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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

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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.

Compact Microwave

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Compact Microwave

Microwaves are modern-day wonders that allow consumers to thaw, warm-up or cook foods faster than just about any other method of cooking available. And among microwave ovens, the best ones available are the compact models. That’s because they have a small footprint but can perform some pretty heavy work. All that the consumer has to do is look for the best compact microwave available and they’re ready to save themselves a whole lot of time and trouble in the kitchen. Let’s take a quick look at some of the models that we think consumers are really going to appreciate having in their home.

List of the Best Compact Microwaves

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Best Overall: Panasonic Microwave Oven NN-SU696S

Panasonic is a company that’s known for making some of the best electronics available. This company manufacturer everything from stereos to DVD players, so it shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone that they also make the best compact microwaves currently available. Models that have a small footprint, are equipped with a wide range of features and are extremely reliable.

And this model is the best model that they currently produce. It’s a microwave that puts an assortment of useful tools into the consumer’s hands and allows them to spend more time doing what they want to do and less time in the kitchen.

This model only takes up approximately 19.44×23.88×14-inches of space, but it has a large 1.3 cubic foot capacity and a 13.4-inch turntable. This is large enough for consumers to not only heat Pop-Tarts and pizza rolls but also allows the consumer to cook an assortment of breakfast and dinner foods as well.

It’s capable of delivering a larger interior space because it uses smaller and more energy-efficient control units. All of this equates to a larger interior space and a smaller amount of counter space being used.

Another great feature found on this particular microwave is its array of cooking options. This microwave has fourteen different auto-cook options that can be used to cook all different types of food. There’s a popcorn button, a 1-14 level auto cook feature, sensor reheat, turbo defrost, and even a keep warm feature.

It also has an impressive 1,250-watts of cooking power, which allows foods to be defrosted, thawed or heated extremely quickly. It might be a small microwave, but it has all of the modern features that the consumer could want. It truly is a modern microwave that gets the job done well.

What we liked about it:
  • Has 14-different cooking options
  • Has 1,250-watts of power.
  • Has a small footprint but a large interior.

Best Value: Toshiba Microwave Oven

Toshiba is a company that many people trust and with good reason. They do a good job of making great electronics and this compact microwave isn’t an exception to that rule. This model has all of the features that most people need, doesn’t take up a whole lot of space, but isn’t too small to be unusable.

It also has the features that people need their microwave to have so they can heat, defrost and warm up their favorite foods on the fly.

This microwave only takes up 19.2×15.9×11.5-inches of counter space but has an internal space of 12.36×13.66×8.7-inches of space. Although its interior space isn’t very large, it’s large enough for homes that only have one or two people living in it. This product also has 900-watts of power and can be set to one of 10 different power levels.

It features a turntable that’s 10.6-inches in diameter, and it has a total capacity of 0.9 cubic feet. It also features an LED interior light inside of it that’s a big improvement over the yellow incandescent bulbs found in older microwave models.

What are some of the other features that can be found in this microwave? Well, we’re glad you asked because this model does have a few remarkable features to talk about. For example, it has six different preset menus that allow the consumer to cook popcorn, pizza, potatoes, or cook other types of frozen foods.

It also has a one-touch start that gives the consumer quick access to starting it and an easy-defrost feature as well. And since it has 10 cooking power levels, no food is out of the reach of the consumer. These features, along with these models’ price tag, makes it the best value of any compact microwave available.

What we liked about it:
  • Takes up very little counter space.
  • Has an interior light.
  • Easy-to-use control panel.

Best Affordable: Comfee EM720CPL-PMB Countertop 700-Watt Microwave

Comfee might not be a company that a whole lot of people are familiar with but it’s a company that more people should begin to familiarize themselves with. That’s because they not only make one of the more useful compact microwaves but also one of the most affordable ones.

For half the price of many of the leading compact microwave models, consumers can own a model that does a decent job of cooking food. Sure, it might not be as powerful as some of these models, but not everyone needs a 1,200-watt microwave for making popcorn, heating up soup or making toaster pastries. Let’s take a closer look at some of this model’s features, shall we?

Let’s start off with the basics. This model has an approximate internal size of 12x12x8.11-inches, but only takes up approximately 17.3x13x10.2-inches of counter space. This gives it a 0.7 cubic foot capacity that’s more than sufficient for single individuals or households with only one or two people.

Inside this small but effective microwave is a 10-inch glass turntable that’s easy to clean and rotates the food as it cooks. The inside of this microwave is also pretty easy to clean and its interior surfaces don’t stain the way some budget microwaves interior surfaces do.

What’s really impressive about this microwave, however, is its features. This model has an easy-to-use LED digital control panel that’s easy for just about anyone to use. This model features one-touch cooking for common foods such as popcorn, potatoes, pizza, frozen vegetables, dinner plates or beverages.

It also has a time cook feature, time defrost feature, and weight defrost feature. Other features found on this model include two defrost settings, an energy-saving ECO-mode, a bright LED interior light, and a child-safety lock. It’s a budget microwave for anyone looking for a quality compact microwave for their kitchen but doesn’t want to spend a fortune to get it.

What we liked about it:
  • Is a budget-friendly microwave.
  • Doesn’t take up a lot of counter space.

A Guide To Compact Microwaves

Even though compact microwaves were initially viewed with some suspicion when they were first introduced to the public, they have since become one of the most popular appliances in the kitchen. And why wouldn’t they be? They can do just about anything from defrosting the chicken breast you forget to take out of your refrigerator last night to helping you make a bag of hot microwave popcorn. That makes them one of the most versatile appliances in the entire house.

This product’s versatility doesn’t mean that the consumer can just run out and buy the first model they see, however? No, consumers need to make the purchase of a compact microwave just as seriously as if they were buying a new color television or refrigerator. That’s why we’ve decided to write this guide. In its various sections, consumers will learn everything they need to know to buy the best compact microwave available.

