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The single-use kitchen tool, often referred to as a unitasker, possesses a unique charm characterized by its simplicity and focused functionality. Tools like a zester dedicated solely to zesting, a cheese knife designed for artisan Brie, or an apple corer that paves the way for festive pies highlight their purpose-driven design. While multitasking kitchen gadgets indeed bring efficiency, these specialized tools hold a special place for their ability to perform individual tasks with excellence.
During conversations among Eater staff regarding memorable holiday gifts, it became clear that many of us hold an appreciation for these essential unitaskers. Popular examples shared included garlic presses, kettles, and popcorn makers—each serving a specific function that can streamline cooking processes and enhance everyday tasks.
Sur La Table Ratchet Garlic & Ginger Chopper
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Chopping garlic has long been a tedious task for many cooks, particularly those who frequently prepare Indian cuisine. Rather than relying on jarred alternatives, one staff member shares her enthusiasm for the garlic chopper, which simplifies the process significantly. Its design allows for quick mincing, ease of cleaning, and an enjoyable cooking experience, embodying the spirit of efficient unitaskers. — Jaya Saxena, correspondent
KEISSCO Spaetzle Maker
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Spaetzle has long been a beloved comfort food, often associated with childhood nostalgia. One staff member highlights a comprehensive kit that includes the noodle maker and a specialized spider strainer. This unitasker is especially engaging for children interested in cooking, making it a great introduction to culinary skills. — Francky Knapp, commerce writer
Sur La Table Stainless Steel Citrus Zester
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Many culinary enthusiasts advocate zesting a lemon before juicing it, as this process can enhance the flavors in various dishes. One contributor expresses a strong preference for a dedicated zester, which produces clean and distinct curls of zest, making it an indispensable tool in their kitchen repertoire. — Bettina Makalintal, senior reporter
Cuisinart Caskata Cordless Programmable Kettle
Prices taken at time of publishing.
The electric kettle is often seen as a luxury item, but anecdotal experiences indicate it can quickly become a household essential. One staff member notes the speed with which this appliance heats water and its unexpected daily utility, especially amid a shift from coffee to tea consumption in their home. It serves not just as a unitasker but as a versatile tool for various culinary tasks, balancing simplicity with functionality. — Missy Frederick, cities director
Bodum Bistro Electric Blade Coffee Grinder
Prices taken at time of publishing.
For those who appreciate freshly ground coffee, the Bodum grinder stands out for its combination of style and affordability. One user reflects on the unique flavor enhancement achieved through fresh grinding, crediting this minimalist yet functional design for elevating their coffee experience. The choice of colors and textured grip add to its appeal, making it a beloved unitasker in their kitchen. — FK
OXO Good Grips Pineapple Corer
Prices taken at time of publishing.
This unitasker does more than just carve out the fruit; it provides an entertaining experience by removing pineapple flesh with precision and turning it into an attractive serving dish. The joy this staff member experiences while using the pineapple corer is evident, showcasing the fun side of utilizing specialized kitchen tools. — Lesley Suter, special projects director
Cuisinart All-Purpose Scoops (Set of 3)
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Though these scoops may lack allure, their practicality cannot be overstated. This staff member finds them indispensable for measuring ingredients like rice, flour, and sugar accurately without fuss. The efficiency they offer also extends to helping with precise measuring in various cooking scenarios. — Kat Thompson, Eater at Home associate editor
Schefs Premium Stainless Steel Tea Infuser
Prices taken at time of publishing.
This infuser has become a game-changer for tea enthusiasts who value flavor. Transitioning from basic methods to using a dedicated tea strainer has improved their experience significantly. The convenient design makes it easy to clean and ideal for preparing single servings of tea, emphasizing that even the simplest tools can enhance a small ritual in daily life. — Melissa McCart, lead editor, Eater Northeast
YLYL Metal Stainless Steel Funnel
Prices taken at time of publishing.
This staff member cites the funnel as a practical tool that eliminates mess during food preparation. Transitioning away from makeshift options has highlighted the value of a robust stainless steel funnel that simplifies kitchen tasks. The ease of use it provides when transferring liquids demonstrates how unitaskers can bring order and efficiency to cooking rituals. — FK
Eleton Cylindrical Olive Oil Dispenser With No Drip Spout
Prices taken at time of publishing.
A well-designed olive oil dispenser can enhance the aesthetic of any kitchen while also serving a functional purpose. One user praises the beautiful presentation of olive oil in a Mallorcan glass vessel, while also valuing practicality through features like drip-catchers. This insight underscores how unitaskers can combine style with efficiency in food preparation. — FK
Farberware Cake Tester With Cover
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Initially skeptical about the necessity of a specialized cake tester, one cook shares how they quickly became indispensable. The muffin or cake options leave larger holes than this dedicated tool, which reduces any potential mess and maintains the integrity of the baked goods. The excitement in rediscovering this gadget also speaks to the joy that can come from using appropriate tools for specific tasks in the kitchen. — Stephanie Wu, editor in chief
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