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Buy All-Clad 99009 Stainless-Steel 6-1/2-Quart Slow Cooker At Amazon!

Posted by hgoise on May 21, 2011

All-Clad 99009 Stainless-Steel 6-1/2-Quart Slow Cooker

Buy All-Clad 99009 Stainless-Steel 6-1/2-Quart Slow Cooker At Amazon!

Compare & Purchase All-Clad 99009 Stainless-Steel 6-1/2-Quart Slow Cooker at Amazon by clicking here!

List Price: $199.99

Amazon Price: $199.95

Click Here To Purchase At Amazon!

All-Clad 99009 Stainless-Steel 6-1/2-Quart Slow Cooker Description:

The All Clad slow cooker with black ceramic insert is truly a masterpiece that melds perfectly with your All Clad cookware collection. This work of art is a true performer in the kitchen; and the best part is that all you have to do is add the ingredients. The slow cooker has a 6-1/2 quart capacity, 26 hours of total cooking time and three temperature settings; high, low and keep warm. The product features a full stainless steel housing with an integrated control panel, riveted, cast stainless handles and a glass lid.

  • Amazon Sales Rank: #8268 in Kitchen & Housewares
  • Size: 6½ qt
  • Brand: All-Clad
  • Model: 99009
  • Released on: 2008-03-20
  • Dimensions: 21.35 pounds

Features

  • Oval-shaped 6-1/2-quart slow cooker with integrated control panel
  • 26-hour programmable timer; 3 temperature settings; glass lid
  • Black ceramic inner pot; riveted stainless-steel handles for safe transport
  • Stainless-steel housing; dishwasher-safe parts; recipe booklet included
  • Measures 19-7/8 by 14 by 11-3/8 inches; 1-year limited warranty

Customer Reviews:

Busy mom’s best friend5
I work almost everyday (including Sundays) so this pot has been my life saver (or the dinner saver). My older one was 5qt. cool touch Rival. This All-Clad cooker cooks so much faster than my older one (the inside temperature of All-clad gets 230F in high setting). Ribs and 5 pound chicken done in 4 hours in high. If you want crispy chicken skin, let it cook for 6 hours. I highly recommend this product.

By the way I put small roasting rack when I roast chicken or ribs so that they don’t stew in the dripping. Save the dripping broth. Put it in the fridge overnight, and get rid of the fat. And use it in your soup or stew, of course, this cooker can do that job just fine as well.

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Updated Review: 4/17/2008

I’ve been using this slow cooker at least twice a week. Time to time I would hear “pop” sound either in the middle or toward the end of the cooking time. I couldn’t figure out what was making this sound. One day my husband found cracks on the ceramic insert. They were fine cracks, but the cracks were in inside and outside. I contacted All-Clad. The service rep. told me to send a picture of the cracks. So I did. For several weeks I didn’t hear anything from them. So I contacted them again. Apparently they didn’t get my email with the pictures. So I sent them again. The next day I got a phone call from All-Clad that they would send me a new insert. It arrived a couple of days ago. I made a most wonderful chicken soup with leftover rottisserie chicken yesterday. I’m starting my love affair with this slow cooker again.

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Update Review: 11/9/2009

I wish I could say that my slow cooker insert is still going strong. Unfortunately it isn’t. I really tried to use them (I have gone through 3 inserts) as much as I could – until I could see the leak. I thought of getting a metal insert. However, it costs $200 NOT including shipping and handling. So I got the most modest Rival Slow Cooker: a 7-qt. with a turn dial. I’ve had it for 7 months. So far no cracks. It boils water quicker than All-Clad even in the low setting, but still no cracks. I had talked to an All-Clad rep about a possible defect in the ceramic insert, but she didn’t seem to believe that theory. I wish I could change the rating to 2-star. It could have been 1-star, but I liked All-Clad’s customer services.