The Size Of The Microwave

The first consideration anyone needs to think about when purchasing one of these microwaves is its size. That makes sense considering this article is one dedicated to buying a great compact microwave oven. All compact microwaves, or at least the vast majority of them, are countertop microwave ovens. These models usually have an external size of anywhere from 10×18-inches to 14-inches square. That leaves them with an internal capacity of anywhere from 0.6 cubic feet to 2 cubic feet. These models also usually have a wattage level of anywhere from 600 to 1,200-watts.

Important Features To Consider

The next thing the consumer is going to want to consider is the features on the microwave. Some models are pretty basic and other models seem like they have all the features, so the consumer is really going to have to think about what they need. Most of the time, the more features a microwave has the more it costs. To help consumers think about some of the features they may need, we’ve listed some of the more common ones below.

Programmable Cooking

This is the most basic of features and allows the consumer to choose the power and the timing for what they’re cooking. Power levels usually range from 1 to 10, but there are variations out there.

Preprogrammed Cooking

These are the buttons that the consumer hits to cook a certain food item. Common preprogrammed buttons include popcorn, pizza, beverages, etc.

Sensor Cooking

If the consumer is tired of checking on their food every 5-seconds while they’re cooking, sensor cooking will solve that problem. It determines cooking time by measuring moisture levels, so the food cooks the right amount of time.

The Microwave’s Turntable

A turntable is another feature that’s important. Fortunately, most compact microwaves include them. A turntable prevents the consumer from having to turn the table every few minutes. This results in more even cooking.

Keeping Your Compact Microwave Clean

Now we would like to take a few moments and talk about keeping the microwave clean. Below are some tips that consumers should keep in mind that will help them keep their microwave clean and in good running condition for many years to come.

Cleaning The Inside Of The Microwave

The first step to a clean microwave is cleaning the inside of it, and that’s pretty easy to do. All the consumer has to do is place several tablespoons of white vinegar, lime juice or lemon juice into a cup of water. Place this cup of water into the microwave and microwave it for 2-minutes, or until the window begins to steam. Leave the cup in the microwave to cool for another 5-minutes. Remove it and using a soft, damp sponge, wipe out the inside surfaces of the microwave.

Cleaning Microwave Doors

The next step to a clean compact microwave is to clean its door. This involves taking a sponge and wetting it with a solution of water and a little bit of baking soda. Scrub the door window and the gaskets thoroughly, and then use another clean sponge to rinse off the mixture. If the microwave door window is extremely greasy, the consumer might have to use a mixture of 1/2 vinegar and 1/2 water to clean it.

Clean The Microwave’s Exterior

Cleaning the exterior of the microwave is probably the easiest part of the process. All the consumer needs to do is to use a good all-purpose kitchen cleaner, a soft sponge and a dry cloth. Spray a little bit of solution into the sponge and then wipe the microwave’s exterior thoroughly. Never spray a cleaning solution or water directly on the microwave’s surface because it can get into the microwave’s vents and destroy it. Once you have cleaned the exterior, take a dry cloth and remove any remaining moisture. A well cleaned and maintained microwave should last approximately 10-years, particularly if it was a quality brand, to begin with.

Tea Infuser

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Tea Infuser

The best way to make any hot drink is to do it properly. When it comes to tea, this is by using a quality tea infuser. It allows you to make a quality brew and unlock aromas and flavors in a way that only loose tea can. The problem is, there are so many options out there and it can be hard to find a product that works well and lasts a long time.

Also, with so many inventive designs, it isn’t easy separating the good ones from the novelty options. This is why we have selected our top tea infusers. The following options clear a few things up and help make sure this useful brewing tool does exactly what you need it to.

List of the Best Tea Infusers

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Editor’s Choice: House Again 4-pack Extra Fine Mesh Tea Infuser with Drip Tray

For what is an overall stand out tea infuser, this product impresses with its color pop options and consistent brewing capability. Not only that, but the fact that you get 4 in a pack means you are getting exceptional value. You never have to wait for one cup to brew before you make another, and all guests can have a quality cuppa brewing at the same time.

It filters all tea types and has plenty of holes to unlock the flavors, covering a wide area to make sure the whole cup gets a strong brew. It hangs over the side of any cup so it won’t just float around and the BPA-free silicone material is safe to use in hot water.

What we liked about it
  • BPA-free materials
  • Extra fine mesh for all tea types
  • Great design and color options

Best Bottom Dispensing: Adagio Teas 16 oz. ingenuiTEA Bottom-Dispensing Teapot

This fun design is clear so you can check the strength of your brew to make sure it is how you like it and easy to use thanks to the bottom dispensing design. The sturdy handle means you can hold it with confidence and place it over your cup to let the tea dispense.

This is what makes it so unique as the tea stays at the bottom and it is easy to get out when you have finished. It is safe to put it in the dishwasher and made from food-grade plastic making it lightweight and convenient to take wherever you like. One of the main benefits of this design is that it can hold up to 16 oz so it will be good for making two cups at a time, using the release valve to dispense the tea into a cup.

What we liked about it
  • Easy to clean
  • Innovative design
  • Convenient to take anywhere

Best Novelty: Fred BREW WHALE Tea Infuser

On first appearance, these fun designs might look like little more than a kids toy but they are fully functional tea infusers that look great but also make a quality brew. The waterspout handle of this whale design makes it easy to pull the infuser out when you have the desired strength and the same goes for putting it gently into hot water.

Made from BPA-free silicone it is food-safe, non-toxic and with no taste so all you get is the tea aroma and flavor from whatever type you like. What a lot of people like is the fact that it is dishwasher safe and it is easy to get the loose tea out when you are finished. Because you don’t need to use regular tea bags, it is eco-friendly and good for the environment.

What we liked about it
  • Fun design
  • BPA-free silicone
  • Easy to clean

Best Infuser Cup: Tea Forte Kati Cup Ceramic Tea Infuser Cup

This beautiful tea infuser cup is easy on the eye and would make an excellent gift. If you just have to have it for yourself then no one would blame you, and there are plenty of benefits. Not only does it make it easy to drink your brew on the go but the double-wall ceramic design feels sturdy in your hand and can warm you up on a cold day.

