions will differ depending on the strength of the formula and the application method. However, there are a few things to remember that tend to work for most brands.

Preparation

Before you apply the oven cleaner there are a few steps to remember. always remove the accessories from the oven such as the shelves. Most of the time, these are cleaned separately. Now you can use a paint scraper to lift any large burnt pieces of food from the base or sides of the oven and remove them before applying the cleaner.

Apply Cleaner

Adhering to the instructions and wearing the recommended protective clothing if necessary, this is where you will spray or wipe the cleaner onto the oven. Check what surfaces they can be used on as some advise you to avoid the heating element and door seals. Now leave it to work on the grease and stains for the stated time, there is no set period as each brand will differ in strength.

Scrub and Wipe

Using a brush, scrub and remove the grease and debris. This may or may not involve a bit of hard labor depending on the strength of the oven cleaner you use which will affect how long it takes. When you have lifted the grime it is time to wipe the surfaces down. Paper towels are ideal for this as they dry the area and make it easier to pick up debris.

Clean Up

The final stage is applying the glossy finish using a cloth to give it a shine. If the cleaner has done its job, it shouldn’t require a second application but the more natural products might. After this, you will want to soak the tools, gloves, and cloths used so they can be used again.

Are Oven Cleaners Safe?

This depends on the product. The more heavy-duty the product, the more precautions you will have to take to stay safe as chemicals can cause breathing difficulties and irritation if not used properly.

Some cleaners are completely safe to use but remember that with the more natural products you might have to apply more than once and require more scrubbing.

What Is The Best Oven Cleaner?

There is an oven cleaner for everyone’s preferences so if you want a natural product, you can use something like Puracy Natural All-Purpose Cleaner. As well as heavy-duty products there are those that are somewhere in between such as Easy Off Professional Fume Free Max Oven Cleaner.

This is what we consider to be the best oven cleaner because not only is is a fume-free product, you do not need to wear protective gloves when using it and it is effective on grease,

Omelet Pans

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Omelet Pans

Omelet pans come in a variety of different sizes and are made from different materials. There are either round or square and are available in aluminum, anodized aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, or iron. How does a person choose the best omelet pan for their needs among all of these options? Fortunately, it’s not that difficult, and we’re going to show you how to do it. First, we’re going to start with our favorite pans, and then we’re going to give you the information needed to make an informed purchasing decision. Okay, shall we begin?

List of the Best Omelet Pans

Note: We may earn a small commission when you buy through links on our site. Learn more

Best Overall: Mineral-B Carbon-Steel Round 12-Inch Crepe Pan

Anyone who holds and uses this high-quality omelet pan from Mineral B is going to consider it a work of art. That’s because this product provides the user with years of faithful crepe and omelet making service. Its carbon steel construction is approximately 2.5mm thick and is hand riveted. The rivets are made from carbon steel, not aluminum, like what can be found on lesser frying pans. Why is that significant? It means the rivets will flex at the same rate as the pan, so the handle won’t loosen over time.

Durable and Oven Safe

Because the material is carbon steel, it’s virtually warp-resistant and it is even safe to use in ovens, as long as the temperature doesn’t exceed 400-degrees Fahrenheit or the time doesn’t exceed 20-minutes. This allows you to create marvelous omelets, Denver eggs, and other delicious egg dishes. And because its curved handle is ergonomically designed, it’s easy to flip, stir or sauté dishes with ease. Another thing to like about this quality egg skillet is that it’s PTFE-free, PFOA-free, and is naturally nonstick.

These pans will last a long time and the company ships them with a beeswax coating that helps to protect them from oxidation and assists in their seasoning process. These French-made frying pans are almost perfect, but they might not suit the needs of everyone because they require quite an extensive level of care to keep them in good condition. You can’t place them in a dishwasher and you can’t simply wash them in a kitchen sink. No, you have to deglaze the pans with hot water and use coarse salt to sterilize them. You then have to make sure to properly store them. However, we feel that’s a small price to pay for owning what is arguably the best omelet pan in the world.

What we liked about it

  • Not too heavy
  • Does an amazing job making cooking omelets

Also Recommended: Lodge Manufacturing Company Carbon-Steel 10-Inch Skillet

Lodge Manufacturing Products makes some of the best cast-iron and carbon steel products in the world. These are heirloom level pans that you will be able to pass down from one generation to the next, as long as they’re properly maintained. This company has been making high-quality cookware since 1896 and some of their pans have lasted well over a hundred years. When anyone buys a Lodge frying pan, they know they’re getting a product that’s a cut above the rest.