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Additional Comment: FYI the 2nd insert cracked within 2 hours in the high setting and the 3rd insert cracked in the low setting. After that I began to think maybe the inserts were defective. I did not abuse them. I only used as directed: high or low and went through the dishwasher. I’m using my humble and simple Rival cooker in the same way, and so far no cracks. I thought of getting the metal insert for the All-Clad Slow Cooker, but it was too expensive: $200 for the insert, over $50 for the metal lid (required for the metal insert) and $70 shipping and handling. Besides the reviews were not good for their non-stick metal insert. I’m very happy with my humble Rival 7 qt. Slow Cooker.

ceramic vs. aluminum version of all clad slow cooker5
I have never offered a review here before, but after using this, just felt like i needed to say something. I have had the smart pots, the large 7qt, the next smaller, and then a rival smaller one…..can’t remember the exact sizes, but my frustration with all of them is that it didn’t matter what setting you put it on, they all “boil”. so i really never felt that i had an option except to cook on low for 4 hours, or cook on “warm” by putting it on low for 20 minutes where it would switch over. cleanup is always a pain, dishwashers just bake the stuff on, and you have to soak it before you can easily wash…….so i was ready to take the risk with this new crockpot after handing over the others to my daughter….they worked, i just didn’t care for the boiling. THEN, I noticed that the all clad comes in two versions…..the first, generally available anywhere is the ceramic insert version ($149)…..NOT to be confused with the aluminum version that costs $249 that can only be ordered through williams-sonoma. i ordered it just prior to thanksgiving from WS, deciding that if i was going to spend 149, may as well spend 249 and see if it really works well…….I am stunned, it’s more than i hoped for. it’s not only beautiful, it’s so easy to cook and clean. you can take the aluminum version and cook right on the stove to brown your roasts, i was worried that the nonstick wouldn’t brown well, but it does fine. it’s light, and i love the two handles on the sides for ease in moving around. cleaning…..wow…..it practically just rinses out, for that alone it’s great…..i’m not sure the ceramic would do the same. as for cooking….that’s the first time i opened the lid to see that it was cooking, and NOT boiling. it has a delayed start, the screen to read from is very bright and easy to read. only drawbacks are that the lid is stainless steel and you cant see through it, but since you aren’t supposed to take the lid off anyhow, it takes away that temptation. you also need to get some tongs or a large spoon that are made for non stick items…….make ahead mashed potatoes slide around inside instead of sticking and scorching, my roast just slid out, and there is no “burnt” residue ring left on anything i’ve cooked so far that usually requires scrubbing……alot of money? yep. but when you figure in cost per use, i will probably double the use because it’s so kitchen and user friendly. i’ve also tried smalle batches of things to see if it cooked any different, it doesn’t, so one slowcooker is all i need. i was also worried that because it heats from the bottom that it would burn, it doesn’t, and the aluminum distributes the heat so evenly, i see no difference in any area of the pot that cooks more or less. being able to go from stove top to crock, saves me one more dirty pan…..if you are considering ditching your old cheap crockpots, save your money and hold out for this one, you wont be disapointed…..it’s great.

WOW!5
Okay, I bought this slow cooker to replace a 3-quart one bought at a yard sale in the mid-1980s – so I suppose anything would be an impressive improvement. However, this slow cooker lives up to its “highly recommended” status deemed by Cook’s Illustrated (the America’s Test Kitchen people). It looks terrific, clean-up is a breeze, and cooks great at a variety of settings. We have made baked apples, stuffed cabbage, corned beef, lamb stew, plus the usual soup/stews – and all have come out beautifully. The warming feature is also wonderful. Worth every penny!

Amazon.com Product Description
Even with a busy schedule, you can still enjoy healthy, home-cooked meals thanks to this easy-to-use oval-shaped slow cooker. Simply add ingredients to the unit’s black ceramic pot, insert the pot into the cooker, and set the 26-hour programmable timer. After a long day at work or a busy day of weekend errands, dinner will be ready and waiting. Perfect for soups, casseroles, pot roasts, curries, and more, its large 6-1/2-quart capacity works great for single-person meals with leftovers or for dinner with the family. Thoughtfully designed, the slow cooker also provides attractive stainless-steel housing; an integrated control panel with an LCD display; three temperature settings–high, low, and keep warm; a glass lid for keeping an eye on the cooking process; and riveted stainless-steel handles for safe transport. The ceramic insert and glass lid clean up easily by hand with hot soapy water or safely in the dishwasher. A recipe booklet comes included for getting started. The slow cooker measures 19-7/8 by 14 by 11-3/8 inches and carries a one-year limited warranty.

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Cuisinart WMR-CA Round Classic Waffle Maker-Retail $55.00! Sale Only $27.72!

Posted by hgoise on May 17, 2011

Cuisinart WMR-CA Round Classic Waffle Maker

Cuisinart WMR-CA Round Classic Waffle Maker-Retail $55.00! Sale Only $27.72!

Compare & Purchase Cuisinart WMR-CA Round Classic Waffle Maker at Amazon by clicking here!