The lid helps you to avoid spills and keeps the content hotter for longer so you can drink it on your morning commute. The stainless steel infuser prevents the loose tea from getting into the water and makes everything easy to clean when you have finished your last sip. The cup is both dishwasher and microwaves safe and you can pick between any of the 12 designs.

What we liked about it
  • Easy to use
  • Keeps the tea warm for a long time
  • Looks great

Best Value: Yoassi Extra Fine Tea Infuser Mesh Strainer

The extra-fine meshing from this stainless steel design means it is fine to use with a variety of loose tea through the food-grade material. It always makes a reliable brew that is odor-free and comes with two handles so it can rest either side of the cup.

This also means it is also to remove so you don’t have to handle any hot parts and because the lid stays on securely, the tea always stays inside the strainer. It doesn’t take long to diffuse the tea thanks to the number of holes it has and the roomy basket that allows you to fit a lot of tea in there for a stronger cup of tea. Once you are done, it is easy to tip the tea away and clean it safely.

What we liked about it
  • Easy to use
  • Two handles rest easily on the side of a cup
  • Fits lots of different sized mugs

Best Basic: OXO BREW Twisting Tea Ball Infuser

A reputable brand in kitchenware and their twisting tea ball infuser has a smart design and some neat innovation behind it. We like the fact that you can stir it yourself thanks to the long handle and there is plenty of room for a good amount of tea. Other designs can have a larger basket that gives the loose tea room to brew as water filters through but the compact design of OXO’s tea infuser is easy to use.

The holes are a little larger which makes it better for whole leaf teas rather than finer teas but you can make a great Green Tea without an issue here. The grip is comfortable to hold and made from non-slip material and everything is fine to go in the dishwasher.

What we liked about it
  • Smart design
  • Comfortable handle for easy stirring
  • Feels sturdy

Tea Infuser Guide

There is no better way to brew tea than by using a tea infuser. Not only does it unlock great aromas and flavor but it is better for the environment and is sure to impress your guests. Still, your mother in law is only going to give it a thumbs up if the device works well and if it allows loose tea to get into the hot water, you’re going to have to point out the loose tea between her teeth.

This is why we have created the following buyer’s guide, to make sure you make an informed decision so every brew you make is a quality one.

What To Look for in a Tea Infuser

Fine Meshing

This is always recommended. The finer the meshing the more brewing options you have. Any tea infuser that has large holes can only make larger leaf tea which is fine if that is all you drink. Still, there is an element of risk involved as these are more likely to allow the tea to get into the water and make things a little messy.

Easy To Clean

This is a big benefit of many of our recommended tea infusers. You’ll find that they are easy to clean and that starts with being able to get the loose tea out after using and also put it in the dishwasher after. There is nothing worse than having to scrape fine pieces of loose tea out from the rough edges.

Convenience

If a tea infuser is light enough you can take it anywhere which is what most of our top products are known for. It shouldn’t be big or bulky and when you need to go away for a night or two, it should be easy to pack into your bag to make sure you don’t have to go without your regular brew.

Quality Materials

The majority of tea infusers that are worth looking at tend to be made from stainless steel. This is safe to use and easy to clean, not to mention durable compared to a lot of the alternatives. However, a fair few products use silicone as part of their tea infuser but if you are considering such a product you should make sure it is BPA-free.

Even plastics need to be food-grade before you think about purchasing.

Compatibility

The best tea infusers are the ones you can use in any cup. Some products have a handle design that means they have to be able to fit across the top although there is usually a wide enough reach to make it fine to use on most mugs. Any infuser that can go directly into the cup is going to be fine.

Design

There are plenty of novelty tea infusers if this is what you are after, but it isn’t just the fun looking products that stand out. Some come in colorful designs whilst others have a handle for stirring. Whatever your taste, there is usually something for everyone.

In Cup Infuser Vs Regular Tea Infuser

There is something to be said for both types of tea infusers and you know exactly what to expect from a regular product. These tend to be suitable for any size cup which makes them more versatile.

On the other hand, an in cup tea infuser is great for anyone on the go and saves you from having to prepare it in another cup before transferring the tea into your travel mug.

Your preference will likely depend on your lifestyle and a lot of people like to make sure they have both options.

Different Types of Tea Infusers

Here is a list of the most common types you will find.

Ball Infuser

These are one of the cheaper options, but they often have their limitations. You know what to expect from them but the open and closing design can be a little fiddly and it is difficult to clean compared to other options. They are convenient to take from place to place and the best types are those that come with a handle.

Basket Infuser

These are becoming more and more popular and it’s easy to see why. The fine meshing allows you to use different types of tea including everything from rooibos to green tea and black tea leaf. Designed to go inside the water to diffuse the tea they are often easy to clean as you can tip the used leaves straight into the trash and if you can find one that is dishwasher safe then even better.

Tea Pot Infuser

Another common type they are often a mix of the mesh strainer inside a teapot. This is good for making multiple teas at one time but not so convenient if it is only you who wants one. Often too big to put in your bag when going away but the clear glass helps you to check on the strength.

In Cup Tea Infuser

These can be convenient but are better for those who want a fresh leaf tea whilst traveling. Great for taking on a morning stroll, they often keep the contents warmer for longer and are easy to clean. A lot of people give them as gifts and they come in a variety of appealing designs.

How To Clean A Tea Infuser

How you clean your tea infuser will depend on the type of product you buy but generally, they are pretty easy to clean. Of course, large leaves are easier to get out by just tipping them into the trash but if it is dishwasher safe then this will solve most of your problems.

Rinsing the infuser after every use under a tap can help push out some of the stubborn parts or soaking it in clean water can help remove the stray bits.

They are usually pretty robust and can be scrubbed to remove as much as possible.

