Tag: gadgets

Essential kitchen gadgets & appliances that inspire creativity in cooking

Essential kitchen gadgets & appliances that inspire creativity in cooking

A well-equipped kitchen makes cooking enjoyable, efficient and, most importantly, successful. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook who loves to experiment, having the right appliances on hand can make all the difference in how meals come together.

From the basics to the more advanced gadgets, the following are essential kitchen gadgets and appliances that can elevate your cooking experience.

Meat thermometer

1. Meat thermometer

One of the most crucial tools for any home cook or chef is a meat thermometer. Ensuring that meat is cooked to the correct internal temperature is vital not just for taste, but also for food safety. Undercooked meat can lead to foodborne illnesses, while overcooked meat tends to be dry and flavourless.

A reliable meat thermometer provides an accurate temperature reading, allowing you to cook meat perfectly, whether it’s steak, chicken, pork or fish.

Importance of Using a Meat Thermometer:

  • Precision: Guarantees that meat is cooked to the desired doneness, whether you prefer rare, medium or well-done.
  • Safety: Ensures that meats reach safe internal temperatures to kill bacteria. For example:
    • Chicken and turkey should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
    • Beef and pork are safe at 145°F (63°C), while ground meat should reach 160°F (71°C).
  • Consistency: Helps produce consistent results every time, so you can replicate your best dishes confidently.

Best Practices:

Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone for the most accurate reading. Using a digital or instant-read meat thermometer will provide quick and reliable results, making it easier to ensure your meat is cooked perfectly.

Food processor

2. Blender or food processor

A blender or food processor is a versatile appliance that every kitchen should have. Whether you’re making smoothies, soups or sauces, a high-quality blender can handle various blending tasks. A food processor goes further by chopping, slicing and shredding, making it great for meal prep, from chopping vegetables to making dough. This appliance speeds up many kitchen tasks that would otherwise take up precious time, allowing you to enjoy cooking more and spend less time on tedious prep work.

When to use:

  • Making purées or soups
  • Preparing sauces and dressings
  • Chopping vegetables and nuts

Stand mixer

3. Stand mixer

A stand mixer is essential for those who enjoy baking or making dishes that require heavy mixing. It makes tasks like whipping cream, kneading dough or mixing batter much easier than doing it by hand. A stand mixer can often be used with various attachments, making it a multi-functional tool that adds value to any kitchen.

Key uses:

  • Kneading dough for bread or pizza
  • Mixing cake or pancake batter
  • Whipping cream and egg whites

4. Slow cooker or multi-cooker

A slow cooker is a fantastic addition for anyone who appreciates convenience and depth of flavour in their meals. It allows you to set and forget your cooking, making it perfect for soups, stews and braised dishes. For added versatility, a multi-cooker, which often includes functions like pressure-cooking and sautéing, takes this convenience to the next level by combining multiple cooking methods in one device.

Perfect for:

  • Stews, soups and chilli
  • Roasting meat
  • One-pot meals for busy weeknights

Air fryer

5. Air fryer

Air fryers have surged in popularity thanks to their ability to create crispy, delicious food with little to no oil. This appliance is a healthier alternative to deep-frying and is ideal for making everything from French fries to chicken wings. Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food, creating a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside moist and tender. It’s a must-have for anyone looking to enjoy healthier versions of their favourite fried foods.

Why you need one:

  • Quick cooking times
  • Healthier alternative to deep-frying
  • Versatile cooking options, including baking and roasting

6. Microwave oven

A microwave is more than just a tool for reheating leftovers. It can be used for steaming vegetables, defrosting meats and even cooking certain dishes. Modern microwaves often come with various settings and power levels, making them more versatile than ever. They’re essential for quick meals and efficient food prep, especially on busy days.

Benefits:

  • Quick and efficient for heating and cooking
  • Great for defrosting ingredients safely
  • Can be used for specific recipes that require quick cooking times

7. Toaster or toaster oven

A toaster is essential for quick breakfasts and light snacks, while a toaster oven adds more functionality, allowing you to bake, broil and reheat small portions. Toaster ovens are perfect for toasting bread, melting cheese on sandwiches or even baking small desserts. The added versatility makes a toaster oven a valuable tool in any kitchen.

