The Best Japanese Rice Cooker: Top Brands, Options, And More (2022)

You could devote your whole life to searching for the finest electric rice cooker out there, but unless you try the best Japanese devices, you will never get the most out of your beloved rice.

But what exactly makes Japanese rice cookers so awesome? Firstly, all of Japan is into rice in a big way. It is their staple food and so they have created innovative rice cookers to get the best out of the ingredient.

Moreover, abrupt weather changes there have led to Japanese rice cookers having the best heat modification technology, which guarantees that your rice will always be deliciously cooked.

With so many Japanese companies manufacturing this cooking amenity now, it is not that easy to decide which of them to choose and get for your kitchen. But luckily for you, I have carried out some in-depth research into rice cookers, and in the next section, I will highlight the best choices for this handy item. So keep on reading and check them all out!

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Product Name

Our Reviews

1

Zojirushi Induction Heating Pressure, Rice Cooker & Warmer NP-NVC10

2

Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cooker & Warmer NS-ZCC10

3

Tiger JNP-1800

4

Tiger JAJ-A55U

5

Panasonic 1-Step Automatic Rice Cooker – SR-G06FGL

Japanese Rice Cookers

The Best Japanese Rice Cooker: Top Brands To Consider

Zojirushi

If you live in Japan, then the Zojirushi brand will doubtless be familiar to you. This company is one of the top producers of top-quality, ergonomic rice cookers whose products should undoubtedly be featured on this list. Here are some of them.

Zojirushi Induction Heating Pressure, Rice Cooker & Warmer NP-NVC10

Image from Amazon.com

This is one of the finest rice cookers on the market today, which has built a great reputation in the industry for cooking well-made rice for people like you and your family. It has the latest AI technology that enables the rice cooker to “adjust” its cooking style automatically, so that you can be confident it will provide you with the best results every time.

The rice cooker itself selects its three pressure settings automatically. Once you have chosen your cooking preferences on its menu, this device will do the rest and ensure that the rice it cooks will suit your own taste and palette.

This impressive product also has a non-stick inner pan that is crafted from food-safe platinum. This feature can enhance the quality of the water you use and will also help the rice to absorb this water efficiently.

This rice cooker undoubtedly fulfills Zojirushi’s proud promise of intuitiveness and innovation. You will find that its heat induction technology is way superior to most of its counterparts. With ordinary rice cookers, the heating element is just located at the bottom, but with this device, the entire pan becomes a full heat conductor. As a result, the heating this device delivers is both uniform and precise.

This rice cooker also features a pressure cooking system. It does this by ensuring the liquid and air inside the pan cannot escape, so the device is able to easily maintain specific temperatures. There is also a reheating function that improves its overall usability in the kitchen. 

  • Full of intuitive features and technology.
  • Pressure system that stops the water and air from escaping.
  • Comes with multiple cooking options.
  • Features an ergonomic cooking monitor.
  • Well-built device (this is a restaurant quality cooker).

Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cooker & Warmer NS-ZCC10

Image from Amazon.com

This rice cooker can deliver perfect, evenly cooked rice in the most authentic way possible! Although its capabilities are not the same as the Zojirushi NP-NVC10, this rice cooker still works like magic.

It is flawless in making various types of rice, thanks to a menu that enables you to make sushi rice, brown rice, and even porridge. In fact, it can create mixed rice as well. You can use this device to steam various ingredients too, which makes it undeniably versatile. The rice cooker also automatically adjusts itself in every configuration to create the tastiest results.

Another great feature that you will like is its large cooking capacity, as this product can cook up to ten cups of rice. This is good news if you have a lot of tummies to feed. So, if you have a large family, you can be sure that this product will serve you well. Furthermore, the interior cooking pan has a spherical shape that allows the heat to be evenly distributed. It also has a cool-touch handle that will save you and your family from burns and make it safer to use.

You will also enjoy the fact that this rice cooker features a programmable sound indicator. The alarm activates as soon as the cooking has been completed. This is a great feature for those of us who are always busy in their homes. Meanwhile, the LCD control panel has been properly labeled for easier toggling and hovering. Just like the NP-NVC10, the Zojirushi Neuro Fuzzy Rice Cooker provides a reheating feature, so you can guarantee that none of your rice will go to waste.

  • It has an ergonomic LCD interface for easier operation that evenly distributes the heat around the cooking pan.
  • Automatically configures itself for your selected cooking preferences.
  • Well-defined construction (that prevents heat and air from escaping).
  • Comes with a programmable delay.
  • Does not have a steam feature.

Tiger Corporation

The Tiger Corporation is another reputable manufacturer of Japanese rice cookers that has made a big name for itself. The company was established in 1932 and has been producing high-quality kitchen amenities and appliances ever since, trouncing the entire competition with its products. Here are some of their most popular Japanese rice cookers.

Tiger JNP-1800

Image from Amazon.com

This is a great product to invest in as it is well suited to home usage. This rice cooker is not too bulky or heavy and can fit in any cabinet or storage space that you have in your kitchen. Although it is not as flashy as the first two rice cookers I have mentioned here, it can still prepare perfectly cooked rice. The operation is hassle-free too, making it an ideal choice for many simple folk out there.

The Tiger JNP-1800 features a warming function that can last up to 12 hours. This is an ideal feature for those who don’t have the time to cook when they get home. After it has cooked the rice, you just activate the warming feature, which will ensure the rice still tastes fresh and delicious after you have returned home.

Meanwhile, the inner pan has a non-stick layer which improves the intuitiveness of this appliance. You don’t have to worry too much about cleaning this appliance either, as there will be no rice residue on the surface of the pan. Meanwhile, the non-stick pan allows you to scoop out the rice cleanly and evenly.

The ergonomics of the Tiger JNP-1800 do not stop there. The steam vent of this rice cooker is removable, so you can clean it separately in the dishwasher. It is the same story with the measuring cups and spatula. Meanwhile, the cord is retractable for simpler storage. 

  • Has exceptional warming capabilities.
  • Most of its parts are washable.
  • Distributes heat evenly.
  • Easy to store.
  • Cooks rice evenly and smoothly.
  • Limited cooking presets.
  • The interface is not as good as the first two rice cookers featured here.

Tiger JAJ-A55U

Image from Amazon.com

This is perhaps one of the most oddly designed Japanese cookers. Unlike most of the rice cookers you will see today, which have circular shapes, this device follows a peculiar square-shaped design. The reason for this is quite simple. According to the manufacturer, this type of construction gives the rice cooker indispensable heat induction and distribution, which ensures that the rice will always be fresh and delicious.

Just like the other rice cookers from the Zojirushi, the Tiger JAJ-A55U features various rice-cooking presets. Specifically, there are eight menu settings available on this device. For example, you can cook brown rice, sweet rice, and cakes with just a few taps of a button. These kind of cooking options are not something that an ordinary rice cooker can offer.

However, the biggest perk is its specialized cooking plate, which enables you to prepare two different rice recipes in a one go without affecting the texture or flavor of either dish. This cooking compartment is BPA-free too, so it is extremely safe to use.

The Tiger JAJ-A55U has a removable inner lid for easier washing and its front panel has a simple but effective interface that is designed to give you better control. It is also notable that the warming function is automatic. Even if you are forgetful, this rice cooker won’t let any of your food go to waste. Meanwhile, there is a cooking timer with two presets that enable you to cook the rice at your desired pace.

  • Ergonomic and intuitive construction.
  • Power-saving features.
  • It can cook two dishes at the same time.
  • Effective and equal heat distribution.
  • Automatic warming feature.

Panasonic

Even if we live in the West, we are still familiar with the name Panasonic, which has been in the appliance and electronics industry for many years. The fact that this company is still here proves the quality of its products. In fact, one of its Japanese rice cookers has captured the hearts of many food lovers (including me).

Panasonic 1-Step Automatic Rice Cooker – SR-G06FGL

Image from Amazon.com

This rice cooker is the epitome of simplicity. It may have a similar appearance to ordinary rice cookers, but don’t let that fool you for a minute. After all, the performance of this Japanese rice cooker is acknowledged by the industry itself. One of its best features of this appliance is its intuitiveness. The simple layout makes it very straightforward to use.

This rice cooker can prepare six cups of rice in a single cooking, and you won’t need to bother with confusing buttons and controls with this rice cooker. A single press of a button will automatically cook the food for you, which is very helpful for busy individuals.

The aluminum inner pan is covered with a non-stick coating so that no residue will be left on the device once you have scooped out the rice. The pan also has decent heat distribution that further improves the taste of the rice. It is also easy to clean and fairly durable.

It is notable that this rice cooker comes with an automatic shutdown feature, so once the cooker has finished preparing the rice, it will turn itself off. As a result, you will not waste too much power when you make rice. There is also a light indicator that tells you about the cooking progress of your rice. 

  • Has a fully tempered lid.
  • It comes with a rice scoop and measuring cup (both of them are food-safe).
  • Decent construction and design.
  • Impressive heat distribution capabilities.
  • Straightforward operation.
  • It is too bland for some people.
  • Not recommended for family servings (as it is a small rice cooker).

Our Ratings

Product Name

Quality

Price

Our Ratings

A

Check Price

A+

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How To Choose The Best Japanese Rice Cookers

Rice cookers have already been with us for about 60 years. As far as I can remember, it was Toshiba that made the first commercial rice cooker in 1956. Since then, the development of these cooking appliances has known no bounds. And that is no fluke at all.

Japan, as a leading industrial country, has taken the game to a new level. Most of the companies there have revolutionized rice cookers and constructed devices that reflect both their craftsmanship and excellence. These impressive Japanese products reflect the rise of ingenuity and innovation in the field of rice cookers.

I still believe that stainless steel rice cookers are great options for your kitchen. But if you placed them side by side with Japanese rice cookers, then you would immediately spot a number of differences.

So how do you spot a Japanese rice cooker that fits your needs? Well, here are some basic guidelines for you to follow. 

Cup Capacity

The cup capacity of a device can determine which of the many rice cookers on the market is the best for you. If you are living alone, it is not logical to get a large rice cooker, as you will only be wasting space and power. But, on the other hand, a huge pot is more than necessary if you are cooking for your whole family.

Most modern Japanese rice cookers have capacities that range from just two cups to as many as ten. But take note that these sizes are different from US cups. Japanese cups usually have a capacity of six ounces, whereas their US counterparts have a standard capacity of eight ounces. We can really spot who are the most demure consumers here!

Kidding aside, you should base your reference on Japanese cups. Since we are talking about Japanese rice cookers here, it is the obvious thing to do.

Power

When making family-sized rice servings, it is important to ensure that your rice cooker has enough power. You cannot have a huge rice cooker with low wattage as it won’t be able to generate the heat to cook the rice evenly.

A rice cooker that is made for large servings should possess enough power and speed. If you are looking for a big rice cooker, its wattage should be between 600 watts and 900 watts. Meanwhile, compact rice cookers have a wattage of around 300 watts to 400 watts. When they are full, both small and big rice cookers should be able to stir uncooked rice for 50 minutes or less.

Warming Function

Nobody likes to eat cold rice. In fact, many Japanese folk would get mad at you if you ever served them this. Fortunately, we are talking about Japanese rice cookers here, so there is no chance of such a thing happening. This is because Japanese rice cookers usually come with a handy warming function, unlike many of their Western counterparts. This capability allows the Japanese devices to not only cook the rice, but also keep it warm for any given period.

You will find that the warming function of a rice cooker varies from one brand to another. Some of the Japanese rice cookers have a warming feature that is automatic. So, once the device has finished preparing the rice, it will automatically switch to the warming mode. Other rice cookers require you to activate this function manually, but this is no big deal as it is an easy enough thing to do. 

Cooking Modes

Rice comes in different varieties, which the rice cooker should also be able to accommodate. Many high-end Japanese rice cookers feature multiple cooking modes that are capable of making steamed rice, porridge, brown basmati rice, and other kinds of rice.

In fact, there are rice cookers that will allow you to cook vegetables and other soft ingredients as well. If that is not enough, then you should get a unit that is capable of cooking two different dishes at the same time! However, if you are satisfied with just simple white rice, then you will find that a plain Japanese rice cooker is more than enough for your needs. 

Fuzzy Logic

Not all Japanese rice cookers have fuzzy logic technology. This is a unique innovation that enables the rice cooker to automatically determine how well done the rice should be. It is quite hard to technically describe this mechanism, but I can give you an example of how the technology works.

Let us assume that you are cooking rice on a very cold day (probably in the winter). As the external temperature will affect the internal temperature of your home’s interior, we can say that this coldness will slow down the cooking process. If the rice cooker has a fuzzy logic technology, however, this predicament is not a problem and can be easily solved.

Fuzzy logic enables the rice cooker to compensate for any external factors that affect the generation of its heating element. Therefore, if the temperature is hot, the device will automatically adjust its heating element to prevent the water from evaporating quickly and prevent the rice from being overcooked or undercooked. The same thing happens if the external temperature is cold. It will adjust its heating element accordingly. In short, the rice cooker does all the guesswork for you.

Only two of the rice cookers that I have featured, which are both from Zojirushi, have this capability. 

Final Verdict

The best Japanese rice cookers bring out the optimal flavor and texture of your rice. Their functionality and high level of performance will ensure that your favorite food is properly cooked and tastes better than ever.

The brands that I have mentioned here are all great in their own right. We can thank Zojirushi, Tiger Company, and Panasonic for producing such high-quality yet affordable Japanese rice cookers for us. Their creations allow many ordinary folk like us to cook rice with a 5-star rating.

Was this article helpful? If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to leave them in the comments section below! 

Taco Life: The Best Low Carb Mexican Recipes You Will Ever Have

Ask a bunch of people what their favorite food is and the chances are you will hear the word “Mexican” a lot. That will come as no surprise to those who have sampled the wonderful cuisine created by our friends south of the border. I mean, do you know anyone who does not have a story about Mexican food? Whether its a fantastic crunchy fish taco or a bad burrito that’s sent them scurrying to the bathroom, Mexican food has been a massive part of nearly everyone’s culinary journey. The rich history and culture of Mexican cuisine is further complemented by its symphony of flavors and eye-popping colors.