Pocket Knife Sharpener

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Pocket Knife Sharpener

Before taking to the great outdoors you need to make sure the tools that can make a trip out more comfortable are as ready as you are. When it comes to a pocket knife, they can be quick to go blunt so a decent sharpener is important. The better products last a long time and are easy to work with but with so many on the market, it is easy to make a mistake.

To help make sure you don’t end up ordering something that makes life difficult, we have created the following list of the best pocket knife sharpeners so you can always enjoy a sharp blade. That way, you are ready for whatever a hike or camping trip throws at you.

List of the Best Pocket Knife Sharpeners

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Editor’s Choice: Spyderco Tri-Angle Premium Sharpmaker Set

knife sharpener

It’s impossible to ignore this all in one sharpening set, partially because it has everything you need to keep tools sharp and is made from high-quality materials. It is the ceramic and two grit stone options (medium and fine) that are great for keeping fishing hooks sharp once you have used it as a pocket knife sharpener. You’ll find it easy to take in the bottom of your bag thanks to the sturdy carry case and even comes with all the instructions you need to get the most out of it with a manual and a DVD.

If you want to keep it in your workshop it can be attached to any countertop. Use the keyed holes to change the angle 30 or 40 degrees and make sure you can always enjoy a sharp pocket knife.

What we liked about it
  • Comes with Instructions and DVD
  • Different sharpening options
  • Sturdy carry case

Best For Versatility: Smith’s PP1 Pocket Pal Multifunction Sharpener

knife sharpener

This weighty product feels durable before you have even pushed a blade over one of the tapered round diamond-coated rods that can be used on both a standard blade and a serrated edge. This makes it ideal for fishing trips where you might need multiple tools to be sharp enough to use for different situations.

The carbide blades are great for setting your edge and the ceramic stone helps to finish the blade off and keep it razor sharp. There is a small lanyard hole to make sure it is easy to attach to your bag and allows you to take it anywhere. This is good because the device itself has some weight to it – a sign of a durable product.

What we liked about it
  • Can be used on both standard and serrated edges
  • Easy to set your edge
  • Lanyard hole for convenient carrying

Best For Hunting Knives: Smith’s CCKS 2-Step Knife Sharpener

knife sharpener

Anyone who just wants a handy tool to take camping will enjoy the convenience and ease of Smith’s pocket knife sharpener. It can also be used on hunting knives, and other types of blades and is known for being one of the fastest devices going.

The base is anti-skidding to make sure you can stay saw when operating and is made up of two sides. Its crossed carbide blades provide the user with a quick edge setting then flip it over to use the crossed ceramic rods for a sharp edge. You can conveniently use the small hole to make it easy to hang on your backpack or toolbox so you never forget where it is when you need it.

What we liked about it
  • Lightweight but sturdy
  • Easy to use
  • Great value
  • Non-skid surface

Best 6-in-1: Sharpal 101N 6-In-1 Pocket Knife Sharpener

knife sharpener

We love to see a company add some features to a simple device and that’s exactly what we are getting here. It is a 6 in 1 pocket knife sharpener and that includes a fire starting tool and an emergency whistle. This neat little product can help get you out of a tricky situation and keep your knives sharp thanks to the edge setting blades that are made from quality tungsten carbide.

To give the blade an extra finish, the ceramic blades are easy to use and it even has grooves in the 400 grit diamond rod for serrations so it can be used on a variety of knives and tools. A lot of people comment on how it is easy to use and is great for bringing an old tool back to life.

What we liked about it
  • Includes emergency whistle and fire starter
  • Can be used on serrations
  • Good value
  • Quality blades

Best Compact: Victorinox 4.3323 VN43323 Fixed Blade

knife sharpener

Although the Victorinox name might make you think this is going to be an expensive option, the truth is that it is very reasonably priced. What you get is a quality pocket knife sharpener that is convenient to carry. With the appearance of a pen, you can use the dual sides for different purposes.

There is a coarse ceramic rod at one end that is great for medium sharpening and a ceramic notch at the other and weighs just 40g. To top it all off, this high-quality product is one of the best options for anyone looking to keep their bag light on a trip and is easy to use for those who are not so familiar with sharpening a pocket knife.

What we liked about it
  • Only weighs 40g
  • Dual sharpening options
  • Reputable brand
  • Lifetime guarantee

Best Multiple Angle: Lansky QuadSharp QSHARP

knife sharpener

For a lot of people, the different angles that are made possible by this sturdy pocket knife sharpener are what makes it so good. You can choose from 17, 20, 25 & 30 degrees before using the ceramic polishing stone to finish the blade off. It only takes 3-4 strokes of the carbide slots to get your knife nice and sharp and the V-groove design makes it perfect for anyone who has serrated blades and fishing hooks to sharpen.

This is one of Lansky’s most versatile tools and fits into your pocket or anywhere in your backpack with ease.

What we liked about it
  • Only takes 3-4 strokes to sharpen
  • Includes ceramic polishing stone
  • Multiple angles to choose from

Best Sharpening Stone: Whetstone Cutlery 20-10960 Knife Sharpening Stone

stone knife sharpener

With dual sides for variable grit (400 for sharpening and 1,000 for polishing) this quality stone may look simple but that is the beauty of it – it’s so easy to use. The convenience of having a stone means it is always ready to be used and although it might weigh a little more than other products, it is easy to get to grips with.

You soak it for 5 – 10 minutes and the great thing is you only need water. A lot of people like to use a sharpening stone because it can be used on a variety of tools and household items so scissors, cutlery, and razors are always sharp.

What we liked about it
  • Easy to use
  • Only need water – no oil

Pocket Knife Sharpener Guide

Whether you are whittling or trying to prepare fruit a pocket knife needs to be sharp it is will lose its ability to perform its main purpose. That’s where you can end up without the convenience that these neat tools offer, sometimes ruining your camping or fishing trip.

To keep things sharp and make cutting a breeze, a pocket knife sharpener is an essential tool for anyone who owns such a blade. The better products can be used on different types of blades. When you take a look at the following guide, you’ll come to expect a little more from these useful gadgets.

