We got so much response to last week's Instant Pot show that this week we're talking about other electric gizmos we love in our kitchen. Nancy Leson, who has never seen a thrift store KitchenAid Mixer she didn't want (especially if it's red) has at least four.
I've only got the one KA. It's at least 20 years old and still works fine. In fact, when it comes to KA mixers the consensus is older = better. The older mixers and processors just seem to be more powerful and robust.
My food processor is so old that the printing on it is half worn off. DeGroot has suggested I replace it with something newer. She says, "'I'm surprised it even uses electricity." But why replace something that still works fine?
Nance agrees and opts for repair over replacement whenever possible. In Seattle she likes Ajax Electric, and in Redmond Action Small Appliance. I can't recommend anyone down my way in the Tacoma area because so far my ancient gizmos are alive and well.
Useful and convenient as these appliances are, sometimes there's no substitute for a little elbow grease. Even though we both use old coffee grinders when feeling lazy, Nancy and I agree that you get better flavor from whole spices by hand-grinding them in a mortar. Remember to always heat them up till aromatic first. Many recipes will tell you to toast them in a dry skillet. I've found that 30 seconds in a microwave works just as well.
"I have a greater appreciation for kitchen appliances, having played one." – Anthony Daniels (C-3PO)