However, as good as Mexican food is, this cuisine is not without its critics. Not so much because of its taste, but because there are some people who deem it to be on the unhealthy side. But to be honest, most of these critics’ experiences of Mexican food have been limited to trips to Taco Bell and their local burrito parks. While it is true that Mexican food is not the healthiest of cuisines out there, there are still plenty of recipes that are as good for the body as they are for the gut.

One of the main problems is that Mexican food is heavily reliant on scrumptious carbs, which as we all know, are leading enemies of serious dieters. Since the main staples of Mexican food are rice, beans, and tortillas, it can be difficult to eat this cuisine without eating some serious carbs. But fear not fellow dieters, losing a few pounds does not mean that you need to part with your favorite enchilada. I am here to tell you that there are a lot of low carb Mexican recipes for you.

So put on your most festive sombrero and let’s cook some low carb Mexican dishes that are sure to shed some pounds for you.

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Low Carb Mexican Recipes

1. Stuff Those Bell Peppers

Nothing screams Mexico more than some vibrant bell peppers. Just make an amazing Mexican beef chili using some lean ground beef, red onions, cremini mushrooms, cumin, chipotle chili, and tomato puree.

First, cut your bell peppers in half and scoop them out until only the skin remains. Then, fill them with your chili and garnish it with some grated cheese. These delightful meat bombs are sure to be a hit if you serve them up at your dinner parties.

For the full recipe, just click on this link. This dish is fairly easy to make. However, you should follow the recipe carefully. Chipotle chili is pretty potent when it comes to spiciness, so as any seasoned chef would tell you, “Taste as you cook!”. This is to ensure that smoke won’t be coming out of your ears when you take a mouthful of these babies. Enjoy them with some amazing pineapple punch and get ready to hear a mariachi band play on your head.

  • Pro Tip: Use green and red bell peppers for aesthetic purposes. It just looks more fun if you have a colorful plate!

2. Bacon That Guacamole!

Who has not tried a spoonful of amazing guacamole? What if I tell you that you can have this fantastic dish with a chock full of bacon? Well, there you go, tell your friends about this beautiful revelation.

Kidding aside, it’s time to get an amazing guacamole recipe that you can cook. If you still don’t have one yet, just click on this link and it will take you to one of my favorite recipe out there. Fry up some bacon in a pan and just drop those bad boys on top of the fantastic green mound of goodness. This dish is a definite winner for my late nights.

  • Pro Tip: Guacamole keeps well in the fridge, so have it ready for your solo movie nights. Just fry up some crispy bacon and you’ll be good to go to watch that Harry Potter marathon! Do not forget to leave some room for dessert! Some homemade churros dipped in a mug of hot melted Mexican chocolate should do the trick! Speaking of which…

3. Mexican Hot Chocolate

The Swiss might beg to differ, but Mexican hot chocolate is the best hot cocoa drink out there for me. This drink is pretty popular with health nuts as it is low in carbs and gluten-free. And it definitely does not hurt that this is also a stunner in the taste department.

For low carb seekers, please follow this recipe, as it uses almond milk instead of regular cow’s milk. Give yourself a bit of a break and don’t forget to add a dollop of whipped cream. Then sprinkle some ground cinnamon in it for the final touches.

This is perfect for cold winter nights or just snuggling with your special someone in front of a warm fireplace! It’s sweet with a little spicy kick that is sure to warm your soul up real quick.

  • Pro Tip: If you need to give it more fat burning properties, just add a shot of espresso to give a little kick to your hot Mexican cocoa! Caffeine is known to speed up your metabolism, and the espresso gives this drink a bolder flavor profile. It’s quite comforting and will keep you focused on late-night meetings at work. Don’t forget to share a cup or two with your co-workers!

4. Casserole With It!

If you need something more hearty, then do try this amazing Mexican casserole recipe. Not only is it surprisingly easy to make, but this dish will also serve a lot of people. You will need to fire up your oven for this one, so be sure that it is in good working condition.

This amazing colorful dish will require a bit of time, so you might need to spend a few hours cooking this, but I can assure you it is worth it. You will need a big oven-safe baking dish to complete this recipe, so be prepared to grab one from the store if you do not have one already.

  • Pro Tip: Choose this recipe the next time you need to cook something for a potluck party. This delightful recipe can serve twelve people and it’s a stunning dish that people will talk about afterwards. It worked wonders for me at our last Christmas party!

5. Chicken Soup For The Soul

Feeling a bit drained from yesterday’s workout? Then this low carb Mexican chicken soup might just be the remedy to bring your spirits up. The soup is a bit on the thick side, so you can expect this dish to be very filling. High in protein with all that amazing chicken meat and soup, it is rich in nutrients with a myriad of vegetables and beans. This dish is also a godsend when you have the flu.

The cayenne pepper adds a little kick to the soup and revs up your metabolism. I had some a few months ago when I had a nasty cold. Let me tell you, I immediately felt better. Don’t tell grandma, but I find this dish much more effective than her regular old chicken noodle soup (Sorry, Nana!). 

  • Pro Tip: If the soup feels a little flat in terms of texture, then crush some white tortilla chips and serve it on top of the soup. This adds another dimension to your dish by adding a little crunch and saltiness to this comforting dish. Also, whip up a big batch of this bad boy during the flu season and keep it in your freezer. You will thank me later when the first sniffles start.

Lets Taco Bout It!

I hope that I have persuaded you that Mexican food really does have low carb options, which do not scrimp on taste. So you don’t have to be gloomy about that anymore. Whether you are on a diet or want to pack on the muscle, these low carb Mexican recipes should definitely be on your list when it comes to meal planning. A lot of these recipes are also gluten-free, so these dishes are sure to delight you if you are into that.

There is something about Mexican food that just inspires the chef in me. The very challenge of looking for this wonderful cuisine’s low carb options gets my creative juices flowing. It isn’t easy, but helping my friends and loved ones in their culinary journey is a reward that is priceless and something that makes me happy. That is why I had a blast writing this article, and I hope I have helped a lot of people in their search for low carb Mexican recipes.

Do you love Mexican food but need to watch those unwanted pounds on your love handles? Please give us your thoughts and write in the space provided below. I would love to discuss food with you! Also, help to spread the word and share this article with your friends and family who also love Mexican food but want fewer carbs in it. Lastly, don’t forget to keep on cooking and I wish you the best of luck on your culinary journey!

Your One-Stop Shop For Everything About Meat!

It is pretty obvious that meat is one of the most common ingredients in the world today. It comes in multiple varieties, so it is impossible to get sick of.

Of course, there are other reasons why you should love meat. After all, it is a good source of core vitamins and nutrients. For example, bodybuilders could benefit from eating meat-based meals because they are rich in protein. Meat is also an excellent source of zinc, iron, and other essential nourishments.

But before you can enjoy these benefits, it is essential that you know how to cook meat. Well, there are various ways to prepare this ingredient. It is not only frying and grilling that can make meat delectable to the mouth.

Depending on your preferences and needs, you can cook meat using various specialized techniques. And here, in GimmeTasty.com, I will teach you them all! 

How To Choose Fresh Meat

how to choose fresh meat in the market

Choosing the right type of meat will certainly make a difference. Good meat will always enhance the overall flavor of your recipe. Moreover, it will keep you away from any foodborne diseases, as high-quality meat is fresh and free from contaminants. But, of course, this is just the preface.

There are various benefits that you can get from having the right knowledge about meat selection. Overall, it gives you an advantage as you will have the assurance that the meat you chose is applicable to your intended recipe.

Various parameters are involved in choosing meat. Of course, these standards will always focus on the freshness of the ingredient. After all, you cannot just assume that any meat is good as long as it is edible and usable. Things just don’t work that way.

I have listed several methods that will guide you in the proper selection of meat. These things might appear simple, but they will prove useful and extra benefits when you shop for your next stock of meat. 

Butchering Quality

Yes. It is quite surprising, but the way meat is butchered is an indicator of its quality and freshness. Always observe how the meat was cut and fabricated as it is a reflection of the purveyor’s skills and practical sincerity. When the cut is smooth and flawless, it means that the purveyor wants to preserve the meat’s freshness.

Purveyors face a big loss when their meat goes bad and they also try not to make mistakes, like slicing the wrong proportions. If a slice of meat has a uniform cut, shape, and thickness, it indicates this was done for economical reasons (both in terms of production and retail) and is fresh.

Color

The color of the meat is an excellent indicator of its quality. Specifically, fresh beef and pork meat are red in color. The redder that meat is, the fresher it is. But, of course, you still have to be careful with meat that’s been applied with carbon monoxide. This particular compound is an artificial color preservative. If you think that the color of the meat is quite suspicious, you should ask the retailer about it.

If you see the meat of a red to brownish color, it doesn’t mean it is not fresh anymore. Sometimes, this particular color change is caused by the exposure of the meat to oxygen for around 30 minutes or more. It could also indicate that the meat has been stored in the freezer.

When it comes to chicken and other poultry products, the “fresh” color should be bluish-white or yellow. This unique color barometer is due to the breeding, diet, and age of the poultry. 

Texture

Typically, fresh meat is firm. However, you should know that some cuts tend to be soft, especially if you touch them. For example, fatty cuts of beef like ribeye don’t have too many connective tissues. Therefore, they don’t spring back immediately when you press them. This is pretty normal.

However, if you press the meat and it doesn’t return to normal, then its protein level has been depleted already. In short, it is not fresh anymore. Of course, this particular test applies to beef, poultry, and pork as well.

Smell

Most of the time, fresh meat that comes from non-game livestock doesn’t emit any noticeable smell. If the meat has been packaged already, you will notice a musty odor. This happens when the meat moisture inside the package has oxidized. Of course, you should not mistake this for the smell of ammonia, which is a sign that the meat’s protein has degraded, which means it is totally rotten.

Different Meat Cuts

If you want to become a meat expert, you must know the different cuts of the major meats. This is essential, as each of these parts is used for specific types of recipes. Of course, it will save you a lot of time if you know what part of the meat you are going to get.

Beef Cuts

  • Beef Chuck – The chuck is a composition of the neck, upper arm, and shoulder blade parts of the meat. Because of this, it is natural that beef chuck is tough. But it also has an excellent taste. Specifically, this meat cut is great for making braised cuisines, like pot roast and stew. It is also an excellent choice for making ground beef.
  • Beef Rib – The beef rib is made from the upper portion of the middle part of the rib. Some people call it prime rib as well. It is a great choice for ribeye steaks and other roast recipes. It is particularly tender and suitable for various types of dry-heat cooking methods.
  • Beef Plate – A beef plate is primarily made out of skirt steak and some part short ribs. The skirt steak is a form of diaphragm muscle, meaning that it is connected to the inner portions of the abdominal wall. Despite being thin, it is also quite flavorful. Therefore, you can easily prepare it at high-heat settings. Make sure that you slice it against the grain, too.
  • Beef Brisket – Many consider that beef brisket is the tastiest part of the meat. Well, it is hard to argue about that. But certainly, there is a need for you to cook this part properly, as it is notably tough. It also contains some fatty portions. Therefore, subject it to high-heat for a long time. Beef brisket is one of the key ingredients for pot roasting.
  • Beef Shank – The shank is the leg portion of the beef. It has a lot of connective tissues, so it is naturally tough as well. Beef comes with two shanks (the forequarter and the hindquarter). Many exquisite Italian dishes, like the Osso Buco, use beef shanks as the main ingredient.
  • Beef Short Loin – Most of the notable cuts of the meat (such as porterhouse steaks, strip loin, and T-bone) are derived from the short loin. The most tender part of the beef, the tenderloin, is in the middle of the short loin and sirloin.
  • Beef Sirloin and Tenderloin – The sirloin is also a tender part of the meat. But it gets a little tough in the parts that are located on the rear leg. Specifically, the sirloin has two parts: the top and the bottom sirloin. The top sirloin is an excellent source of grilling steaks. The bottom sirloin provides roasts for barbecue and roasting recipes.

    The tenderloin is extremely tender (hence, its name). As I mentioned earlier, it is located on the loin. The term “filet mignon” is derived from the tip of the tenderloin. Meanwhile, the ever-sumptuous Chateaubriand comes from the middle part of this meat cut.
  • Beef Flank – The beef flank is great for grilling purposes. However, since it has a tough composition, eating it is hard, especially if you overcook it. Therefore, the best way to grill this meat cut is to subject it to an extremely high temperature in a very short period of time. You could also marinate it so that it won’t dry out easily.
  • Beef Round – This is any part of the beef that is located on its back leg. The muscles are tough and lean as the rump and the leg are always being exercised and moved by the animal. Three primal cuts can be done for beef round: the top, bottom, and the knuckle.

