8 Essential Kitchen Tools for a Stress-free Christmas!

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8 Essential Kitchen Tools for a Stress-free Christmas!

Cooking is easy and fast when you have the right equipment and tools. With Christmas right around the corner, the kitchen is bound to be one of the busiest spots in the house this festive season! From Christmas dinners to New Year’s Eve parties, food is sure to be the highlight of the festivities!
Work through this list and make sure your kitchen is adequately stocked and ready for action – prepping and cooking Christmas dinner will be a breeze!

1. Food Processor

You might think that having a food processor might be a bulky equipment to have around at such a busy time – but the Cuisinart Mini-Prep® Plus Processor will come in handy when you’re prepping Christmas Dinner and snacks! Use it to make salsas, dips and more! The Mini-Prep® Plus is the perfect little helper for small food preparation, from chopping herbs or bread crumbs, to finely grinding hard cheese. Its versatility lies in the special Auto Reversing Smart Blade™, which makes it easier to process both soft and hard foods. Designed in Italy, the Mini-Prep Plus’ sleek touch pad controls afford easy cleaning and an elegant look.

Try your hand at these recipes with the Cuisinart Mini-Prep® Plus Processor: Wild Mushroom Soup, No Bake Mini Matcha Oreo Cheesecakes, Roast Pork Loin with Apple Chutney

2. Measuring Jugs

Now we know everyone has measuring cups & jugs, but the Jamie Oliver Tilt and Mix Bowls with Lid (Set of 3) eliminate the need for dirtying extra measuring cups, while their non-drip pouring spouts ensure that ingredients dispense neatly into muffin tins, bread pans, or cake pans. The set includes bowls in 1-liter, 1-3/5-liter, and 3-liter capacities, each of which features gleaming stainless-steel construction that work well for both wet and dry ingredients. Furthermore, the uniquely shaped bowls sport 45-degree non-slip silicone flat spots on their bases, which allow for tilting them comfortably to get at all the ingredients while whisking–no more clumps of flour or unmixed butter at the bottom. Best of all, the large 3-liter bowl comes with a tight-fitting polypropylene lid with a built-in spoon rest!

3. Chopping Board

Let’s talk turkey and other meaty fare. The redesigned Epicurean® Carving Board features a generous juice groove that easily collects drippings for gravy and sauces. It is a hearty board perfect for roasts, hams, and large birds – an absolute must-have to avoid ruining your countertop and any Christmas mishaps!

4. Meat Thermometer

When cooking in large quantities, uncooked meat is definitely one of the most common worry of home cooks. Forget charts, timers and  the poke test. The best way to guarantee that your turkey, chicken and other meats are properly cooked is to check its internal temperature. The Meat Thermometer from Cooper-Atkins is NSF® certified and includes a 6″” / 15.2 cm stem. It includes HACCP minimum temperatures for poultry, ground beef & pork, and fish for easy reference as well!

5. Pastry/Basting Brush

Don’t underestimate how useful a plain-looking pastry brush can be! Most commonly used for a quick egg-wash over pastries, the brush can also be used to grease pans with melted butter, or used to brush sauces or marinade on meat or fish. It can even be used to remove excess flour, salt or herbs from another surface if you had a shaker mishap! The Lacor Silicone Pastry Brush will do the job perfectly – the heat resistant silicone bristles on this pastry brush are designed to make brushing on butter and other sauces effortlessly and is easy to clean and odour-free!

6. Fine Grater

This little gadget is another absolute must-have in the kitchen! Use the Microplane Professional Series Fine Grater to grate horseradish over smoked salmon, lemon zest over your pies and more. While there’s no other tool that does such a fine job of turning thin citrus skin into beautiful, fragrant zests, there are a few more foods that it can handle with great finesse. The Microplane can turn a block of chocolate into beautiful flecks for garnishing pies and cupcakes. You can also run your cinnamon stick or other whole spices over the Microplane for a fragrant drink or dessert. It can also turn the flesh and seeds of a chilli or jalapeno pepper into tiny pieces so you just taste that mild kick in your food!

7. Balloon Whisk

A great whisk is a great kitchen essential – especially so with the holiday season coming up! The uses of a balloon whisk are not just used for whisking eggs and cake batter. It can also be used to whip cream, lightly mixing together dry ingredients in lieu of sifting, and even making your salad dressings! The User-friendly Magisso Balloon Whisk is easy to wash. The handle, held together by magnets, splits into two, unfurling the stainless steel wires so they can be thoroughly wiped and cleaned!

8. Blender
Having a blender not only whizzes up smoothies in no time, but it’s also a great equipment to have on hand to make spreads, soups, dips and much more! Cook homemade soups from start to finish or blend up your favourite smoothie with the Cuisinart Blend and Cook Soup Maker. The built-in non-stick heater plate provides the perfect surface to sauté ingredients, simmer or boil soups, and with a touch of a button blend it all to a perfect consistency. Crush ice and blend everything from smoothies to frozen cocktails.

Ultimate Christmas Gift Guide: Chefs’ Favourites & More!

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Ultimate Christmas Gift Guide: Chefs’ Favourites & More!

Those who love to cook can’t ever have too many kitchen gadgets and accessories; we’ve put together the ultimate gift guide to give your favourite foodie this Christmas. In this guide, you’ll find ideas for great kitchen-themed presents perfect for gift exchange items, shower gifts, Secret Santa parties at the office and many more!