Use Cases:

  • Toasting bread or bagels
  • Baking small items like cookies or muffins
  • Reheating leftovers without using a full-size oven

8. Rice cooker

For those who enjoy rice regularly, a rice cooker is a must-have. It simplifies the process of making perfectly cooked rice every time, freeing up your attention for other parts of meal preparation. Many rice cookers come with added functions for steaming vegetables or cooking other grains like quinoa, making them even more versatile.

Why it’s helpful:

  • Takes the guesswork out of cooking rice
  • Can double as a steamer for vegetables
  • Keeps rice warm until serving

9. Coffee maker or espresso machine

For coffee enthusiasts, a quality coffee maker or espresso machine can transform mornings and gatherings. Whether you prefer a basic drip coffee maker or a more sophisticated espresso machine, having one at home can save time and money while allowing you to enjoy your favourite brews whenever you like.

Features to look for:

  • Programmable settings for convenience
  • Options for different brew strengths
  • Built-in grinder for freshly ground beans

10. Electric kettle

An electric kettle is perfect for quickly boiling water for hot drinks or instant foods. It’s more energy-efficient than using a stove and heats water in a fraction of the time. Look for a model with temperature control if you enjoy different types of tea that require specific water temperatures.

Uses:

  • Making tea or coffee
  • Pre-boiling water for recipes
  • Preparing instant soups or noodles

Conclusion

Stocking your kitchen with essential appliances can make cooking more efficient, enjoyable and successful. From the convenience of an air fryer to the precision of a meat thermometer, having the right tools ensures that you’re prepared for any recipe and cooking task. The meat thermometer, in particular, stands out as a vital tool for anyone who cooks meat regularly, ensuring safety and enhancing flavour by achieving the perfect doneness.

Each of these appliances contributes to a well-rounded kitchen setup that can accommodate various cooking styles and needs. For those interested in refining their cooking and ensuring the best possible outcomes, adding or upgrading your kitchen appliances is a step worth considering. Exploring more about meat thermometers and finding options that suit your needs can make a significant impact on your culinary confidence and success. For more insights, check resources like this page.

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Creature comforts every home should have

Creature comforts every home should have

Creating a comfortable and inviting home environment is one of the best things you can do if you want to enhance the quality of your life overall. Our homes should be a sanctuary where we can relax, unwind and enjoy time with our loved ones. In order to achieve this, there are several creature comforts that you can add to your space, some of the best we’ve listed below.

1. A smart thermostat

A smart thermostat is an excellent investment for any home, allowing you to personalise your temperature settings for optimal comfort. These devices can be controlled remotely through a smartphone or tablet, enabling you to adjust the temperature from anywhere, ensuring that your home is always at the perfect temperature when you arrive.

Not only that, but a smart thermostat can also help you save on energy costs by learning your habits and adjusting the temperature accordingly. This can lead to reduced energy consumption and a smaller carbon footprint, making smart thermostats an eco-friendly addition to your home.

2. A bean-to-cup coffee machine

A bean-to-cup coffee machine is a wonderful addition to any home, enabling you to enjoy the luxury of freshly ground coffee without having to leave your kitchen. Devices like the best Sage coffee machine will grind whole coffee beans on demand, ensuring that your morning brew is as fresh and flavourful as possible.

Investing in a bean-to-cup coffee machine not only provides you with delicious coffee at home but also offers significant convenience and cost savings compared to frequent trips to the coffee shop. The ability to create barista-quality beverages in the comfort of your home can save both time and money in the long run.

3. Ergonomic furniture

Ergonomic furniture is designed to provide optimal support and comfort, helping to promote good posture and overall wellbeing. Investing in ergonomic chairs, sofas, and beds can significantly improve your comfort at home and reduce the risk of developing aches and pains associated with poor posture.

When selecting ergonomic furniture, look for chairs with adjustable lumbar support, armrests and seat height to ensure a proper fit. Choose sofas with supportive cushions and a comfortable backrest. For beds, consider a mattress that provides the right balance of support and comfort for your preferred sleeping position. By prioritising ergonomics in your furniture choices, you can create a more comfortable and supportive home environment for you and your family.