Pork Cuts

  • Pork Belly – It is untrue that pork belly comes from the stomach. Instead, this cut is actually the flesh that is found on the bottom side of the animal. This extended cut that has a lot of fat. Therefore, it is an excellent choice for curing. Pancetta and bacon are also derived from this meat cut.
  • Pork Chop (Loin) – Usually, there are many cuts that you can consider to be “pork chops”. All of them are excellent for grilling, broiling, and pan-frying. Always remember that the thicker part of the pork chop (the one that is attached to the bone) is the tastiest and juiciest.
  • Pork Chop (Shoulder) – Also known as pork blade chops, pork shoulder chops are both tough and fatty. You can still grill and broil them, especially if you have a pre-made marinade applied to them. They can also be cooked by using moist-heat cooking methods, such as braising.
  • Pork Cutlets – You can make various boneless cuts from pork meat. Usually, they are called cutlets. They are typically lean, and so comparable to sirloin chops. However, cutlets are much meatier. Despite this, this meat cut is thin and tender and ideal for grilling, baking, and pan-frying.
  • Ham – The ham is a meat cut taken from the top portion of the animal leg. Many retailers sell it fresh. But sometimes, you can see hams that have been cured or smoked.
  • Pork Loin – The cuts that came from the pork loin are lean and tender. In fact, they are the most tender part of the pork. Specifically, the pork loin is divided into three parts. The first part is the fatty Blade End, which is located close to the shoulder. The second is the Sirloin End, which is bony because it is near the rump. Meanwhile, the Center Part is the leanest and most tender part of the pork loin. However, it is also the most expensive.
  • Pork Back Ribs – They are typically called baby back ribs. Compared to spare ribs, they are meatier, but you cannot compare the level of their meat to country ribs.
  • Pork Ribs (Country) – Country ribs are the fattiest and meatiest part of pork ribs. They can either come boneless or bone-in. It depends on the purveyor.
  • Pork Spare Ribs – This is the part of pork ribs that have the least amount of fat. But they are quite popular because of their tender and chewable texture. You can only achieve such perfection if you prepare this meat cut by using slow cooking.
  • Pork Shanks – In the market, pork shanks are typically smoked. They are the shins of the pig and prove great ingredients for making soups and bean-related recipes.
  • Pork Butt and Shoulder – Both the pork shoulder and pork butt cuts are from the shoulder of the pig. Of course, they are different cuts. The butt (or the Boston Shoulder) is from the thick part of the shoulder. It is great for barbecue recipes and pulled pork styles.
  • Pork Tenderloin – The pork tenderloin (or pork fillet, as most people call them) is a popular cut of pork. It is also relatively expensive, and comparable in price to pork loin chops. This meat cut is usually tender, lean, and definitely boneless. They are easy to prepare because they are usable in any cooking method, such as grilling, broiling, and roasting.

Chicken Cuts

  • WOG – The WOG is the entire chicken itself. It should include the major cuts, like the breasts, drumsticks, thighs, and wings. However, it does not include the giblets (e.g. gizzard, liver, and heart).
  • Chicken Tenders – This meat cut is taken from the bottom part of the chicken breast. They are very tasty and flavorful when you fry them. Since they are relatively small compared to the breast, chicken tenders are an excellent choice for fingerstyle recipes, such as chicken goujons.
  • Chicken Thigh – The thigh is located on the top of the knee joint of the chicken. There are various options for it, including boneless and skinless thighs. Many culinarians today consider the thigh as the tastiest portion of the animal. They are also inexpensive, which makes them great for those who are on a tight budget!
  • Drumstick – The drumstick is actually the cut between the hock and the knee joint of the chicken. However, the thighs are not included in the cut! It is an ideal choice for barbecuing and baking recipes.
  • Chicken Wings – Undeniably, chicken wings are currently the most famous part of the chicken. The skin of the wings is inexplicably delicious, especially if you fry it. Meanwhile, the bones are extremely flavorful, too!
  • Chicken Breast – Chicken breast is an excellent source of protein and other types of essential fat. It is also very flexible as it suits various cooking methods.

Storing Meat

Storing meat is not as simple as it seems. That’s why I have referred to the guidelines set by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) for meat storage. If you want to preserve the quality and safety of your meat, it is better to follow this outline: Link to USDA Website

Reheating The Meat

Of course, it is quite convenient and practical if we can reheat the leftovers of our food. Nobody wants to waste precious food, especially if it is meat. Here are a few tips that I can give you to make sure that you reheat your food properly and safely.

When reheating, there is one unwritten rule that everyone needs to follow: always reheat the food on the device that you used to cook it. Of course, it is quite logical. You will need to reheat roast meat in the oven because it will provide the same amount of heat during the cooking process.

Here are some additional resources to help you out: Setting Leftovers On Fire: The Best Ways To Reheat Ribs

Different Ways To Cook Meat

  1. Poaching
    You are poaching when you cook any ingredients under the temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit to 180 degrees Fahrenheit. It is commonly used for preparing eggs and fish. However, some meat recipes require this technique as well.

    With this level of temperature, the liquid won’t reach the boiling point. But you can definitely see small bubbles rising from the bottom of your cooking device. Because of this, it is quite difficult to measure the correct temperature if you don’t have a food thermometer.
  1. Simmering
    Simmering food will require you to heat the liquid to around 180 degrees Fahrenheit to 205 degrees Fahrenheit, which is way hotter than when you are poaching. At this temperature, you can expect that bubbles will come out and rise to the top of the liquid. But, of course, this is still not boiling point.

    This cooking method allows you to cook food in an even manner. This is because you are subjecting the food (e.g. meat) to a constant temperature level. It is a great option, especially for food recipes, like soup, pasta, and other related ingredients.

    However, you should note that simmering causes the food to lose its nutritional contents because you are actually percolating it into the liquid.
  1. Boiling
    Most of us are familiar with boiling. In this method, the water reaches its maximum heating point, which is 212 degrees Fahrenheit. It is great for softening hard cuts of meat, as the extreme heat can easily tenderize the tissue of the meat.

    But on the flip side, I do not really recommend using this cooking method on very smooth ingredients. For example, eggs that have been stripped of their shell will be damaged if you subject them to boiling water. They will be cooked, but their entire appearance will never look good.
  1. Steaming
    The steaming process usually employs hot steam to cook the food. When the water exceeds the temperature of 212 degrees Fahrenheit, it gradually evaporates and becomes liquid. There are great advantages that steaming provides, especially if you compare it to cooking methods like simmering and boiling.

    For example, it doesn’t disrupt and damage the food at all. Moreover, there is no need for you to immerse the ingredients in the liquid. As a result, the food will not lose its nutrients. It is also notable that steaming yields fast results. Take note that some meat recipes can be done through steaming.
  1. Braising
    Braising is a method commonly used for beef and pork delicacies. Specifically, this cooking method involves the food being slightly submerged into liquid. After that, it is simmered gradually at a low-temperature setting.

    Although it is doable on the stovetop, I still recommend that you braise your food in your oven. In this way, you will evenly cook the entire food. If you cook it via your pot, the heating will only be focused on the bottom part of the meat.

  2. Stewing
    Stewing is a cooking method that is usually used for soup-related recipes. For this technique, you put the meat and other ingredients inside a large pot and cook them at a low temperature. Usually, the cooking is quite time-consuming, but it is still necessary.
Different Ways To Cook Meat - Stewing
  1. Barbecuing and Grilling
    Well, nobody can hate barbecues. After all, it is the epitome of cooking meat. By barbecuing meat, you will unleash its true flavor. It is fun too, especially if you are with your friends or family!

    Grilling is a similar process to barbecuing, but the tools used for these two cooking methods are different. The processes you follow are the same. So you need to place the meat on a hot surface (the heat is usually generated by coal and wood).
  1. Sautéing
    Before you can sauté any recipe, you will need a hot pan first. Specifically, the pan should be heated for a least a minute. After that, pour small portions of fat into the pan. Allow this to get hot before you add the other ingredients.

    The meaning of the word sauté is “jump”. It is a French word, but it is not jargon anymore, even to the non-European culinary world. Apart from maintaining the heat of the pan, you are also required to toss or flip the food. In this way, you can ensure that the food will be evenly cooked. There are a lot of meat delicacies prepared through this method.
  1. Pan Frying
    Pan frying is similar to sautéing. However, pan-frying can be done with a low temperature setting. Moreover, you are required to the use large amounts of fat wherever you do this cooking method. Because of this, pan-frying is an excellent method for cooking huge chunks of meat.

  2. Roasting and Baking
    Most of the time, people think that roasting and baking are the same, as both of these cooking methods require you to cover the food item with hot and dry air. Typically, this is done through the oven at temperatures of more than 300 degrees Fahrenheit. They can generate even cooking results, as every part of the food is exposed to the same of level of heat.

    Despite this, roasting and baking still have their own respective nuances. The term “roast” is used when the ingredients are meat, vegetables, and poultry. Meanwhile, you use the term “bake” if you are dealing with fish and other types of seafood. Moreover, roasting is faster than baking, considering that you need to crank up the oven to hot temperatures for this cooking process.
  1. Broiling
    Broiling uses heat conduction to cook food. But because the heat conduction is not that great if the medium is air, you need to place the food near to the heat source. Of course, the heating element should be a flame. Therefore, it is an ideal choice if you are cooking tender meat, fish, and poultry.

    Because you are going to subject the meat to extreme temperatures, you certainly need to marinate the meat first to protect its flesh from excessive burning.
  1. Deep Frying
    Different Ways To Cook Meat – Deep Frying
    It is quite baffling why deep frying is considered to be a dry-heat cooking method. After all, it requires you to submerge the meat into a heated liquid fat for the frying process. But take note that oil and water react together. Try dropping hot oil on a watery surface and you will see the explosive reaction that takes place.

    Because of this, you need to make sure that the meat is dry before you fry it. You might need to wipe the surface of the meat with a clean paper towel. Usually, deep frying requires you to heat up the oil to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not exceed this temperature or the oil will start to smoke.
  1. Smoking
    Smoking is another cooking method that preserves and flavors the meat through its exposure to smoke. Specifically, this smoke can come from various heating elements, such as wood. But there are also devices like gas smokers that make the process a lot easier. People mainly smoke meat and fish, but some people also smoke vegetables and cheese for whiskey making.

Usefull resources for smoking:

Step-by-Step Meat Cooking Tutorials:

Poultry

Beef

Pork

The Tools Of The Trade

Cutlery

  • Santoku Knife – Just as its name suggests, a Santoku is a Japanese-crafted knife. This particular knife is great for cutting small and fine cuts of meat, especially tender ones. Find out about all of the top santoku knives here!
  • Meat Slicer – Sometimes, knives are just not enough. When you are dealing with large quantities of meat, you will need a meat slicer. This particular device is designed to cut through any type of meat, regardless if it is pork or beef. It can do this arduous task with precision, agility, and cleanliness!
  • Kitchen Block – A kitchen block is a tool that will secure your knives safely. Although it is true that knives are made to handle the dirty work, you should clean them when you are not using them and then put them in these containers. This way, you can guarantee that your beloved knives won’t get damaged, even when they are cutting huge chunks of meat!
  • Electric Knife Sharpener – Maintaining the quality of an electric knife is quite an issue because of its construction and design. If you are planning to invest in an electric knife, make sure that you also get an electric knife sharpener. With this accessory, you can ensure the quality and longevity of the knife’s blade. If you are cutting tough meat cuts, your electric knife will require constant resharpening.
  • Sharpening Stones – Your knife, regardless how sharp it is, will go blunt eventually. If you use it constantly, its edge will certainly get brittle. Fortunately, you don’t have to end up throwing it away. Instead, you need an excellent whetstone or sharpening stone to keep the blades sharp and precise for the next time you cut meat!

Cooking Ware

  • Electric Skillet – When it comes to cooking meat, nothing is more convenient than an electric skillet. Compared to an ordinary stovetop, an electric skillet can cook meat and other recipes easily without too much waste and heat. There are a lot of options for this device, so I have listed only the best here!
  • Red Copper Pans – If you want to fry meat, seafood, and other ingredients, you will need to invest in a red copper pan. This particular cookware is a major upgrade to the ordinary frying pan. They have excellent heat induction, a large cooking surface, and durable construction, which makes them perfect for cooking various meat recipes! But the best feature is their non-stick cooking surface! No more food residue to clean!
  • Bacon Cooker – People will certainly wake up quickly if they can smell the luscious aroma of fried bacon. This is a simple delicacy, but its capacity to wake up our senses is truly respectable! Most of us want to have our bacon cooked properly and evenly, without any burnt and uncooked parts. Therefore, an ordinary skillet or pan might not be enough. This is where the top bacon cookers come into play.
  • Sausage Stuffer – If you want to convert your meat into tasty sausages, then you’d better have a sausage stuffer in your kitchen. This particular device allows you to make commercial-quality sausages in the convenience of your home!
  • Rotisserie Oven – Rotisserie ovens can easily roast whole chickens to perfection. These particular devices have the power and design to cater for any meat size without cramping your kitchen. If your kitchen counter is small, but you still want a handy oven around, then you should consider investing in this cookware!

Other Gadgets

  • Meat Tenderizer – ​If you want to quickly soften your meat products, then you should get a meat tenderizer. This tool will improve your cooking by making the meat slightly mushy. It’s easier to enjoy tasty cuisines if your meat is easy to eat, right? So it is time to get tenserizer and do some grounding and pounding with this tool!
  • Manual Meat Grinder – ​There is no need for you to purchase ground meat in your local butchers and markets. In fact, this particular ingredient can be created by you. How? By getting a meat grinder, of course! This tool will allow to ground any type of meat in your kitchen with finesse and quality.

New Kitchen Gadgets: How to Choose The Best Zoodle Maker?

What is a zoodle maker? This kitchen gadget was completely alien to me before I wrote this article. As I found it, “zoodle” is a term that is used for a zucchini noodle. So, when you say zoodle maker, this is a machine that can make a zucchini turn into something that looks like a noodle.

This means the machine is not only capable of doing its magic to zucchini, but also to all other veggies as well. Some call this machine a zoodler, a spiral slicer or a spiralizer. But for me, let us settle for zoodle maker! Let us now dig deeper and move on to our best zoodle maker review!

More…

How To Choose The Best Zoodle Maker?

What Is A Zoodle Maker?

First, let’s learn some facts about the new and amazing zoodle maker, which is a big help in the kitchen. Its artistic potential with veggies will take your cooking up a level. So, how does it work?

There is no need to tell you all the steps. Obviously, you just have to insert the zucchini and then turn the handle to make the veggie into spiral shapes.

Here is a video for better understanding how the zoodle maker works:

Advantages Of Having A Zoodle Maker

  • Promotes healthy weight loss.
  • Spirals make more than the usual amount out of veggie and fruits.
  • A fun opportunity to include more veggies in your diet.
  • Family and kid friendly, at the same time as challenging our creative side.
  • Quick, easy and healthy!

The 5 Kinds Of Zoodle Makers

1

HAND-HELD ZOODLE MAKERS

For those who have a good grip, hand-held zoodle makers need an extra effort to use but will always be the choice if your concern is the cost and the storage space that’s needed.

