Working for a culinary magazine, my mailbox is often flowing with product samples. From cookbooks and sweet treats (think Hill Country French Champagne sorbet from Talenti gelato) to exotic creations (what is that you want me to eat?) you never know what to expect. One thing’s for sure — mail time is full of surprises and it gets you anxious to try these new products out.
A few weeks ago, a box arrived with the SKrAPR, a cleaning tool that looks like a paint scraper, but is made with a patented blend of resins that will not mark or damage any surfaces. Rather than savor the richness of the Belgian chocolate on my desk, it was time for some spring cleaning. I took the SKrAPR out of the packaging and scraped away. I had some tape on the floor irking to be removed and some build up on a baking pan that I had just about given up on — both not on the top of my list of things to do. But hey, cleaning was going to be fun today.
One thing that I do like about the SKrAPR is that it is non-scratching and will not mark or damage the surface you are working on. I don’t even try to mess with a razor blade, as I know a disaster will happen, but with the SKrAPR there’s not a worry in the world. Another is that it is completely versatile. While it is originally designed for the kitchen, it can also be used on windows, grills, hardwood floors or for any other uncooperative cleaning chore. Instead of investing in expensive cleaning products that still don’t get the job done, the SKrAPR is a welcome alternative. The product I received in the mail came in the regular size and also a keychain size SKrAPR, easy to tuck away and carry with you.
So, does it get the job done? I was in luck, it worked on all the surfaces I tested it out on either by itself or with just the use of water and the SKrAPR. The only challenge I was faced with was cleaning a rounded surface as the tool is flat, but I think I can manage. I’ve also heard rumors that they will be coming out with more versions, so be on the lookout. If you love this product so much and use it until the edge gets dull, no problem. The SKrAPR comes with a sheet of SKrAPR paper to bring it back to life.
Now I’m just trying to figure out what else I can clean.
The SKrAPR costs $14.99 is available for purchase online.
Disclaimer: While Dine Magazine receives products in the mail for review, we are not required to review any of them. You can be assured that any product we feature in Dine Magazine or on Dine Magazine’s website are products that we recommend to our readers.
Teavana Perfect Tea Maker
There’s something about a warm cup of tea in the morning that I love. The aroma, the soothing effect, the ritual of sharing it make it a welcome addition to my morning routine. Enter the Perfect Tea Maker by Teavana and now I have found my new morning companion. This gizmo is my favorite tea accessory to date, as it is easy to use, perfect for on the go and simple to clean up.
All that you need to do is open the lid, pour the tea leaves in, add 16 oz of hot water and let it steep. After two minutes, set it on top of your favorite mug and the liquid releases. For clean up, just throw it in the dishwasher.
Available for $17.95 at Amazon.
BUILT Oven Mitt and Pot Holder
Who said potholders and oven mitts were boring? Built NY‘s lineup has brought hip and trendy back into the kitchen. They have made these kitchen accessories cool to give and to get. These products, made with an innovative design and textured material are ideal for cooking. There’s no fear of burning yourself here, as these products, made out of neoprene, are heat resistant up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are used to how clumsy oven mitts make you feel, you are about to be surprised. Built NY’s oven mitts fit like a glove and allow for a greater freedom of movement.
Available at BuiltNY.com
Sheer Bliss
If someone wants to win me over, you can spoil me with ice cream. The creamy, rich goodness is the perfect ending to any day. The first time I tried Sheer Bliss ice cream, I knew I had found a new favorite. It’s not your typical grocery store brand, but rather a smooth, luxurious frozen treat with flavors ranging from traditional vanilla to Pomegranate with Dark Chocolate Swirls. This ultra-rich, sinful, frozen treat is in a class of its own. Available at Whole Foods, Publix and other gourmet retailers.
MicroPlane Rasp Grater
If you are looking for one kitchen tool to add to your collection, look no further than the Microplane Rasp Grater ($14.95) from Williams-Sonoma. Originally developed as a woodworking tool, the microplane has saved many knuckles and fingernails from disaster. With its long handle and unique grating holes, it gives your much more control. You will soon be zesting citrus fruits and grating cheeses with style. Available for $14.95 at Williams-Sonoma.