List Price: $55.00

Amazon Price: $27.72

Click Here To Purchase At Amazon!

Cuisinart WMR-CA Round Classic Waffle Maker Description:

The stainless steel waffle maker from Cuisinart with nonstick plates makes four triangular sections at a time. Includes manufacturer’s limited warranty. Style WMR-C.

  • Amazon Sales Rank: #408 in Kitchen & Housewares
  • Brand: Cuisinart
  • Model: WMR-CA
  • Released on: 2003-02-10
  • Dimensions: 4.00″ h x 8.50″ w x 11.00″ l, 5.80 pounds

Features

  • Dual indicator lights; 5-setting browning control
  • Round nonstick cook plate with four quarters
  • Stands on end for compact storage
  • 3-year warranty

Customer Reviews:

The best waffle maker on the market!5
I’ve owned three or four waffle makers and none of them compare to the quality of this gem from Cuisinart. If you’re picky about waffles–and why shouldn’t you be?–then spend a little extra on this model and get effortless results. Here’s what makes this a GREAT wafflemaker:

1) An accurate thermostat–no surprises when you open the lid
2) A consistent heating surface–avoid hot spots or undercooked waffles
3) A variable timer–essential if you have more than one waffle color preference in the family
4) Smart design–it stores on its side, taking up a LOT less space in your cupboard
5) Easy to clean exterior–cleans up with a damp paper towel
6) Dependable non-stick finish–unlike cheap waffle makers, the nonstick finish on this model does not wear out
7) Cool-touch lid–never burn your hand on a waffle maker again

I am genuinely thrilled with my Cuisinart waffle maker and I believe it’s an absolute bargain. If you’re used to spending big bucks on store-bought waffles–or if you have a cheap, junky waffle maker at home–treat yourself to this nice little unit. It’s a low-cost luxury. Plus, you’ll have a fun time making waffles (and impressing your family and friends!). Bon appetit!

Consistent waffling5
Update: Daily use, keeps going and turns out excellent waffles.
I mentioned below that waffle batter can be stored in the fridge. Try leaving it out overnight. The batter turns slightly sour, and still makes great waffles, but with a sourdoughish flavor that is pure heaven with maple syrup. And you can make some and leave it next to the waffle iron the previous night so all you have to wait for in the morning is for this waffle maker to heat up.

Interesting that this product is getting polarized reviews. Either very good or terrible. Here’s my experience and then comments others might find useful.

– I made a batch of chocolate waffles to freeze (to reheat and serve with ice-cream). All 14 turned out perfect. Before that, I made 7 regular waffles that came out GBD – Golden Brown and Delicious. All I did was follow the light and use settings from 3 to 4.
– Going back and forth to get my preferred color was easy because 3 was still 3 after going to 4 (and a bit more). The initial and subsequent uses didn’t cause variations in the color. Good design.
– Wiped all of it clean with a wet kitchen napkin. Easy.
– Miles ahead of my last waffle iron, which required a lot of guessing and waffle rejection.
– DON’T open the lid until you see the ready light. Or bye bye waffles. They do not like to be disturbed until ready.
– A good recipe is important. Don’t use pancake mix, which is simply a combination of the dry ingredients formulated for pancakes and not waffles. Besides it’s a rip-off, like selling $1 unglazed tile as a $20 pizza stone.
– Here’s my adaptation of a Good Eats recipe: 2 cups all purpose flour, tsp baking powder, half tsp baking soda, tsp salt, 3 tablespoons sugar. Whisk together thoroughly. Combine 1/2 qt whole buttermilk or pint full fat yogurt + pint milk and 2/3 stick melted butter and pour into dry stuff. Mix with rubber spatula for ten seconds (don’t overmix, small lumps will be ok). Leave for about 5-10 min. Turn on waffle iron, spray plates with pam or similar spray. Drop two ice-cream scoop-sized blobs slightly behind the middle and let the lid down. Setting: 3-4. Remove when green light comes back on. Easy. Excess can be stored overnight in an airtight box in the fridge.

If I could wish for anything more, it would be for a ready light that was visible from the far end of my long kitchen. The light is designed to be in sight of a normal height person doing other stuff nearby. I have a long kitchen so the light is barely visible from my sink on the other side. Since then I’ve been listening for the “click” that flips the red light to the green.