What To Look For In A Pocket Knife Sharpener

Multiple Angles

Not all pocket knife sharpeners give you different sharpening angles but it is certainly something to keep an eye out for. Not only does it give you the option to sharpen multiple blades but being able to sharpen serrated edges as well as fishing hooks and standard blades means you will get a lot more mileage out of the sharpener and won’t have to buy a different one for another blade.

Compact Size

If you are looking for a sharpener for your pocket knife you aren’t going to want a product that is twice as big as the blade itself. The convenience of being able to take it away with you is what makes them so good. The better products will be small enough to go in your pocket or the bottom of your camping bag or toolbox.

Light but Sturdy

A mix of the two is going to add to portability but you still need it to be strong enough to withstand a fair bit of use. The blade and handle need to be made of high quality materials.

However, keep in mind the fact that when using it, a light pocket knife will feel better.

Value

The better products will have a few uses and be made from sturdy materials but won’t break the bank. Unless you are looking for an elite, multi-purpose pocket knife sharpener with the best materials you can find, you will want to go for something that isn’t too expensive. The good news is, there are products in all sorts of price brackets, just be sure to find something that has a reputation for being durable.

Multiple Functions

Some people just want a pocket knife sharpener that does the simple task of keeping the blade razor-sharp whilst other people want to make use of a conveniently sized gadget. Those people will be on the look out for a sharpener that doubles up as something convenient to them such as an emergency whistle and even a fire starter.

Pocket Knife Sharpener Stages

If you find a pocket knife sharpener with one sharpening station, this might not give you everything you need. The best products are the ones that can make a dull knife sharp with different angles and even variable coarseness if possible. Then there is a polishing stage to hone the blade to how you like it.

Different Types of Pocket Knife Sharpener

Rods

Often made from ceramic or steel these are better for keeping an already sharp knife pristine rather than bringing a dull one back to life. They are a good option who wants to try and maintain the longevity of their pocket knife.

Stone

A lot of people still prefer this traditional way of sharpening their knives but they aren’t always as good for bringing an old knife back to a former glory. But, dual-sided stone sharpeners can sharpen and polish.

Plates

Used to sharpen both sides of the blade with ease these are ideal for sharpening both standard and serrated blades. Another benefit of using these types of pocket knife sharpeners is that the blades are often replaceable so when they start wearing down, you can replace them.

Is A Pocket Knife Sharpener Cheaper Than Using a Professional?

As a one off, a professional pocket knife sharpening service is often cheaper, but that’s only if you want to get one or two blades sharper. This is because it tends to cost around $5 – $8 per blade.

However, before too long you’ll need to sharpen them all over again which is why it is convenient and cheaper to get your own sharpener.

Best Uses for a Pocket Knife Sharpener?

The better sharpeners are versatile enough on multiple blades and even other tools and goods. If you manage to get an all in one style tool you’ll find that it is capable of sharpening serrated blades, fishing hooks, scissors, gardening tools, and a lot more.

Different Grit Levels of A Sharpening Tool

The stage and type of finish will determine which level of grit is appropriate for your needs. The higher the grit number, the better it will be for polishing. However, this won’t be so good for sharpening or repairing an old knife.

Typically, anything around 3 – 400 grit will be good for sharpening a dull knife, 1,000 and above for polishing.

What Is The Best Angle For A Pocket Knife?

Having multiple angles is always good because it opens up the number of uses a sharpening tool can provide. A lot of the time, an angle of 20 – 30 degrees is a good number for a pocket knife.

Tortilla Chips

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Tortilla Chips

When we started this article, we wondered just how much thought people gave to tortilla chips, and in our opinion, there are probably few people who think seriously about these chips before they snag a bag. Most people just usually grab the first bag they see and not give it a second thought. We thought that was pretty funny, considering how these chips are not only some of the most popular snack food in the U.S, but also end up in a variety of different dishes enjoyed by millions of people each week. That’s why we decided to give these chips the respect they deserve and talk about the best tortilla chips made nowadays.

List of the Best Tortilla Chips

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Best Overall: Real Food From The Ground Up Cauliflower Chips

When we consider the best tortilla chips, we consider several different things. We not only think about how the product tastes and the level or crunch it provides, but we also think about how healthy the product is when everything is said and done. And by considering all those things, we have concluded that these chips are the best. Not only are they made with healthy ingredients such as cauliflower, tomatoes, garlic, and other natural ingredients, but they’re also made with cassava flour–a natural ingredient that makes them crunchy. All of this makes these grain-free tortilla chips one of the best snacks one can eat.

What we liked about it
  • Tasty and very crunchy.
  • Healthier than traditional tortilla chips.

Best Lunch Packs: Doritos Nacho Cheese Tortilla Chips

Anyone who isn’t familiar with Doritos nacho cheese flavored tortilla chips probably has lived in a cave somewhere because this is one of the most iconic snack foods available. Doritos even did a line of commercials showing their bags without their names on it just to show that everyone knows about these chips. However, its familiarity isn’t the reason why we decided to put this up so high on our list. The reason it’s on this list is that these chips are crunchy and have a cheese flavor that we love. And because this product comes in 1-ounce bags, they’re the perfect size for snacks or for putting in children’s lunches as a snack.

What we liked about it
  • Has a familiar nacho cheese taste.
  • 1-ounce packs are great for lunches or snacks.

Best Multigrain Tortilla Chips: Food Should Taste Good Multigrain Bean Chips

It’s not often that a person sees multigrain tortilla chips like this product, so when we got the chance to review it, we were thrilled. We were looking forward to a product made with more natural ingredients, and one that boasted a big crunch, and we weren’t disappointed. This product is made with sesame, flax, sunflower, and quinoa seeds, so it had both big flavor and big crunch. Although it was a little higher in fat than we thought it would be, it was still a cholesterol-free product that was free of artificial flavors and preservatives. It was also low in sodium and delivered 18-grams of whole grains per serving.

