Making cooking work for any foodie
For some, cooking can be daunting. As people with physical disabilities can be met with challenges in standing, reaching, or using just one side of their body. LivAbility and Chef Steve have worked to identify a handful of kitchen gadgets that can make cooking in your own home less stressful and more manageable.
1. Dycem non-slip mat, jar opener, or reel of non-slip material
Products range from $13.00 – $30.00 on Amazon.
Dycem non-slip products are great kitchen aids for both independent living and caregivers. The company produces a range of products, from non-slip mats and coasters to specifically designed non-slip openers. A non-slip mat underneath your plate or cutting board will prevent it from sliding around during use. Dycem non-slip products are not heat-resistant, though. Do not leave a hot pan on it any longer than it takes to stir the ingredients and return it to the stove. They also do not work well if they get too wet or if oil gets spilled on them. They need to be thoroughly washed with warm, soapy water and air-dried when done using.
2. Kitchen Mama one-touch hands-free electric can opener
$28.99 on Amazon
This can opener is powered by four (4) AA batteries. It rotates the can and can be stopped in one press. The Kitchen Mama cuts along the side and leaves a smooth edge on the lid and the can, so you don’t have to worry about sharp edges. It also has a built-in magnet and automatically stops after making a complete turn around the can. This opener works best on small and medium-sized cans–like a can of beans, soup, or tomato paste. The opener can get caught up on cans with the pull-tabs. If the can has a thicker edge, run it twice around.
3. OXO POP storage containers
Products range from $10.00 – $22.00 for individual containers on Amazon.
OXO POP storage containers come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes and are also stackable. They are great for storing things like cereal, rice, or beans on your counter or in your pantry. The lid forms an airtight seal with a push of a button on top of the lid, keeping your dry goods fresh. To release the seal, you simply push the button again. You can pull the lid off with just one hand. They can be purchased individually or in sets.
Steve Norton | Writer
A native of Santa Ana, CA, Steve Norton has been in the hospitality industry for the past 30 years. He attended New York’s prestigious Culinary Institute of America and has worked as a private chef. Steve loves to share his knowledge and expertise in healthy eating, including menu planning, managing a food budget, and cooking with fresh ingredients.
Read more by Steve Norton.