In The Kitchen With Arthritis – DuoGlide Series From Dexter Russell
Cooking can be a real pain when you have rheumatoid arthritis, no pun intended. And it makes eating healthy even harder than it already is. You know you should bypass that take-out you're thinking of picking up but the very thought of going home and chopping all those fruits and vegetables for a nutritious meal makes you cringe. It's time to stop fighting and start considering some adaptive kitchen aids. Maintain your independence with these helpful tips and specialty cutlery items.
First and foremost, is it easy to pick up? Because you can't expect to cut, chop, slice and dice with a knife that you can't even lift. Be sure that any knives you purchase are fairly lightweight and have a large handle. A knife with a vertical handle or two handles is even better. Be on the look out for cutlery specially designed for people with arthritis, as they are most likely to have ergonomically designed handles. The DuoGlide series from Dexter Russell received an Ease-of-Use commendation by the Arthritis Foundation and all four knives feature textured, high-impact handles.
Second, consider your motion. Sliding back and forth is a definite no-go for people with Arthritis. Knives with angled blades can be used in a rocking motion to chop foods rather than sliding for less effort and safer cutting. Chef's knives generally have these wide curved blades specifically designed to be used in the rocking motion and can cut a variety of foods. The versatile DuoGlide All-Purpose Chef's Knife features a carbon steel blade that extends underneath the handle to position the user's hand above the food for greater control and minimal effort.
Third, choose your blade. Never underestimate the power of a serrated edge. A scalloped blade can drastically reduce the amount of effort you have to put into cutting your food, whether its tough meat or delicate vegetables, and it maintains the knife's sharpness. The DuoGlide Bread Slicer features a long serrated blade that is angled just right for slicing a variety of foods with ease.
And lastly, as with any other piece of cutlery, keeping your knives sharpened will better guarantee your safety and the blade's performance. The DuoGlide design is also available in a utility knife and a pairing knife to meet all your food prep needs with comfort. For more information about the DuoGlide series and how to use them check out this video.
Outdoor Approved Ice Machines from Hoshizaki
It's no secret that ice machines are not built to handle every type of situation. Generally their performance is subject to the environment and resources available. But thankfully there are some ice makers better equipped to meet the unique demands of the residential customer.
We all know that having an outdoor ice machine is virtually unfeasible unless your planning to invest in a water-cooled unit. And the gallons of water wasted from a water-cooled ice maker is neither cheap nor environmentally friendly. But thanks to Hoshizaki the prospect of an air-cooled ice machine functioning sufficiently outside has been made possible. With a required ambient temperature ranging from 40 – 100 degrees F and water temperature range of 45 – 90 degrees F, these self-contained units are outdoor approved!
Not only are they equipped for outdoor use these units also feature built-in storage to hold up to 22 lbs, eliminating the need to purchase a separate ice bin. Their undercounter design is less than 34 inches tall (32” ADA compliant units also available) so it fits easily into almost any space, making it perfect for that outdoor kitchen you've been wanting. These models can also be built to accommodate custom cabinetry so they blend in perfectly with any design scheme. And to top it all off these little guys produce the popular cubelet ice, for that chewable texture that everyone loves in their drinks.
See these products on our website for more information. Still not sure if this ice machine is right for you? Get our ice machine buyer's guide to find out which units will suit your specific needs.
Beyond Burgers – Outdoor Cooking Appliances from R & V Works and Holland
With everyone trading in their winter coats for shorts and flip-flops there's no better way to embrace the warm weather than outdoor cooking. But what is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear those two words in the same sentence? Most people would say burgers and hotdogs, or maybe steaks. But we say fried chicken, smoked ribs, and everything in between! This year it's time to think outside the box and explore past the outdoor cooking stereotypes.
People love to socialize in the summer with pool parties and cookouts. If you typically host these large gatherings you might want to consider adding an outdoor fryer to your cooking collection. A fryer is one of the most versatile and resourceful cooking appliances, not to mention everything tastes better once it's deep fried. You can make almost anything from buffalo wings and fried catfish to homemade tortilla chips and desserts like fried ice cream. And with their large capacity baskets and quick cook times you can easily feed a larger group of people in a shorter amount of time. Don't forger to save your oil which will save you money. R & V Works offers a selection of outdoor Cajun Fryers, from large to small, for every individual's outdoor frying needs.