Great waffler5
I am so surprised by the negative reviews of this product. We’ve had this waffler for a year now and have used it A LOT. I’d estimate 75 times- usually once or twice a week. We’ve never had a problem with sticking and the waffler is going strong. The waffles turn out great, every time.

One thing to consider, waffles require you to use oil in the batter. It’s what gives them the nice crispy golden brown outside, and I imagine it helps with the sticking too. Now, I’ve never encountered a waffle recipe that doesn’t call for oil, but it makes me wonder if those who have problem with sticking are simply using pancake batter???

We tried other wafflers with our regular batter recipe and the results were awful- heavy and dense. This waffler makes a nice light waffle. The selector really works to get the desired done-ness, it’s a great feature and we’ve found the results to be very reliable.

In short, we think this is a great product. Our experience with other wafflers indicates they’re not all created equal, and this one is quite a good model. We like ours so much we’ve completely stopped making pancakes!

Amazon.com Review
Cooking Sunday breakfast for one or two becomes a pleasurable task with this compact waffle maker. Red and green lights indicate when to add batter and when the 7-inch round waffle is done. A regulating thermostat and a five-setting control produce waffles perfectly browned to personal preference. With a brushed stainless-steel exterior and sleek design, the waffle maker looks elegant in any kitchen and stores upright in compact spaces. The nonstick round plate is divided into four quarters and wipes clean easily. This classic waffle maker measures 8 by 9-1/2 by 3 inches, and comes with a three-year warranty against defects. –Ann Bieri

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Prodyne AB-6 Condiments-On-Ice Sale-$23.99!

Posted by hgoise on May 6, 2011

Prodyne AB-6 Condiments-On-Ice

Prodyne AB-6 Condiments-On-Ice Sale-$23.99!

Compare & Purchase Prodyne AB-6 Condiments-On-Ice at Amazon by clicking here!

List Price: —-

Amazon Price: $23.99

Click Here To Purchase At Amazon!

Prodyne AB-6 Condiments-On-Ice Description:

Keep your condiments and garnishes cool and crisp throughout the party with our Condiments On Ice. Spread a bed of cubed or crushed ice on bottom of tray and position the five filled condiment compartments above. Everything stays chilled and fresh for hours. Hinged lid keeps the cold in and bugs out. Crystal clear acrylic tray with five durable dishwasher safe compartments. Each compartment holds two cups.

  • Amazon Sales Rank: #45270 in Kitchen & Housewares
  • Color: off-white
  • Brand: Prodyne
  • Model: AB-6
  • Dimensions: 5.25″ h x 6.50″ w x 16.50″ l,

Features

  • Keep condiments and garnishes chilled and fresh for hours
  • Hinged lid keeps cold in and bugs out
  • Each compartment hold two cups
  • Skid resistant rubber feet
  • Measures 16-1/2-inch by 6-1/2-inch by 5-1/4-inch

Customer Reviews:

Garnish/Condiment Container5
Love this product!! Keeps vegetables or condiments cold and crisp as long as the ice stays solid. When ice melts, just pour water off and add more ice. Very convenient and handy for parties or anytime you serve condiments or fresh vegetables or fruit.

Perfect for all day snacking5
I love this condiment container. I put veggies and fruit in the small removable trays, fill the lower chamber with ice and set it on the counter for hours. The kids love the ease of grabbing a quick snack. My son who has always been a veggie avoider tried everything I put in. Sugar snap peas were a big hit with the neighbor kids who ate them like candy. The little plastic containers are easy to remove and clean. I even put them in the dishwasher and they seem OK. The container is sturdy and looks nice. There are five trays and I usually use one for a ranch dip when I’m serving veggies. The individual trays are large and hold a fairly good amount of food. When I cut up two large carrots into fingerlong sticks it only fills the chamber halfway. The lid is great for keeping out flies or dust. Well worth the money.

Entertainment Delight5
The Condiments on Ice is nice and compact, sturdy, and keeps your food cold. Very easy to travel with, the lid fits tight, and the compartments stay put. I recommend this product for office get togethers and picnics.

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Mikasa Italian Countryside 45-Piece Dinnerware Set, Service for 8 Review.

Posted by hgoise on April 26, 2011

Mikasa Italian Countryside 45-Piece Dinnerware Set, Service for 8

Mikasa Italian Countryside 45-Piece Dinnerware Set, Service for 8 Review.

Compare & Purchase Mikasa Italian Countryside 45-Piece Dinnerware Set, Service for 8 at Amazon by clicking here!

