10 Unusual Kitchen Tools from Around the World
Updated: Jul. 20, 2022
Check out the must-have kitchen tools in Denmark, Italy, Korea and more! Each tool reflects one of the country's most popular foods.
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Aebleskiver Pan
You’ll find an Aebleskiver pan ($40) in almost every house in Denmark. These cast iron pans are the best way to make the popular Danish dessert: round, pancake-like puffs stuffed with applesauce or jam.
Why it made our list: This hearty pan will last a lifetime.
Masala Dabba
You’ll find these super-cool looking spice boxes ($25) in most Indian kitchens. They have a tight-fitting lid and contain six or seven individual containers. While they usually hold the spices for Indian recipes, you could use one to store any of your favorites.
Why it made our list: The clear lid design makes it easy to see when you’re running low.
Moka Pot
You might find electric coffee makers in every American kitchen, but Moka pots from Italy ($35 to $70) are a tried-and-true way to make an incredible cup. This stovetop coffee maker works by passing pressurized steam through coffee grounds.
Why it made our list: You can buy a Moka pot in 3-, 6- or 12-cup sizes, so there’s an option for everyone!
Tabletop Raclette Grill
Raclette is one of our favorite types of cheese and using this grill ($100) is the best the way to cook it. The top has a nonstick griddle for cooking meats and vegetables, and the bottom has a broiler to melt the cheese.
Why it made our list: It’s the ultimate fondue experience!
Bamboo Skimmer
These skimmers ($5) are a common kitchen tool in Asia. The long, bamboo handle protects your hands as you remove dumplings from boiling water, and they’re also useful for removing fried food from hot oil.
Why it made our list: You don’t have to cook Asian food to take advantage of this tool. It can dish out pasta or be used at your next fish fry.
Tagine
If you want to create authentic North African dishes, you’ll need an earthenware tagine ($180). These dome-shaped pots create ideal conditions for slow-cooked stews, returning any excess condensation to the pot.
Why it made our list: The cookware’s base doubles as a serving dish.
Chasen Wisk
Anyone serious about matcha has a chasen whisk ($20). This bamboo whisk is used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, and it creates a perfectly frothy, clump-free cup of green tea. (Did you know that matcha is a superfood?)
Why it made our list: This bamboo set will last you for years.
Tadig Rice Cooker
Ever wonder how Persian rice is perfectly crispy on the bottom but somehow never manages to get burnt? The easiest way to achieve perfect results is by using a special rice cooker called a tadig ($57). If you’ve never tried it before, you’ll soon become a crispy rice convert!
Why it made our list: A variety of heat settings ensure you get the perfect crisp every time.
Chamba Pots
We’re all about the slow cooker in America, but Colombians use something more traditional: large, unglazed clay pots ($75). These chamba pots heat evenly and lock in moisture. You can use them on the stovetop or in the oven; either way, they make the best beans!
Why it made our list: No need to worry about your food getting cold. These pots retain heat for a long time!
Dolsot Bowls
Have you ever had Korean bibimbap served in a hot, stone bowl? These specialty dolsot bowls ($24) can heat your food directly on the stovetop, keeping your meal warm as it makes its way to the table while also functioning as individual serving bowls.
Why it made our list: An included trivet makes it easy to carry your piping hot creation to the table.
Originally Published: December 17, 2018