Don’t just take our word for it – we’ve even had a chat with some of our popular Chef-Instructors and they’ve shared with us their favourite kitchen tools and what they love gifting over the holiday season!

Hot picks by ToTT:

1. Lava Cast Iron Rectangular Grill Pan (Red) with Westmark Pincer Tong

The large cooking area of this pan grills large cuts of meat on specially designed grill bars that distribute heat efficiently and creates beautiful char marks every time. The high-quality stainless steel Westmark Pincer Tong holds your meat or fish down while slicing, providing you with perfect handling. It is also ideal for turning food while frying and decorating your creation!
Bundle Price ($94.90) available at ToTT from 12 Nov – 26 Dec.

2. Magisso Terracotta Dessert Bowl and Terracotta Plate

Enjoy your cold desserts, salads and more by the pool or at the dinner table with the Magisso Terracotta Dessert Bowl and Terracotta Plate. Just soak the naturally cooling ceramics in water for a minute or two before use and it will keep the contents cool for two to four hours. You can also create your very own design or write a personal message on the side of the ceramic with a chalk!
Bundle Price ($44.90) available at ToTT from 12 Nov – 26 Dec.

3. ToTT Store Cash Vouchers

Celebrate the season of gifting with ToTT store gift vouchers – after all, it’s the ToTT that counts! Accepted as payment for products, cooking classes, Bake&Go and the Bistro, it’s the ideal gift for that special someone who loves to cook, bake or host. *Vouchers are sold at full price and not valid for discounts with membership privileges, sales and other promotions.

4. Nordic Ware Platinum Gingerbread House Bundt Pan & Gingerbread Kids Cakelet Pan

Build a home for the holidays with this Nordic Ware Platinum Gingerbread House Bundt Pan! Bake your favourite tasty treat and have fun decorating it with family and friends. This will make for a beautiful centrepiece for any table. What’s a gingerbread house without gingerbread boys and girls? Delight the kids with the Gingerbread Kids Cakelet Pan! Made in USA, the cast aluminium construction ensures even browning for the perfect gingerbread house and gingerbread kids!
Bundle Price $59.90, available at ToTT from 12 Nov – 26 Dec.

5. Cuisinart® 4 Slice Belgian Waffle Maker with Belgian Crispy Waffle Mix

The Cuisinart® 4 Slice Belgian Waffle Maker with Belgian Crispy Waffle Mix cooks golden waffles that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. With a stylish brushed stainless steel cover, the waffle iron offers an adjustable temperature control with six browning settings for ultimate control. A recipe book is included to get you going – great for indulgent breakfasts this holiday season!
Bundle Price $173.90, available at ToTT from 12 Nov – 26 Dec.

The ToTTful Christmas Sale will begin from 12 Nov – 26 Dec 2016. Enjoy 15% OFF STOREWIDE on 12 & 13 Nov!

Featured Chef: Mimi Wahadi
Q: What is one of your favourite products that you like to use in the kitchen?
A: As a Pastry Chef, a stand mixer is one of my most favourite item that i use and A MUST in the kitchen. It helps me save a whole lot of time and of course while using my mixer I can multi-task!

Q: Christmas is right around the corner – what do you think would be the Ultimate Gift to give a friend who is a cooking enthusiast?
A: The KitchenAid Artisan® Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer because it is very functional  and you could even do pasta with the extra attachments! And the best part is, they come in an assortment of colours which brightens any kitchen!

Check out Chef Mimi’s upcoming classes here! Learn to make a beautiful Macaron Tower, dainty Asian Macarons and more!

Featured Chef: Tang Meng Choo (Mong)
Q: What is one of your favourite products that you like to use in the kitchen?
A: One of my favourite products to use in my kitchen is the Lodge Cast Iron Pan. Cast iron allows even heating that allows me to fry, cook and even bake my bread in it. It is versatile and easy to maintain.

Q: Christmas is right around the corner – what do you think would be the Ultimate Gift to give a friend who is a cooking enthusiast?
A: An ultimate gift for Christmas to my cooking/baking enthusiast friends would be either the Lodge Cast Iron Pan or any of the cast iron pans from the Lava series!

Check out Chef Mong’s upcoming classes here! Learn to make Brunch from Scratch, Orchid Flower Making & Cade Decorating Techniques with Martellato and more!

Featured Chef: Michele Ow
Q: What is one of your favourite products that you like to use in the kitchen?
A: I probably use my chef’s knives more than any other tools in the kitchen. I don’t advocate any particular brand as long as they are sharpened regularly and properly.

Q: Christmas is right around the corner – what do you think would be the Ultimate Gift to give a friend who is a cooking enthusiast?
No matter how good a chef you are, it’s not good cooking for yourself; the joy is in cooking for others. Therefore I’ll choose a pasta maker – the best advantage of utilizing a pasta maker is that your pastas will at all times be fresh. This freshness will give them a sharper and more delicious taste. It is soft, chewy, supple, and the sauce simply clings to the pasta, coating it decadently and easily. In addition, you know what you add into your fresh pasta – including flavours like ground spices and herbs!

Check out Chef Michele’s upcoming classes here! Learn to make Crabs 3 Ways, cook up a Classic British Meal and more!

6 Essential Coffee Tools to Become a Home Barista!

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6 Essential Coffee Tools to Become a Home Barista!