Although this carbon steel omelet skillet isn’t as thick or as heavy as some of their cast iron pans, it does do a great job of making eggs. This product is made from 12-gauge carbon steel that has steel riveted handles that won’t loosen over time. These pans are forged right in the United States and are foundry seasoned the right way. That gives them a surface that’s smooth, beautiful and forms a base that omelets can easily be cooked on. These pans also come with a silicone handle holder that protects your hands from temperatures up to 500-degrees Fahrenheit.

Easy to Clean

We also liked that these pans aren’t as delicate as some other omelet pans, so they’re easier to clean. You can easily hand wash them or even throw them into a dishwasher, as long as you dry them promptly and then rub them with cooking oil to protect their surface from oxidation. If you follow these simple cleaning steps, there’s no reason why your pan won’t last for future generations as well. These are pans that are not only good for making omelets, but you can also use them for pan frying.

What we liked about it

  • Does a great job of cooking eggs
  • Isn’t as heavy as cast iron

Also Consider: Caannasweis Nonstick 8-Inch Stone Skillet

It might be easy to dismiss this omelet pan as just another inexpensive frying pan, but on closer inspection, there’s more to this cooking pan than meets the eye. This pan is made from volcanic rock that’s PFOA-free, PTFE-free, and lead-free. It’s also a skillet that’s free of cadmium, a byproduct that’s unfortunately on quite a lot of cookware products nowadays. This 8-inch pan is also equipped with a wood handle that stays cool to the touch and allows the user to maintain a good grip on the skillet at all times. Unfortunately, because of this wood handle, this product can’t be used in the oven, but that shouldn’t be a big deal if it’s being used exclusively as an omelet pan.

Great Look and Functionality

This pan has a rustic charm to it that many people are going to love to use in their kitchen. These pans aren’t just nice looking, however, they also do a decent job of cooking eggs. Although this pan doesn’t heat as thoroughly as we would have liked, and seemed to have a few hot spots, it still did a good job of cooking eggs. That’s primarily because its surface is so slick that eggs can be easily moved about the pan. This allowed us to make an omelet and flip it just right. This product isn’t just good for cooking omelets. It’s also good for cooking stir-fry dishes, pancakes, fajitas, and even quesadillas.

We also discovered that these frying pans could not only be used for gas or electric stoves but could also be used for ceramic and induction stoves as well. And according to the manufacturer, this product can also be used on halogen and solid-fuel cookers as well. All things considered, this frying pan might not be the best omelet pan available, but it is a great budget model that should provide most kitchens with a useful tool for making breakfast or just about any other meal with ease.

What we liked about it

  • Is an inexpensive omelet pan
  • Has a nice non-stick surface

Buying The Best Omelet Pan

Anyone searching for a pan that will handle omelets with ease is going to want to read this article. That’s because we’re going to do a deep dive into the world of omelet pans and see how a consumer can buy the best one possible. We feel that everyone should have one of these pans in their kitchens because nothing makes breakfast or brunch better than a tasty omelet. These egg dishes are some of the most iconic breakfast and brunch dishes available, and we’re not sure why that’s the case. Maybe it’s because they are filled with an assortment of meats, vegetables, and cheeses, or maybe it’s their caramelized outer goodness.

Regardless of why these pans are so popular, we do know that consumers are going to have a great omelet pan if they intend on doing any justice to these great dishes. Okay, we’ve rambled on quite enough, let’s move on and find out how to find the right omelet pan for your kitchen.

Omelette pan with egg cooking

Choose The Right Size Pan

One of the most important things to consider when buying a new omelet pan is the size of the pan. Nowadays, most of these pans come in the 8 to 12-inch diameter range. What’s important to consider is the number of people you will be serving. If a person is only making an omelet for him or herself, then all they will likely need is an 8 or 9-inch pan. If a couple needs to make omelets, then they’re probably going to want to go with a 10 or 11-inch model.

However, for more than two egg servings, you are going to want a 12-inch omelet pan. We tend to go for larger pans because we think that they’re the most versatile ones available. With a 12-inch pan, you can not only create omelets for 3 to 4 people, but you can also use it for vegetables, grilled cheese sandwiches, pancakes, or bacon.

Choose The Right Pan Material

The next thing you’re going to want to ponder is the material of the pan. Although there are 6 different materials used to make omelet pans, only a few of those materials will create a pan that’s great for making omelets. That’s because a lot of different metals have uneven heat distribution and tend to develop hot spots. Let’s examine some of the more common materials used to make omelet pans and find out which ones are the ones worth considering.