4. Indoor plants

Indoor plants not only add a touch of natural beauty to your home but also help improve air quality by removing toxins and producing oxygen. Incorporating greenery into your living space can create a more soothing and calming atmosphere, making your home feel more inviting and comfortable.

When selecting indoor plants, consider choosing low-maintenance varieties that can thrive with minimal care. Things like cacti, succulents and snake plants are all good options which are known for their hardiness and ability to adapt to various light conditions or lack of water. By adding easy-to-care-for plants to your home, you can enjoy the benefits of greenery without the added stress of frequent maintenance.

5. High-quality linens

Investing in high-quality linens, such as sheets and towels, can significantly enhance your home’s comfort. Good-quality linens are more durable, soft and luxurious, providing a superior experience compared to cheaper alternatives. They also tend to last longer, making them a smart investment in the long run.

Quality sheets can also have a noticeable impact on your sleep quality, as they help regulate your body temperature and provide a soft, comfortable surface on which to rest. Similarly, plush, absorbent towels can make your daily routines more enjoyable and relaxing.

6. Ambient lighting

Ambient lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere in your home. Soft, diffused lighting can make spaces feel more comfortable and relaxing, while brighter lights can energise and invigorate.

To achieve the perfect balance of ambient lighting, consider layering different light sources such as floor lamps, table lamps, and ceiling fixtures. his allows you to adjust the lighting levels to suit your needs and preferences, creating a versatile and adaptable home environment.

7. Soundproofing solutions

Soundproofing solutions can help reduce noise pollution, ensuring a more peaceful and quiet home environment. This is particularly important for those living in busy urban areas or near neighbours.

Some effective soundproofing methods include adding insulation to walls and ceilings, using draft excluders on doors and windows, and placing thick rugs or carpeting on floors. Investing in double or triple-glazed windows can also significantly reduce noise transmission from the outside.

8. Multi-purpose kitchen gadgets

Multi-purpose kitchen gadgets can help simplify meal preparation and cooking, saving you time and effort. These versatile appliances often combine multiple functions like chopping and grating or slow cooking and yoghurt making, allowing you to perform a variety of tasks with a single device.

Some popular multi-purpose kitchen gadgets include food processors, slow cookers and air fryers. These appliances can perform various functions, from chopping and mixing ingredients to cooking entire meals, making them invaluable additions to your home kitchen. By choosing space-saving and versatile gadgets, you can streamline your cooking process and make your kitchen more efficient and enjoyable to use.

9. Outdoor living space

Extending your home’s comfort to your garden or patio can greatly enhance your living experience. Creating an outdoor living space allows you to enjoy the fresh air and natural surroundings while still enjoying the creature comforts of home.

Consider adding comfortable outdoor furniture, such as lounge chairs or a hammock, to encourage relaxation. Adding features like a fire pit, outdoor lighting or a water feature can also help create a soothing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a long day.

10. A home-entertainment system

A well-designed home entertainment system can create an immersive audiovisual experience, bringing movies, music and games to life. Investing in high-quality speakers, a large screen or projector, and the right audio equipment can greatly enhance your home’s entertainment offerings.

When selecting components for your home entertainment system, consider factors such as room size, layout and your personal preferences. Research and compare different products to find the ones that best suit your needs and budget.

11. Smart home technology

Smart home technology can greatly enhance your home’s security, comfort and convenience. From controlling lighting and temperature (as we mentioned earlier) to managing security systems and appliances, smart devices can help simplify your daily routines and provide peace of mind.

To create a connected home, invest in compatible smart devices and integrate them using a central hub or app. This allows for seamless control and monitoring of your entire home, creating a truly modern and convenient living experience that will enable you to sit back and relax instead of having to get up and down every time you want to switch something on or turn it off.

12. Dedicated relaxation space

Having a designated relaxation space in your home is a great way to reduce stress and promote better mental wellbeing for the whole family. This area should be free from distractions and designed to encourage calm and tranquillity for maximum effect.