What we liked about it
  • It’s a non-GMO product.
  • It’s made with wholesome ingredients.

Best Low-Calorie Chips: Tia Lupita Cactus Tortilla Chips Variety (Pack of 3)

Never in a million years did we think that we would be including a Tia Lupita product in our top ten list of the best tortilla chips, but here we are. We’re including this product on our list not only because it’s a low-calorie option for people watching their weight, but also because these are some fine tasty chips. Sure, they might costs a little bit more than other tortilla chips, but we think in the end that they might be worth it. They’re crunchy, salty, and leave a person satisfied after just one little 80-calorie pouch. And all of those are good reasons to give these chips a try.

What we liked about it
  • Great low-calorie snack.
  • Seasoned with sea salt.

Best Lime Chips: Late July Sea Salt and Lime Organic Tortilla Chips

Lime-flavor is a natural choice for flavoring tortilla chips, and this brand probably does it better than just about anyone else. These chips have a bold lime flavor that snackers are going to want to come back to again and again. Although these chips are a little bit expensive, they do deliver a great flavor, and also a great big crunch that makes snack time a big-time event. And on top of that, these chips not only taste great, but they’re also soy-free, grain-free, dairy-free, and even vegan-friendly. They’re free of preservatives as well and are made with wholesome ingredients such as ground chia, cassava flour, and lime oil instead.

What we liked about it
  • Has a great lime flavor.
  • They’re grain-free, soy-free and Vegan-friendly.

Best Ranch Tortilla Chips: Quest Nutrition Tortilla-Style Ranch Protein Chips

Another flavor that seems to go well with tortilla chips is ranch flavoring. We’ll go even further and say that it’s pretty much a classic nowadays. And fortunately, this brand does this flavor quite well, although there is a slight aftertaste to these chips when they’re used without dip or guacamole. However, that’s because this is an all-natural and gluten-free product. It’s a product that’s also high-protein, all while being lower in fat and sodium than other brands of chips. Each bag is also packed with 19-grams of protein–which is 38% of the RDA of daily protein recommended.

What we liked about it
  • High in protein, low in fat.
  • Lower in sodium than other chips.

Best Spicy Chips: Garden of Eatin’ Organic Red Hot Blues Tortilla Chips

Consumers who are sick and tired of the same boring snack foods might want to give these chips a try. However, if they do, they should be very careful, because these chips might just be too hot for some people to handle. These tortilla chips are made in Austin, Texas and are made with super-hot ghost peppers that are combined with jalapenos and fresh cilantro. This not only creates one of the hottest chips we’ve ever tasted but also a very unique flavor. These chips might not be for everyone, but for those who love super hot snacks, these chips are an absolute must to buy.

What we liked about it
  • One of the spiciest chips we’ve ever tasted.
  • Has a good amount of crunch.

Best Chips For Dipping: Tostitos Oven Baked Scoops! Tortilla Chips

Not all tortilla chips are made for dipping. Many of them break when they’re loaded down with sour cream, French onion dip, or guacamole. Fortunately, these chips are made in a way that allows them to hold up to the stresses of heavy-duty party dipping. It doesn’t matter if the consumer wants to dip salsa, chili, or queso, these chips are up to the task at hand. They’re sturdy, crunchy, and even have a little bowl shape to them that allows them to hold onto all of the dipping goodness. They’re also gluten-free and come in a party-size bag worth sharing with friends and family.

What we liked about it
  • Great for large groups.
  • They have a nice flavor and texture to them.

Best Blue Corn Chips: Garden Of Eatin’ Organic Blue Corn Tortilla Chips

These chips are made with organic corn, sesame seeds, and other ingredients that give them big flavor and a bigger crunch. They’re also a healthier chip than many of the other tortilla chips available. They are gluten-free, Kosher, and contain certified organic corn. They’re a non-GMO chip that’s free of artificial flavors and colors, artificial preservatives, and hydrogenated oils as well.

What we liked about it
  • They have a nice flavor to them.
  • They have a big crunch.

Best White Cheddar Chips: Simply Doritos White Cheddar and Zesty Ranch Chips

We’re going to start this review by stating what we don’t like about this product. Our biggest complaint about it is that these snack-size bags are only 0.875-ounces, which is smaller than ordinary snack-size chip bags. It’s not a huge deal, but it’s certainly something for consumers to keep in mind to avoid feeling cheated. Having said that, what we do like about this product is that it’s made with wholesome organic ingredients and is free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. It also has a great white cheddar flavor and has a big crunch. All of which makes it a wholesome bold snack anyone can enjoy.

What we liked about it
  • Has a great white cheddar flavor.
  • Has a big crunch.
  • These chips are organic.

Recipe Ideas For Tortilla Chips

Tortilla chips are making a big comeback nowadays, so consumers might want to make sure that they stock up on a bag or two of their favorite flavors. And for people who aren’t very familiar with these types of chips, then they might want to acquaint themselves with it because tortilla chips are more than just a snack. Yes, if you think that these chips are only for eating straight out of the bag or for dipping, then you are missing out on one of the best ways to use these chips, and that’s in main dishes.

One thing that people don’t always realize is that there are some fantastic ways to use tortilla chips in the kitchen. There are almost a limitless number of dishes that put this salty and crunchy snack food to good use. To show our readers just how versatile these chips are, we decided to go ahead and list some of the great tortilla chip recipes that we know of and regularly make.

Monterey Chicken Casserole

One of the first recipes we want to introduce is Monterey Chicken Casserole. This is an easy-bake casserole that combines tortillas with fresh ingredients such as chicken, bell peppers and cheddar cheese in a great tasting dish that your guests are going to love. Although some versions of this recipe also use creamed corn, we think that the recipe is better without it.