Copper

Copper is a material that’s all the rage right now, but it’s not one of the best materials for omelet pans. Sure, it’s a metal that heats up evenly and is lightweight, and it’s also a metal that’s durable. However, it does tend to react with acidic foods such as tomatoes or tomato sauce, and that can cause an off-putting flavor to develop.

Aluminum

Aluminum is another common pan material and it’s lightweight. It also distributes heat very well. Unfortunately, the surface tends to scratch easily, so consumers might want to consider another material for their omelet pans.

Anodized Aluminum

This material doesn’t scratch as easily as aluminum and is more durable. However, it also doesn’t heat evenly, so this isn’t a good material for omelet pans either.

Stainless Steel

The main benefit of stainless steel is that it’s durable and doesn’t react with foods, but it also doesn’t heat evenly. This makes it a poor choice for omelet pans.

Carbon Steel

Carbon steel is one of the best materials for omelet pans because it’s durable and heats evenly. If possible, choose a pan made out of this material for the best results.

Choose The Pan’s Handle

The last thing the consumer is going to want to consider is the handle. A good handle is riveted to the pan using rivets that are made of the same material as the pan. This prevents the flexing that can cause handles to loosen from their pans. Some pans have curved handles to make flipping omelets easier, while other pans have a stainless-steel or silicone handle holder to protect the user’s hand while they’re cooking. The consumer should choose the one that best suits their needs and cooking style for the best results.

Coffee Percolators

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Coffee Percolators

Coffee percolators get a bad rap nowadays. Some people either consider them to be an old-fashioned way of making coffee or associate them with the large percolators that make stale coffee for reception halls. However, we find both representations of this product to be false.

In our opinion, the best coffee percolators do an amazing job of making a cup of Joe—as long as a person buys the right model and uses it in the right way. To help bring percolators back to the forefront and to show our readers that these devices can make some of the best coffee they will ever drink, we decided to write this entire article on the best coffee percolators.

List of the Best Coffee Percolators

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Best Overall: Mixpresso 12-cup Stainless Steel Coffee Percolator

Consumers who are looking to make a great pot of coffee need to look no further than this coffee percolator from Mixpresso. This model is capable of making 12-cups of delicious coffee when it’s used properly. It’s a model that’s made of 18/8 polished stainless steel that has seamless parts.

It’s also a model that’s can be easily thrown into a dishwasher or washed in the sink when the consumer needs to clean it. And with a capacity of 52-ounces, this percolator is perfect for one or two-person households, or for households where there isn’t a large amount of coffee being consumed at one time.

Another thing that we liked about this model is that it had a handle that can be grasped for pouring the coffee. This handle is made of Permawood, so it doesn’t heat up with the rest of the percolator. If there was one problem that we had with this unit, it was that it had a plastic lid knob.

Although we didn’t have any problems with that knob, we feel that some people aren’t going to appreciate a plastic part being incorporated into a coffee percolator. After all, some people buy percolators to avoid using a device that has plastic parts that get heated, like coffee pots. Having said that, the knob is well made and we don’t anticipate any problems developing from it.

What we liked about it

  • Percolator’s body is made of stainless steel.
  • It’s an inexpensive model.
  • Makes great coffee.

Best Electric: Euro Cuisine 12-Cup Electric Percolator

Electric coffee percolators are very handy appliances to have in the home. All the consumer has to do is fill them up with water and coffee and then plug them in. They immediately begin brewing coffee that tastes a lot better than coffee brewed in plastic coffee makers. And this model is one of the best electric percolators available.

It’s capable of brewing up to 12-cups of delicious coffee and have it done in only a few minutes. It’s made with a stainless steel body that has a beautiful copper finish, and its top knob is made out of glass instead of plastic. And because it has a stay-cool handle and base, it’s safe to use as well.

If there was one complaint that we had about this percolator, it was that its cord was a little bit shorter than we would have liked. We generally like electric percolators to have a longer cord so that it can be placed further away from the outlet when it’s placed on a counter, but that wasn’t an option with this model.

Fortunately, that isn’t a big deal for most people and is eclipsed by all its great features. Features that include a filter-less design that doesn’t require the consumer to spend hard-earned cash on filters and a stylish construction that’s long-lasting and durable.

What we liked about it

  • Makes a great pot of coffee.
  • Top knob is made of glass.

Best Camping: Coletti Camping Percolator Coffee Pot

In our experience, it can be difficult to find a coffee percolator that not only brews a fine cup of coffee at home but is also capable of brewing an amazing cup of coffee at a campsite. This results in campers always being on the lookout for percolators that they can take out on the trail.

