My husband has been actively hinting around that he’s wanted a smoker, for almost as long as I’ve known him. So, I’m sitting here trying to decide if I should make it happen.

Since I am envisioning the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker Smoker, in my driveway… I guess that means I’m leaning toward yes. (Shhhh… don’t tell.)

Let’s face it; almost everyone is familiar with the Weber brand, right? This smoker is definitely looking like it will ‘kick up’ your BBQ several notches. It is large enough to smoke a turkey AND a ham at the same time.

It features a water pan that provides plenty of steam during the smoking process. This will ensure that your meat (regardless of the cut) will turn out moist and juicy every time.

Reviews on this smoker are rosy. Although it may seem a tad expensive at first, it comes with a 10 year warranty.

Personally, I look at it this way. Why spend less money for a lower quality smoker that will probably have to be replaced in a couple of years? As the old saying goes… ‘you get what you pay for’.

If you have been thinking about buying a smoker, this one just might be the one you are looking for. What do you think?

I am lucky enough to be able to work at home, so it’s a very short trip from my office to my kitchen. However, if I worked elsewhere I would be using the Zojirushi Classic Bento Stainless Steel Lunch Jar Set.

I have already mentioned my love for Zojirushi products. I honestly don’t know if I could live without my bread machine. (Read more about it, here.) This bento set just re-affirms my adoration.

It would work especially great for those who don’t have access to a refrigerator or microwave, at the workplace. If you are ‘going green’ this is a nifty option, as well. It’s NEVER too late to start doing your part to help the environment!

This set accommodates both hot and cold foods and consists of eleven pieces. The 3 microwavable bowls feature a non-stick interior, which makes them very easy to clean. The remaining pieces include: chopsticks (a definite challenge, in my house), fork and spoon combination (spork?), carrying strap and protective cover.

How involved are you with bento lunches? I have yet to try my hand at preparing them and would greatly appreciate any tips or insight you might have to offer.

When it comes to mixers, it seems like EVERYONE wants a KitchenAid. I know I do. Unfortunately, due to a lack of space I doubt I’ll ever have the pleasure of owning one.

For those of you who do have adequate countertop and storage space, what are you waiting for? The KitchenAid Artisan Series Stand Mixer can handle almost any mixing task you are presented with… just ask my sister-in-law (the avid baker).

If you take a few minutes to read the reviews, you will notice that scads of people agree with her. Honestly, once you use a KitchenAid… you’ll never look back.

This particular stand mixer has 10 speeds. You can achieve everything thing from a very slow stir to a very speedy whip. The tilt up head allows easy access to the beaters and bowl.

Accessories include a 5 quart (dishwasher safe) stainless steel bowl with handle, pouring shield, dough hook, wire whip and flat beater. It is available in several colors including the cheery red that is shown here.

The powerful 350 watt motor won’t let you down, even when you are mixing the stickiest of bread doughs.

Yes, the mixer is a bit pricey. But, what you need to keep in mind is that it will save you hours in the kitchen and is extremely well made. So much so, chances are it will be handed down through several generations of eager bakers. What could be better than that?

If you have never tried deep fried pickles, you don’t know what you’re missing. When they first came to my attention, my immediate thought was ‘eewwww’. But, one bite and I was hooked for life.

The great thing about them is that they are equally delicious, regardless of the type of pickles you decide to use. Sweet or dill, it really doesn’t matter. Believe me, if you don’t already have a deep fryer there is no better excuse to get one.

There are lots of recipes to be had. Doing a simple Internet search will get you started. Although it’s pretty basic, when it comes to ingredients… your favorite oil for frying (I suggest peanut), buttermilk, cornmeal or flour, egg yolks, a couple shakes of salt and the pickles.

You really don’t have to pay the high cost that’s required when you order them from your favorite pub or restaurant. Deep fried pickles are super easy to make at home. Plus, you get the added perk of customizing the batter recipe just the way you like it.

If you’ve had the pleasure of eating them, I have one question. What is your favorite dipping sauce? Inquiring and hungry pickle lovers want to know!

Photo by: foodistab

I absolutely love it when I find a new (to me, at least) gadget or kitchen-related product that is small enough to fit in my tiny kitchen, with EASE. Enter the OXO Salt and Pepper Grinder Set. What an inventive idea! (They even come pre-filled.)

Personally, I tend to use pepper sparingly. However, when I do use it I prefer it as freshly ground, as possible. Since there are many different varieties of peppercorns available, you won’t have a problem choosing a favorite.

Let’s not forget the salt. Sea salt is all the rage, right now… not to mention healthier for you than the iodized version.

This grinder set is ceramic, for the most part. This means that no flavors or odors will ever be absorbed. The vessels, themselves, are adjustable. They adjust to grind the gambit, coarse to fine.

You simply unscrew each cap, to re-fill. The grinders sit flat (upside down) allowing you to perform the task.

They have a 4-3/4 ounce capacity and feature attractive stainless steel accents, for even greater appeal.

Do you incorporate sea salt in your recipes? If so, feel free to share your thoughts with the rest of us. I, for one, think it’s time I made the switch!