Hand-Held Strainer

• A hand-held strainer is a plastic or wire mesh basket that is attached to a handle. Strainers are used for separating liquid from solid food items. For example, pasta is strained after cooking. A strainer can also be used for washing or rinsing fruit and vegetables.

Can Opener

• A can opener is a kitchen hand tool that has a turning mechanism attached to a circular blade. They are used for cutting open the tops of canned goods.

Ladle

• A ladle is a long stick that has a round hollowed out container at one end. Ladles are typically used for serving liquid or partially solid foods such as soups, stews and chili.

Wisk

• Wisks are made from multiple wire loops that are attached to a handle. They are used for mixing ingredients together. The separate wire loops operate in a similar manner as an electric hand mixer in that they allow batter and other food matter to pass through and become integrated into the batter.

Grater

• Graters are used for shredding fresh cheese, vegetables, garlic and other spices. Using a grater rather than a knife to shred cheese, vegetables and other food items saves a significant amount of time when you are preparing a meal.

Tongs

• Tongs are used to turn meat and other solid food items while they are baking. Metal tongs can be used with a traditional indoor oven or an outdoor grill. Plastic tongs are commonly used for serving and tossing salad.

Metal and Plastic Spatulas

• Spatulas are used for stirring or moving items while they are resting on a heat source, manipulating food matter such as dough or pouring liquid mixtures into another container. Metal spatulas work better in higher heat situations while plastic spatulas work better for scraping mixing bowls or pans since they will not scratch vulnerable surface areas.

Wooden Spoons

• Wooden spoons are used for stirring and mixing both hot and cold food items. Wooden spoons are especially well equipped for stirring hot foods while they are resting on a heat source. Unlike plastic hand tools, wooden spoons are highly durable and can withstand higher temperatures.