They are not as sophisticated as the electric ones, but they much handier and practical when it comes to both travel and your budget.

2

BENCH TOP OR STAND ZOODLE MAKERS

Compared to hand-held zoodle makers, this type is bulky and heavy. It needs a big space on your kitchen top and it’s not a good idea to take it on your travels since it’s heavyweight.

However, if you are talking about cutting hard veggies into spirals or some other styles, this type is your best friend.

So, if your priority is comfort and using the minimum of effort, this is your winner. It usually has a sturdy base to prevent it from wobbling while you maneuver. It also comes with ledges for catching the spirals.

3

ELECTRIC ZOODLE MAKERS

Image from Amazon.com

These automatic zoodle makers are the new craze among cooks who are into healthy recipes. You can find various models that have a lot to offer in different ways.

Of course, compared to the other two types above, this one is outstanding because of its special features and convenience when it comes to saving time and effort.

4

HORIZONTAL HOLD ZOODLE MAKERS

The most common type of these devices hold the vegetable in place with a metal ring that cuts core, starting at the middle. Obviously, this is a waste, but this model can handle large vegetables.

5

VERTICAL HOLD SPIRALIZER

Image from Amazon

This type is the common choice. It holds the vegetable sitting on top of the blade, so it is easy and convenient to use.

It is less likely that the vegetable will fall and you can exert much more effort that way. All the vegetable is turned into spirals, so there is no wastage.

What To Look For In A Zoodle Maker?

Now for the most important part of our review. Below are the factors that you need to consider before buying an awesome zoodle maker. Pay attention, since this is crucial before purchasing.

  • Easy to Use – Looking at the hand-held and manual stand zoodle makers, try to check if you can attach the veggie or fruit easily and use the lever smoothly. Levers are important. If it is hard to twist, it could hurt your hands. Handles also must be considered, so choose those that are comfortable to grip.
  • Durability – Select a model that is sturdy and strong enough to use on tough bigger veggies and fruit. A loose base, shaky handle, and fragile blades should turn you off!
  • Easy to Clean – This is always crucial in every buying decision. Maintenance plays an important role in keeping your equipment in good condition so that it will last for a long while. Choose a model that can be easily detached, is dishwasher friendly and easy to scrub manually.
  • Storage Space – Consider the space in your kitchen. If you picka big device, be sure you have a nice big area for storage. Hand-held models are usually the best if you are a minimalist but it always boils down to your needs.
  • Features – Additional features catch our attention. Who wouldn’t want to buy equipment that can offer you more? So keep an eye on those models with different blade shapes as it means you can make different kinds of spirals, ribbons, and slices of different thickness. Try to make sure that the blades are easy to attach or detach.
  • Safety – The blades for spiralizers are designed to be really sharp. These machines always come with a manual and safety instructions. Ensure that the new one you buy does and follow them while you’re working. The blades are usually exposed, so use your common sense and take precautions when you are using the machines or cleaning them. In addition, check if it is BPA-free.
  • Recipes – There are many recipe books and guides, as well as lots online. Yet it’s always is a plus when a recipe book comes with the device. The recipes are always compatible with the capability of the machine.
  • Food Waste – Zoodle makers are capable of wasting food. Look for the models that can maximize its usage and spiral most of the vegetable. It needs to be capable of spiralizing every last part of a vegetable. Not all do this, so prepare another recipe for those little bits of veggies that are left.
  • Price – This is easy. Zoodle makers usually cost between $20 and $200, depending on the type, brand or location. Be a wise buyer and look at different distributors.
  • Style – Everyone of us has our own needs. If you are already satisfied with the hand-held type, then so be it. However, for those who frequently make spirals out of of veggies and fruits, I recommend buying the bench top or electric models because of their convenience.

With our buying guide above, you are already equipped to choose the best zoodle maker for you. So it is now time for our showcase! All of the models that we have prepared for you were well selected and picked from the very best in the market. This was based on the highest positive reviews, feedbacks from distributors and their sales record data that we can find. Rest assured that whatever you pick, is will be a winner, so there is nothing to worry about. Let us start our review!

Top 5 Best Zoodle Makers Reviews

1. OXO Good Grips Spiralizer

Image from Amazon.com

OXO Good Grips is quite a handful! Start a healthier and happier life for you and your family with this 3-blade spiralizer. I hope you can try right it out right now. The top quality SS super sharp blades mean the spirals comes out in a jiffy. It is so simple to use, I won’t have to wait long for my meal to be prepared.

It works on other veggies as well as zucchini! But it does not work well with carrots (which is maybe because they are just too hard), but this is no big deal. It is still a great perk for my healthy diet program.

Anyway, this comes with a removable blade box, which is convenient for storage, and a strong hold cup to keep the base firm when it’s in use. So here it is, I recommend this as a perfect gift for your family and friends.

Pros

  • Well separated blade storage.
  • A larger router.
  • Super strong suction cups.
  • Sturdy.

Cons

  • Not effective on hard veggies.

2. Mueller Spiralizer

Image from Amazon.com

Our second showcase is the newest patented design, which is great to create veggie pasta or spirals for a healthy family meal! This Mueller Spiralizer has 4 ultra-sharp stainless steel 420-grade hardened German blades that are so good, it only takes a blink of an eye to finish making the spirals.

There’s no need to fret, this is very easy to clean. It is also dishwasher safe and easy to use! There is just one small concern though. The container is too small for the spirals and it took me a long time to pack it back up. It does not affect how this awesome device works though!

Why am I excited to use this? This model is noted as the superstar of all zoodle makers, so I was expecting to be surprised. Indeed, it has multiple functions (a slicer, spiralizer, mandolin, juicer, and grater) in one piece of equipment, so less storage is required. This vertical slicer has a firm base so it won’t bulge when used. So, all is easy-peasy and fun, fun, fun in the kitchen!

Pros

  • Multi-purpose.
  • Good blade storage.

Cons

  • Hard to pack up.
  • Product container is small.

3. Paderno World Cuisine Spiralizer

Image from Amazon.com

Paderno World Cuisine have a solid 15 years in the market and counting! With its original design, this model is highly popular and recommended by social media due to both its durability and safety standards.

This model is not that easy to assemble but it makes spirals in seconds! Of course, the frame and blades are made out of high-quality, impact-resistant ABS plastic that is BPA-free. Reengineered to fit your need, it is break resistant and totally safe to use. It is adjustable, whether you are left or right handed, and the stainless steel blades last a very long time.

What I like about this model is its four different blades that can cut veggies into flat ribbons or spiral noodles to create long spaghetti strands (shredder), thick spiral strands (chipper), long ribbon strands (straight) and the newest addition, which is the angel hair cut. Not only that, but we have added a guided rail for smoother slices. Four blades are better than three! Cool, isn’t it?

Of all the zoodle maker in this list, this is the most powerful model among the top 5 on the list and has four durable blades. Truly, this is a leader in healthy cuisine!

Pros

  • Sturdy.
  • Powerful.

Cons

  • Hard to assemble.

4. Zoodle Slicer ZS001

Image from Amazon.com

Looking for an awesome gift? This Zoodle Slicer ZS001 is absolutely the best gift you can give for a health-conscious mom. This is easy to use with a superb design that makes it perfectly durable and it’s able to make spirals out of any vegetable you like. It’s also dishwasher safe and so easy to clean.

This, for me, is a keeper! It’s specially made stainless steel Japanese blades can cut both strands and floral patterns. They are also durable and do not rust. In any case, there’s no need to worry as it has a lifetime warranty and I can always ask for a new one or my money back.

Using this machine was a breeze. I never had any fear of being cut as it comes with some finger guards for safety and a complete set of cleaning accessories. However, I do not recommend this model if you plan to make meals in big batches, as it will take you forever to make them.

In addition, you still need a fork to help you to separate the spirals. Therefore, this is perfect for personal and occasional use only.

Pros

  • Have 10 settings to choose from.
  • Compact.

Cons

  • You still need a fork to use to help you separate the spirals.
  • Not recommended for large meals.

5. Westmark Spiralizer

Image from Amazon.com

Last but not least is the high-quality German brand Westmark, which now has the reputation of being the world’s number one best kitchenware. This easy and ready to use model is made of sturdy materials that ensure both quality and safety.

Let me tell you about the best feature of this model. Like the other machines, it is made out of stainless steel blades that are perfect for making my favorite julienne shapes and coarse shapes. This comes with three blades in all, including a blade for the spirals, of course.

There’s just a bit of a concern to mention here. Certain parts of the blade are hard to clean, which I thought you might like to know. So how do you like your cut? I don’t mind doing it at all as this machine has an ergonomic handle that makes it comfortable to use. What are you waiting for?

Pros

  • Nice blade storage.

Cons

  • Blades are hard to clean.
  • No directional piece to guide the noodles.

Our Ratings

Our Best Pick!

So how about that? Have you decided your choice yet? I can understand if you are having a hard time choosing one, since all of the models selected are among the best. While you are contemplating, let me show you my best pick!

Mueller Spiralizer

I know you are curious as to why I chose this model as my best pick. Well, I am sure it is the best buy for me and I am excited about bringing it home.

It has all the features I need, the price fits my budget and I love how nice and clean it looks! We all have different priorities, so we will all make different choices but, whatever yours is, it’s already a winner!

How was our best zoodle makers reviews? We certainly hope that you’ve already decided which one to buy. If this review has helped you a lot to choose a spiralizer, we are glad we’ve served our purpose.

Please share this to everyone who is also ready to embrace the world of spirals! Right here!

The Best Santoku Knife For Your Kitchen: Top 5 List (2022)

The Santoku knife is a popular kitchen knife that you will see in many restaurants and food stalls. It is an excellent tool that you can use to do many things in the kitchen, such as dicing, slicing, and mincing. Even a homeowner like yourself should have the best Santoku knife. If you add this knife to your kitchen, you will never regret it.

Despite the fact that the Santoku knife’s quirky name is Japanese in origin, it is fast becoming a favorite kitchen tool of Western gourmets. This is because its wide-blade construction provides more flexibility.

The edge of the blade is extremely thin and sharp, which means it can cut slim, thin strips easily. It is, therefore, a perfect choice for cutting sushi, fish, and vegetable cuisines. In addition, the blade has two variants: the Granton and the smooth edge.

Fortunately, you don’t need to become an expert to get a good Santoku knife, as the market today offers a lot of these knives. But, of course, we all know that only a few of them are worth your money. Do you want to know which brand of Santoku knife really makes the cut? If so, then keep on reading this article!

More…

Santoku Knife Buying Guide: Top 5 List

These are the five Santoku knives that really impressed us. Among the dozens of units that we tested, only these were able to satisfy the gourmet inside us. Of course, we will tell you the reasons why. So just sit back and relax! We’ve got it covered!

Best Santoku Knife: Full Review

1. Wusthof Classic 7-Inch Hollow Edge Santoku Knife (4183)

Image from Amazon.com

You will certainly love the capacity of this knife to cut through things. It is so sharp that you have to be careful while using it! This is an excellent choice if you want to dice, slice, and chop the tough flesh of meat and vegetables. Moreover, it doesn’t have any rough edges, so you won’t spend too much time on food preparation!

The Wusthof 4183 Santoku Knife is also ergonomic. It comes with alternative holes on the side of the blade, so the sliced food won’t cling to the knife! The blade itself is very robust as it was forged from high-carbon stainless steel.  This ensures that it won’t crack or dent, even if you use it regularly.

On the other hand, the blade’s handle is made of polypropylene. Therefore, it is tough but convenient for your hands, and the three rivets in the handle improve the stability of the knife’s handling.

Pros

  • Made in Germany.
  • The blade is tough and sharp (made from high-carbon stainless steel).
  • Easy and comfortable to handle.
  • Its intuitive design helps to ease food preparation.
  • Available in several sizes.

Cons

  • Needs to be sharpened regularly.

2. Mercer Culinary Genesis 7-Inch Forged Santoku Knife

Image from Amazon.com

The Mercer Culinary is a giant in the kitchen utensil industry. Even in the production of Santoku knives, this brand is relentless. Their Genesis knife will amaze you. Just like the Wusthof 4183 Santoku Knife, the Genesis uses a high-carbon stainless steel blade. You can, therefore, guarantee both its sharpness and its resistance to corrosion and rust.

The knife also has an ergonomic bolster that improves the blade’s strength and durability. The latter also contributes to the balance and stability of the knife while you are cutting. Fortunately, the bolster is available in a short version as well! Meanwhile, the Santoprene handle of this blade can give you the utmost comfort while handling the knife. It will also prevent it from slipping, even if your hand is wet! The handle won’t break when you expose it to kitchen fluids and extreme temperatures.

The Genesis has a taper-ground edge, which improves the stability and sharpness of the blade. It also enhances the lifespan of the blade, however much it is used. We can guarantee that the blade of this Santoku knife is easy to hone!

Pros

  • A highly stable, rugged knife.
  • The blade is sharp and tough.
  • The bolster has two versions (the standard and short model).
  • The handle has an ergonomic and robust design.
  • It comes with a taper-ground edge.

Cons

  • We noticed that it has a thin spine, which is quite rare for forged knives.

3. DALSTRONG Santoku Knife – Shogun Series

Image from Amazon.com

The Shogun Series of DALSTRONG is beautifully designed, which is maybe one of the reasons why we are so attracted to this tool. When you see the knife personally, you’ll see what we mean. But don’t worry, this Santoku knife is not all about aesthetics. Otherwise, we would have dropped it.

The craftsmanship of the Shogun Series is certainly appealing and the sharpness of its blade is almost unrivaled and unreal. It has a cutting-edge design that enables it to have 8 to 12-degree angle finish. Moreover, the blade has undergone nitrogen cooling to improve its sharpness and durability. With all these preparations, you can be certain this is no ordinary Santoku knife!

Meanwhile, the blade of the Shogun Series is made out of VG10 Japanese steel, an ultra-hard material that exhibits excellent robustness and retention. Moreover, the blade has several layers of high-carbon stainless steel. You won’t find this type of premium construction on most of its competitors!