To create a calming retreat, consider incorporating elements such as soft lighting, comfortable seating and soothing colours. You may also want to include calming scents such as lavender or sweet orange oil, relaxing music or a small water feature to further enhance the space.

13. Smart storage solutions

An organised and clutter-free home is key to creating a living environment that is as calm and comforting as possible because when your home is cluttered, your mind is likely to be cluttered too. Effective storage solutions can help keep your belongings tidy and accessible, making daily routines smoother and more enjoyable. Honestly, who doesn’t like the idea of a fitted walk in wardrobe? Even something like having miscellaneous items in rattan baskets can look super chic, too. No matter the size of your space or your home in general, it just feels so exquisitely luxurious to have smart storage solutions.

To maximise storage, consider utilising vertical space with shelves or tall cabinets, and invest in multi-functional furniture with built-in storage. You can also start with easy self storage outside of the home to make sure you have the space necessary to fit your new storage solutions. Additionally, declutter regularly to keep your home organised and comfortable. Use Marie Kondo’s methods and try to do it little and often, and it will be much easier to keep your home clean and clutter-free than you may think.

14. Aromatherapy diffusers

Aromatherapy diffusers can be a great addition to your home, filling the air with calming scents that promote relaxation and well-being. Essential oils can also offer various therapeutic benefits, from improving mood to aiding in sleep.

When selecting essential oils, consider using high-quality, pure oils from reputable sources. Start with a few versatile oils, like lavender, eucalyptus or lemon and experiment with different scents to create a personalised aroma experience in your home. Just be mindful that if you have pets, some essential oils may be toxic and shouldn’t be diffused around them; ask your vet if you’re unsure, as it’s better to be safe than sorry.

As you can see, investing in creature comforts for your home can greatly enhance your daily life and overall wellbeing. By incorporating a mix of gadgets, furnishings and other home additions you can create a truly comfortable and inviting environment. So, what are you waiting for?

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Useful gadgets for a smarter home – room by room

Useful gadgets for a smarter home - room by room

Once upon a time in the not so distant past, smart phones, touch screens and other such gizmos were the domain of Bladerunner, Star Trek and Minority Report. Today, virtually all of us own or use electronics at work or on our person for speed, convenience and enjoyment.  Now, the home is quickly getting in on that act too. Below, we’ve highlighted a few gadgets available for different rooms in your house that will make it a smarter home.

Smart home intercom system

Front door

Let’s begin at the entrance to the home – before you’ve even entered the house. Do you have a door knocker? A doorbell? What about installing a smart intercom? The system consists of a doorbell… so far, so standard. However, the outdoor doorbell unit that’s mounted beside the front door takes the form of a digital touch screen with an integral microphone, video camera (with light sensor) and speaker. Inside the home, are wall-mounted monitors – we’ve seen systems where there have been up to six – wirelessly connected to the outdoor unit.

If you live in a multi-story house, you can answer the door (or not, depending on who you see on the screen) from the top floor – or any room – and let them in without even coming down the stairs. There are models available that allow you to answer the door remotely, without you even needing to be at home. No more journeys to the sorting office to collect missed parcels, no more answering the door dripping wet with shampoo in your hair!

Vivint smart home can give you a few ideas about all the options and configurations that are possible.

Lumie Bodyclock Luxe 750D sunrise alarm colock

Bedroom

We’ve previously reviewed the Resmed sleep tracking system. However, teaming it with a sun rise alarm clock will ensure a superior night’s sleep. If you work shifts or suffer from SAD, a sunrise alarm clock will make it easier getting out of bed and getting on with your day. The clock mimics day break, it’s integral lamp slowly growing in brightness, making it feel as though you’re getting up ‘naturally’. You can choose the alarm from DAB radio or your own choice of streaming music. At the other end of your day, the clock’s lamp will imitate sunset, getting your brain ready for sleep.