The Body Deli’s Blueberry Fusion Scrub
This scrub is dessert in a jar. The moment I opened it, I wanted to eat it right up, but if you can’t eat it, why not use it to smooth and refine your skin? This fusion scrub combines a blueberry puree full of antioxidants, gentle fruit acids and natural earth particles to make an incredible exfoliator that feeds your skin and leaves it rejuvenated. This luxurious scrub comes from The Body Deli, a company devoted entirely to using all-natural and organic ingredients. $32
Creamy Polenta at Scarpetta at Fontainebleau Miami Beach
Walk, run, do whatever you need to do, but make your way to Scarpetta at the Fontainebleau. Scott Conant has created the most amazing dish and if you haven’t had it, you’re missing out. Chef makes a creamy polenta with a fricassee of wild mushrooms. It’s sinful, but oh so creamy and a visit to Scarpetta is worth it just for this.
Shopping for your foodie friends can be quite a challenge. That is why we taste our way through the year to make your life a little less stressful. Here are some of our favorite food and wine products that will make your holiday shopping enjoyable and can easily be done from your home computer —
Really Good Cookies
For the chocolate lover
If anything stirs up memories of my trips to Belgium, hand selecting my chocolate treats, it is 5th Avenue Chocolatiere. These square morsels of rich and creamy, dark Belgian chocolate are dusted in cocoa powder and melt in your mouth. The only thing better than opening a box would be to visit their shops in New York City and throughout Asia. $15 for a box of 8 at 1800chocolate.net
From the moment I set my eyes on the Signature Cookies from Really Good Cookies, I couldn’t stop dreaming about them. Chocolate Chip cookies layered with rich creamy caramel, semi-sweet chocolate and topped with chunky chopped walnut — you better keep these close to you or they will magically disappear. Besides being sinfully delicious, they are made locally which makes them an even more attractive gift choice. Prices vary, but if you are looking for multiple gifts to send out, you can order these for less than $10/package.
For the festival goer
You know the type — they live and die for the SOBE Wine & Food Festival. This year, they are bummed out because they missed out on tickets to their favorite event because it was sold out. Make their day with SOBE bucks available for $250, $500 or $1000 towards the purchase of tickets to the South Beach Wine and Food Festival. These SOBE Bucks can be used toward the purchase of non-seated sold-out events, and can be purchased from now until January 8th. SOBE BUCKS can be purchased by emailing ashapiro@southernwine.com or calling 305.627.1646.
For the world traveler
You might not have time to travel the world this holiday season, but why not bring the world to your dinner table with Destination Dinners? These recipe kits bring ethnic flavors from around the world straight to your kitchen. Hop on a plane to Thailand one night, Korea the next and then escape to Israel for a sensory awakening. These kits include hard to find spices, instructions, a shopping list and fun facts and trivia about your destination. All priced between $25-$30.
Escape to the eastern Mediterranean with Pera Mediterranean Brasserie’s specialty Mediterranean lamb and chicken. I was immediately drawn to this product, as I’ve been searching for, but had not found the authentic flavors of Istanbul I savored during my time spent in the culturally rich country. The meats are full of flavor, easy to prepare and make these authentic flavors accessible. Enjoy the Feta and Herb Stuffed Lamburger Patty, the Chicken or Lamb Adanas or the Seasoned Lamb Ribs, all priced under $11.95. From now until 12-31-09, receive a 15% discount with promo code HLDYS.
For the “I love anything that has to do with wine” friend
Wine makes anything seem just a little better. If you have someone on your list who is all about wine in any way, shape or form, why not check out these finds?
First up, bruschetta from Vino de Milo. Bring together fresh, aromatic tomato flavors, add in some wine and you have a fantastic spread that will spice up any party. There are 3 flavors to choose from — Artichoke Garlic with Pinot Grigio, Black Olive & Currant with Malbec and Spicy Sun-Dried Tomato with Chianti — all priced at $5.99 and can be ordered online.