Pros

  • Extremely durable, sharp blade.
  • Beautifully designed for modern kitchens.
  • Engineered for edge retention and sharpness.
  • It has a non-stick property.
  • Immune to extreme temperatures and moisture.

Cons

  • No drawbacks.

4. Zelite Infinity 7-Inch Santoku Knife

Image from Amazon.com

The Zelite Infinity Santoku Knife is also an excellent choice for your cutting needs. It possesses the same articulate design as the Shogun Series, but is also made from premium materials that will ensure your satisfaction in the kitchen. The blade is so sharp you won’t feel any resistance while slicing.

The Zelite Infinity Santoku Knife is made out Japanese Takefu VG10 steel. It also incorporated several layers of high-carbon stainless steel and there are hollow structures on the side of the blade to stop the things you are slicing from sticking to it. In addition, it underwent liquid nitrogen tempering to make it immune from rust or staining.

Meanwhile, the blade’s handle has a round shape and triple rivets. The grip of the handle works perfectly as well. In fact, it won’t slip in your hands even if they are wet!

Pros

  • Premium design and construction.
  • The blade is ultra sharp and tough.
  • Food doesn’t stick to the sides of the blade.
  • Highly stable and comfortable to use.
  • The edge doesn’t roughen quickly.

Cons

  • Some people don’t like the pattern sculpted on the blade.

5. Victorinox 7-Inch Fibrox Granton Edge Santoku Knife

Image from Amazon.com

Another good option is the Victorinox Fibrox Granton Edge. This one has a decent design that prevents food sticking on the blade. It can also effectively do basic knife duties, such as slicing, mincing, and dicing. However, the best-selling feature of this tool is its combination of the features of a meat cleaver and Granton edge. As a result, it can make extremely thin slices consistently.

The top-notch blade is made from high-carbon stainless steel to ensure maximum rigidity, sharpness, and retention. Despite its simple design, this Santoku knife underwent precise engineering to ensure its lifespan and immunity against extreme temperature and other detriments.

Pros

  • Simple design makes it easy to use.
  • The handle is comfortable.
  • It has excellent stability and balance.
  • The blade is sturdy and offers edge retention.
  • It can make fine, thin cuts.

Cons

  • The handle is made out of plastic (and is light).
  • The handle is noticeably thin as well.

Santoku Knife Buying Guide

The Santoku knife is a unique tool in its own right. Because it is of Japanese origin, you might expect it to have intricate details and capacities. The English translation of “Santoku” is “three virtues”. Of course, the reason for that is obvious. This knife can do three things in the kitchen: dicing, chopping, and slicing.

Although it is true that a Santoku knife is similar to a chef’s knife, there are still a number of differences that separate the two. 

  • Specifically, a chef’s knife is ideal for general applications.
  • On the other hand, a Santoku knife is perfect for detailed work and fine tasks, such as cutting thin slices.

Using a Santoku knife requires a little familiarity and practice. It’s worth it, however, because you can only create those thin slices if you learn the techniques.

Thickness of the Blade

Because the Santoku knife’s primary task is to create lean cuts, it is a given that the blade should be slim and sharp as well. In addition, it should have an acute angle so that it can penetrate through any layers and surfaces it cuts.

You also have to remember that you have to cut in an “up-and-down” manner when using it because the knife doesn’t have any serrations to do horizontal cuts.

Blade Strength

The strength of the blade is necessary for any knives. But for Santoku knives, the strength of the material used in the blade is its lifeline. Some types of knives (e.g. a bread knife) have a sturdy but flexible construction. That’s a big no for a Santoku knife, however, as it must be stable and fixed at all times.

Therefore, we highly recommend that you get a Santoku knife with a high-carbon stainless steel blade  as this type of material can provide extra durability and strength. If you want a stainless steel model, then make sure that it has been fully forged. Unlike conventional method of stamping, forging makes the stainless steel strong and robust.

Some of the Santoku knives out there use ceramic blades. Although these blades are sharp and don’t bend, they are too brittle for the tasks meant for a Santoku knife.

If you insist on using a ceramic blade, then you should complement it with a good cutting board with a wood or plastic construction. They are easier to work with compared to marble and glass boards.

Length of the Blade

Do not forget that the length of the blade is essential for Santoku knives. This particular feature is important for various reasons. 

  • First of all, you need the blade to be longer than the food that you are cutting. Otherwise, you won’t be able to create those thin slices that you want.
  • Secondly, a lengthy blade allows you to slice seamlessly.

You have a better chance of cutting thin cuts if you slice in a single motion. If the blade is too short, then you are prone to doing repetitive cuts and the meat or the vegetable that you are cutting will have jagged surfaces, as a result.

Hollowed Edge

If you are familiar with Santoku knives, you may have noticed that its edge have dimples or hollowed parts, which we call the Granton Edge. The concave shapes on the edge provide the knife with non-stick properties. As a result, the knife won’t stop due to food sticking to it.

Is this feature really important? Yes, it is! Most of the time, you will use your Santoku knife on sticky, juicy food (such as sashimi, peppers, and chives). So you need this intricate detail to ensure that you can easily deal with these ingredients.

Our Ratings

Final Verdict

Overall, a Santoku knife will always have a place in your kitchen, even if you have a “complete” set already. This one knife alone will triple the versatility of your food preparation by offering you the precision and sharpness that you won’t find in other types of knives.

My Best Pick

We, therefore, deem that the Shogun Series of DALSTRONG is the best Santoku knife out of all the products we’ve featured. From its intricate design down to its sophisticated construction, this knife will offer you a premium and long-lasting performance!

Although it comes at a price, it still a cost-efficient choice, as it requires less maintenance, less sharpening and it is pretty immune to cracks or any other kind of damage.

However, we suggest that you try each of the knives that we listed here, as you will never know which one satisfies your preferences if you just stick with the one option. So try each of them out and see which one suits your preferences!

You May Also Like:

Did you learn from this article? Which of these Santoku knives do you like the most? Tell us your answers in the comment section below!

How To Make A Sarku Japan Chicken Teriyaki? – GimmeTasty.com

I’ve always loved trying new things, especially from another culture. When I’ve had enough of Western food selections, it is fun experimenting with Asian food, like Japanese, Korean, Indian and Chinese.

Apart from their popular raw foods, Japanese cuisine is uniquely sweet and sumptuous. Whenever I eat at a Japanese restaurant, my personal pick is the Sarku Japan Chicken Teriyaki.

So, I decided to cut out the hassle of going out and to try to cook it at home instead (I also have those bad weather lazy days, you know). And besides, it gives me full control over the amount of ingredients that I use.

Feel free to change any amount of the ingredients that you desire, which will depend on the number of people you are going to serve!

Before you start, here are the things you need to prepare:

1/2 lb. raw boneless, skinless, chicken thighs.

(Note: I prefer the thighs because I believe they have more meat than legs or wings).

  • 1 cup of chicken broth.
  • 1/2 tbsp. of dark/gluten-free soy sauce.
  • 1 garlic clove.
  • 1 1/2 tbsp. of water.
  • 2 slices of ginger.
  • 1/2 tbsp. of tapioca starch.
  • 2 tbsp. of brown sugar.
    (Note: This provides a contrasting taste to the soy sauce, which is why chicken teriyaki is sweet and salty at the same time).
  • 1/3 tsp. of baking soda.
    (Note: It may sound weird, but this helps to tenderize the meat more! Don’t worry, it won’t affect the taste at all).
  • 1/2 tbsp. Shaoxing wine.
    (Note: Shaoxing is made from China. It may sound like an ingredient that’s as rare as a diamond, but you can actually buy it at any Asian market store near you).
  • 1 tbsp. of soy sauce.
  • 1 tbsp. of olive oil.
  • 1/4 tbsp. of tapioca starch.

So let’s get our hands working!

Preparation

  1. First of all, let the boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry. If you want other chicken parts, it’s up to you. I prefer the thighs because they are more juicier and meatier.
  2. Next, cut them into smaller pieces that are half the size of a matchbox (or about 1-inch by 1-inch). The smaller the pieces are, the shorter cooking time.
  3. Mix the sliced chicken, baking soda, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, and tapioca starch in a large bowl.
  4. Combine them well together and then leave them in the fridge for at least 24- 48 hours. Yes, patience is a virtue. You need to soak the chicken this long, so they’ll end up being tender and tasty, just as you like!
  1. Meanwhile, in a separate sauce pot, pour the reduced chicken broth, chopped garlic cloves, and ginger. Heat until boiling, then let it simmer for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Incorporate brown sugar and dark soy sauce. It’s up to you on how much amount you add.
  3. In a separate small bowl, mix tapioca starch with cold water. Add the cornstarch and water mixture to the sauce pot where the broth was mixed. Mix them well until they thicken. You can prepare this ahead of time if you want.

Mixing and Cooking

  1. Let the chicken cool to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
  2. Set a non-stick pan on high heat, then add a tablespoon of olive oil. Make sure that the olive oil is generously spread all over the pan before adding the chicken.
  3. Don’t fill the pot too full of chicken pieces. All of them need to get a nice searing. Continue cooking until the chicken pieces turn white at the edges. Press the chicken bits from time to time using a spatula, which will give them a further sear.
  4. Flip the chicken pieces over once they have been seared. How long this takes depends on if you like your chicken to be crispy or not. You can always adjust according to your preference. It took me 3 minutes per side. Not bad, isn’t it? 
  5. Once it’s cooked, turn the heat off. Get the sauce mixture you prepared a while ago and mix it with the chicken.
  6. Serve while hot! If you want, you can add some mixed fried vegetables as a side dish.

Voila! Our homemade Sarku Japan Chicken Teriyaki recipe! You don’t have to go all the way to your nearest Japanese restaurant or a thousand miles around the globe just to experience Japan. Because you can now get to experience a Japanese kind of pleasure for your tastebuds in your own home. Arigato! Enjoy cooking!

The Best Stainless Steel Rice Cooker That Every Rice Lover Should Get!

If you are in search of the best stainless steel rice cooker, you are in the right place on the internet. In this article, we will feature five of the most exciting options for this cooking appliance. We are sure that after reading this, you will be able to get a rice cooker that can satisfy your needs.

Many people consider rice as their staple food. For Asian and Eastern countries, no meal would be complete without this food. Rice is rich in carbohydrates and calories. Therefore, it is a good source of energy. Moreover, there are a lot of ways you can prepare rice, such as the Japanese and Chinese methods of rice cooking.

But, of course, you cannot achieve this without a decent rice cooker. There are a lot of options for this device that you can see on the market today. However, not all of them can give you the desired results. But don’t worry, we’ve got it covered. Check out our top picks for a stainless steel rice cooker!

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How To Choose The Best Stainless Steel Rice Cooker

These rice cookers have all received flying colors from the cooking community. They possess the right qualities and functions to be usable on any occasion. Check out their respective features in the following section!

1. Zojirushi Micom Rice Cooker and Warmer NS-TSC10

The design of the Zojirushi Micom Rice Cooker makes it an exceptional choice for any household. Its simple yet intuitive interface makes it easy to cook flawless, fresh and tasty rice every time.

There is a steaming basket inside this rice cooker, so you can use it as a steamer for your dumplings and other related recipes. Furthermore, you will love that it comes with a “Cake” setting if you want to bake standard cake recipes. Meanwhile, this appliance can serve twenty cups of rice in a single cooking. It also offers different cooking settings. Some of these are sushis, mixed rice, sweet brown, steam, and porridge.

The Zojirushi Micom Rice Cooker features a black cooking pan. This particular component allows the even distribution of heat. As a result, your rice will always taste great. It also comes with a sound indicator that alerts you to the progress of the cooking. It is indeed an ergonomic choice!

Pros

  • Easy to clean.
  • It has a durable construction.
  • Intuitive interface with LCD panel.
  • It can cook different types of rice.
  • Attractive and modern design.

Cons

  • It is quite pricey.
  • It is difficult to open and close its lid.

2. Aroma Housewares 20-Cup (Cooked) Digital Rice Cooker

The Aroma is considered to be the top rice cooker brand in the United States. If you have heard of this name, we bet that you won’t surprised about this fact. This rice cooker can create rice of five-star restaurant quality. It cooks evenly because of its even heat distribution. Moreover, it has a steamer to create healthy dishes.

The Aroma Housewares Digital Rice Cooker features a Delay Timer function. This particular design is for people with busy schedules. You just have to put the rice in the cooker and activate the delay function. In this way, you can prepare the rice to eat later. Of course, it ensures that the rice is hot and fresh.

Apart from this feature, it also comes with a slow cook function. Just as its name suggests, it will cook your meal at a very slow pace. This function will benefit those who want to go to the gym or do some house cleaning while doing the cooking. Overall, this rice cooker is both intuitive and classy.

Pros

  • Intuitive cooking digital panel.
  • It has a non-stick surface.
  • Comes with a steamer.
  • Cooks rice evenly.
  • A variety of cooking functions.

Cons

  • It is quite bulky (storage problems).

3. Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Multi-Use Programmable Pressure Cooker

Another well-loved rice cooker on the market today is the Instant Pot Duo. This cooking appliance has a robust and high-class design that makes it be perfect choice for both commercial and household applications. It has seven cooking functions and can work as a yogurt maker, steamer, and pressure cooker. Moreover, it ensures that the cooking process are fast, smooth, and healthy!

Using this device is not really troublesome. Just like all the rice cookers on this list, the Instant Duo has a digital panel that offers a one-touch mechanism. You can prepare a meal with just a touch of a button. Furthermore, the generation technology of this appliance means it can regulate its internal temperature and cooking pressure automatically. Therefore, it gives you utter convenience.

It is also notable that this rice cooker has a smart memory feature. This enables the device to remember your last cooking configuration. As a result, there’s no need to reprogram the rice cooker if you are just making the same dish! As its name suggests, the Instant Pot Duo has a dual pressure setting. This results in an efficient reduction of cooking time (as much as 70%).

Pros

  • Sleek and classy design.
  • Very functional interface.
  • The body is scratch and fingerprint resistant.
  • Cord is removable.
  • Can cook quickly and evenly.