For those who can’t get the day started without a cuppa, coffee is a constant – a beverage we drink in some form or another, probably several times a day. Contrary to popular belief, home-brewed coffee can be just as great as or even better than those you get at your local café, where the prices continue to rise. Brewing your own café-quality coffee at home is easy and more affordable than you think – and it starts here, all you need are the right tools

We’ve put together a list of great coffee gear that won’t break the bank. It’s time to wake up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee!

Bodum PEBO Vacuum Coffee Maker 

No other coffee maker has fascinated passionate coffee drinkers like the Bodum PEBO Vacuum Coffee Maker. Its exceptionally effective vacuum brewing method extracts all precious oils of your favourite coffee. The vacuum brewing process is entirely sealed off so no aroma can escape. In addition, the brewing time and temperature are perfectly calibrated, ensuring a perfect cup of coffee with each brew. Monitor the eye-catching brewing process through the two firmly attached glass bowls! Depending on the amount of water used, the PEBO Vacuum Coffee Maker can brew delicious coffee within 5 to 11 minutes, serving anywhere from 4 to 8 cups (0.5l/10oz,max. 1.0l/34oz).

Get the Bodum PEBO Vacuum Coffee Maker at ToTT for $108

A French Press

The BODUM coffee press KENYA is a cross between tradition and modernity! It will extract the most essential oils of freshly ground coffee, leaving least sediment in your cup! Simply add ground coffee, pour well temperate water, stir, wait 3-4 minutes and by gently depressing the plunger you stop the brewing – a healing during hectic days! The plastic handle and the base protects the user and any surface from damage through heat. The KENYA coffee press will immerse you into the contrasting world of tasting, smelling and savouring the full flavour profile of coffee!

Get the Bodum PEBO Vacuum Coffee Maker at ToTT for $54.75

A Frother

The perfect foam is to coffee what icing is to the cake – it’s not perfect without it. The days where mouth-watering luscious foam was only available at the Italian coffee shops around the corner are definitely over. With the SCHIUMA milk frother, you are your own barista right in the comfort of your own kitchen! Just dip the frother into warm or cold milk, press the button and let it work its magic until the foam rises to your preferred thickness. SCHIUMA is battery-operated.

Get the Bodum SCHIUMA Milk Frother at ToTT for $23.75

Kitchen Scale

The Katja Digital Kitchen Scale by ADE has a sleek and elegant design that will go with any kitchen décor. This scale weighs both dry and liquid ingredients in pounds, fluid ounces or grams, in increments of 1 gram, and the add & weigh (tare) function allows for weighing all ingredients in the same container. This compact scale is well suited to weigh ingredients accurately, up to 5 kilograms. The two sensor-touch buttons means no pressing is necessary – just a light touch to operate!

Get the Katja Digital Kitchen Scale ($65.90) here.

Air Tight Jar

Go green and use an airtight jar to store your beans or grounds instead of disposable bags! An airtight container will do the job perfectly as long as you keep in it in a relatively dark place and use the up your coffee as quickly as possible.

Use these super-handy, airtight Jamie Oliver Pop-Top Storage Jars to store your coffee – the airtight silicone seals ensure that your beans and grounds stay fresher longer.

Get the Jamie Oliver Pop-Top Storage Jar in Small, Medium or Large.

Cuisinart Spice & Nut Grinder

There’s nothing like the smell and taste of freshly ground coffee beans. And with the Cuisinart Spice & Nut Grinder, it’s easier than ever to efficiently grind any spice or create original, tantalizing spice blends. The blades are exclusively designed to grind spices and nuts and the simple press-down lid starts the grinding process with one touch, sealing in all the finely ground spices. The great thing about this Grinder is that both the plastic lid and metal grinding cup spices from flavour contamination! You can use it not only for grinding your coffee beans, but for a whole host of other spices and nuts for other recipes as well!

Get the Cuisinart Spice & Nut Grinder ($148) here.

Break Time Snacks!

What’s break time without any snacks? Be sure to include small munchies such as cookies or bread that will go well with your cuppa! Be sure to check out our recipe page for inspiration such as these yummy Double Chocolate Chip Cookies!

Father’s Day Gift Guide: 6 Gifts that Dad will love!

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Father’s Day Gift Guide: 6 Gifts that Dad will love!

If Dad spends more time in the kitchen than anywhere else and not-so-secretly compares himself to the next Jamie Oliver, you can’t go wrong with a food-related gift this Father’s Day! With this special occasion just around the corner, here are 6 gifts from ToTT that Dad is sure to love! From handy bar tools to multifunctional griddlers, we’ve got you covered. Read on!

Cuisinart Griddler®

Perfect for casual cookouts or Sunday brunches, the Cuisinart Griddler® makes “multifunctional” an understatement! With five separate cooking options, it can handle everything from pancakes to sausages to grilled cheese to steaks, hamburgers and panini. A floating cover and one set of reversible plates that snap in and out turn the Griddler® into a Contact Grill, a Panini Press, a Full Grill, a Full Griddle, or Half Grill/Half Griddle. Dual temperature controls ensure everything is perfectly cooked!

Usual Price: $624
*Father’s Day Exclusive Price: $436.80
Buy Now!

Quench Bar10der

The Bar10der is the first and only 10-in-1 bartending tool that helps anyone create their favourite cocktails whenever the mood strikes.

With Bar10der, Dad can whip together his favourite cocktails, but never thought he could recreate. Plus, the 10-in-1 compact design makes it simple to use, easy to store and portable enough to take with you wherever you go.