Samsung Family Hub™ Wifi-connected American fridge freezer

Kitchen

Of all the rooms in the house, the kitchen is probably the one with the most high-tech gadgets available. There are a range of smart appliances that talk to each other or are connected to your phone. Goods such as kettles, slow cookers, fat fryers, ovens, washing machines… There’s even a kitchen bin that scans items as you throw them away and adds them to your shopping list! One of the most impressive though, are fridge freezers. I remember when having a fridge freezer that dispensed ice cubes and cold water was state-of-the-art. Today, if you’re at the supermarket and can’t remember if you’ve run out of milk, – simply have a look at your phone. Thanks to cameras inside your fridge that are connected to your home’s wi-fi network, you can check what you do or don’t need to add to your trolley! That’s just the start, your smart fridge can keep track on expiration dates. It helps you with menu planning depending on what you have and what needs using up. It helps you order your groceries online. It has a group calendar function where you and the rest of the family can share schedules, reminders, notes and photos using a touch-screen. Its touch-screen can also be used to watch TV or films and stream music or the radio.

Smart home cinema system

Living room

The living room is where you kick back, relax, watch TV, spend time with family and entertain friends. It’s also a great place to undergo an immersive, audio-visual sensory experience. It’s possible to create a smart home cinema set up to rival your local multiplex. Multiple surround-sound speakers, 3D HD TV or projector… all wirelessly connected to streaming services such as Amazon Prime, Netflix or Hulu and controlled via your smart phone.

Naptime Power Nap Assistant

Home office

You know when sometimes, during your working day, you get hit with that mid-afternoon slump? You fight it off with a couple of espressos or a few jumping jacks. You should take heed of your body and have a 20-minute power snooze. You’ll wake up and feel groggy for the rest of the day, you tell me. Not with the Naptime smart eyeshade. Its inventor calls it the “ultimate power-nap assistant” that “improves mood, alertness and performance”. It’s an all-in-one eye mask and headphones with an intelligent music library that plays just the right music to lull you sleep then wake you back up again. It works with EEG technology where it analyses your brainwave activity and wakes you up before you fall into a deep sleep ensuring your brain is refreshed and alert again. It even calculates your nap score using your relaxation and sleep levels and gives you tips to improve the quality of your shut-eye.

Nokia Body+ – Body Composition Wi-Fi scales

Bathroom

The bathroom isn’t a room you’d immediately think you could make smart. How wrong you’d be! From heated mirrors that can stream music or turn into a tv, to digital body fat sensor scales that work with an app on your smart phone or tablet.

Samsung Smart Home screencredit

Throughout the home

The best smart home gadgets don’t work in isolation – they work for you holistically. Using a ‘home hub’ such as Amazon Echo, Google Home or Apple HomeKit you can control almost your entire home.

For example, your home safety & security set up can consist of cameras, door, window and movement sensors, smoke & carbon monoxide detectors and even a flood sensor.

The hub can set the ambiance of every room separately by giving instructions to your Nest or Hive on temperature and light levels. The smart range includes – amongst others – light bulbs, thermostats, radiator valves and smart switches.

You can install wireless speakers in any room in the house and play music via streaming services such as Spotify, Deezer and Google Play. They can be set to play in unison, separately or different things at the same time – all via the hub, tablet or smart phone.

If we’ve convinced you to start transforming your house into a smarter home there are some tech bargains to be had online.

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Top 5 Christmas gadget gifts to get this holiday season

Gold paper wrapped Christmas presents

It’s that time again; the most wonderful time of the year! The season that brings families together in the spirit of giving and joy. Depending on how good you are with picking presents, there might just be a tinge of terror mixed in with all the merriment.

We’ve all been either the perpetrator or the recipient of what can honestly only be described as a less than stellar gift. Maybe even a terrible one. We’re looking at you, pair of socks and multi-coloured, comedy sweater!

As much as we know that gifts are not really what Christmas is all about, it certainly helps to feel confident about the presents you bought and to see sincere joy and amazement in your loved ones’ faces. If in the past you’ve stood in shops, helpless and surrounded by too much choice, this article’s for you.

We’ve decided to take on the role of Santa’s elves and help you come up with some fantastic gift ideas. We’ll focus on gadgets in this post. Gadgets always make great gifts because they tend to be functional and useful, new ones are launched each year, and there’s such a variety available today that it definitely isn’t solely the domain of dads or teenagers any longer.