Cons

  • The gasket releases a noticeable smell.

4. Tiger Corporation JKT-S18U 10-Cup Rice Cooker

The appeal of this rice cooker did catch our attention. It has a sleek appearance that will fit in perfectly with the decor of modern kitchens. It is also pretty functional, as it can serve people with different tastes and preferences.

This particular rice cooker has a synchronized design that allows you to cook two dishes at the same time. With its Synchro-Cooking feature and impressive induction heating, you can guarantee that your meals will be fresh and healthy. We also love that it has a specialized cooking plate that doesn’t interact with the taste of the food.

The JKT-S18U 10-Cup Rice Cooker has 11 cooking settings, which is more than you could expect for this product. It can do quick and slow cooking, depending on your preferences. Moreover, its Ultra feature somehow improves the flavor and stickiness of any rice variant. Therefore, it is a great feature for those who are quite picky about the rice preparation!

Pros

  • Intuitive control panel.
  • It is almost automatic.
  • You can program all the cooking settings.
  • Can cook two dishes at the same time.
  • Aesthetically appealing.

Cons

  • No noticeable drawbacks.

5. Hamilton Beach 14-Cup (Cooked) Rice & Hot Cereal Cooker

For those who are looking for a compact option, we offer you this rice cooker from Hamilton Beach. Just like all the rice cookers here, this one can provide restaurant-grade rice without you having to wait too long. It can cook rice and steam food at the same time! Moreover, the cooking process ensures the food will be cooked evenly.

This rice cooker also has a Delay function, which allows you to stall the cooking for up to 15 hours. Therefore, you can put your rice on the device in the morning, and it will automatically cook in the evening. It is a convenient feature for people who live alone or have busy schedules.

Most parts of the rice cooker are dishwasher safe. It also has non-stick coatings on its surface. Therefore, cleaning it is hassle-free! In terms of its versatility and functionality, the Hamilton Beach Rice Cooker has it all!

Pros

  • Comes with multiple cooking settings.
  • It has a comprehensive LED control panel.
  • Compact and durable design.
  • It is easy to clean.
  • Cooks evenly.

Cons

  • It has a short cord (you need to put it close to the power source all the time).

Benefits Of Having A Rice Cooker

Gone are the days when you needed to wait hours for your rice to get cooked to do a lot of tedious preparation just to cook this food. With the advent of modern technology, rice cookers have advanced a lot in the last ten years.

So can you get benefits from a modern rice cooker? Are there any advantages that you can gain from investing in this product? Fortunately, the answer to these questions is yes.

It Is Healthy

Rice cookers, especially the stainless steel variants, can cook rice healthily. This construction prevents the cooking pot from interacting with the food while it is cooking.

Therefore, you can guarantee that there are chemical exchanges that happen inside. Moreover, modern rice cookers are free from BPAs and other harmful materials. Therefore, using them secures your internal health and safety.

Apart from this, new rice cookers come with a separate panel that serves as a steamer. It can prepare your favorite vegetables and dumplings, which contain the prescribed nutritional content for your body, while you are cooking the rice. Therefore, preparing them with your rice is a nice thing, right?

Convenience

Just like we mentioned previously, most modern rice cookers won’t trouble you anymore. With their design and functionality, all you need to do is to put the rice and water in them. The rest of the process will be shouldered by these appliances.

If you are a busy person, having such convenience in your cooking is truly beneficial. You can do different tasks while you are cooking. After all, there is no need to pay too much attention to your food.

Cost Efficient

Some people just don’t want to invest in rice cookers because they are expensive. Of course, all of our house appliances come with a price. But you should realize that you can acquire these devices through a single purchase. After that, you don’t have to pay anything anymore.

If you keep going to restaurants just to savor your favorite rice recipe, it will cost you a lot in the long run. Rice cookers give you the freedom to cook at home. This means that you don’t have to pay for those expensive meals. Moreover, they don’t consume too much power, so you don’t have to worry about your power bill.

What To Look For A Stainless Steel Rice Cooker

Versatility

A rice cooker should be flexible and do more than act as a rice cooker. Otherwise, it will limit your creativity in the kitchen. Fortunately, most rice cookers on the market today come with a steamer so that you can cook other food with your rice simultaneously. But that is still not enough.

For a rice cooker to be great, it should allow you to cook different types of rice too. The more cooking options it has, the more you can enjoy the various rice recipes. Also, it is nice to have a delay function and slow cooking feature.

Functionality

Choose a modern rice cooker that has an ergonomic construction and intuitive interface. Ideally, you should get one that comes with a digital control panel and LCD screen. The latter replaces the old-fashioned method of looking through the glass just to inspect if the rice is cooked or not. The screen will tell you the overall progress of your cooking.

Meanwhile, the digital control panel should have readable and clear labels, so you will never press the wrong button. The buttons also need to be ultra-responsive. In this way, there is no need for you touch them really hard.

Also, the rice cooker should have LED indicators for the power status so that you do not have to guess when it’s ready. It makes your food preparation convenient, reliable, and safe.

Cooking Quality

A rice cooker should be able to prepare your rice in the freshest way possible. It should be able to retain the texture and flavor of the food. Some rice cookers, especially those that do not use stainless steel, are prone to flavoring the food. That is not good, considering it is an indicator that a chemical reaction has taken place. Your health could be in jeopardy.

Moreover, try to find a rice cooker that can cook evenly. You don’t want to consume a delicacy that is uncooked or overcooked in parts, right? Therefore, you should get the unit that can provide an even heat distribution.

Size

The size of the rice cooker you need depends on the number of stomachs that you are going to feed. If you are living alone, there is no point in getting a large model. That would just take up a lot of counter space in your room. But if you are living in a household, then investing in a large-capacity rice cooker is justifiable if you have enough space!

Final Verdict

Overall, having a stainless steel rice cooker is really beneficial. It is a great appliance for all rice lovers out there! Even those that are not into this food will love to have this device. After all, there is nothing wrong with exploring the world of flavors that rice can offer.

Our Best Picks

Among all of the featured products that we have tested, we deem that the Instant Pot Duo is the best stainless steel rice cooker. It has a broad range of cooking options that will improve the quality of your rice. It also comes with different features that improve the convenience of your cooking.

However, we consider the Aroma Housewares and Zojirushi Micom Rice Cooker to be close contenders for the top spot. These rice cookers have an excellent design and construction that are almost equal to the Instant Pot Duo. Therefore, we really recommend that you should check out each of these rice cookers and see which of them will satisfy you.

Did you learn from this article? Which of these rice cookers do you like the most? Tell us your answers in the comment section below! Enjoy your shopping!

Tropical Madness: How To Prepare A Superb Hawaiian Teriyaki Beef Dish

Hunger! Everyone is always hungry for something delicious. They want to try out something new they have never tasted before. Adventure! People want to find adventure in the supermarket by finding places they haven’t bought from yet. Boredom! We want to try something that we will enjoy and is worth making. What else is there to make but this Hawaiian Teriyaki Beef Recipe?

Hawaiian Teriyaki Beef! Even the name is fun to say! It’s complicated and weird, but fun. Once you’re found making this recipe in the kitchen, your kids will want to eat the meal early! This recipe is easy to make and won’t take that long! Care to try? Go forth and reach for your apron!

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Hawaiian Teriyaki Beef Recipe

What Is Teriyaki Beef?

Hawaiian teriyaki beef is an easy dish to cook at home and does not require expensive spices and sauces. True to its name, it is made out of beef and it’s grilled.

Regular teriyaki beef and the Hawaiian kind are the same when it comes to the cooking method. The only difference is that the Hawaiian recipe is more stuffed with vegetables.

Although this sounds like Japanese, it actually originated in the US. Its new taste was so good, it has became popular throughout the world since then. Several different versions of this recipe have come out over so many years. Teriyaki beef is an amazing recipe!

How To Make Hawaiian Teriyaki Beef

Making Hawaiian teriyaki beef is as easy as sitting down. Thank goodness you don’t really need that many ingredients and other expensive kitchen appliances. You only need a few common gizmos, simple!

Planning to make Hawaiian Teriyaki Beef by yourself? Just follow these simple steps and you’ll be on your way to success:

STEP #1 – GO TO THE MARKET PLACE AND BUY ALL OF THE THINGS YOU NEED!

Buy all of these necessary ingredients:

You can buy ready cut beef in your favorite grocery stores. Just in case you like to cut the beef in your own style, here is a video showing you how to do this:

STEP #2 – PREPARE THE INGREDIENTS

  • Prepare the ingredients and set them on the table or counter.
  • Get ready to cook!

STEP #3 – COMBINE THEM!

Once you’ve already set all the needed ingredients on the counter, combine the 5 elements of goodness: soy sauce, ginger, garlic, sugar, and, of course, water!

Marinate the meat in a plastic bag or a plastic Tupperware container overnight and chill in the refrigerator.

  • Marinate – To steep food in Marinade.

STEP #4 – GRILL THEM NICE AND GOOD!

Take your marinated beef out of the fridge and let it stand while preparing the grill. Grilling using coal is better than an electric grill.

When it is all sizzling hot, grill the meat for about 4-5 minutes. This Hawaiian teriyaki beef is done medium rare. There are different degrees of how well done you would like your meat to be. You can choose what you like.

For the actual tutorial, here is a video showing you how to grill teriyaki beef:

This chart shows you how to prepare meat according to the degree of it is done. It is important that you keep a chart for a perfect result.

STEP #5 – PLACE THEM ON TOP!

Place the slices of pineapple on the burning grill. Cook both sides of the pineapple slices until the regular grill marks shows, like the ones you can find in your meat. When it has all been cooked, it should have a nice brown color. Cook it for only 2 minutes per side.

After that, place the beef skewers on the grilled pineapple slices and garnish with mint! Get ready for the Luau feast!

I bet that you are now ready for the beef steaks after tasting the Hawaiian teriyaki beef. There are four popular beef cuts for steaks that I suggest you use for Hawaiian teriyaki style.

The New York strip is the most popular of these four types of high-end steaks used for Teriyaki Style recipes. Below is the list to choose from:

  • Tenderloin
  • New York strip
  • T-bone
  • Rib-eye

For further information, watch the video below:

What Are The Health Benefits Of Hawaiian Teriyaki Beef?

  • Low-calorie dipping sauce.
  • Carb count.
  • Some vitamins and minerals.
  • Pineapples and other veggies! (They contain vitamins!)

Hawaiian teriyaki beef originated as a grilled recipe, but now people cannot get enough of it. Many talented food experts and chefs have made this recipe by using different cooking methods.

Nowadays, you can enjoy the taste of teriyaki beef not only grilled, but baked and stir-fried! Here are some examples of these evolved recipes.

Hawaiian Teriyaki Beef, Stir-Fry

This recipe is completely Hawaiian, since there are so many vegetables mixed with our beef. This time the Teriyaki sauce was not used as a baste or marinade during the grilling, but as a cooking sauce or condiment during stir-fry.

Here is a video that shows how it is done:

Hawaiian Style Teriyaki Beef, Baked

I could say this recipe is exactly the same as the grilled method, except it is not put into the oven for cooking. If you do not like the smoke and the scent of the delicious beef, you can opt for the baking method, which is great for Teriyaki chicken too!

Did you enjoyed watching the videos of the two other methods of cooking this popular recipe? Let’s not stop there! Be creative when you’re grilling them. You can grill them by using skewers for faster cooking. Whether it’s beef or chicken, kids will love them both!

Great? Good? Terrible? Or Bad? Rate this article from one of these 4 descriptions! Was it good and helpful? I hope it was! Enjoy your meal and brighten up your day with the Hawaiian Teriyaki Beef Recipe! You could even organize a Luau Party and invite your friends! Remember, Happy Way, Happy Day! You Own It!

All About Condiments (And A Little Of Spices) – GimmeTasty.com

Just like beverages, condiments are complementary items to your dish. They may appear small and unrecognizable, but once they are mixed in with your dish, they can change the entire complexity of the flavor. Of course, you have to make sure that you combine the right type of condiment to a particular dish. Otherwise, things will take an unlikely turn.

My years of cooking experience have shown me there are various definitions of a condiment. Some define this item as a form of preserved or pickled food. Others describe it as an enhancement that is added to food after it’s cooked. But the formal definition of a condiment is actually any ingredient, such as a sauce, that enhances the flavor of any applicable cuisine or dish.

You could also say that a condiment is a form of food preparation. But most of the time, we think of it is a complementary item, rather than a cooking method. In layman’s terms, a condiment can simply mean the ketchup or soy sauce you add as a relish to barbecues and burgers.

Regardless of how you see condiments, it is undeniable that most recipes cannot survive without them. That’s the main reason why I wrote this special section about these complimentary ingredients. So let’s get started!

Essence Of A Condiment

Any food requires an additive. It doesn’t matter whether you put them – before, during, or after the cooking process – condiments certainly improve your food. Now, you have to expand your understanding of this matter. Condiments do not only enhance the taste of food. Most of the time, they are used to alter or modify the way these food’s appeal to our tongue.

For instance, condiments like ketchup provide a sweet and sour taste and soy sauce can give the food subtle hints of flavor. You could say it is the sweetness that balances out the acid and salt in your dish.

These are just some of the basic perks that condiments can offer you. For professional cooks and gourmets, condiments are used to give certain cuisines multiple flavor palettes. Of course, condiments are often mixed together to open up new worlds of taste! 

Condiments Vs. Spices

Contrary to popular belief, condiments do differ from spices. Even I was oblivious to this fact at first. It was only during a cooking seminar that I learned they are not on the same team.

On the surface, it seems that condiments, spices, and herbs have shared nuances, as they are food additives that can provide supplementary or flavor-enhancing roles. This is the reason why a lot of people assume they are just the same, but there are distinct characteristics and intended applications.