Be it at home or at a friend’s barbeque… whenever and wherever, Bar10der has you covered. Get ready to experience cocktailing like you’ve never had before!

Usual Price: $52.90
*Father’s Day Exclusive Price: $42.30 (Available in-store only)

Cooper Cooler Rapid Beverage Chiller

This Rapid Beverage Chiller from Cooper Cooler quickly chills room temperature beverages down to a cold and refreshing drink – a fantastic gift given the warm temperatures we experience almost every day! Just pour ice and water into the Cooper Cooler, select the container setting, and the cooler does the rest. The appliance will cool a 355ml beverage can from 25°C to 6°C in about 1 minute. The “extra” chill setting chills beverages to 1°C. The cooling process will not affect a drink’s taste, composition, or cause carbonated beverages to fizz and explode upon opening. The Cooper Cooker is great for parties, road trips and more!

*Usual Price: $175
Father’s Day Exclusive Price: $113.70

Buy Now!

Boska Cheese & Wine Set

Cheese and wine go together like milk and cookies. With this in mind, Boska offers the Cheese & Wine Set as part of the Pro Collection. This set includes a wine ring, wine pourer, corkscrew, a ‘cheesy’ knife (for soft cheeses) and a Parmesan cheese knife (for hard cheeses). All products are stylishly brought together in a beautiful gift set. Made of high-grade stainless steel and dishwasher-safe, it is easy to clean and maintain for home use.  Packaged in a gift box; this is a great gift for Dads who love their cheese tasting sessions!

Usual Price: $108.80
*Father’s Day Exclusive Price: $87.00 
(Available in-store only)

VINAERA Electronic Wine Aerator

Research has shown that a little glass of wine each day might do good for your health. For Dads who know how to enjoy their wines, this wine aerator would make for a great gift! With a push of a button, your wine becomes fully-aerated! With the world’s first electronic air pressure aerator, the full and fast aeration through pressurized air and wine mixture effectively reduces the bitter taste that some might find off-putting. The stylish one-touch design makes aerating wine convenient and only aerates what is dispensed – great for home use!

Usual Price: $268.90
*Father’s Day Exclusive Price: $188.20

Buy Now!

SousVide Supreme

Overcooked steaks and dry meat no longer have to be a staple at your dinner table. The award-winning SousVide Supreme is the world’s first water oven designed to make the gourmet sous vide cooking technique easy and affordable. Sous vide cooking locks in the juices and flavour and preserves the nutritional quality of the food. The result is incomparable taste and texture: steak perfectly cooked edge-to-edge, vibrant vegetables, juicy tender chicken breasts, and ribs with the meat literally falling off the bone – all at the push of a button! It’s surprisingly easy, not nearly as fussy as it might appear, and the results speak for themselves. A must-have kitchen companion for meat-love fathers everywhere!

Usual Price: $898.20
*Father’s Day Exclusive Price: $718.50

Buy Now!

*Father’s Day exclusive prices only applicable from 16 – 19 June 2016.

5 Awesome Ideas for your CNY Reunion Dinner!

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5 Awesome Ideas for your CNY Reunion Dinner!

Swing into the year of the Monkey with a full (and happy!) stomach! If you are planning a homecooked dinner for the annual reunion dinner, here are five fun, easy and tasty ideas you can add to the table. There are great not only for reunion dinners; they would also work just as fine for CNY lunch and dinner gatherings. Enjoy!

1. Cheese Fondue Pot

We all love the myriad of ingredients at the steamboat table. From prawns to fish balls and dumplings and vegetables, there’s always something for everyone. Try having a mini fondue pot at the side where everyone can dip a little something in cheese! Or, if you’re up for it, it can even replace the steamboat. There’s no such thing as too much cheese, right? If you’re worried about not having enough dipping forks, you can also use bamboo skewers.

Want a more local taste instead? Try using Satay or Chili Crab sauce – the possibilities are endless! This would work great for any leftover ingredients as well. Ingredients can be as b asic of as fancy as you desire!

Recommended product: Boska Tapas Cheese Fondue Set (400g)

2. Make Homemade Meatballs and prepare your own Shabu Shabu Steamboat!

Steamboats are a quintessential Chinese reunion dinner where everyone gathers around the dinner table, sharing food cookied in a communal pot and having a table overflowing with different ingredients. Having a steamboat dinner is great; having two soup bases is even better, but a Shabu Shabu Steamboat with two soup bases takes it to a whole new delicious level!

Skip the store-bought meatballs for your very own homemade ones! Do you know water chestnuts add a nice crunch and texture to the meatballs? They are a cinch to prepare and also make for perfect dippers for a cheesy fondue pot! Learn to prepare these scrumptious meatballs and your own shabu shabu hot pot and you’ll be in business!

Recommended products: Portable Steamboat Bundle, Cuisinart Mini-Prep® Plus Processor

3. Get veggie-happy with a DIY Yu Sheng!

A must-have during CNY, Yu Sheng/Yee Sang is a Chinese-style raw fish salad that typically consists of strips of raw fish, mixed with shredded vegetables and a variety of sauces and condiments. The auspicious tossing of Yu Sheng, commonly referred to as ‘Lo Hei’, is a common tradition during CNY, symbolising abundance and prosperity.

Try a sweet and tangy version this year with this Chinese-Thai Style Fruit Yu Sheng! It can even serve as a colourful dessert after your reunion dinner.