Ingredients Needed:

  • 13×9-Inch Baking Pan
  • 1 medium red bell pepper
  • 1 medium green bell pepper
  • 1 medium yellow bell pepper
  • 2 teaspoons of corn oil
  • 7.5 cups of tortilla chips
  • 8-ounces of shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup of minced fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup of sliced green onions
  • 1 cup of sour cream
  • 1 cup of guacamole
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
  • 2.5 cups of cubed chicken
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper

Directions:

  • Season the chicken with the salt, pepper, oregano, and minced garlic.
  • Cook chicken breasts until they have an internal temperature of 175 degrees and then cut them into cubes. Put it into a bowl and set aside.
  • Dice up the red, green and yellow bell peppers and place them into a bowl.
  • Use the 2 teaspoons of corn oil to grease a 13×9-inch baking dish.
  • Make a layer of tortilla chips, chicken, cilantro, peppers, and cheese.
  • Make another layer of tortilla chips, chicken, cilantro, peppers, and cheese.
  • Preheat an oven to 350-degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Place the pan into the oven and cook uncovered for approximately 15-20 minutes.
  • Remove from oven and serve with sour cream and guacamole.

Tacos In A Bowl

Another recipe that we like is tacos in a bowl. Think about it. What comprises a taco? It’s merely a crunchy fried corn tortilla that’s stuffed with meat, veggies, and cheese. This recipe builds on this basic concept, except instead of using a taco shell, it uses tortilla chips. After all, isn’t a tortilla chip just a broken up taco shell? Let’s find out how to make it.

Ingredients Needed:

  • 12-inch non-stick skillet
  • 4-ounces lean ground beef
  • 2 tablespoons chopped onions
  • 1 tablespoon chopped green bell peppers
  • 1 tablespoon chopped red bell peppers
  • 2-tablespoons of salsa
  • 1/4-cup tortilla chip scoops crushed
  • 2-ounces of shredded cheddar or nacho cheese
  • 1-ounce of shredded lettuce
  • 1-ounce of chopped tomatoes

Directions:

  • Cook the lean ground beef until it’s thoroughly cooked.
  • Drain the fat off the ground beef and set aside in a small bowl.
  • Place the tortilla chips in a bowl and add ground beef to it.
  • Place the salsa, shredded lettuce, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers and cheese on top.
  • Garnish with sour cream, guacamole or any other topping desired.

Other Ideas For Tortilla Chips

We thought it might be a good idea to talk about some other ways to use tortillas chips. Let’s look at some of the dips, dishes and other methods that tortilla chips can be used for, shall we?

Consider Tortilla Chips For Use With:

  • Salsa
  • Nacho bakes
  • As a breading for chicken, shrimp or fish
  • BBQ beef dip
  • Smokey sausage dip
  • As a topping for salads

Carbon Steel Pan

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Carbon Steel Pan

Carbon steel skillets are durable, retain heat very well, and cook extremely well but aren’t as heavy as cast iron cookware. That’s why we’ve decided to write this extensive guide on the product so consumers will find pans that will not only help them cook food to perfection but will last them for generations to come. Having said that, below are the best carbon steel skillets currently available, as well as a guide for their general care.

List of the Best Carbon Steel Pans

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Best Frying Pan: De Buyer Mineral B 12.5-Inch Frying Pan

Pan

This carbon steel pan is designed using quality components to create a frying pan that will be appreciated and used for generations to come. It’s oven safe for up to 20-minutes at 400-degrees Fahrenheit and can be used to make a variety of dishes. The carbon steel exterior evenly distributes heat, regardless of whether you’re using a gas or electric range.

This frying pan is capable of handling food with the respect it deserves because of the way it’s made. This pan is made in France using quality carbon steel that’s between 2.5mm and 3mm thick and is naturally PTFE-free and PFOA-free. It’s then coated in a natural beeswax finish that seasons the cooking surface and protects it from corrosion. Another sign that this pan is well made is that its handle isn’t screwed on but is instead riveted. And its rivets are made from carbon steel as well, so they won’t contract and eventually become detached from the pan. This means that this pan is capable of outlasting the consumer and can be passed down as a family heirloom—if it’s properly cleaned and maintained by the consumer.

What we liked about it:
  • It’s nice and large.
  • It retains heat extremely well.

Best Skillet: Lodge 15-Inch Carbon Steel Skillet

Skillet

This 15-inch carbon steel skillet from Lodge isn’t your ordinary pan. It’s a model that’s designed to heat evenly and to last through generations of use. It’s a very large pan, so sometimes it feels difficult to use it on stoves, but once the consumer gets used to it, they should have no problem maneuvering it around their kitchen. It’s a model that can be used on a variety of stovetops include gas, induction, or electric ones. It can also be used outdoors on an open fire if so desired. And since it’s made from 12-gauge carbon steel, it’s not only extremely durable, but it also heats very evenly.

It’s a tough skillet that’s expertly crafted in the United States by Lodge–a company that’s been making cast iron and carbon steel skillets for the better part of 124-years. Every single pan that leaves their South Pittsburg, Tennessee factory is made with care and seasoned with natural oils. That makes these pans suitable for searing meats, making hash browns, or making paella. And since it’s oven-safe, you can also use it to make skillet-fried chicken, ratatouille, trout, or just about any other dish imaginable.

What we liked about it:
  • Great for cooking dishes in the oven.
  • Will last through generations of use.

Best Omelet Pan: De Buyer Mineral B 9.5-Inch Omelet Pan

Pan

We’ve already gone over what makes these Mineral B frying pans from De Buyer such good carbon steel pans, but there are differences between this 9.5-inch omelet pan and their large 12-inch frying pans. This model is the perfect size for making omelets, French toast, Croque Madame, or other fine breakfast or brunch dishes. It’s a pan that has an average thickness of 2.5mm to 3mm, is warp-resistant and is ready for induction cooktops. These pans are made in France from high-quality components, and leave the factory with a 100% natural beeswax finish that helps to season and protect the carbon steel surface.