Spices are any type of ingredient that works as a seasoning for a particular dish during the cooking process. The keyword there is “during”, which indicates that spices are applied throughout the food preparation. Meanwhile, condiments are utilized as flavor enhancers or modifiers to food when they are served at the table. Therefore, it is technically proper to conclude that condiments are essential items on your dining table. Herbs, on the other hand, are composed of green parts of the plants (commonly leaves).

However, there are some exceptions to that. For example, ketchup and soy sauce are common food preparation ingredients used in many types of recipes. This should not really bother you at all. For me, these tiny details make cooking a very interesting field. 

Categorization of Spices

Since I have introduced various types of spices, you should know what ingredients belong to them. Spices have botanical classifications. Take note that the ones that I have listed here are just samples. If I were to cover the entire field, this section would not be sufficient. So let’s keep it nice and short here!

  • Dried seeds or fruits – mustard, nutmeg, black pepper, and fennel.
  • Dried flower buds – cloves.
  • Arils – mace.
  • Barks – cassia and cinnamon.
  • Resins – asafoetida.
  • Stigmas – saffron.
  • Rhizomes and roots – turmeric, galingale, garlic, and ginger.

Categorization of Condiments

Unlike spices, condiments are very straightforward. They are also very easy to acquire, as they are generally found in local markets. There are some simple types of condiments, such as salt, garlic, and onion salt. Then there are also other types of condiments called “compound”. These include:

  • Meat sauce.
  • Horseradish sauce.
  • Mint sauce.
  • Chutney.
  • Soy sauce.
  • Prepared mustard.
  • Ketchup.
  • Barbecue sauce.
  • Teriyaki sauce.

Regardless of their differences, it is undeniable that both condiments and spices are essential cooking ingredients that provide a better taste and nutritional value to your food. They make sure that your food is not bland, ordinary, and flavorless.

Must-Have Condiments In Your Home

I know that some of you might disagree with this list. Considering that we have different preferences and ways of cooking our food, there is no right or wrong here. Despite this, there are still some condiments that provide better value than others when it comes to usability. Here are some of them:

Ketchup

Your kitchen cannot survive without a bottle of ketchup. It is a versatile condiment that you can serve together with dishes like fries and burgers. Of course, it can become a preparatory ingredient too. It gives any dish a tomato-like taste and can give the food a subtle but satisfactory flavor.

Mustard

Many of us are dependent on mustards. This spicy condiment is quite delicious, especially the Dijon variety, and is undeniably necessary for hotdogs, sausages, and sandwiches. It is also a key component of various types of salad dressings. You can also maximize the flavor of mustard by mixing it with maple syrup and lemon juice. The resulting mixture is a sauce that you can add to specific types of vegetable recipes, like roasted sprouts.

Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise is my personal favorite. I simply love indulging in the flavor that this condiment has. Instead of ketchup, I use mayonnaise as a dip for my fries. Technically, the taste of mayonnaise is bland with subtle hints of sourness and sweetness. It is, therefore, a perfect base that you can use to mix various condiments and spices.

Soy Sauce

Another vital condiment that should be present in the kitchen is soy sauce. It is a versatile ingredient that can work on any food recipe. Apart from being a “table staple”, soy sauce is necessary for various food recipes and preparation. It can work as a marinade and become a base that you can use to combine with other ingredients to make new types of sauces (e.g. garlic sauce). If you are into Chinese cuisines and other Asian delicacies, you better have a bottle of soy sauce in your pantry.

This content will tell you more about soy sauce:

Hot Sauce

Some people consider their kitchen to be incomplete if there is no hot sauce in there. This condiment provides the spicy flavor that some recipes need, like barbecues and other meat dishes. Just like soy sauce, you can combine hot sauce with other sauces too.

Worcestershire Sauce

For those who are into drying food, like jerkies, Worcestershire Sauce is an integral marinade ingredient for these recipes. It is great for adding depth to the flavor of the food and an ideal component that makes any meat dish flavorful. You can also use it to make recipes that don’t have meat in them appear meaty.

Oil

Oils have various classifications. You can usually categorize different oil based on what they were extracted from. For example, an oil that comes from sesame seeds is called sesame oil (which is pretty obvious). Traditionally, oils are used as a cooking ingredient, especially in many Asian countries. However, oils can also be utilized as flavor enhancers in various recipes. You see a lot of Chinese and Japanese cuisines that apply this approach. Therefore, your kitchen will benefit if you have many oils in your pantry!

Check out these relevant resources about this condiment:

12 Best Oils for Frying Fish That Will Make Your Kitchen Super-Hot!

Olive Vs. Canola: Who Wins In The Battle Of Oils?

Canola Oil: Expiration Date, Proper Storage, And Other Important Facts

5 Important Things You Need To Know About Sesame Oil

Ways You Can Use A Condiment

The magic of condiments will only take effect if you use them properly. Even a high-grade condiment will become useless if you don’t know how to use it properly. So, if I were you, I’d learn the different approaches there are to using a condiment.

Making Dips

Most of the condiments that you see today are usable as dips. The process is pretty simple, especially if you have a lot of leftover from your condiment bottle. Just pour this into a cup of cream cheese, yogurt, and sour cream. Do not forget to add lime or lemon extract as well. In this way, you will combine the flavors of all these ingredients harmoniously.

Related articles:

Everything You Need To Know To Keep Your Cream Cheese Safe

Lactose-Free Cream Cheese: How To Create The Best Recipe

Can You Freeze Cream Cheese? Will It Be The Same?

Can You Freeze Sour Cream? Yes, And You Can Also Do It Right!

A Mix for Potato and Pasta Salads

Sure. People always think that these delicacies only work with mayonnaise or mustards. However, if you are brave and curious enough, many condiments can work with them. The options are pretty limitless, and depend on how you are going to make these salads.

Marinades

Of course, condiments are excellent ingredients for marinades. If you combine them with the right kind of spices and herbs, you can create luscious marinades for various delicacies! Since most of us love grilling, marinades are always deemed to be necessities. Make sure that you only use non-dairy condiments for the best results!

Dressings

You can clear up the condiment clutter in your refrigerator by turning them into salad dressings. For example, duck sauce and plum can be joined together with vinegar and oil to make a delectable salad concoction. Just don’t get scared about trying new things. If the concoction you make doesn’t taste good, then just move on and laugh about it.

How To Make Quick Keto Salad Dressing For A New Fat-Free Day?

Pizza Sauce

You can always innovate and improve your pizza by adding selected condiments. Apart from olive oil, pesto, and marinara, there are some other complementary ingredients that can change the taste of this treat. Why not use apple butter as your pizza base? You can even give the pizza an Asian vibe by spreading duck sauce on it. It is great fun and really pleasurable to try these ingredients on something new once in a while!

Egg Matching

If you have been in the kitchen for a long time, you will already know that eggs are versatile and compatible with any condiment out there, regardless of whether you are making an omelette, scrambled egg, or a frittata. The inclusion of a little condiment is pretty acceptable when you’re making various egg dishes. It is something you should love to do!

Support for Starch

Some condiments are also great complementary ingredients for starch recipes, like rice and pasta. This is especially true if you are preparing these dishes in a frying pan or by stir-frying. Just add condiments like soy sauce a few minutes before the frying ends. After that, you can guarantee you will be eating a sumptuous and savory starch dish!

For your Sandwich

It is quite sad that many people only use mayonnaise, horseradish, and mustard on their sandwiches. This food is as flexible as eggs. Therefore, you should think outside the box and create something new for your favorite pastry treat!

Storage Options For Condiments

Some of the condiments in the market today are still usable even after their expiration date. Just make sure that you store them properly.

There are two particular places where you can put your condiments: the refrigerator and pantry. An unopened bottle of condiment can last up to a year in your pantry (at normal room temperature). However, there are few items that cannot, which I will highlight later.

Once you have opened the condiment, you should store it in your refrigerator. This prevents the interaction of the item with external elements like air and heat, which can make them go off more quickly. However, there are some exemptions to this. For example, staple condiments, like vegetable oils, hot sauce, and vinegar, may not require refrigeration. They are better stored at their designated room temperatures.

Meanwhile, oils with raw herbs and garlic in them should be stored in the refrigerator at all cost. They can be eatable for up to a week. If you store these oils in your pantry, they could form a deadly toxin called Clostridium botulinum.

Here is a comprehensive list for the proper storage of common house condiments. I have referred to the United States of Agriculture (USDA) and other food manufacturers for these guidelines just to make sure. 

  • Barbecue sauce: 1 year in pantry (unopened); 4 months in refrigerator (opened).
  • Non-dairy dips: 1 week in pantry (unopened); 5 days in refrigerator (opened).
  • Dairy dips: 1 week in pantry (unopened); 1 week in refrigerator (opened).
  • Honey: 1 year (both open and unopened).
  • Hot sauce: 3 years in pantry.
  • Horseradish: 1 year in pantry (unopened); 4 months in refrigerator (opened).
  • Ketchup: 1 year in pantry (unopened); 6 months in refrigerator (opened).
  • Mayonnaise: 3 months in pantry (unopened); 2 months in refrigerator (opened).
  • Mustard: 1 year in pantry (unopened); 1 year in refrigerator (opened).
  • Salad dressing: 1 year in the pantry (unopened); 1 month in refrigerator (opened).
  • Soy sauce: 3 years in pantry (unopened); 1 month in refrigerator (opened).
  • Vinegar: 2 years in pantry (unopened); 1 year in pantry (opened).
  • Worcestershire sauce: 1 year in pantry (unopened); 1 year (opened).

Guidelines For Homemade Condiments

Some of us are well-versed enough in the kitchen to make tour own condiments. But these homemade products will require proper handling and storage so that they don’t go off.

  • Two hours after you have made the condiment, transfer it into a container (which must be airtight), like a Mason jar or plastic bin. There is a good chance that the condiment you have made is all-natural. Therefore, it won’t have preservatives in it that can inhibit the spread of bacteria. As a solution, you will have to keep it away from bacterial mediums, such as air and water.
  • It is also proper that you store your homemade condiments in a cool and dark place in your kitchen. If your pantry can provide these conditions, then that should be the spot. But if you have opened the condiment already, the best place for its storage is always your refrigerator.
  • If you are looking for simple preservative for your condiments, then whey is a good option. You can make this ingredient in the convenience of your own kitchen. 

Other Important Resources

Is Country Crock Vegan? Look At The Facts And Find Out!

What Does Saffron Taste Like? This Challenge Is A Test Of Taste!

Need A Substitute For Dark Brown Sugar? You Can Make It Now!

Looking For Tamarind Paste Substitute? Here Are Four Options

Does Garlic Go Bad? (And Other Things You Need To Know About This)

Gluten-Free Baking: What Is There To Know About Xanthan Gum?

Curry Paste Vs. Curry Powder! Which Is The Best Choice For You?

What Are The Best Substitutes For Kaffir Lime Leaves?

What Is The Best Sauce For My Lobster Ravioli?

Soup-like Tomato Sauce Problem: How To Make It Thicker?

To learn more about condiments and spices, you had better check out these special topics that I have written:

Tools Of The Trade

Red Copper Pan

If you want to make your own condiments, then heating and simmering are the necessary methods. For this, you will need a pan to blend your ingredients perfectly. A Red Copper pan is a good candidate for that, as it will guarantee that your food is evenly prepared!

Garlic Press

Garlic is an essential partner to any condiment. It can uplift and alter the taste of any condiment. But you cannot maximize the flavor of garlic if you can’t prepare it properly. A garlic press can come to your rescue. With this simple device, you will no longer have to skin, mince, and crush garlic manually, as it can do all of these tasks with a single press!

Your Guide To Juice, Smoothies, And Other Beverages

Any form of food, regardless of whether it is a snack or a heavy meal, is never complete without a beverage. They can soothe your stomach after eating something delicious. Have you ever experienced that unsatisfactory feeling when you have done munching, and there is nothing to drink at all? Well, we can exclude water here. I know that is not the drink your throat is craving.

There are various types of beverages. A good example of them is juice, which can complement any food we eat. It is great for a snack and also a wonderful addition to your breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In short, there is nothing wrong with this drink!

Another beverage that we are all so familiar with (and addicted to) is coffee. However, I will not discuss this drink further as I have created a separate section for it. This is because it is a “broad” category that requires thorough discussion.

In this section, I will highlight other liquid refreshments that are common today. This is a comprehensive lesson, so I hope that you will pay attention to the details. After reading this guide, you will certainly be able to make the right drink to quench your thirst! Let’s get started!

Your Guide To Juice, Smoothies, And Other Beverages

Different Types Of Juice And Beverages

There are different classifications of juices that are helpful as they will help you to segregate your ingredients for juicing purposes. Of course, if you aspire to have a small juice business, you will really need to know all of the different juice varieties.

Tropical Juice

Tropical juices are usually made from pineapple. A good example of this is the famous and in-demand cocktail Pina Colada, which imbibes the spirit of leisure and fun.

Tropical juices are one of the favorites of many Americans nowadays. Most pineapples sold in the local markets of the United States are produced in Hawaii. Others have been exported from Southeast Asian countries, like Philippines and Malaysia.

Pineapple juice should be kept cold and refrigerated, as the low temperature will prevent the sugar in this fruit from fermenting. If this happens, the juice has a fizzy texture in the mouth. However, there are some pineapple juice variants, like the Guapo de Pina, that do require the fermentation process.

Other types of tropical beverages we love are mango and banana juices. There are a lot of people who find mango juice too sweet, but you can neutralize this if you mix it with pineapple and banana. In fact, the combination of these ingredients is great for smoothies.

Citrus Juice

When it comes to refreshments, it is citrus juices that are the big stars! All of us are familiar with orange juice, but there other types of citrus fruits that can be made into juice. Some of these are lemon, grapefruit (not to be confused with grapes), and lime.

Citrus juices are very popular. In fact, they comprise of around 40% of the total juice varieties that you see on the market today. This is due to their profound capacity to quench our thirst. Drinking chilled orange will boost your senses.

You can also dilute citrus juice with iced water to regulate its sweetness while emphasizing its sourness. If you want it pure, use a citrus extractor to squeeze out the juice from the fruit.