Making your own traditional Yu Sheng means that you will be able to control what exaactly goes into it – cut the calories by using lesser plum sauce and crispy crackers! Check this recipe out for a healthier homemade version by the Health Promotion Board!

Recommended products: Zyliss Smart Touch™ Salad Spinner, Benriner Vegetable Turning Slicer

4. Wrap away with a Popiah Station!

Just like coffee, everyone likes their popiah made differently. Set up a popiah station as an appetiser before the reunion dinner and enjoy rolling them as a family! It can even be served the next day as the ingredients refrigerate well. Add as much or as little toppings as you like and make your very own signature popiah! Here is a great recipe to get you started:

Recommended products: Benriner Plastic Vegetable Slicer, Jamie Oliver All-Purpose 3-in-1 Peeler with Blade Storage Kit

5. Bake CNY goodies as a family!

Chinese New Year is all about bonding with friends and family, and not forgetting enjoying all the delicious food and snacks available only during this festive period! Learn to bake pineapple tarts, a festive favourite and bake them as a family after the reunion dinner. Some like more pineapple filling and less pastry, some prefer open-faced tarts – make the pineapple filling and dough beforehand and keep it in the refrigerator. That way they’ll be ready to go after dinner.

Feel like learning more CNY Cookies from a chef? Join our CNY Cookies Galore class with Chef Mimi Wahadi, or join Chef Darryl Lim and make your very own Kueh Lapis in the ever-popular Famous Layers: Kueh Lapis class!

Guide to Spring Cleaning Your Kitchen this CNY

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Guide to Spring Cleaning Your Kitchen this CNY

With Chinese New Year just around the corner once again, we’ve come up with a handy guide to spring cleaning your kitchen! Delve into our tips and tricks to ditch the dirt, leaving your kitchen spick and span, just in time to start the Chinese New Year festivities!

Spring Cleaning Tip #1: Get ready!
Don’t create any unnecessary stress for yourself! Here are some tips you can use to make your spring cleaning a tad more enjoyable:

• Put on some good tunes
• Do dishes, dry and put away
• Remove any non-kitchen clutter
• Set up large box or bag for items to trash
• Set up large box or bag for items to donate

Spring Cleaning Tip #2: Grab all of your cleaning supplies together!
Never underestimate the value of preparation! Having all your supplies within reach will help you to clean up your kitchen faster and more efficiently once you get started. Here’s what we like to always have on hand when the holidays are around the corner; these will come in handy when the festivities are in full swing and you don’t have time to run to the supermarket! Here are some supplies that we think will come in handy:

Cleaning Supplies: Town Talk Washing Up Liquid, If You Care Sponge Cloths & Food Waste Compostable Trash Bags

Don’t forget your arsenal of basic pantry needs too! We like the Salt & Pepper Mills from Cole & Mason for its style and functionality. Grab these from our online store if you’re feeling lazy – enjoy free shipping for orders above $150!

Spring Cleaning Tip #3: Give your pots and pans a good scrub-down
Scrub cast iron cookware with a soft sponge and coarse salt, then rinse away the salt. For stubborn stains, try removing them with a cloth and white vinegar. Tip: Never soak stainless steel cookware as their surfaces might become pitted!
Looking to refresh your cookware for the coming year? Here are some useful guides to get you started:

Tips and Tricks to Buying Cookware
Quick & Easy Guide to Buying Aluminium Cookware
Taking Care of Your Carbon Steel Cookware

Spring Cleaning Tip #4: Have your knives professionally sharpened
A set of good knives is the start of a great dish. Not only will sharp knives make your prep work easier, but they’ll make it safer as well! Invest in a durable knife sharpener and your knives will be with you for years to come. We like the Jamie Oliver Knife Block with 5 Knives that includes a carving knife, utility knife, paring knife and more!

Spring Cleaning Tip #5: Put everything in its place
A brand new year calls for new resolutions. Made a promise to yourself to clean up your diet for 2016? Stocking your kitchen with healthier choices is the first step to healthy eating. To ensure your healthy eating habits stick around and to encourage clean eating, it’s important to put some thought into the way you store your foods. From the pantry all the way to your fridge, place nutritious foods at eye level, front and centre, and put the sinful stuff at the back. You might be less tempted to snack! Remember to arrange your storage areas in a manner that encourages you to reach for them will be a kick-start to a healthy new year!

Spring Cleaning Tip #6: Clean your cutting boards
No kitchen can do without a reliable cutting board. Many people usually have a particular preference, such as wood or plastic. Whichever you prefer, always take steps to ensure that your cutting board lasts a long time and is safe from any food-borne bacteria. Whenever your cutting board is dirty, clean both sides with a damp cloth and a mild antibacterial soap. Rinse it with hot water, and wipe it clean with a clean cloth. Finally, let it try in an upright position.
Wooden cutting boards require more attention – give it a generous sprinkling of coarse salt once every few weeks, and rub it with a slice of lemon. Finish by rinsing well with hot water, then wipe it with a clean cloth.

Here’s a handy guide if you are looking at purchasing a new cutting board!

We hope you find these tips helpful in cleaning up your kitchen!

12 Showstopping Christmas Goodies!

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12 Showstopping Christmas Goodies!

On the first day of Christmas, ToTT gave to me… 12 amazing Christmas recipes!

