YumSugar

What Is This?

YumSugar — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 09:00:15 -0700

If you were trying to prepare a light version of your favorite Spring vegetables, like artichokes, asparagus, or English peas, you might reach for this kitchen tool. Can you guess what it is?

SodaStream Soda Maker: Worth Gushing About?

YumSugar — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 09:00:12 -0700

I have a confession to make: if I didn't worry about what my friends and family would say to me, I'd probably drink soda all day, every day - I love it that much. So when I got my hands on SodaStream's Soda Maker, a SkyMall-like contraption that claims to "turn tap water into sparkling water in three seconds," I knew I'd be in for some fizzy fun.According to Soda-Club, the company behind the machine, the SodaStream is more convenient (since you make soda instantly at home) than buying soda, less troublesome (no need to lug soda bottles), healthier (no high-fructose corn syrup), economically sensible, and better for the environment. Did the soda maker stand up to its claims? Find out when you read more.

I received a starter kit ($99.99) with a Fountain Jet Home Soda Maker, a 110-liter carbonator, two carbonating bottles, and an assortment of diet soda flavors and sparkling water essences. Following instructions, I assembled the machine, which requires no electricity, in under 10 minutes. To make soda, you fill a carbonating bottle with water, screw it into the machine, press a button four times to create fizz, and pour in some flavoring.

The soda machine is certainly easy to use, less troublesome to transport, and better for the environment. After the initial cost for the machine, a cup of soda will set you back less than $0.10. As far as taste, however, this is no match for store-bought soda.

The pop flavors (which included diet cola, diet grapefruit, diet cranberry-raspberry, and diet root beer) taste artificial with an odd aftertaste, and the bubbles aren't as fine or long-lasting as canned or bottled soda. "It's like Italian soda meets Crystal Light," a friend lamented. The flavored fruit essence drops taste even less natural. The soda bottles, despite being BPA-free, aren't dishwasher-safe.

If you're a heavy club soda drinker, or frequently make Italian sodas with traditional syrups, then this machine would actually be a good investment for you. But if you're a regular canned Coke drinker, the soda system's syrupy flavors won't likely be the replacement you're hoping for. Have you ever tried SodaStream? Did you come to the same conclusions about it?

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What Is This?

YumSugar — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 09:00:18 -0700

You might find one of these tools handy now that a certain fruit is in season. Do you know what this gadget is?

What Is This?

YumSugar — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 09:00:04 -0700

Classic submarine sandwiches are always a crowd-pleaser, but if you were looking to make a certain sandwich on the sweeter side, you might use one of these utensils. Can you guess what it is?

What Is This?

YumSugar — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 09:00:59 -0700

This electric appliance has both a contemporary design and at least one function. Cool beans!

What Is This?

YumSugar — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 09:00:40 -0800

This instrument may look more like a medical device than a cooking tool, but it could be helpful in the kitchen when making dishes like homemade pappardelle. Can you guess what it is?

What Is This?

YumSugar — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 09:00:53 -0800

Those of you looking to take a breather from the heavy food of the holidays might turn to this gadget to help you. Do you know what it is?

Did You Receive a Kitchen Gift This Holiday?

YumSugar — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 09:15:23 -0800

This Christmas, did you find the KitchenAid attachment that you've been wanting under the tree? Or perhaps receive the edible gift of your dreams?

Before the holidays, my friend Daisy presented me with some scrumptious peppermint bark, and I was elated!

If you did get the gourmet gift of your dreams, I'd love to hear what you received in the comments below!

Source

What Is This?

YumSugar — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 09:00:52 -0800

This beautiful glass object is a great adornment for the home, but it also has an important daily function. Do you know what this item is?

What Is This?

YumSugar — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 09:00:06 -0800

This device is for use with a certain produce item that just so happens to be in season. Can you identify it?