So, without further ado, let’s see what great Christmas gadget gifts you can get to help spread some festive cheer this season.

XBOX ONE X

Xbox One X

Proudly dubbed the “World’s most powerful console” by its creators, you can rest assured that any console gamer in your family would be absolutely thrilled to receive this gift. Playing games in native 4K HDR has been the dream of gamers for a long time now. To make things even better, all pre-existing Xbox One games will be compatible on the X so it’s a great choice as an upgrade. Especially considering the recent release of some big game titles such as Assassin’s Creed: Origins and Shadow of War that can now be taken full advantage of.

Who’s it for?

Practically any console gamer you know would be ecstatic with this gift.

Alternatives

  • PlayStation 4 Pro: Very similar to the Xbox One X, this console was brought out as a more powerful version of the PS 4. Although not as powerful as the One X, PS is known for the most tantalising, exclusive games.

DJI Mavic Pro drone

DJI Mavic Pro drone

What might have seemed like just a fad a few years ago, they have proved to be anything but. Drones are still popular and more in demand than ever. We’ve only recently begun to realise the potential for these awesome gadgets, for even the average person. From shooting incredible holiday videos to drone racing with VR headsets, they’ve captured the imagination. The DJI Mavic Pro Drone is a higher-end drone and comes packed with capabilities that more than justify that price tag. It has a 12.35 megapixel stabilised camera that can shoot 4K video in up to 30fps and boasts a 27-minute flight time.

Alternatives

  • Parrot Bebop 2: This is a more affordable and slightly lower-end alternative. The biggest downsides being that it’s not as easy to pack up and go as the DJI and doesn’t feature the same build quality.
  • GDU O2 Plus drone: A more direct competitor for the DJI Mavic, this drone features almost all the same capabilities and has a very similar aesthetic.

Amazon Kindle Paperwhite e-reader

Amazon Kindle E-reader

What better gift can you give to the bookworm in your family than a Kindle e-reader? A device that lets you store hundreds… even thousands of books on a single, hand-held, lightweight, portable, tablet-like device? What’s even better, is that the E ink electronic screens are anti-glare so that they don’t strain your eyes and can be read in bright light with ease. Some newer models also come with built-in LEDs to self-illuminate in low light conditions. To top it off, these devices provide you with the widest access to books straight from Amazon itself. The Kindle Paperwhite and Oasis are variations that come enhanced features such as higher resolution screens and the Oasis is even waterproof.

Who’s it for?

Anyone who loves books and is constantly on the go.

Alternatives

  • Kobo Glo HD: The Kobo Glo HD is a like for like replacement for the Amazon Kindle. It’s definitely one of their staunchest competitors in a market dominated by Kindle. This specific model has a similar screen and most of the same features as the Paperwhite.

Sphero R2D2 droid

Sphero R2-D2 app-enabled droid action figure

Since the start of the Star Wars story all those years ago, our hearts & minds have been captured by the adorable and capable android, R2-D2. This unlikely looking droid managed to be both cute, yet completely indispensable with its emotive beeps and bleeps and multitude of tools. The newest in a line of in-phone, app-controlled droids, this one promises to be just as much fun and rekindle your love for Star Wars.

Who’s it for?

It’s suitable for all ages. As long as you can play games on an app you can handle this droid. A fantastic gift for any Star Wars fan in your family or one who has a love for novel gadgets.

Alternatives

  • Sphero BB-8 app-enabled droid: The BB-8 managed to do the seemingly impossible: become a worthy successor to R2-D2 and be just as adorable. It came out a few years ago and reviews have been mostly positive.
  • BB-9E app-enabled droid: This is the “evil twin” of the BB-8. Most users will prefer the BB-8 but this is a great addition if you want to complete the collection.

We hope you’ve found some fantastic and appropriate Christmas gift ideas on our list! Now, with your shopping list done you can finally sit back, relax, and take in all the merriment going around this festive season. If nothing else, maybe you’ve found an idea for a present you yourself want and can now go hint to your family members. And don’t forget to set up your workstation for the new year with a desk from Jason L!

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