Kitchen Kapers

Chef Rob Chalmers points out kitchen essentials and how to avoid accumulating a million gadgets that will never be used.

Utensils

• whisk--This can be used for beating eggs as well as making whipped cream.
  
  
• rubber spatula--Be sure that it won't scratch nonstick pans and is nonflammable.
  
  
• metal spatula--It's great for flipping things on the grill.
  
  
• peeler--Pick out one that has a good grip on the handle and is a nice size.
  
  
• ladle--This is used to skim fat from soup or stock and doubles as a serving utensil.
  
  
• grater
  
  
• wooden spoons

* Note: Although utensil sets may seem to be a better financial bargain, the number of useless pieces included in the set often outnumber the useful ones.

Pots and Pans

• 10-inch saute pan--This is great for making omelets and sauteing vegetables.
  
  
• small saucepan
  
  
• four-quart saucepan--Use it for things like boiling potatoes and steaming vegetables.
  
  
• cast-iron skillet--They're cheap, easy to clean and evenly conduct heat. Be sure to season it first by heating lard or oil inside to make its surface nonstick.

Knives

• French knife (six- to eight-inch)--This is ideal for cutting veggies and slicing chicken.
  
  
• serrated knife--Use for slicing bread and tomatoes.
  
  
• paring knife
  
  
• sharpening steel

Guests
Rob Chalmers
Chef, Lucques Restaurant
8474 Melrose Ave.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
Phone: 323-655-6277
E-mail: lucques@earthlink.net
Website: www.lucques.com
Also in this Episode

Smart Solutions : Episode SSL-335
•	Care for Worn Furniture
•	Kitchen Kapers
•	Reptile Friends
•	Daily Smart Solutions