It's true that some things are worth waiting for. And for the dedicated outdoor cook whose willing to devote the time and effort into his or her recipes there's no better outdoor cooking appliance than the smoker. They may not produce quick results, but their the best way to achieve maximum tenderness and flavor. Their sealed cooking chambers helps break down the connective tissues in even the toughest meats, to get fall-off-the-bone ribs, smoked turkey or an entire beef brisket. Smokers are also a great way to utilize rubs and marinades, as their long cook times produce a much stronger flavor. The Cajun Smoker from R & V Works is a great place to start for beginners. With it's pressure regulator to control the PSI in the cooking chamber it's one of the fastest smokers in Louisiana.
Despite all these different options for outdoor cooking we don't mean to insinuate that traditional isn't still delicious. And there's no reason that simple outdoor grilling shouldn't also have limitless options. Holland Company offers a variety of outdoor grills for everyone, from The Companion for low profile cooking, The Wrangler for the heavy duty barbecues, to The Patriot for the old fashioned cook. Not to mention their convection style cooking and “No-Flare” warranty makes Holland grills some of the best on the market. Or suppose you want the best of both worlds; there's a variety of outdoor cooking combination appliances available. R & V Works Cajun Fryer and Grill Combos are a great way to satisfy the entire crowd.
Oyster Roast Checklist – Oyster Knives and Kettles
Oyster Roasts have become one of the biggest low country traditions along the southern coast line. Where as in many other areas oysters are consumed raw or on the half shell, indoors, people in Charelston and the surrounding region gather outside to shuck these little roasted mollusks, drink beer and have a good time until they are spent. If you've been invited to one of these festive gatherings your in for a treat, but to someone who's never attended an event like this the do's and dont's of such an eccentric tradition can seem a bit overwhelming. Here's a little bit of info and a few tips to help any newcomer be prepared for their first shucking experience.
The oysters are typically roasted over an open flame or sometimes even steamed in a large pot or kettle, such as the Cleveland Range Oyster Kettle, which makes cooking more manageable with it's steam control valve. It's not uncommon to find countertop steamers in local bars and restaurants for this same purpose. Items like the EmberGlo Electric Countertop Food Steamer can be used commercially or in a residential environment, should you take it upon yourself to host your own oyster roast.
While the food is being prepared people will generally socialize, drink and maybe even listen to music. You will probably notice long tables or pieces of plywood with large holes cut out in them laid on top of large trash cans. When the oysters are done they will be brought out in large quantities and dumped on to the tables between the large holes (hope you weren't expecting plates and silverware). It is important that you wear something you won't mind getting dirty, as this part can get very messy. The shells are often covered in mud and once opened the oysters are very juicy. Remember to bring a hand towel or lots of paper towels.
Everyone will then gather around the tables trying to find a good spot. If you have short arms it is better to try to stay in the middle of the table to make it easier to reach the pile of oysters. Be sure to bring a heat resistant glove for your non-dominant hand to make it easier to grasp the warm wet oyster shells. For your dominant hand you will need a dull, stout blade, preferably an oyster knife, to pry the oysters open. The Carolina's Best Oyster Knife features a built in hand guard to protect your skin from the rough and jagged texture.
Once that first batch of oysters hits the deck you will find out what kind of crowd your up against. While most people will usually be polite you may be surprised to find those friendly acquaintances you were just conversing with turn into ravenous animals as they shove you aside to stuff their faces.
Amazing & Interesting Egg Facts
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“The Perfect Cup” Hot Chocolate Contest
Good news for chocolate lovers!
With the winter chill setting in JES Restaurant Equipment is looking for the perfect cup of Hot Chocolate. We are asking anyone to send us your best recipe by 12/16/11.
On the 19th our in house chef, Chef Phil, will select several of the entries and make them for our sales team. Our sales team will have a blind taste test, to be posted on our Youtube account the following week, and select the winner. The winner will receive an Orville Redenbacher Hot Air Popcorn Popper! (pictured below)
We are looking for creative recipes – both easy and complex. Send us your best Hot Chocolate recipe to sales@jesrestaurantequipment.com with Hot Chocolate in the subject and we will add your recipe to the list.