List Price: $560.00

Amazon Price: $155.99

Click Here To Purchase At Amazon!

Mikasa Italian Countryside 45-Piece Dinnerware Set, Service for 8 Description:

Italian Countryside has long been one of Mikasa’s most popular patterns, and is now available in a full set at a fabulous price. The white ironstone body has a soft filligree boarder, and dresses up or down for any entertaining situation. This complete set is a service for eight, including eight dinner plates, salad plates, rim soup plates, teacups and saucers. It also contains one each 12″ round platter, round vegetable bowl, covered sugar bowl, and cream pitcher.

  • Amazon Sales Rank: #6830 in Kitchen & Housewares
  • Brand: Mikasa
  • Model: DD900-045
  • Released on: 2005-05-01
  • Dimensions: 14.70″ h x 17.00″ w x 24.40″ l, 54.05 pounds

Features

  • 45-piece set includes 8 place settings and 5 serving accessories
  • 8 each: dinner plate, salad plate, rimmed soup plate, teacup, saucer
  • Also, 12-inch round platter, round vegetable bowl, sugar bowl with lid, creamer
  • All-white ironstone textured with finely-ribbed sides and bas-relief garland border
  • Safe for dishwasher, microwave, freezer, and oven-warming; gift-boxed

Customer Reviews:

Quality control is TERRIBLE1
I was extremely disappointed that BOTH the 45-piece sets I purchased were defective. There are black speckles, brown spots, even a green spot in the glaze. This is on nearly every single piece. I have contacted Mikasa by their 800 number and was told they were aware of the problem and would send me good sets, but so far nothing has been done. This is creamware and it should be creamy white with no dirty looking spots on it. I love the pattern, the size of the plates, everything but the quality. They really need to address this problem at the factory, and not sell seconds as top quality china!

I love my new dinnerware set!5
This was such a bargain at $199. Not only did I get the service for 8, I also got 5 serving pieces. The set of dinnerware arrived promptly….and the shipping was free. On top of that, I got another discount for spending a certain amount of money. It was a much better bargain than eBay!
One plate had a slight chip. Amazon was wonderful about compensating me for it with no hassles. Since I can buy more pieces to this set, I was easily able to replace the one plate locally with the money refunded to me. Amazon really stood behind the product. I was very well satisfied with the product and service from Amazon. Thanks!

Excellent Set of Dishes – Worth Every Penny.5
My husband and I were looking for a decent set of dishes that didn’t chip or burn our hands from microwave use. After going through a couple of sets of dishes that look great but didnt hold up to everyday use, we decided to “invest” in a set of dinnerware that not only looked great but would last. We have had these for about a year now and so far, no chips and no stains and STILL a pleasure to use. Prior to purchasing this Mikasa set we experimented with several different brands of dishes by testing them in the microwave. They were all made in China and not one of them passed the ouch-burn-the-fingers test, even the brandnamed ones. After a frustrating and dissapointing search we were very happy indeed to have come across this Mikasa. It may seem expensive but considering the sets we have trashed and were probably going to trash with the cheaper stuff, its money well spent indeed.

Amazon.com Review
Mikasa combines pleasing texture with a solid white finish to create an enduring classic, Italian Countryside dinnerware. Made of hard-wearing ironstone for everyday use, the dinnerware also exudes enough panache to serve brunch or dinner for a more formal gathering. Fine ribbing accentuates the plate borders, as well as the sides of the sugar bowl, creamer, and teacup, while a scrolling, bas-relief garland decoratively bands rims and edges. Glossy and handsome, Italian Countryside makes a fine gift, especially in this all-inclusive 45-piece set.

The eight place settings in the set include one of each of the following: an 11-1/8-inch dinner plate, 8-5/8-inch salad plate, rimmed 9-3/8-inch soup plate, 8-ounce teacup, and 6-1/2-inch saucer. Matching the place settings are four accessories: a 12-inch round platter, perfect for cakes, hors d’oeuvres, a roast chicken, and more; a round serving bowl for vegetables or potatoes; a sugar bowl with a handsome domed lid and oval filial; and a creamer with a gracefully pronounced spout. The sides of the sugar and creamer are fluted as well as ribbed. Conveniently safe for the microwave, dishwasher, freezer, and oven warming at low temperatures, Italian Countryside is exceptionally worry-free. As with most fine dinnerware, sudden temperature changes should be avoided to prevent breakage. –Ann Bieri

What’s in the Box
8 place settings, 5 serving accessories. Each place setting consists of: 11-1/8-inch dinner plate; 8-5/8-inch salad plate; rimmed 9-3/8-inch soup plate; 8-ounce teacup; and 6-1/2-inch saucer. Serving accessories consist of: 12-inch round platter; round vegetable serving bowl; sugar bowl and lid; creamer. 45 pieces total.