Citrus fruits (especially lime and grapefruit) are excellent ingredients for marinades. You can use them as souring agents for fish, pork, and beef marinades. Meanwhile, you should wash goat meat with lime to remove its pungent smell. 

Berry Juice

Most berry juices have a sour and tart flavor. A good example of this is cranberry juice. Although it has a refreshing taste, its palate is actually less sweet, and you cannot consider it sour either. It is in the middle of the flavor spectrum, which makes it a good cocktail.

Making berry juices is not easy, especially if you don’t have the appropriate tools and skills. Fortunately, they are widely available today. In fact, the majority are produced in the United States.

Meanwhile, other types of berries, like raspberry and blueberry, are more suitable for smoothies rather than juices due to their seeds and skin. Their sugar content is also too high, which is the opposite of grapes and cranberry.

Raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries can be freely combined with yogurt and milk because they do not have citric acid. They won’t cause curdling either! If you are going to buy berry juice, make sure that it has a “100 percent” label on it. Those that have “cocktail” and “drink” labels on them aren’t pure, as they have added sugar.

Seasonal Fruit Juice

You should not ignore the deliciousness and health benefits of seasonal fruit juices, as they are quite popular, even if you are not particularly aware of them. Your favorite apple juice belongs to this category. Although it comes second in popularity to orange juice, its taste is undeniably refreshing.

Apple juice is a small niche beverage whose commercial production is not that big, and there are sub niches of apple juice from small producers that have a dry, light taste that make you feel like you are consuming raw apples!

If you are planning to make apple juice, make sure that you ferment the fruit first for three days. You must do this even if the fruit is already refrigerated. You can complement apple juice with grape juice, which tempers its natural sweetness. However, the process of creating this “hybrid” juice is quite complicated as it involves bell jars and funnels. 

Vegetable Juice

Fruits are not the only ingredients included in juices. Vegetables can also support your healthy lifestyle. Commonly known as “green juices,” vegetable juices are becoming more and more popular today. Those who are into the Paleo diet are quite familiar with this delicacy.

Let me put you straight. These juices are no fad. If we consider their nutritional value, they easily topple fruit juices. Moreover, their taste is not bad at all. I even consider them to be great complementary supplements for light snacks.

The combination of cucumber, cilantro, celery, and kale makes a great juice. Its sweetness is comparable to apple, and it also has a hint of spice that is similar to lime. You can experiment with the order that you pour the vegetables into the juicer. Ideally, you want to put the celery in the last of all as this will flush down the rest of the vegetables. 

Smoothies

Another beverage people love is the smoothie. These are not simple beverages, as they fill your stomach and so can become great replacements for standard meals and snacks. Of course, they also provide adequate nutritional contents for your body too.

However, there are a lot of skeptics when it comes to their health benefits. Some dietitians have pointed out that they contain a high level of sugar and fat (which comes from the fruit and yogurt). But some people, such as bodybuilders, need to consume smoothies on a regular basis, as they contain lots of protein.

Fortunately, you can easily curb the negative effects of smoothies. Here is what to do:

  • Freeze the fruit you are going to use. 
  • Add more proteins (like whey protein) for a quick breakdown of the amino acids.
  • Use non-fat yogurt or milk.
  • Add water from the coconut, which will thin down the smoothie.
  • Use alternatives to sugar, such as sweeteners like agave syrup. This is similar to honey, but sweeter. It doesn’t have too many glycemic contents so it won’t cause a surge in your sugar level. 

Shakes

You might assume at first that smoothies and shakes are the same thing, and it is true that the process of creating both drinks is plainly the same. But, despite these shared characteristics, the two beverages are not the same. For a stat, shakes are creamier than smoothies. On the other hand, smoothies range from being thick to thin, depending on the type of fruit or vegetable pulp that you use.

Also, shakes are loaded with protein, which are essential for these drinks. Smoothies, in contrast, do not need protein. This is the main reason why many people opt for shakes rather than smoothies, especially if we are talking about their nutritional value.

On the flip side, shakes do not usually use fruit or vegetables as their base ingredients. Instead, they use flavors derived that are from caramel, chocolate, peanut, and vanilla extracts. Some bodybuilders recommend that you drink smoothies before your workout and then shakes after you’ve finished.

Wine

Wine is a type of alcoholic beverage, together with beer, and it is a byproduct of fermentation. Technically speaking, any fruit can be made with wine (e.g. apples and cranberries). However, most of the wine that you see on the market today is made from grapes. Meanwhile, there are other types of wines that are made from rice, such as the ultra-famous Japanese sake.

Beer and wine are different from each other. Although it is true they undergo the same fermentation process, beer is created from brewed grains, while wine is derived from fermented fruit. Of course, there are some rare exceptions to this.

Take note that the grapes used in wine are different from table grapes. Specifically, grape wines are made from Vitis vinifera. This particular grape is smaller than table grapes and contains a lot of seeds. Moreover, it has a sweet taste. The most popular variety of Vitis vinifera is Cabernet Sauvignon. 

How To Choose The Ingredients Of Juice And Smoothies

Before you can create a tasty drink, you must first have the right ingredients. When I say “right”, I mean they should be fresh.

Of course, discerning if a particular fruit or vegetable is fresh or not is by no means a straightforward thing. Regardless of how much you poke or shake an item, it won’t tell you if it’s good or not.

In this section, I will teach you how to spot fresh fruit and vegetables that you can then use to make juice. 

Fruits

Apples – The color of apples range from red to green to yellow. Always make sure that they have a firm texture, and their color is not dull and fading.

Are you interested in apples? If so, check out this cool, informational content that I’ve written about the fruit:

Bananas – The most delicious bananas have a distinct dark yellow coloration, along with some brown speckles. These are the ideal choice for juicing purposes. Do not store bananas in your refrigerator, however, as it will make them age quickly.

Blueberries – Make sure they have a fresh, bright color and a firm texture. Do not choose mushy blueberries. Also, inspect the container of the fruit for stains and leaks. If you find these, it means there is a good chance the fruit’s already spoiling.

Grapefruit – A fresh, juicy grapefruit is both firm and heavy. You can store it in your refrigerator for up to two weeks, and it will still be good for juicing purposes.

Learn many other important facts about grapefruits by reading these articles:

Oranges – Their brightness and weight are the main indicators of their freshness. Do not buy oranges that have spongy, coarse, or thick skin. These standards also apply to lemons and limes.

Do you want to know the best orange varieties for juicing? If so, you should check this article:

Mangoes – When you are choosing a mango, touch it first. A ripe and fresh mango will have a semi-soft texture. It is comparable to touching peaches or avocados. But it should not be mushy. The fragrance of a fresh mango is strong and aromatic too, especially around the stem area.

Peaches – You can easily determine if a peach is ripe and fresh by touching it. The good ones are moderately firm. They should not be mushy, as this means they are overripe. Never use peaches that are still green because they are not ready yet for juicing and eating. 

Check out this article for comprehensive information about peaches:

Pineapples – Just like mangoes, pineapples that are fresh and ripe have a gentle, soothing aroma. They should be heavy too, in accordance with their size. Meanwhile, the leaves or crown should be firm and green.

Strawberries – This fruit should be firm and the cap stems need to be still connected to their bodies. Skip strawberries with uncolored parts, as they have not reached full ripeness yet. Meanwhile, overripe strawberries are excellent for smoothies.

Watermelons – Watermelons can either have seeds or be seedless. Their color usually ranges from red to gold. Make sure that you choose one with dark-colored seeds and avoid those with white-colored streaks on them. If you are going to buy a whole watermelon, make sure it has a symmetrical shape. The skin should be smooth and a pale green color. 

Vegetables

Carrots – Good carrots should have firm bodies and be dark orange. Do not pick any that are flabby or have mushy roots, as there is a good chance they are going off.

Tomatoes – Tomatoes that are good for juicing will have smooth surfaces and a plump, heavy body. They should also be free from blemishes and cracks.

Spinach – Fresh spinach has dark green leaves. Do not get spinach that is wilted and shriveled, and make sure the leaves are not faded.

Cabbage – A fresh cabbage should have a heavy, compact head and look fresh and crisp. The leaves need to be intact and the stems should not feel limp.

Broccoli – Avoid buying broccoli that has bruised skin. Instead, choose those that have dark green bud clusters. The head of the broccoli should be compact as well.

Celery – Celery is fresh and good for juicing if the stalks are firm and packed. The ribs should feel crisp, but any with wilted leaves are a big no.

Sweet Potato – Large sweet potatoes are great for juicing as they are rich in starch. The skin should be smooth and firm. The coloration of the surface should be even. Meanwhile, sweet potatoes with deep colors have high beta-carotene content. 

Standard Method Of Creating Juice

1. First, prepare the ingredients and your juicing device. Then, you can start the juicing process.

2. Before you use the ingredients, make sure that you wash them first. Even if you have got the freshest of fruits or vegetables out there, it’s still not a guarantee that they will be free from bacteria. This is extremely necessary for making any juice.

3. If the juicing device has a pulp basket, you can put a plastic bag on it. This will make it easier to clean the juicer after the juicing process.

4. Make sure the ingredients can fit in the juicer. If it they are too large, cut and slice them first. But remember that cutting vegetables can cause their nutrients to be lost. Therefore, only cut them when you are making the juice, and not before.

5. If your juicer has a variable speed setting (it can operate at different speeds), you need to shift from a high to a low setting when you are dealing with soft ingredients. Fortunately, most juicers today have manuals that will tell you the prescribed speed to use for particular ingredients.

6. Always check if the pulp can still produce juice after you have passed it through the juicer. If the pulp is damp, then that means there is still some leftover juice in there!

7. After you have successfully made the juice, clean the juicer immediately. If your juicer is dishwasher safe, this will be a breeze. But if it is not, just follow the manual approach. Wipe the device with soap and warm water and let it dry on a drying mat.

Standard Method Of Creating Smoothies And Shakes

1. Just like making juice, prepare all the ingredients and the device. You can choose whatever fruit and vegetable you want in a smoothie recipe. In fact, you can even mix them. You just have to acquire the necessary ingredients: yogurt, ice, and juice.

2. Place the fruit or vegetables in a food processor like a blender. Don’t forget to wash the main ingredient first before putting them in the device. If they are too big, you should slice them into pieces.

3. Pour any type of fruit juice into the blender. You can also use milk and soymilk as alternatives. Some people prefer water as the main solvent of their smoothies. Use a measuring cup to get the right amount of liquid for your smoothie. You should also add a cup of frozen or flavored yogurt into the blender. If you want the smoothie to be a non-dairy one, just remove the yogurt and increase the amount of fruit and juice by 1/2 cup, respectively.

4. For those who want their smoothies to be healthier, add powdered supplements. You can even pour a teaspoon of flaxseed and wheat germ, but these are just optional ingredients, which you don’t have to include.

5. If you want a thick smoothie, put a lot of ice in the blender. A cup of crushed ice is great way off of making a moderately smooth smoothie you can drink through a straw. You can ignore the ice if you are using frozen fruits. This will make the smoothie thin in texture. Blend the mixture properly until the desired taste has been achieved.

Learn more about smoothie making here:

Storing Tips For Juice

  • Create Double Servings

Ideally, you should create two batches of juice per single juicing process. You can drink the first batch and then store the other one. This will maximize the full juice potential of your ingredients, and also prevent unnecessary wastage from happening.

  • Storing in the Containers

You should not store the juice in the refrigerator or any container for longer than 72 hours. If you are bringing juice along on a short excursion, store it in a cooler or specialized airtight container. This will keep both the juice’s taste and deliciousness.

Always keep the container full to make it is airtight, as oxygen can cause the juice to lose all of its nutrients. Also, make sure it is not exposed to harmful elements like light and heat. 

  • Freezing

You can also freeze the juice. But this will make the flavor less tasty and desirable. If you are planning to freeze the juice, make sure that it is done right after the juicing process. Melt the frozen juice in your refrigerator and then drink it within five days. 

Tools Of The Trade

If you want to quench your thirst, drinking iced tea is a good idea. You can always make it in the traditional manner. But, if you crave the right flavor and temperature, you must have an iced tea maker. With this device, you can easily make this beverage, regardless of the number of servings that you have to make. I have spotted several great iced tea makers during my research. You can see them here!

People who are huge fans of citrus juice (such as orange and lemon juice) should definitely have a citrus juicer in their kitchen. This particular kitchen appliance is a hassle-free way of preparing this drink. You might already know how difficult it is to extract juice out of these fruits manually. In contrast, a citrus juicer is more convenient and will make your life comfortable.

If you want your juice to acquire all of the essential nutrients from its source, you better get a masticating juicer. It is true that this device is on the expensive side, but you should understand that these juicers are far from ordinary. They will chew and grind your ingredients until all of the extracts have been squeezed out. Regardless of whether you want fruit or vegetable juice, this device can guarantee that you get the most out of them.

These blenders are not the typical ones you will see in many kitchens today. A protein shake is a unique recipe. Most protein powders today have a rather clumpy and chalky texture. They tend to get sticky, especially if you mix them with a spoon. A specialized blender can solve this problem for you. It can cope with these ingredients if you add other elements, such as your favorite fruit and vegetables!

If you want a compact blender that will fit nicely into your small kitchen, you must invest in a personal blender. This particular tool still has the capacity to make various recipes for smoothies and shakes. Some of the models can even create purees! For people who want to dispose of their big, bulky blenders, these compact personal blenders might be a great alternative.

If you want to have a device that can crush thick ice for your shakes and smoothies, you better get the best blender on the market. Unlike specialized blenders, an all-around blender possesses more power to deal with tough ingredients, such as vegetables and ice. I have listed all of the top-rated options for this tool here. Check them out!

If you want to refine the taste and texture of your wine, so that it reaches the next level of finesse, you will need to get a wine aerator. This wine accessory aerates your wine, which ensures that it will reach the optimal level of oxidation and evaporation. After these chemical reactions have taken place, the flavor of the wine will improve significantly. Aerators are also way better than decanters. You can learn more about wine aerators by checking out this content.

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