You sang that in your head didn’t you? Inspired by the classic carol, ToTT brings you a showstopper for all 12 days of the festive season. Make all of them if you’re up for a challenge. Let’s get started!

Day 1: Vanilla Sugar Cookies

Christmas is the perfect excuse to flex your baking muscles even if you’re a little rusty. Kick off the 12 days with these simple and homely Vanilla Sugar Cookies by McCormick. Gift them in individual bags or keep them to yourself! They’re delicious either way, especially when dipped in a glass of cold milk.

Recommended tools:
Artisan® Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer
Holiday Cast Cookie Stamps

Day 2: Mini Chocolate Cupcakes with Marshmallow Frosting

Topped with a light and fluffy vanilla marshmallow frosting and dusted with cocoa, your Mini Chocolate Cupcakes will look like little snowcapped peaks!

Recommended tools:
Cake Deco Set with 6 Tubes, Coupler & Pastry Bag

Day 3: Champurrado (Mexican Hot Chocolate)

Take a break from the baking today and whisk yourself a toasty mug Champurrado, or Mexican Hot Chocolate. We love this version for its subtle spice and richness.

Recommended tools:
CHOC INDUCTION Cast Aluminium Non-Stick Saucepan with Spout

Day 4: Mocha Roulade

What’s Christmas without log cake? We love Chef Jehanne Ali’s Mocha Roulade and reckon it’d make a wonderfully light base for any log cake. Get your chocolate and caffeine fix here.

Recommended tools:
Magisso Balloon Whisk

Day 5: Almond Tartlettes

It’s time to bust out the fancy desserts. These nutty, rich and crunchy tartlettes are perfect for any dessert table – learn the basic tartlette shell and be as creative as you want with the flavours. We like a spiced pear or brandied cherry topping for this season.

Recommended tools:
Ibili MINI Non-Stick Fruit Tart Mould with Removable Base

Day 6: Gingerbread Cookies

Great for DIY projects with the kids, gingerbread men are a Christmas staple all over the world. Most importantly, they only take 30 mins from start to finish! Make your own with this recipe and decorate them to your heart’s desire.

Recommended Tools:
Nordic Ware Winter & Holiday Cookie Cutter Plaque

Day 7: Roast Pork Loin with Apple Chutney

Give your sweet tooth a rest with this savoury stunner and sink your teeth into tender stuffed pork loin with a spiced apple chutney. This dish is sure to impress! Check out Chef Eric Low’s recipe here.

Recommended tools:
Jamie Oliver Terracotta Baking Dish

Day 8: Classic Waffles

If you’re feeling burnt out by now, fret not. Get a pre-made waffle mix from the supermarket and simply add a dollop of good ‘ol vanilla ice-cream. If you’re feeling up to it, you can even try our recipe for classic waffles. Even better, make your own ice cream or gelato to go along with your warm waffles, we promise they’re worth the effort!

Recommended tools:
Cuisinart Traditional Waffle Maker
Cuisinart Ice Cream And Gelato Maker

Day 9: Dark Chocolate Raspberry Tart with Port Jelly

By now, your Christmas parties should be in full swing. Serve up this gorgeous Dark Chocolate Raspberry Tart with Port Jelly at dinner and let the compliments roll in. You deserve it!

Recommended Tools:
Nordic Ware Pro Form Quiche/Tart Pan

Day 10: Cioccolata Calda

Yes, another hot chocolate! This Italian take is unrivalled in its decadence and richness, and is certainly not for the fainthearted. Warning: only attempt if you’re a true chocolate lover.

Recommended tools:
Jamie Oliver Colour-Dipped Mugs with Spoons, Set of 4

Day 11: Chocolate Mocha Bundt Cake

The sight of this cake could make us cry tears of joy. The best thing about it? This black beauty is so easy to make! Top the finished cake with a melted chocolate drizzle and fresh strawberries, then stand back and watch your guests salivate.

Recommended tools:
Nordic Ware PLATINUM Heritage Bundt Pan
Magisso Cake Server

Day 12: Roasted Herbed Chicken and Garlic Potatoes with Thyme

Celebrate the season of giving with this final masterpiece. Christmas is meant to be spent with family, and this dish is perfect for a shared evening with your loved ones.

Recommended tools:
Zyliss Baster/Flavour Injector Combo

We hope you’ve enjoyed our 12 Days of Showstopping Christmas Goodies! If you liked these recipes, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for great tips and guides all year round. Merry Christmas!

5 Fun Ways to Spice Up Christmas!

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5 Fun Ways to Spice Up Christmas!

If you’re looking to spice things up in the kitchen this Christmas, you’ve come to the right place. We have put together a go-to guide on how to turn everyday ingredients, spices and herbs into different festive goodies! Here’s how to experience a delicious holiday season.

Read on to find out more. Happy Holidays!

1. Festive Spice Rub
A great spice rub for pork, chicken or salmon! Simply blend 4 parts sea salt with 2 parts of dried cracked rosemary until the mixture is fairly ground. Add 2 parts minced garlic and 1 part coarse ground black pepper until the spice rub is well-blended and you’re done!
Use a pestle and mortar if you can to allow the herbs to fully release and bring out its aroma and flavour! If you don’t have dried cracked rosemary, simply put dried rosemary into a disposable bag and pound it with a rolling pin until the dried rosemary breaks apart!