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Buy Black And Decker SDC740 SpaceMaker 12-Cup Coffeemaker, White At Amazon!

Posted by hgoise on April 24, 2011

Black And Decker SDC740 SpaceMaker 12-Cup Coffeemaker, White

Buy Black And Decker SDC740 SpaceMaker 12-Cup Coffeemaker, White At Amazon!

Compare & Purchase Black And Decker SDC740 SpaceMaker 12-Cup Coffeemaker, White at Amazon by clicking here!

List Price: $79.99

Amazon Price: $59.99

Click Here To Purchase At Amazon!

Black And Decker SDC740 SpaceMaker 12-Cup Coffeemaker, White Description:

Revolutionizing a classic favorite. The new Spacemaker coffee maker was designed to please the traditional Spacemaker user: sturdiness, performance but most of all, 63% more usable counter space. Intuitive, easy to use features and classic design, perfect for the Spacemaker traditional consumer. At least 2 of the mounting holes are kept the same as the original (ODC) to facilitate upgrades.

  • Amazon Sales Rank: #33701 in Kitchen & Housewares
  • Size: White
  • Brand: Black & Decker
  • Model: SDC740B
  • Dimensions: 15.50″ h x 12.00″ w x 12.60″ l, 11.00 pounds

Features

  • 12-cup programmable coffeemaker with Perfect Pour glass carafe
  • Removable water reservoir; illuminated water-level indicator window
  • Brew-pause function; nonstick heating plate; clock and timer; auto shut-off
  • Installs easily under a cabinet to save on space; cord storage; Save-a-Plug outlet
  • Measures approximately 12-3/5 by 12 by 15-1/2 inches

Customer Reviews:

Great product, but some room for improvement3
I bought one of these a few months back as I need all the counter space I can get. It is perfect for my kitchen and I love the space I got. It makes a quick pot of coffee and the temp is just right.
I think the only couple downsides I see are that the place where you pour the water is a small hole, easy to miss. Also, for some reason, the clock is screwy. It is slow and it looses about an hour every day. Finally, the pot on mine broke after only a month and I cannot find a replacement for it.

Would not install unde the cabinet1
I have had several of the old under the counter B & D coffee makers and have loved them. This one was impossible to install, however. On the coffee pot side of the unit there is no clearance for the screws. What is up with that? What engineering school drop out approved this design? I had to return it. Why can’t they just keep making the old one that fits in all the holes we have already drilled into our cabinets?

Product has poor design4
I have the SDC740 model and have had the same problem of the caraffe not sitting properly and exerting enough pressure to properly activate the basket spring – thus causing coffee to overflow on counter. In researching I found that the old product number of ODC740 had this problem and had been recalled. The new product has the same problem.

I contacted Black & Decker today by phone & they are sending out a new basket unit, but it is on backorder so it will be a couple of weeks before replacement basket is shipped. I’ve thought about working on the spring (cutting it down) or taping the lever – but that really defeats the purpose of the sneak-a-peak feature which should perform properly on the appliance.

Other than the overflow issue, I am pleased with the coffee maker. This is the 4th under-the-counter Black and Decker coffeemaker that I’ve owned and the first to have given me a problem. The others died a natural death after years of use.

[…]

Amazon.com Product Description
Coffee lovers no longer have to give up valuable counter space to accommodate a clunky coffeemaker. This unit easily installs under a cabinet, keeping work surfaces clear for food prep and other everyday tasks. More than just a space-saving convenience, the coffeemaker comes with an array of user-friendly features for brewing up to 12 cups of great-tasting coffee. Its clock and timer allow for programming the unit to begin brewing at a later time–great for wake-up coffee in the morning or having a pot ready to serve with dessert without having to get up from the table half way through dinner. For those eager for that first sip, the unit’s Sneak-A-Cup interrupt function pauses the brewing cycle to allow for pouring a quick cup midbrew. Coffee brews directly into the unit’s Perfect Pour glass carafe, which provides a generous stay-cool handle and a drip-free spout. Other highlights include a removable filter basket, a removable water reservoir with an illuminated water-level indicator window, a nonstick heating plate, cord storage, and automatic shut-off for peace of mind. At least two of the mounting holes are the same as the original (ODC) coffeemaker to facilitate simple upgrades, and its Save-a-Plug outlet makes it possible to connect a SpaceMaker Mini Food Processor/Grinder or Can Opener directly into the coffeemaker, saving the wall outlet for other uses. The coffeemaker measures approximately 12-3/5 by 12 by 15-1/2 inches.