We hope to hear from you soon!
Eligibility Requirements & Rules: Contestants must be 18 years or older as of June 15th 2011 and are a legal United States resident residing in on of the 50 United States. Each original recipe must be submitted via e-mail at sales@jesrestaurantequipment.com. We may disqualify published recipes such as but not limited to those in cookbooks, magazines, from food companies, food blogs, or recipe websites. Winners will be required to certify on information or belief that their recipe is their original creation and have not been published or publicized and have not won a cooking/dessert contest.
By submitting your recipe you agree to the rules and eligibility of JES Restaurant Equipment "Perfect Cup" Hot Chocolate contest. JES may also contact you via email about additional specials and contest.A Guide to Holiday Entertaining
The holidays are coming and that means it's time to start rocking around the Christmas tree by throwing a great holiday party. If you're having a little trouble getting started, have no fear we are here to help. Below you'll find a step-by-step guide of how to throw a stellar Christmas party in true J.E.S. fashion.
Holiday Entertaining Guide
The first thing you will need to think about is food. It's always good have a variety of finger foods such as holiday cheese balls, sweet chicken-bacon wraps, spinach deviled eggs and other small party foods on hand. You can find plenty of these recipes on our own Chef Phil Blog. You might want to serve these on party platters with festive red and green colors. Another thing you may want to think about is investing in a residential chocolate fountain like this stainless steel model from Sephra fountains - a fun addition to any tabletop. A fondue fountain is only as good as the food you serve with it. Fruits, marshmallows, or graham crackers make for good dippers with your fountain. You'll also need some Sephra fondue skewers for dipping your fruit, so make sure to stock up on plenty.
Never forget to have a great holiday dessert for your guests. Cupcakes are always a favorite among most party goers. Using a cupcake pan from Nordic Ware will help make this possible. After baking your cupcakes, use a frosting gun that comes with a variety of pastry tips to decorate your cupcakes. Another suggestion would be to make a holiday cake with a Nordic Ware Bundt® cake pan. Use a Christmas tree pan or Christmas wreath pan to make a perfectly sculpted cake. After cooking, make sure to sprinkle powdered sugar, which will add to the festive look of the cake and also the taste.
If you plan on having your guests sit down to eat, make sure you decorate the dinner table accordingly. Give your table a more festive look with Kaydee's snowflake place mats and poinsettia napkins. This will add to your holiday decorations and bring more holiday cheer to your party.
While decorating, you may forget to throw yourself in the mix. In order to be a great holiday party host, you must look the part. That's why we recommend an array of Christmas aprons from Kaydee that will make you look like the perfect little holiday homemaker.
The other thing you should remember are drinks. Bottled beverages such as beer and sodas are great to have on hand. It's good to have a party tub filled with ice so your guests can simply reach in and grab whatever beverage they choose. Polar Ware makes a stainless steel party tub that has a 17 quart capacity. It has two handles that make it easy to carry.
For a formal approach, wine is always a good idea. Cardinal makes a 12 oz. wine glass that adds elegance to your dinner table. Picking a great wine like a Merlot or a specialty wine like the Duplin South Carolina Christmas wine.
Now that you have a better understanding of how to prepare for your holiday party, it's time to get to work so you can put on the best Christmas bash possible in your neighborhood.
Now Ya Cookin'!
J.E.S. Top Gift Ideas for the Holidays 2011
J.E.S.'s Top Gift Ideas for 2011
It's gift giving time again, and we've put together a list of unique and useful gift ideas for kitchen.
Nothing makes a gift more personal than taking the time to choose something that suits the taste and interest of the recipient. If you have a kitchen enthusiast on your gift list, home or professional, take a look at our gift guide.