Recommended tools:
Cole & Mason Ceramic Pestle & Mortar
Cole & Mason INVERTA Flip Back Acrylic Pepper And Salt Mill

2. Spice Mixes for Baking
Prepare a batch of aromatic spice mix for baking cookies and pies, or store them in little glass containers as Christmas gifts for friends and family.

All you need is cinnamon (1 tbsp), nutmeg (1 tsp), ground ginger (1/2 tsp), allspice (1/4 tsp) and cloves (1/4 tsp). Simply grind these whole spices in  a spice grinder, give it a little shake-up with a whisk and you’re all set.

Try adding a dash of it into your apple pie filling before baking – the aroma alone adds an instant festive touch to your Christmas dessert table!

Recommended products:
Cuisinart Spice and Nut Grinder
Magisso Balloon Whisk
Jamie Oliver Pop-Top Spice Jars, Set of 5

3. Sugar? Yes, please!
Flavoured sugar is all the rage now – they are great as Christmas gifts, and add an instant burst of flavour to your culinary creations. Here’s two to get you started:

Lemon & Mint Sugar
What you need: Rind of 1 lemon, handful of fresh mint leaves, ¼ cup granulated sugar
Steps:
1. Microwave the lemon rind and mint leaves separately until completely dry (make sure not to burn it!)
2. Finely chop the lemon rind and mint leaves
3. Add sugar and process till very finely ground

Basil & Lime Sugar
What you need: Rind of 1 lime, handful of basil leaves, ¼ cup granulated sugar
Steps:
1. Microwave the lime rind and basil leaves until completely dry (make sure not to burn it!)
2. Finely chop the lime rind and basil leaves
2. Add sugar and process till very finely ground

Feel free to mix and match your favourite herb and fruit – strawberry and basil, peach and mint… the possibilities are endless!

Recommended tools:
Zyliss Fast Cut Herb Tool
Cuisinart Mini-Prep® Plus Processor

4. Fancy Flavours – DIY Herb-infused Olive Oil
Herb-infused olive oil is a perfect way to jazz up a salad, drizzle over a plate of pasta, or as an appetizer served with slices of artisan bread! Instead of using store-bought herb-infused olive oil, try making it yourself! It’s simple and best of all – there are no added preservatives or additives! Here are some of our favourite flavour combinations:

Garlic & Chilli Olive Oil
What you need: 3 roasted whole garlic, red chilli flakes (4 tsp), 2 cups olive oil
Steps:
1. Combine roasted garlic cloves, red chilli flakes and oil in a saucepan and bring to a low simmer
2. Allow to cool. Place garlic cloves into bottle and add remaining oil
3. Seal and refrigerate up to 1 month

Rosemary Olive Oil
What you need: 2 cups olive oil, 6-8 sprigs fresh rosemary sprigs
Steps:
1. Combine oil and rosemary in a saucepan and bring to a low simmer.
2. Allow to cool. Place rosemary sprigs into bottle and add remaining oil
3. Seal and refrigerate up to 1 month

Recommended tools:
Jamie Oliver Serving Board and Bowl
Jamie Oliver Big Drizzler

5. Christmas Snowballs! 
A perfectly creamy chocolate truffle is your answer when it comes to satisfying that sweet tooth this festive season. Add a few cracks of black pepper to spice things up – you’d be surprised that the combination works really well! Here’s a handy dandy recipe:

What you need: 150g chopped good-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa solids), 150ml heavy cream, 25g unsalted butter, cracked black pepper, toppings of your choice
Steps:
1. Heat the cream and butter on low heat till fully melted. Remove from heat and pour over chopped chocolate. Leave it untouched for 5 minutes
2. Stir until smooth. Add a few cracks of black pepper – taste and adjust to your liking!
3. To shape your truffles, use a melon baller or a mini-scoop and scoop the mixture. Shape it with your hands and place onto silicone baking mat or greaseproof paper to prevent sticking.
4. Coat with powdered sugar, nuts or any toppings you desire!

The best thing about these truffles is that you can customize and personalize them however you like! We love the combination of chopped pistachios and dried cranberries!

Recommended tools:
Cole & Mason CRYSTAL Acrylic Pepper Mill
Giesser Melon Twin-Baller

ToTTful Christmas Gift Guide

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ToTTful Christmas Gift Guide

The holiday season is once again upon us.

Shop for gifts early at the ToTTful Christmas Sale to avoid the stress of last-minute shopping!

With more than 100 carefully selected kitchenware bundles going at up to 50% off, it’s easy to find the perfect gift.

Need help with your selection? Here are some of our favourites:

1. Nordic Ware Cake Pops Baking Pan and Meri Meri Santa Cake Pop Treat Kit (Bundle Price $60, U.P $85.75)

Ideal for baking enthusiasts, this exclusive bundle comes with Nordic Ware’s 2-piece pan and the adorable Meri Meri Cake Pop Treat Kit which includes 6 stand-up Santa cake pop holders.

2. Magisso Carafe + Mini Serving Cup, Set of 2 (Bundle Price $69, U.P $99.80)

You can never go wrong with a Red Dot Design Award winner! Made out of Magisso’s Naturally Cooling Ceramics, the Magisso Carafe and Mini Serving Cup keep your drinks cool for one to two hours. Simply soak the them in water for a minute or two before use.