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Norpro Ice Pop Popsicle Maker-Retail —-! Sale Only $15.99!

Posted by hgoise on April 19, 2011

Norpro Ice Pop Popsicle Maker

Norpro Ice Pop Popsicle Maker-Retail —-! Sale Only $15.99!

Compare & Purchase Norpro Ice Pop Popsicle Maker at Amazon by clicking here!

List Price: —-

Amazon Price: $15.99

Click Here To Purchase At Amazon!

Norpro Ice Pop Popsicle Maker Description:

Nor Pro Frozen Ice Pop Maker. Makes 10 3oz treats. High quality, Durable plastic with aluminum top. Create your own unique frozen treats using juices, purees, yogurt, gelatin, fruit, ice cream, pudding, jams and jellies. 24 sticks included.

  • Amazon Sales Rank: #4534 in Kitchen & Housewares
  • Brand: Norpro
  • Model: 423
  • Dimensions: 4.00″ h x 5.00″ w x 9.00″ l,

Features

  • Turns fruit, juice, pudding, yogurt, or jam into a delicious frozen treat
  • Durable, sturdy plastic; aluminum top
  • Makes 10, 3-ounce treats; includes 24 wooden sticks
  • Measures 4 by 9 by 5 inches
  • Made in China

Customer Reviews:

Unfortunately, a bad design1
This product is poorly designed. I am very sorry I bought it.
The metal top has slits of the precise dimensions of the popsicle sticks, but once the sticks are in liquid, they expand, of course, which makes them impossible to pull out of the lid!!!! The lid, in turn, contracts, squeezing the sticks even further, so to get them out, you have to strip the sticks through the metal holes. I am surprised that no leeway was built into this part of the product, and that the materials chosen, metal and wood, while nice and recyclable, were not more carefully evaluated for performance in changing temperatures. Perhaps the mold can be used without the lid, but then the sticks will fall over until the liquid freezes.

it’s ok but….2
I like the Donvier molds better. This has a steel plate on top with holes for the sticks. Unfortunately, the sticks sink or float to the side because the holes are too big. You have to hold the mold under warm water for about 10 seconds to get a frozen pop out of the mold.

I don’t know what the others are complaining about…5
…The popsicles come out pretty easily if you run the molds and top quickly under warm water, then squeeze the molds to loosen, and they pull right out! Just remember to not fill the molds completely to the top as to avoid the popsicle expanding and sticking to the lid when freezing. I love how this set has 10 molds!

Amazon.com Product Description
Norpo’s Popsicle maker transforms juice, fruit, yogurt, and even pudding into delicious frozen snacks. A favorite with kids, it makes ten, three-ounce treats at a time and includes 24 wooden sticks for an authentic popsicle experience. The handy kitchen tool is made from durable, sturdy plastic with a stainless steel lid. The entire unit is dishwasher-safe. This product measures four inches high, by nine inches wide, by five inches deep, and is made in the USA.

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Wusthof Classic 2-Piece Knife Starter Set Review.

Posted by hgoise on April 13, 2011

Wusthof Classic 2-Piece Knife Starter Set

Wusthof Classic 2-Piece Knife Starter Set Review.

Compare & Purchase Wusthof Classic 2-Piece Knife Starter Set at Amazon by clicking here!

List Price: $217.00

Amazon Price: $117.95

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Wusthof Classic 2-Piece Knife Starter Set Description:

Why allow frustration to ruin a delicious meal? You’ve taken the time to marinate, rub, or otherwise season your steaks or chops, and to cook them properly. Now don’t ruin all that by having to saw through the meat with a table knife! Instead cut clean, even slices to your exact specifications and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Viking knives are manufactured to the highest standards of excellence. The blades are made using a precise metal formulation to result in a blade that holds a better edge, is easy to sharpen, is rust and stain-resistant, as well as tough and durable. Viking knives are a sound investment in your culinary future.