Fortunately, we’ve found such a product. A percolator that’s great for home or outdoor use and makes one of the finest cups of coffee we’ve ever tasted. And it’s a percolator that never requires any filters whatsoever, so campers can always enjoy a cup of coffee anywhere without having to pack paper or fold-up filters.

We also liked how this percolator was constructed. It’s made out of 18/8 stainless steel and is made without any plastic or aluminum. Yes, you’ve read that correctly. This product contains no plastic or aluminum in its construction. It has a glass cover knob, so consumers never have to worry about whether their coffee is in contact with heated plastic or have to worry about another piece of plastic ending up in a landfill.

And finally, we’d like to say that this product also has a dishwasher-safe design, so the consumer can easily clean it out when necessary. That makes this a product that should be considered by not only campers but anyone looking for a great percolator.

What we liked about it

  • Contains no plastic or aluminum in its construction.
  • Makes a great cup of coffee on the go.

Best Affordable: Primula Aluminum Stove Top Percolator

Not everyone wants to spend a lot of money on a coffee percolator. Some people simply want an inexpensive model that brews a great pot of coffee. Fortunately, we’ve found such a budget percolator and it’s one that we think works very well, even though it costs considerably less than other models.

The company that manufactures this product is capable of accomplishing this feat because it used aluminum instead of stainless steel for the body of the unit. While this allows the unit to cost less, it also means that the percolator is likely to get dented at some point in time. While we used it we didn’t have that particular problem, but we did feel that it wasn’t as durable as stainless steel percolators.

Fortunately, the things that we liked about this model were more numerous than the things we didn’t like about it. This percolator holds approximately 36-ounces of water, so it makes quite a few cups of coffee. It’s also a model that can be used with both electric or gas stoves. It can also be placed on a stand and used for cooking as well.

Another thing to mention about this percolator is that it has a stay-cool handle that makes the unit easy to pour, and it has a lidded spout that enables the user to easily pour coffee. All in all, this is an inexpensive percolator that’s perfect for people who aren’t sure if they’d like using a percolator and wants to try one out or a person who needs a percolator for home use.

What we liked about it

  • Makes great tasting coffee.
  • Doesn’t cost a whole lot.

The Coffee Lover’s Guide To Percolators

In this guide, we’re going to go over the history of percolators, how they compare to drip coffee makers and how coffee lovers can use their percolator to make the best cup of coffee they’ve ever tasted.

The History Of Coffee Percolators

Coffee percolators have been around for a long time, and we do mean a very long time. The first device capable of making stovetop coffee using a continuous hot water cycle was a device that was used approximately 200+ years ago and was invented by Joseph Henry-Marie Laurens in Paris. The first patent obtained in the United States for a coffee percolator was obtained by James Nason in 1865. However, that percolator was quite different than modern ones because hot water and steam didn’t rise through the model. Instead, it used a down-flow system.

The modern percolator was invented by Handson Goodrich in 1889. Hanson Goodrich was a farmer in Illinois when he patented his percolator. And unlike previous models, this percolator had many of the components found on modern percolators. It had a central up-flow tube with a perforated basket on it, and it had a broad base for sitting on a stovetop. During the 1920s, modern electric percolators were made, but there are considerable disagreements over which company or companies may have invented it.

Coffee Percolators Versus Drip Coffee Makers

The next thing that we want to talk about is the difference between percolators and drip coffee makers. After all, percolators aren’t suitable for everyone, just like drip coffee makers aren’t suitable for everyone. Some people may like them and some people may not. It all depends on how you like your coffee made and what you feel is the most convenient coffee-making method. With that said, let’s talk about some of the ways that percolators differ from drip coffee makers.

  • Percolators are available in both stovetop and electric models, drip coffee makers aren’t.
  • Drip coffee makers brew according to time, percolators brew according to grind size and the number of coffee grounds.
  • Coffee strength can be adjusted by allowing the percolator to percolate longer. Drip coffee makers require more coffee grounds for a stronger cup of coffee.
  • Percolators are portable, drip coffee makers are not.
  • Percolators can be used during camping, drip coffee makers can not.
  • There’s little to no exposure to heated plastic with percolators. Most drip coffee makers are made of plastic.

How To Use A Percolator To Brew Coffee

We would like to talk about how to use a percolator to make a fantastic cup of coffee. Although most people think they know how to use a percolator, the truth of the matter is that making coffee with these devices requires a very specific process to avoid bitter-tasting or weak coffee. Let’s learn some of the steps the consumers should follow to make a great cup of percolated coffee.