3. Jamie Oliver Large Oven Dish (Yellow) + Wooden Salad Server + Single Oven Glove (Bundle Price $42, U.P $64.70)

Pretty yet practical, Jamie Oliver’s dining ware has won the hearts of home cooks everywhere. This bundle includes 3 items – a cheery and versatile Large Oven Dish (Yellow), a rustic Wooden Salad Server and a Single Oven Glove. You simply cannot beat this value, so grab a set for yourself while you’re at it

4. Nordic Ware Oven Essentials Roaster + Fold Up Roasting Rack (Now $64, U.P $90.80)

Like Mac and Cheese, these two roasting essentials by Nordic Ware are simply made for each other. Prepare a small roast in the Essentials Roaster while achieving the perfect crisp outside with the Fold up Roasting Rack. No more uneven roasts at the dinner table

5. Cole & Mason 6-Jar Herb & Spice Rack (now $36, U.P $51.90)

Chic and sleek, the Cole & Mason 6-Jar Herb & Spice Rack is ideal for the style-conscious home owner.  The spice jars are made of beautifully blown glass and chrome accents. The caps twist to close/open, pour or sprinkle spices.

6. Jamie Oliver Embossed Mug, Set of 4 + Embossed Serving Jug (Bundle Price $43.90, U.P $62.80)

The Jamie Oliver Embossed Mug and Jug bundle would make lovely additions to any home. White with accented handles, the collection adds a pop of colour to the dining table while retaining its understated charm. A great gift for new homeowners, or anybody who would like to give their dining ware collection and affordable facelift.

7. Jamie Oliver San Acrylic Jug + San Acrylic Goblet (Bundle Price $45. U.P $64.80)

The vintage inspired Jamie Oliver San Acrylic Jug and Goblet are dishwasher safe and shatterproof, making them awesome gifts for families with children and pets. Durable and easy to clean, the bundle is also great for serving up sodas at picnics and porches.

Shop our ToTTful Christmas Sale from 14 November – 27 December 2015 at both Dunearn and Suntec outlets!

Seeing Red this National Day

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Seeing Red this National Day

Get in the mood for National Day with these red hot picks from ToTT that are sure to brighten up any kitchen!

1. KitchenAid Artisan® Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer in Empire Red

Make your favourite cakes and multiple batches of cookie dough easily with the 5-quart/4.8 Litre stainless steel mixing bowl that comes with a comfortable handle. With 10 speeds, the stand mixer will quickly become your kitchen’s culinary centre as you mix, knead and whip ingredients with ease. And for even more versatility, the power hub fits optional attachments from food grinders to pasta makers and more.

2. Microplane Cube Grater in Red

The Cube Grater by Microplane has three convenient blade styles- fine, ribbon and coarse. Makes preparing your favourite dish easy as pie! The Cube Grater’s dual-purpose catch feature can also be used as a measuring device and a protective cover.

3. Quench Martini Master in Red

Whether you like your Martinis shaken or stirred, mastering making the secret service’s most popular cocktail is now super easy. Use the Martini Master’s jigger to measure two shots of Gin and one of vermouth, add into your cocktail spinner (yes, we disagree with your cocktail mixing methods Mr Bond!) with lots of ice, after the gin and vermouth are mixed together pour into a classic martini glass and use the handy zester to create a beautiful garnish for your Martini. Add an olive for an authentic look.

4.  Theo+Co. Pizza Perfector in Red

The Pizza Perfector takes the hard work out of making a great pizza. You know you are in good hands as the appliance is developed by triple-world Champion Pizza Maker Theo Kalogeracos.

Frustrated with not being able to find a competent domestic pizza cooker for his private event engagements, he decided to develop his own. The Pizza Perfector is a uniquely designed piece of equipment that can make anyone cook consistent pizza like a World Champion.

5. Jamie Oliver Pasta Machine

A new and improved Pasta machine from Jamie Oliver, for a smoother pasta making experience. Impress your guests by creating a variety of home-made pasta types (including lasagne, spaghetti, fettucine and tagliatelle) which are healthy and of high quality too. A staple in every contemporary kitchen.

6. The Cooking Doctor Macaron Pastry Set

Packed in an exclusive box, this pastry set contains a double-sided silicone pastry mat, 6 medium size nozzles, an adaptor, a large silicone piping bag and a recipe booklet. Perfect for own use or as a gift.

The mat can be used to make 30 traditional standard macaron of 3.8cm, 8 large (5 cm) macaron or whoopee pie, heart and flower shaped macarons. The mat is made of premium silicone to ensure that it is 100 % non-stick, and with even heat distribution, it is guaranteed to produce macarons with feet.

This set will suit any home baker, as the piping bag is washable and the nozzle can also be used for cupcake or cake decorations. The classic swirl on cupcake, round nozzle for macarons, rose and leave decorations, and even fancy grass shape for novelty cupcakes!

7. Nordic Ware Bavaria Mini Bundts Pan in Red

The Bavaria Mini Bundts Pan from Nordic Ware is perfect for creating bite-sized Bavaria bundt shaped cakelets. The non-stick coated aluminium of the Bavaria Mini Bundts Pan ensures even baking with quick release and easy cleanup. Now, you can create bundt cakelets of a more unique shape with the right amount of rising.

8. de Buyer Mandoline Swing Slicer in Red

The Mandoline Swing Slicer from de Buyer is made from durable stainless steel & composite polymers and with blade produced in Thiers, the French famous town specialized in professional cutlery, this slicer brings professionalism into your kitchen. Technique is inspired from de Buyer’s professional model.