  • Amazon Sales Rank: #5975 in Kitchen & Housewares
  • Brand: Wusthof
  • Model: 9755
  • Released on: 2001-07-31
  • Dimensions: 4.80″ h x 12.20″ w x 16.10″ l, 1.00 pounds

Features

  • Basic knife collection covers most cutting needs
  • Includes 8-inch cook’s and pointed 3-1/2-inch paring knives
  • Forged high-carbon stainless steel blades, hand-honed for razor-like sharpness
  • Traditional-style composition handles are triple-riveted for strength and permanence
  • Dishwasher safe

Customer Reviews:

Great Knives, Minor Quibble About Sizes5
There are really two main competitors in the high-end mainstream kitchen knife market: Henckels and Wusthof. Those who have used both usually have a preference. My preference (and therefore bias you should know about) is for the Wusthofs.

The Wusthof Classic line is the more conservative counterpart to the Grand Prix line. The only difference, however, is the handle style. I personally prefer the Grand Prix, but this is an issue of personal preference. The balance and grip of these knives are as close to perfect as I have found. For those wondering what benefits a higher priced knife provides, one benefit is that the blade (or tang) is one piece all the way through the handle. This makes the blade much stronger, and less likely to snap.

This set includes an 8 inch chef’s knife, and a 3 ½ inch paring knife.

The 8 inch chef’s knife, is a great knife. Wusthof offers three sizes of chef’s knives, 6, 8 and 10 inch. For most home cooks, I think the 8 inch knife is the best choice. The 6 inch is a bit small for bigger jobs, but the 10 inch is too big for most jobs. While the 8 inch isn’t perfect for all uses, if you are only buying one size chef’s knife (and most people only buy one), this is the one I would recommend.

As for the 3 ½ inch paring knife, this knife falls into the category of overkill for me. Most cooks will get by just fine with the 4 ½ inch utility knife. There is really no notable difference in size for the vast majority of applications between the 3 ½ inch paring knife and the 4 ½ inch utility knife. I prefer the 4 ½ inch utility knife, but the 3 ½ inch paring knife will do the trick for most tasks.

This set is a good deal; however, if compiling a set myself, I would include the chef’s knife and the 4 ½ inch utility knife. Judge for yourself.

Buyer’s remorse revisited5
In June of 2003, I wrote a blurb praising this starter set. My opinion from then hasn’t changed, except the last part where I wrote that I couldn’t justify Wusthof’s price for those knive you don’t use every day. Well, I lied. Since then I have replaced virtually every knife I had then with a Wusthof. Whether I was dicing veggies, carving a roast, or simply cutting up a chicken, I just got to the point where I could no longer tolerate using an inferior knife for the job; so I upgraded as I went along. All my old knives went into my camping box (you’re supposed to be “roughing it” when camping, right?).

The knives in this set are superb. The problem is that after using them, you are liable to do as I did and spend lots of money later. Be warned.

Perfect for new cooks…5
I received as a gift a set of three Wusthof knives when I moved into my first apartment. At that point in my life, I knew NOTHING about cooking, and could barely boil water. The knives sat in their box for several months before I finally got around to opening them. These knives, however, are absolutely amazing. The difference between my Wusthof knives and a “regular” knife is really impressive. I have been using them for over three years now on a daily basis, and have not yet needed to sharpen them. They easily cut through tough, sinewy cuts of meat, while still being sharp enough to tackle delicate fruits and vegetables without ripping at them. I have since, for the sake of experimentation, tried other “quality brand” knives including Henckel, but nothing has come close. I am now working on completeing my set of Wusthof.

Amazon.com Review
This is the set to buy if you want to start a knife collection properly or replace so-so tools with the best cutters available. The set’s 8-inch cook’s knife, a kitchen essential, performs a wide variety of cutting tasks, from fine chopping to dicing and slicing. The relatively small size and sharp point of the set’s paring knife make it ideal for handheld and other small or intricate cutting chores, such as vegetable peeling or mincing small quantities of herbs.

Part of the Classic series, these knives represents two centuries of unexcelled Wusthof craftsmanship. Like other cutlery in the series, they’re hand-forged from a single piece of stainless steel for maximum strength; the hand-polished blades are exactingly calibrated to be hard enough to resist dulling yet soft enough to take a keen edge when they’re honed or sharpened. Dishwasher-safe and with traditionally shaped, ergonomically designed handles that are triple-riveted for durability, this set brings a guaranteed lifetime of low-maintenance cutting to its owners. –Arthur Boehm

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