Step One: Measure Out The Coffee

The first step is to use the right amount of coffee in the percolator. We recommend that consumers use approximately an ounce of coffee for every 17-18 ounces of water. For example, if you’re brewing a 36-ounces of coffee, then you are going to need approximately 2 to 2.11-ounces of coffee. For the best results, we suggest that the consumer grind their own coffee grounds and only grind them right before they intend on brewing their coffee.

Step Two: Fill The Percolator with Cold Water

The next step is to add cold water to the percolator. During this step, it’s advisable to use filtered water for the best results and don’t exceed the maximum fill capacity of the percolator.

Step Three: Assemble The Percolator and Add the Coffee Grounds

According to the manufacturer’s directions, assemble the percolator, and then add the coffee grounds to the coffee basket. When that’s finished, make sure the lid is properly placed on the percolator according to directions.

Step Four: Percolate The Coffee

If it’s a stovetop model, make sure it’s on the burner and the burner is turned to the low or medium heat setting. The brewing process should be low and slow so that the coffee percolates and doesn’t end up boiling. During this stage, keep an eye on the percolator to make sure it’s not boiling. There should be a constant stream of coffee going through the glass knob. If it’s not constant and is more like an occasional pop, then the heat needs to be turned down.

Once the coffee is boiling properly, set a timer for anywhere from 8 to 10-minutes, depending on how strong you like your coffee. After the elapsed time, take the percolator off the heat and enjoy a hot, fresh cup of percolated coffee.

Cocktail Shakers

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Cocktail Shakers

Although the popularity of cocktail shakers indeed waned shortly after the “Mad Man” era of the 1950s and 1960s, they’re now back with a vengeance. More and more people have discovered mixed drinks once again and have begun to whip up their own alcohol-infused libations at home. It’s why we’ve decided to write this article on buying and using the best cocktail shakers available. We sincerely hope that this guide not only motivates our readers to equip their own home bar with a cocktail shaker, but we hope it also inspires them to make some great drinks at home for their friends and family.

List of the Best Cocktail Shakers

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Best Overall: Semderm 10-Piece Cocktail Shaker Set

cocktail shaker

Anyone looking to buy a cocktail shaker for the first time not only needs the shaker itself but also needs accessories to go with it. Accessories that allow alcohol to be doled out in proper dosages, to grasp ice and to help pour the liquor. Fortunately, this cocktail shaker set comes with everything the home bar owner needs to get set up for making drinks. The accessories that come with this set include a muddler, double jigger, ice tongs, a strainer, four liquor pourers, and two bottle stoppers. That’s everything a person needs to start mixing up drinks. Think of it as a way to almost instantly stock a bar with the cocktail tools needed for a great time.

This set also comes with an 800ml stainless steel shaker that has a mirror finish and is resistant to denting, scratching and rusting. This shaker provides a watertight seal that’s great for shaking drinks and is very easy to handle. To go along with this shaker, there’s a 600ml shaker tin that completes the package.

It’s also great to see that this set is packaged in such a way that allows it to be easily given away as a gift for Christmas, house warming parties or weddings. And since it’s a high-quality and well-crafted set, we’re sure that it’s going to provide whoever receives it with the tools they need to make an assortment of drinks. Drinks that include Dry Martinis, Margaritas, Mint Juleps or Mojitos.

What we liked about it
  • Comes with an assortment of accessories.
  • Seems like a high-quality set.

Best Value: Professional Cocktail Shaker Set Bartending Kit

cocktail shaker

Not everyone wants or needs the best cocktail shaker in the world, or one with a ton of different accessories either. Some people just need a reliable shaker set that comes with the basic tools and doesn’t cost a small fortune. And it’s for these people that we discovered this great shaker set. It’s a high-quality set that will provide the home bartender with years of service. Although the shaker lid on this set is difficult to remove at first, after a little bit of practice, just about anyone will be shaking and mixing up drinks like a true professional. Let’s take a look at what makes this set such a great value, shall we?

The first thing we’d like to mention about this Boston shaker set is the professional shakers. This set comes with a 28 oz and 18 oz shaker, and each of them fit together well, and each is made with 18/8 stainless steel. The shaker’s surfaces are easy to clean, and because they’re made out of stainless steel, they won’t corrode over time. This set also comes with a handy cocktail strainer and a double jigger. In our estimation, that’s just about everything a person needs to start mixing up some of their favorite drinks.

What we liked about it
  • It’s a very affordable shaker set.
  • Comes with a basic assortment of accessories.