These are naturally nonstick omelet pans that are PTFE-free, PFOA-free and are designed to last through generations of use. They have a specially-designed handle that has a curve that makes it perfect for flipping pancakes, stirring, or sauteing foods. This handle is then riveted onto the main frying pan using three carbon-steel rivets. The fact that the rivets are made from the same material as the omelet pan is significant because if the rivets were made of a different material, they would heat up at a different temperature, and that would cause the rivets to flex. And if rivets flex, they eventually work themselves out. Fortunately, this frying pan doesn’t suffer from such a defect, so it will hold up to daily use for years to come.

What we liked about it:
  • Great for making omelets
  • Made to last for decades.

Best Wok: Craft Wok Traditional Hand-Hammered Wok

Wok

It might seem strange that we would put a wok in a top list dedicated to carbon steel pans, but what is a wok? It’s nothing more than a large diameter deep pan that’s specifically made for handling stir fry dishes, steaming vegetables, or even scrambling eggs. A wok is a versatile piece of cookware, and this one happens to be a work of art as well. It’s made out of 15-gauge carbon steel, which is thick enough for commercial use. This wok is hand-hammered by professional metalsmiths in Guangzhou, China, so each wok is unique and well made in its own right.

Although you are going to have to season this wok yourself, because it isn’t factory-seasoned, that process isn’t too difficult. Once you have seasoned this wok, it will develop a beautiful cooking surface. Of course, this wok isn’t for everyone, especially for people who have a flat induction or flat electric stove. That’s because this wok has a rounded bottom, so it won’t be stable on those or other flat surfaces. Having said that, however, we feel that this carbon steel wok is probably the perfect addition to many kitchens and one that’s useful for more than just making Chinese dishes. Check out the benefits and uses of carbon steel woks in this article.

What we liked about it:
  • It’s a beautiful hand-hammered wok.
  • Great for stir fry dishes.

A Guide to Carbon Steel Pans

While some carbon steel pans are certainly better than others, you should have no problem finding one that suits your needs and lasts a long time. Carbon steel pans are designed to take a beating and to last for decades, provided that you take the time to take care of them. It’s also important to choose the best one you can afford because quality of the construction does matter. That’s why we’ve decided to write this guide. In it, you will find everything you need to know about these pans, so you can purchase the best one available and keep it in good shape for future generations.

How Are Carbon Steel Pans Different from Cast Iron Pans?

Before we proceed with this article, it’s probably a good idea for us to list some of the ways that carbon steel pans are different from cast iron pans. Although these two types of pans are quite similar, there are some distinct differences between them, so let’s take a look at how they’re similar and how they’re different.

How Are They the Same?

  • Neither should be washed in a dishwasher.
  • Neither should be washed with a detergent.
  • Both can generally be used on both a stovetop and in an oven.
  • Both pans have to be seasoned before use.

How Are They Different?

  • Carbon steel pans weigh less than cast iron pans.
  • Carbon steel pans are less brittle than cast iron pans.
  • Carbon steel doesn’t retain heat as well as cast iron.

What To Look for When Buying a Carbon Steel Pan

The next thing that we want to talk about is how to choose the best carbon steel pan for your needs. As we said earlier, there are dozens of great models of these pans available, but unfortunately, there are quite a few clunkers available as well. Therefore, it’s up to the consumer to make sure that they buy the best one available. Below are some things to look for when buying one of these pans.

Choose The Right Gauge

Although we won’t lecture our readers on pan thickness, most consumers are going to want to buy a pan that’s 15-gauge or under. The best carbon steel pans are between 10 and 15-gauge, which is approximately 2.59mm to 1.45mm thick.

Make Sure It’s Oven-Safe

It’s also a good idea to make sure the pan is oven-safe. Although cast iron is a material that can go from stovetop to the oven, a lot of manufacturers use silicone or plastic coatings on the handle of their pans that can melt if placed in an oven. Therefore, if it’s important to be able to use the pan in an oven, then make sure its handle will allow it.

Make Sure Its Handle Is Riveted

Consumers should also take the time to make sure that the handle is riveted to the pan using rivets made out of carbon steel as well. If a handle is screwed on to a pan, or if it uses rivets that are made of aluminum or some other material other than carbon steel, then they can loosen over time due to flexing caused by heat differences between the two metals. Carbon steel rivets on a carbon steel pan will simply last longer.

How To Season a Carbon Steel Pan

Now that we understand the differences between cast iron and carbon steel, it’s time to season that pan to create the perfect cooking surface and to prevent the pan from oxidizing. Below are the steps for seasoning a carbon steel pan.

Remove The Factory Wax or Grease Coating

The first step is to remove the wax or grease coating that was placed on the pan to protect it from oxidation during transit. Using hot water, dish soap and a stiff brush, thoroughly scrub the surface of the pan. When that’s done, dry the pan and place it on a burner to finish drying it. Now you can move on to the next step of removing the factory coating.

Place 2/3 cup of salt, 1/3 cup of oil and potato peels from 2 potatoes. Now place the pan on medium heat and move the peels and the salt around the pan. The peels and salt will help to remove any stuck-on factory sealant that might still be on the pan’s surface. Be sure to do not only the pan’s surface but also up to the sides of the pan as well. Rewash the pan thoroughly and then dry.

Season The Carbon Steel Pan

With the protective wax coating removed from the pan, the consumer can then season the pan. Seasoning the pan is important because it helps to create a non-stick cooking surface and also helps to protect the pan against oxidation. Let’s see how to season a carbon steel pan.

  • Preheat oven to 400-degrees
  • Place pan in oven while it’s preheating
  • When oven reaches temperature, remove pan using oven mitts
  • Using a quality cooking oil and a paper towel, apply oil over the entire pan
  • Make sure to oil the handle and outside of the pan as well
  • Place a foil-lined baking sheet on the bottom rack of the oven.
  • Place the pan upside down on the top rack of the oven above the baking sheet
  • Leave the pan in the oven for 1-hour
  • After an hour, turn off the oven and let it cool down completely
  • When the oven and carbon steel pan is cool, remove the pan from the oven
  • Congratulations! The pan is now ready for use

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