These 5 Kitchen Tools Are The Secret To My Cooking Success

**The Evolution of Food Storage: From Ziploc Bags to Vacuum Sealers**

In recent years, food storage has undergone a significant transformation with the advent of advanced technologies. Gone are the days of relying solely on ziploc bags for food storage. While they remain a great option for certain types of food, such as delicate produce or items that cannot be vacuum sealed, they have limitations. One major disadvantage of ziploc bags is oxidation, which can cause food to spoil quickly. The more oxygen present, the faster food breaks down.

**The Rise of Vacuum Sealers**

Enter vacuum sealers, a game-changer in the world of food storage. These devices use a special bag with a valve to create an instant vacuum seal, preserving freshness and extending shelf life. Vacuum sealers are no longer just for chefs and restaurants; they can be used by home cooks like you and me. One example is the portable mini vacuum sealer from Zwilling, designed to fit in a drawer, making it easy to whip out when needed.

Vacuum sealing has completely changed the way I store my food. When it comes to storing fresh produce, especially after slicing or cutting, vacuum sealing extends the refrigerator life of my veggies by at least double. This is because oxygen exposure causes food to spoil quickly, and vacuum sealing prevents that from happening. Meat and fish can also benefit from vacuum sealing when freezing them long-term.

**The Benefits of Vacuum Sealing**

Vacuum sealing has numerous benefits for home cooks. Not only does it preserve freshness but also extends shelf life. For example, when storing dried or pantry goods, vacuum sealing keeps them fresh for a longer period. Additionally, vacuum sealers can be used to make cooking and food handling easier and more efficient.

**Upgrading Kitchen Tools: The Spider Strainer**

Another kitchen tool upgrade that has revolutionized the way I cook is the spider strainer. For years, I relied on traditional pasta strainers, which are bulky and limited in use. However, the spider strainer has changed everything. This versatile tool can be used for a variety of tasks, such as blanching vegetables, cooking pasta, and even deep-frying foods. Its portability and ease of use make it an essential addition to any kitchen.

The spider strainer comes in different shapes and sizes, with material options ranging from wood handle to stainless steel. While the wooden version can be a bit rustic, the stainless steel option is more durable and easy to clean. As you may expect, the stainless steel model allows for quick dishwasher cleaning, making maintenance a breeze.

**The Evolution of Cooking: From Traditional Methods to Modern Tools**

In recent years, home cooking has undergone significant changes with the introduction of modern tools and technologies. While traditional methods remain important, these new upgrades can greatly support and enhance your culinary journey. As you experiment with new recipes and techniques, it's essential to have the right tools to bring them to life.

These five kitchen tool upgrades – vacuum sealers, spider strainers, and others (not mentioned in the text) – have transformed my cooking experience and encouraged me to explore new possibilities in the kitchen. From preserving freshness to making cooking easier, these tools have become an integral part of my daily culinary routine.