Best Affordable: 24 oz. Stainless Steel Cocktail Shaker

cocktail shaker

If you’re searching for an even more inexpensive cocktail shaker set, you might want to give this set a try. Okay, it might be somewhat of a misnomer to call it a set because it only consists of three pieces, but it’s enough to get most people started on mixing their own cocktails. This set comes with an 18/8-grade stainless steel shaker that has a 24-ounce capacity and has a strainer built right into it.

It also has a top that fits on top of this shaker. Unfortunately, the seal of the shaker isn’t the best, so if the top and the shaker isn’t held together tightly, then it is prone to leaking. Not a huge deal, but something that consumers might want to consider before purchase.

Fortunately, this product is backed by the manufacturer’s two-year warranty, giving you some peace of mind. This “set” also comes with an illustrated cocktail recipe guide, so you can immediately put the shaker to good use at your home bar. It doesn’t matter if you want to make Apple Martinis, Long Island Iced Teas, or Whiskey Sours, this set is ready to perform up to your expectations. And since this set is so inexpensive, it’s a good one for beginners to start with.

What we liked about it
  • Made of quality stainless steel.
  • This is a very affordable cocktail shaker set.

Also Consider: Godinger Dublin 17-Ounce Martini Shaker

cocktail shaker

We couldn’t resist adding this martini shaker to our list because we feel it’s one of the most attractive and classic looking cocktail shakers we’ve ever seen. And that’s not surprising considering that the company that manufactures it, Godinger, has been making handcrafted wedding gifts, barware, candlesticks, tea sets and frames since the early 1970s.

This is a company that’s known for making fabulous gifts made out of pewter or silver, stainless steel, and crystal. So the fact that they made a Dublin martini shaker that’s made out of lead-free crystal wasn’t a surprise at all. The only thing that surprised us was the fact that we hadn’t noticed this beautiful shaker sooner.

This martini shaker has a 17-ounce strainer and comes with a chrome metal lid and strainer. If there was anything that we didn’t like about this shaker, it has to be the way that the metal lid occasionally sticks to the strainer and can sometimes be difficult to remove. However, even that slight flaw isn’t enough for us to disregard the value of this great cocktail shaker. It’s not only useful, but it’s beautiful enough to become a true centerpiece of any bar. It’s also a shaker set that’s perfect for giving as wedding presents, birthday presents, or for giving away to friends and family for Christmas.

What we liked about it
  • Has a beautiful classic look.
  • Is made to high quality standards.

A Handy Guide To Cocktail Shakers

For many people reading this article, it will be the first time they’ve ever considered using a cocktail shaker. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never seen a cocktail shaker in your life or if you use one every day. We’ve designed this guide to educate everyone who reads it on this subject. We’re confident that anyone who reads this guide will find some little nugget of information that they’ll find useful, so let’s jump right into the thick of things with a discussion on how to buy the best cocktail shaker available.

cocktail shaker

Step One: Consider The Type Of Shaker

In today’s market, there are four different types of cocktail shakers available to choose from, and each has its own pros and cons. These include the Boston Shaker, the Cobbler Shaker, the French Shaker, and the Dublin Shaker. Let’s take a quick look at each of these shaker types to see if they may be beneficial to you and the way that you mix drinks.

The Boston Shaker

This shaker comes with two metal pieces that fit together. Traditionally, it consists of a 28 fluid-ounce bottom part and a 16 fluid-ounce top part. These two pieces are usually made out of stainless steel, but some models are made out of glass or plastic. The top and bottom parts insert inside each other for shaking, but each of them can also be used for stirring drinks or for muddling drinks. Some of these models have built-in strainers, an innovation that goes back to the 1870s, but other ones either feature a separate removable strainer or none at all.

The Cobbler Shaker

This cocktail shaker set consists of 3-parts that are designed to taper at the top and have a built-in strainer. This shaker also features a cap as well. You can remove the cap to measure various liquors or other ingredients for the cocktail. This shaker is often considered to be the workhorse of shakers because it can be used in a variety of different ways for making martinis and other cocktails.

The French Shaker

The French Shaker is another innovative cocktail shaker that more and more people are beginning to use. It’s a 2-piece shaker that consists of a metal cap and a metal bottom. This makes this a simple shaker that doesn’t have a lot of parts that can end up getting lost. However, because of its simplicity, you’re going to either have to buy a strainer separately or master the technique of using the two halves to strain solids from the cocktails being poured.

The Dublin Shaker

This is another type of shaker that’s beginning to gain in popularity. These shakers are made out of leaded crystal that has been etched with beautiful designs, so they’re very ornamental as well as useful. They also have a metal cap and sometimes they’re equipped with a built-in strainer as well. These shakers are not only attractive enough for display in just about any bar, but they also work quite well. And because they look so good, they also make great gifts for weddings, birthdays, or other special occasions.

