Published on Saturday, Nov. 29, 2008 12:00AM EST Last updated on Friday, Mar. 13, 2009 10:54AM EDT
HAND-HELD ESPRESSO MAKER
I will never have to suffer terrible coffee again thanks to this portable espresso maker. All you need is hot water and espresso pods, which are available in most supermarkets. You don't even need electricity - this little pump-action gadget does it all on its own. $189.95 at Degrees Kitchen Store (http://www.degreeskitchen.com) and other kitchen shops across Canada.
SINUOUS ROSENTHAL DINNERWARE
Part of Rosenthal's A La Carte collection, these beautiful scoop-design plates are great for mixing with existing china. And their possibilities are endless. The smallest ones make ideal dip holders, while the larger ones can be used for saucy braises or even as bread baskets. All are good for salads and desserts. $175 per three-piece set through http://www.waterfordwedgwood.com.
SAUCIER SAUCES AND DEMI-GLACES
A favourite new addition to my kitchen is gourmet stocks and sauces for the home chef. In particular, chef Roger Wils of the now-defunct Café Brussel in Toronto has launched Saucier, a line of professional demi-glaces (stocks that are reduced down to their flavour essence), sauces and other trade specialties to add to your home repertoire. Just swirl one into your sauté pan and your sauce will taste professional. Demi-glaces from $6.99 to $14.99 through http://www.saucierfoods.com.
FINE CHARCUTERIE
Charcuterie is a hot trend in home entertaining right now. For a good selection of essentials, try these products from France's Bordeau Chesnel: pork rillettes, pâté d'auvergne and saucisson sec (shown here). Just add cheeses, crusty bread, fresh figs and mustard fruits. $9.99 for 175 grams of saucisson sec at the Cheese Boutique (http://www.cheeseboutique.com); contact infos@bordeau-chesnel.com for other retailers.
QUANGZHOU MILKY OOLONG TEA
Tea is like wine - complex, aromatic, full of character. And specialty teas are the big trend in the beverage world right now. One of my favourites is Quangzhou Milky Oolong, a loose tea that smells a little like condensed milk but has a pure, clear flavour with hints of milk (although it contains none). Perfect for sophisticated tea drinkers and the lactose-intolerant. $17 for 25 grams at the Tea Emporium (http://www.theteaemporium.com).
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