interesting alternative to colander

[Duck]

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B009LABQ1M
Looks to be a good version.  Reviewed on cool tools yesterday.

 

[ttpadilla]

Definitely a space-saver!

 

[anewbiewannabe]

I've got one similar to that from the dollar store. It has a handle so not so great for the coordination challenged I have learned. I use my collapsible steamer basket more since it gives at least double duty.

 

[Almost There]

I like this one - it's cheaper and it will fit all pots.

I'm starting now to collect low profile kitchen gadgets so that the big bulky stuff will go in the yardsales.

I was just given a flat measuring spoon. It only goes up to 1 tsp but my math and science skills are good.

Also on the want list is a flat grater. I have one of those 4 sided things and I've never used 3 of the 4 sides!

 

[Almost There]

Helps if I put the link in before I walk away from the computer!!

http://www.amazon.com/Trudeau-09980...3-6296614?ie=UTF8&refRID=09BV33THDRFCCEF3E92P

 

[anewbiewannabe]

I've got a foldable grater on my list. The stability of the 4 sided ones is helpful to me. I agree---low profile gadgets are definitely a great idea when living in small spaces.

 

[rvwandering]

Helps if I put the link in before I walk away from the computer!!

http://www.amazon.com/Trudeau-09980...3-6296614?ie=UTF8&refRID=09BV33THDRFCCEF3E92P

  We have one like this that we've been using for years. Works well and takes up little space so it a very good replacement for a colander.

 

[akrvbob]

Without running water under pressure or hot water, I worry about those little holes catching food. So what I do is only buy a pot that has a built in colander in the side of the lid. It's easy to clean and does double duty.
Bob

 

[Wabbit]

I have what Bob is referencing. Stainless steel, 4 quart, glass lid with metal frame, picked up at Walmart for under $15 if I remember right. Works real good.

 

[Almost There]

The one thing I am going to miss is the salad spinner for washing lettuce. It's way too big and bulky to think about packing so it's definitely not on the packing list...sigh!

 

[Almost There]

A friend of mine showed me a way to 'spin' washed salad parts without a spinner. She took a towel, laid it out and put the wet stuff in the middle, brought the corners together and then, holding the corners, spun her arm around like she was making a big windup for a softball pitch. I couldn't believe how much water came out. Don't try inside.
http://dontwastethecrumbs.com/2012/08/make-your-own-salad-spinner/

Guy

I like!!

And the humor of that write-up is great...

Towels it is..I need the exercise and I'll be living outdoors anyways!

 

[gypsychic]

A friend of mine showed me a way to 'spin' washed salad parts without a spinner. She took a towel, laid it out and put the wet stuff in the middle, brought the corners together and then, holding the corners, spun her arm around like she was making a big windup for a softball pitch.

My mom taught me that years ago. She used a mesh thing that layed flat but could be gathered instead of a towel until the mesh became rusty after years of use. I started with the towel. I bet the flat mesh item is now updated to silicone. I'll have to keep my eye open for one.

But I love my salad spinner. Playing with it reminds me of my 'job' as a child, 'helping' grandma cook. Fun stuff.

I did see a yt video on using a salad spinner for spinning hand washed clothes. Of course, I'd want a separate spinner for clothes and food so never mind that tip.

 

[VJG1977]

I keep several of these 5 gallon paint strainers on hand.  I also strain my used cooking oil with one.
This strainers also used by winery and juice plants


Amazon 5 Gal strainer

 

[gypsychic]

Never knew those existed. With all the home brewing places in my neck of the woods I ought to be able to find them to try. Thx

 

[LeeRevell]

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B009LABQ1M
Looks to be a good version.  Reviewed on cool tools yesterday.

I showed this to my elderly Mother, as she has trouble handling a pot and lid to drain liquid, and in using a large colander in the sink.  So I ordered two, one for each of us!
Should be perfect for doing boiled corn-on-the-cob and for pasta.

 

[surfer]

"You may also like".......
the folding Potato Masher
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0038HF88Q/ref=pd_aw_sim_k_5?refRID=1DRK5YRT90Q3XN3EKW65

VJG1977, thanks for your tip! Too bad you can't 'spin' your laundry with it

 

[jimindenver]

I just slide the lid back a bit and pour the water out the slit.

 

[gypsychic]

That's an interesting find surfer. I don't need it as I rarely eat actual mashed potatoes, more smashed than anything if going that route but cool gizmo all the same. Great reviews too.

I doubt I'll even take my garlic mincer contraption as I now always smash it 15-20 min before I mince it by hand to help oxidate the enzyme that is so healthy for you. It needs to oxidize at least 10 min IIRC, but 15-20 is better.

Jim, I can never fully drain it when I do as you describe.

Lots of cool gadgets here. I don't get all that excited about technology upgrades like phones, etc but I have way more cooking gadgets than any one person needs. Only reason I have stopped buying them is I keep reminding myself I rarely cook anymore but I can rationalize almost any kitchen gadget. It's an illness. [emoji14]

 

[BC Guy]

Jim, I can never fully drain it when I do as you describe.

It depends on the shape of the lid.  If the lid is reasonably flat, that will work.  If the lid is curved, some of the water will go into the lid.  You have to turn the pot upright and then do it a second time.