Step Two: Consider The Accessories

The final thing you’re going to want to consider is the accessories that may come with the shaker. Below are some of the more common tools that often come with some of the bigger shaker sets available.

List Of Common Cocktail Shaker Accessories:

  • Muddlers
  • Strainers (Hawthorne, Fine Mesh, & Julep Varieties)
  • Stirrers
  • Jiggers
  • Mixing Spoons
  • Liquor Pourers
  • Liquor Caps

Best Oolong Tea

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Best Oolong Tea

Oolong Tea

Oolong tea has become quite popular over the past few years—particularly in the western world. That’s because more and more people are discovering that these teas are not only some of the finest drinking teas in the world, but a few scientific studies have suggested that they might also have health benefits if they’re drunk regularly.

It’s for all of these reasons, and quite a few other ones, that we decided it would be a great idea to not only tell our readers about the best oolong tea varieties available but also tell them how they can choose a variety that they’ll enjoy. It’s our aim to make this guide one of the most comprehensive guide on oolong tea and we hope that we’ve achieved our aim.

List of the Best Oolong Tea

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Best Overall: The Tao of Tea, Wuyi Oolong Tea

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Although it’s called a monkey-picked tea, no actual monkeys were used to harvest the tea. It’s just a clever way of saying that the tea comes high altitude areas in China. This high-altitude not only makes the tea harder to pick, and therefore more expensive than traditional oolong teas but also gives it its unique flavor. A flavor that is unequaled by any other tea currently available. And that’s probably why so many people choose to buy and enjoy this tea regularly.

This tea has a light and naturally sweet flavor that just about anyone will enjoy to have in their cup. This flavor is only matched by the light and airy aroma that this tea produces after it’s been properly brewed. Another thing worth mentioning about these teas is that they’re tightly-balled leaves product a beautiful sparkling jade color in the cup. A color that tips the drinker off to the fact that they’re taking in rich antioxidants with every sip. This 3-ounce package of tea is enough to brew 54 8-ounce cups of tea and when the leaves are properly stored, they should stay fresh quite awhile.

What we liked about it

  • It has an incredible aroma
  • It tastes very fresh

Best Organic: Prince Of Peace Organic Oolong Teabags

It isn’t always easy to find an organic oolong tea, particularly considering that some less than scrupulous tea purveyors don’t run an above-board operation. We’ve had the unfortunate experience of finding some teas labeled as organic and that not being the case. Fortunately, when we found this oolong tea, we did find an organic tea. A tea that comes from the Wuyi District of Fujian, China–an area that has become extremely well known for its rock tea. And this tea is hand-picked and enveloped in a quality teabag that’s easy to use and enjoy.

When properly brewed, this tea has an extremely mild flavor and brews up to a bright golden color. Unfortunately, to fully experience its woodsy flavor and aroma is going to require more than just one teabag. That’s because, in our experience, we found that making a cup of tea with just one bag produced a tea that was too mild. Fortunately, that was remedied by brewing up two bags at the same time and when we did that we found that the tea was exquisite. If that’s not a big deal to the tea connoisseur, then they should pick up a pack of these tea bags and enjoy them.

What we liked about it

  • Has a beautiful aroma & flavor
  • Reasonably priced

Best Value: FGO Organic Oolong Tea

The first thing anyone who purchases this oolong tea is going to notice is the decorative tin that it’s packaged it. This tea is packaged in a steel tin with a leopard on the front and with a tight-fitting lid on it. This not only helps to keep the tea within it nice and fresh until the consumer is ready to consume it, but it is also very decorative and makes it quite suitable to give it away as a gift. As fine as this tea’s tin is, however, it isn’t the most remarkable thing about this product. No, what’s truly remarkable about this product is the tea that waits inside of the tea.

The oolong tea in this set is sourced from the Alishan tea producing region of Taiwan and it’s grown at an altitude of approximately 4,200 to 4,600 feet. That high elevation results in this tea’s leaves maturing slower than oolong tea grown at lower altitudes. This slowed growth concentrates the flavor of the tea and causes it to develop a more flowery aroma. This aroma is a subtle contrast to the many woody oolong tea varieties that are available and makes this tea unique. However, it also means that its subtle flavor might be too subtle for people looking for a stronger tea.

