New cooking utensils are invented all the time. How can one improve the common spatula and spoon? There are as many different kitchen utensils as there are stars in the sky, each with a claim that may or may not be proven. There are however reasonable benchmarks which can assist in the process of determining the usefulness of a kitchen utensil. Silicone cooking utensils certainly fill the gap in some areas. However, as the case should be, each cook or chef will determine what is best for them!
Silicone utensils have been available for a few years and the following list of benefits have been experienced by users:
o Ability to repel water - so that they do not make a mess when taken out of the saucepan
o Resistant to oil, solvent oxygen and sunlight - less mess
o Non-stick - less mess
o Heat Resistant - able to be used in almost any household cooking situation
o Flexible and strong - does not break easily
o Poor conductor of electricity - good insulator
o Low toxicity and chemical reactivity - no reaction with food stuffs
o Microwave safe - can be put into the microwave
o Dishwasher safe - can be washed in the dishwasher (or washing machine!)
o Withstand temperatures up to 270 C or 520 F - normal maximum cooking temperatures
The reputable manufacturers create products that not only have the above benefits but are useful as well. Dexas is such a supplier and their range fits into four categories
1. Utensils such as brushes, spoons etc. with silicone heads and comfortable stainless steel handles - easy to use and no worries with heat.
2. Oven mitts and mini mitts - easy to use and easy to wash
3. Trivets - light and flexible, can be used almost anywhere
4. Pop items. These are unique and innovative items that collapse for easy storage and space in the dishwasher, such as funnels, drainers, strainers and sieves. The pop items are the real point of difference.
The entire product range is
o Color co-ordinated - choose red or grey
o Price competitive - all items
o High quality - warranty
o Practical and heat resistant - as detailed above
They are a tried, tested and better way of enjoying the cooking experience. Silicone products do make things easier.
Silicone cookware was only mass produced form 2004, and new products are coming onto the market regularly. The silicone brush and the collapsible products are the most popular. Try some when next you need one or give it as a gift to someone you love.