If you are looking for the essence of wine to add to your beauty routine, this fragrance collection was inspired by wine. Check out Salud Spabar and learn how to wear your favorite Chardonnay, Riesling, Merlot or Sauvignon Blanc. Eau de Parfum spray is $34.00 and a sampler is $10.00 and can be ordered online.
What about a frozen treat? Ciao Bella offers a Blackberry Cabernet sorbet that is sure to tantalize your taste buds with the fruit forward flavors of currant, plum and cherry. It is creamy, delicious and fat-free. Available at select Fresh Market locations.
For the future chef
Don’t forget the kids this holiday season. It’s time to bring your children into the kitchen for some family time. Baking Kids Love from Sur La Table designed for 8 to 12-olds offers 30 family-friendly recipes, each with easy to follow instructions, scrumptious photography and baking tips for our future bakers. These recipes were created and tested by James Beard nominee and Pastry Chef Cindy Mushet and her 11-year old daughter, Bella so each one is something that kids enjoy. Try their PB & J Muffins, Nuts for Nutella Chocolate Tart or the Be Creative Sugar Cookies.
If you are more interested in having the frosting on the cookies than all over the kitchen counter, the Kuhn Rikon Dual-Chamber Squeezable Decorating Kit would be the perfect addition. These tools will help your little ones create beautifully decorated sugar cookies perfect fill Santa’s belly. Whether you would like to squeeze 2 colors at once or make a intricate design, these tools will save the day. You can buy Baking Kids Love with the Squeezable Decorating Kit for $39.96 at Sur La Table or online.
For the stylish friend
There are salt & pepper shakers, and then there are these salt & pepper shakers. Introducing the Philippi Design Silver Plated Salt and Pepper Shaker at Prestige Identity. This unique gift is the perfect addition to any kitchen table and its both sleek and stylish. Just 3.3″ tall, this beautiful piece of art has 2 chambers – one for salt and the other for pepper, and will soon be eyed by your dinner guests. Available for $30 at Prestige Identity.
You know it — Aprons can be pretty frumpy, but they can also be stylish. It’s time to strut your stuff in the kitchen with these flattering aprons by Tayga. They come in feminine colors, different sizes and there are even mother-daughter styles available. Early next year, men will be in luck too, as they will be releasing their men’s line. Available for $40 – $59 at Tayga, $33 for children.
Do you have so many spices that they get lost? Why not bring them within eye’s view and add some pizazz to their display. The Click Magnetic Spice Rack by Chiasso is contemporary, chic and makes all of your spices easily accessible. Plus you will be more organized and love it. The spice rack is only 12″ x 9″ and will easily fit in even the tiniest of kitchens. Available online at Chiasso for $98.
With the first day of summer right around the corner, both retailers and consumers alike are getting fired upabout barbecue season. Whether you are tailgating before a baseball game or inviting some friends over for a casual get together, you will want to know what’s hot this season. Here are a few things on my wish list:
- Evo Grill – I have been excited about this ever since I laid eyes on it. This easy to clean, stainless steel, flameless flat top grill is heated underneath with 2 burners that provide inner and outer heat zones. These areas can be heated separately to prepare different types of food. The versatility of this is unmatched as it can handle everything from crepes to a grilled turkey and even stir fried vegetables. Add the hood, and now you have an outdoor oven perfect for baking. The Evo Grill will cost you just about $3000 and is available at William-Sonoma (online) and at La Cuisine Gourmet
- QBags – Grilling is great for meat, chicken and potatoes, but try adding food with sauces and it get kind of complicated — until now. These aluminum foil packets have a window in the center of them that peel back to allow you to add small ingredients that might otherwise slip through the cracks, stir your food and also allow you to know when your food is done. The bags are also very convenient as you can eat right from the bag allowing for easy or no cleanup. Distributor jbprince.com
- Delicious Circle – Have you ever had the problem of grilling on skewers that when you put them on your plate, the skewer is sticking out and poking someone or just doesn’t fit properly? The Delicious Circle by Uncommon Goods will fix that. With a curved shape, these skewers will fit perfectly on your plate and allow for a retro look. Selling for $18.00, these skewers come in packages of 8.