What we liked about it

  • Packaged in a decorative tin that keeps its fresh
  • Has a wonderful flavor, aroma and color

Best Affordable: Soeos Organic Oolong Tea

There are a lot of different Oolong tea blends out there and they’re available in a variety of different price ranges. Some teas are quite expensive and some, like this particular brand, don’t cost much at all. Now we understand that some people might not want to consider buying a lower-priced tea because they feel that it might be inferior to the premium teas available and that might be true in some circumstances but not in this one. That’s because although the strength of the tea produced by the teabags is a little inconsistent from cup to cup, it’s otherwise a great tea that has a nice aroma and flavor.

When we say that this tea is inconsistent, what we mean by that statement is that one cup of tea brewed with one bag might be too weak, while another time it might be too strong. However, we don’t feel that’s a deal-breaker, especially when this tea is capable of producing some amazing cups of teas. If the consumer brews this tea carefully and pays attention to the strength of their brew, then there’s no reason why every cup of this tea can’t be enjoyable. We know that we really enjoyed this tea, and we particularly enjoyed the fact that it didn’t set us back more money than it should’ve.

What we liked about it

  • It’s an inexpensive Oolong tea
  • It produces a fine aroma and flavor

A Guide To Oolong Tea

Some experts spend all of their lives honing their knowledge of Oolong tea to the point where they can identify the best ones available at first glance. Unfortunately, most people don’t have that kind of time on their hands and simply want to know a few shortcuts to choose the best Oolong tea. That’s why we’ve crafted this guide that you’re currently reading. This guide will give you all of the information you need to make an informed decision.

What is Oolong Tea?

Before a tea lover can purchase the best Oolong tea available, they first have to know just what it is. In its most basic form, Oolong tea is an oxidized form of the Camellia Sinensis plant. It’s this oxidation that gives it its characteristic color and antioxidant properties. However, it should be noted that it isn’t as oxidized as black tea, so consumers should think of it as the mid-aging point between green tea and black tea. Oolong tea goes by several different names, which includes Black Dragon Tea and Wulong Tea.

How To Choose A Quality Oolong Tea

When buying Oolong tea, it’s a good idea to take a good look at what you’re buying. The oxidation level as well as the shape of the tea leaves can tell you whether the tea is a quality one or not.

Oolong tea can undergo an oxidation rate of anywhere from 10% up to 80% and this can have a drastic effect on the tea’s flavor. Oolong teas that don’t undergo a long oxidation process have a lighter and more flowery aroma, while others that are more oxidized can have a more woodsy flavor profile. Some people prefer an “older” Oolong tea, whiles others prefer a less mature one. It all depends on personal preferences. However, premium and gourmet Oolong teas generally use leaves that have a long maturity rate. Cheaper teas tend to get their product to market faster, so they generally go through a shorter maturing process.

What’s surprising to many people who are new to selecting Oolong tea leaves is that the shape of the leaves generally determines the quality of the end product. How is that possible? With the aging of oolong tea, the leaves begin to get twisted into balls. This shape not only informs the consumer that they’re enjoying a mature tea but also lets them know they’re enjoying a premium tea. The shaping of tea leaves in this manner improves the way the tea brews, as well as the aroma of the tea. In other words, curly and balled up tea leaves are the best ones.

How To Brew Oolong Tea

Now that we know how to purchase the best Oolong tea, it’s time to turn our attention to making the tea. Some people seem to think that they can buy premium Oolong tea leaves, toss them into some hot water and end up with a great tasting tea. That’s simply not the case. If a person wants a quality tea, they are not only going to want to buy a premium tea, but they’re also going to want to make sure that they brew that tea properly. Below is the proper procedure for making Oolong tea using loose leaves.

Step One: Gather Together Your Supplies

The first thing that you’re going to want to do is make sure that you have everything that you need. Below are the items you will need to brew a cup. Notice that there’s a tea controlled kettle and a thermometer on this list to help with the process. In step two, we’ll tell you how to make tea without being able to measure the water temperature.

  • Tea Cup
  • Temperature Controlled Kettle or Thermometer
  • 2-Teaspoons Of Oolong Tea For Every 8-Ounces Of Water
  • Tea Infuser

Step Two: Brew The Tea

Using a temperature-controlled tea kettle, bring the temperature of the water up to between 200 and 205-degrees Fahrenheit. If you don’t own a tea kettle, then bring the water to desired temperature in a pot using a thermometer. If neither a temp-controlled tea kettle or a thermometer is available, then bring the water to a boil in a pot and then take it off the heat for 2-minutes. In that amount of time, the temperature of the water should have dropped to the 200-degree Fahrenheit range.

Add your 2-teaspoons of loose Oolong tea to a tea infuser and place it in the water. For proper saturation, ensure that the tea leaves steep for approximately 2.5-3.5 minutes. You can then remove the leaves and enjoy your hot tea.

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