The Mandolin, Not The Musical Instrument. Kitchen Gadgets

The Mandolin, not the musical instrument.

dugger 18 years ago

OK, let's get this show on the road...
I'll start off. A kitchen is a factory, a food factory. You need tools to run a factory. There are more tools than any of us will ever use or afford. So the trick is to find the ones that really make sense and are reasonably priced. I'll pick one for a beginning.

MANDOLIN not the musical instrument.

As the name does not describe, it's a slicer. What you ask? Why do I need a slicer when I have my trusty chef's knife? Well it depends on the recipe and the number of people being fed.

If you have a recipe that calls for onions cut into rings. Have you ever tried to cut onions into even rings? I can't. I'm sure many of you can but after two or three onions you begin to get tired and your eyes are running. A mandolin solves that issue..err..those issues.

Slice up 5 pounds of potatoes sometime and you will think you are in the Army. But when I fix Hobo Potatoes I can slice all of those in about 5 minutes.

The devices range from outlandish to cheap. Try to find one that is reasonable but has decent quality and features.

OK, I don't know if this is the kind of information that Beth is trying to get into this group but this try should tell the tale.

One thing, remember this critter is sharp. You can get a first class unexpected manicure if you are not careful.

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thepiggs 18 years ago said:

I was showing Hubby some gadgets and happened upon a mandolin there. Of course, it isn't the nicest, as the price indicate, but it's there if someone can't afford a more expensive one.
Usually I see them at a much higher price so I don't know how an under $10 one will perform. Mine was quite a bit more expensive.

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dandelion 18 years ago said:

I have a Mattfer mandoline. I love it, but it has one tiny dull spot. Does anyone know how to sharpen the blade? Also I find it a lot safer to use mine with a fish glove. Saves the fingers. :)

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notyourmomma 18 years ago said:

I use the one I got as a Pampered Chef consultant and it is still sharp as can be after 15 years of use. I use it for potatoes mostly and it is perfect. I can't adjust the width anymore, that part broke but I'm happy with slicing such perfect pototoes for the crispy topped augratin or potatoes anna that my family loves.

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chefjeb 18 years ago said:

As duggar says, these are great tools, but keep them away from the kiddies. Don't use them if you have had a glass of wine. Don't use them while you are jabbering while entertaining. Keep focused on what you are doing. They can bite and bite fast. Before buying one make sure it has safety features...and use them.

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wolfpackjack 17 years ago said:

I am looking to expand by kitchen gadgets and this is one that has caught my fancy. I would love some feedback and recommendations on brands, features, etc....

The prices I've seen have been from $20 up to the ++time to mortgage the house ethel++ price range. Any help with making an informed and intelligent decision would be greatly appreciated.

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httpmom 17 years ago said:

I lusted after a real French mandolin for years. About 7 years ago my best friend's son went to Culinary school in San Francisco, when I asked him about it he told me all the students and most of the restaurants used the Swissmar Borner. I did some research and ended up buying one on eBay for about $23.00. It's also sold on Amazon.

It's a work horse and still very sharp after 7 years of heavy use. It's also very easy to clean and top rack dishwasher safe. It's especially great for fancy potato dishes, but it's just as good for onions and veggies. Remember..it's VERY sharp, so always use the safety guide and pay close attention. Think of it like using a power tool.

It's one of a few tools I highly recommend!

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httpmom 17 years ago said:

If anyone is curious...I posted a photo of this cheap and cheerful tool in the recipe section of this group. It is amazingly sharp!

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trigger 16 years ago said:

Thank you for the advise.
I still have a mandolin in my wanted gadget item column it has been there since I left home.
Probably be there for another lifetime hope you will all be around...lol

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sarahcat 16 years ago said:

I've tested a number of more expensive mandolines and without question, the Börner V-Slicer is the absolute best. The fact that it's available for about $25 is an incredible bonus. It's never failed and remains remarkably sharp.

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