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Lodge Apple PotsWith rave reviews from consumer magazines like Good Housekeeping and Fine Cooking it's |
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Bottle BuddiesGot any wine lovers on your shopping list? Take a look at our Bottle Buddies by Old Dutch International. These fun characters turn any bottle into a creative statue, and with lots of characters to choose from in a variety of styles including a Waiter, Fisherman, Elvis Impersonator, and Golfers – adding even more personalization to this great gift. |
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Holland GrillOutdoor cooking might not be the first thing to come to mind during this time of cold weather, but more and more people are using grills to liven up the winter and spice up their cold weather menus. In-fact last year, according to a survey done by Weber, 49% of Americans braved the cold and fired up the grill during the winter months. This year you can get that grill enthusiast the grill that is made for all the seasons, the Holland Grill. These sturdy grills are made 100% in the US, and with affordable model like The Wrangler and The Maverick now is the perfect time to experience the joys of winter grilling. |
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Baking SuppliesNothing is sweeter and more welcoming than a home filled with the smell of baking. There |
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ApronsFor the cook who is a jack-of-all-trades we recommend one of our stylish aprons. With |
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Stock PotsFor chefs that love making soups and stews Stock Pots are an essential piece of cookware. Size is the first choice you'll need to make, you will find 12 quart is the handiest for soups, stews, sauces, and chili. Choosing a stock pot may not be an easy task, as each pot will have Stock Pots can also be a great gift for home-brewers as well, which they will need for the brewing – for them Polar Ware is top of the list. |
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Knife Blocks and SetsMany people don't realize the different factors that separate a good piece of cutlery from cheaper models. Factors to consider are steel composition, durability, balance, in addition to aesthetics. But many home cooks have not taken the time to purchase a quality knife set. A matched set is always best – fitting the same block, with similar feel and look, and requiring similar maintenance. We recommend sets by Dexter Russell and F. Dick. Choosing to give a knife set is a gift that your recipient can use for 20 years of more. |
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Mixing BowlsSimilar to kitchen knifes a mixing bowl is something that can be overlooked in the kitchen, but a proper, quality bowl can make a chefs job so much better. We like the Focus 875SBK with it's non-skid silicone bottom bowl in a 2, 4, and 6 quart set. Or for the cook who likes copper the Old Dutch 960 a copper and stainless steel mixing bowl that looks truly unique. |
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R & V WorksReports last year by top grilling companies suggested that December is the second most popular time to purchase items for outdoor cooking. During the winter taste change to bold, richer flavors like stews and chili and it's a great time to start frying for those outdoor meals. Our outdoor fryers by R & V Works make a great gift for anyone ready to spice up their outdoor cooking tools. |
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Coffee ItemsIf you are looking for something both personal and practical for your recipient, if they are a coffee lover then you can find lots of items to help their morning routine. From full coffee makers to stylish accessories. I consider gourmet gift baskets to generally be an ideal gift, which to can tailor to fit the recipient’s taste and your budget. French Presses are also a hot item this year, and if your gift is going to a coffee drinker that has not yet tasted coffee made with a press, then they will be extremely happy to taste that premium cup Holiday morning. |
SMOKE YOUR TURKEY WITH THE R&V WORKS CAJUN SMOKER
Thanksgiving is just around the corner and that means it’s time for you to decide how to prepare your turkey. Some of you may stick to tradition by baking it while others will fry it; however, you may want to try smoking it.
Smoking your meats usually tenderizes the tougher cuts, but it also does a great job of flavoring the meat as well. Smoking your meats has usually been a slower process that uses wood chips, charcoal, corn cobs, etc. They are made of either above ground or in ground pits and these pits are designed to retain heat. Much like other outdoor cooking equipment, smokers have advanced over time with timers, wood feeding bins, and automatic temperature controls. The sluggish time it takes to smoke your meat is the only thing that has remained constant until now.
Preparing a turkey in the oven can take normally 5 hours and with a conventional smoker it can take well up to 15 hours. R&V Works, a leading manufacturer in the patented Cajun fryers, has introduced the Cajun Express Smoker. This smoker allows you to smoke a 15lbs. turkey in just an hour. That’s right, only one hour!
This Cajun Smoker has a patented hydration regulator and food grade with a high temperature door that helps seal in the aid with the high pressure vacuum chamber that smokes meats at supersonic speeds while still giving you perfect tasting meats.
It has been dubbed the “fastest smoker in the Bayou” and several food items can be cooked on this smoker such as whole briskets in just under two hours where as this would be a four to five hour job anywhere else. For further information about this smoker and its cooking times, please review the chart below.
