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Fondue from one room to another.
(Credit: Williams-Sonoma)It's not hard to throw together a fondue party. All you need are a few friends, some easy-melting ingredients, and bread, fruit, or something of the like to dip in it. Oh, there's one more thing that would make the evening go down as easy as a vat of melted cheese or chocolate: the fondue pot. Even if you have such a device, creating the velvety centerpiece would probably require the use of a saucepan on the stovetop. That is, unless you have a fondue pot that does double duty.
The All-Clad Fondue Pot with Cast Aluminum Insert saves a step in the fondue-making process by including a stovetop-safe cast-aluminum insert. Made from 18/10 stainless steel with an aluminum base, the set includes eight color-coded stainless-steel dipping forks. For additional versatility beyond just cheese and chocolate, the fondue pot is capable of cooking meat in hot oil; just remove the insert.
What makes this fondue pot really shine is the fact that it goes from stovetop to tabletop with ease. While the presentation of a good-looking fondue pot bubbling away over a flame is most comforting, the convenience of quickly setting the mood cannot be beat. Except, of course, the entrance you make at your own party, carrying in the fondue from the stove.
No ice needed.
(Credit: Bed Bath & Beyond)While nothing beats enjoying a cooler full of ice-cold beverages at the park, beach, or backyard barbecue, there is a bit of a downside risk: wet cans. As drinks are plucked from the murky depths of the ice chest, ice that is no longer ice clings to the can. It's something even cold-activated cans cannot fix.
Since the dawn of mankind (or at least the invention of the tailgate party), people have looked for a way to enjoy the crisp, clean taste of their favorite drinks without the inconvenience of wet fingers. Now, finally, there is a way.
The Wine Enthusiast Koolatron Rechargeable Bar On Wheels provides a way to cool your drinks anywhere, without the use of ice. The rechargeable cooler cools contents to a "near refrigerator" temperature of 40 degrees F.
Plugging into a standard home outlet, the 41-pound portable cooler also includes an AC/DC adapter for vehicle charging. One charge is good for up to four hours of active, quiet cooling, and for easy portability, two wheels are attached at the base.
With three removable shelves and space for in-door bottle cooling, the portable party-maker has a versatile interior capable of cooling all types of beverages. Complete with a flat work area on top and a hanging basket for accessories on the side, this cooling solution is sure to be a hit at your next outdoor event.
But it will cost you--$449.99 in at least one listing we saw. What do you think? Is saving the ice for putting in your drinks instead of on them worth that tag?
No birds allowed.
(Credit: Bed Bath & Beyond)You know how you always wanted that fountain in the back yard? That chocolate fountain? Imagine it: a 16-foot-tall tower of gushing chocolate, always ready at your disposal. Wake up in the morning, look out through the window and across the lawn, and gaze upon one of mankind's greatest treasures. Simply go outside, take your morning cup of coffee, and hold it under the flowing waterfall of chocolate.
Unfortunately such simple pleasures can be monstrously unattainable. Luckily, the Select Home Chocolate Fondue Fountain can fill in the gap until you can afford your dream fountain. Standing at a respectable 16 inches, this chocolate fountain is a good deal more accessible. Perfect for parties and get-togethers, it won't break the budget to bust out and fill this up with enough chocolate for everybody. The heated basin holds 4 pounds of chocolate, which, when melted, cascades down the three-tier structure, supplying enough liquid chocolate for up to 20 guests.
Of course, setting this up as a permanent fixture in your decor is also an option. It may not be the Chocolate Trevi Fountain you always wanted, but think of all the construction costs you will save. Consider this a stepping-stone along the path toward realization of your dream fountain in the back yard--and meanwhile take solace in the thought that none of your guests is likely to throw coins into this delicious chocolate fountain.
A crowd pleaser.
(Credit: Bed Bath & Beyond)It takes a real commitment to decide on a slow-cooked meal. Pot roast, chili, stews, braised short ribs: all of these slow cooker meals require lots of cooking time. When the ingredients are in the pot, there's not much you can do to change your mind. Meals made in a slow cooker truly are set-it-and-forget-it-type meals. Once it gets going, there's no turning back.
The Crock-Pot Duo Cook and Server does double duty in more ways than one. First, the appliance combines two cooking vessels along with an attractive service for convenient tableside dining. Second, there are two slow cookers in one package. Operating with independent controls, each crock holds 2.5 quarts of your (two) favorite slow-cooked meals. All the standard amenities one would expect are present: choose from high, low, and warm for cooking, and the stoneware crocks and lids are dishwasher safe.
The ability to cook, warm and serve with this one appliance is handy for get-togethers and parties. For the perpetually undecided, the double duty nature of this double barreled makes perfect sense. No matter if you need to please a crowd or simply prepare in advance for fleeting cravings, this slow cooker duo has you covered.
Just add margaritas.
(Credit: Bed Bath & Beyond)Along with toasters, blenders are an iconic part of the American kitchen. They look cool, are very useful, and don't take up much room. In the list of appliances to get, blenders are certainly near the top. Blended margaritas certainly wouldn't be the same without them.
The Oster Blender with eLume Touchscreen brings blender style to the 21st century. Featuring a control panel sans traditional knobs or buttons, the blender relies entirely on a touch-screen interface. Without any nooks or crannies to hold spills, the flat screen easily wipes clean. When not in use, the eLume lights turn off, giving this blender a sleek, modern appearance.
Design may be important to kitchen decor, but usefulness has to be paramount when selecting any appliance. The 6-cup dishwasher-safe vessel has been thermal shock-tested to withstand temperature changes. An all-metal drive system is designed for durability.
Features include timed automatic settings for crushing ice. With its ice crusher blade for pulverizing ice and frozen fruits, along with its contemporary look, this blender could bring a new level of fun to your next margarita party.
All the grill you need.
(Credit: Williams-Sonoma)Everybody loves a backyard barbecue get-together. Having fun with friends and family only gets better when a grill is involved, Besides the enjoyment of spending time with the people you care about, a backyard barbecue offers the rare opportunity for everybody to eat exactly what they want. If somebody wants chicken, they simply throw it on the grill. The same goes for those who want burgers, steaks, or veggie burgers. No other form of social food gathering offers quite the individuality that cooking with a grill can provide.
Weber takes things one step further by offering the versatile Summit S-470 Gas Grill. In addition to the four primary burners, a flush-mounted side burner is included. The ability to simmer a sauce on a dedicated burner may be appealing, but the grill offers such extras as a rotisserie unit, a sear burner (for open-lid cooking), and a smoker burner with box. The 468-square-inch grilling surface is rated at 48,800 BTU, allowing for plenty of room for everybody to cook up just what they want.
The range of cooking styles is complemented with some nice features. Illuminated knobs and an automated grill light guide your way if your grill session extends past dusk. Other amenities include a built-in thermometer, six tool holders, and a fuel gauge. Constructed of durable stainless-steel and cast-aluminum, the grill is sure to keep the party going (and the guests fed with whatever they want) for years to come.
I like cheese.
(Credit: Amazon)Cheese goes well with cheese. Few other food groups can claim that to the extent that cheese can. Besides crackers or bread, nothing seems to go quite as well with cheese other than more cheese. With such a wide variety of cheeses available it's possible to have a cheese-based meal, while still experiencing an exciting depth of flavors. From hot-and-gooey to the strong-and-smelly, cheese is easy to get carried away with.
For those who appreciate an overabundance of cheese in their meals, check out this Wimmeley Raclette Party Grill with Fondue Pot. The spirit of the cheese course is present in this combination appliance. One part fondue, one part broiler, and one part tabletop grill, this appliance is all fun (assuming you like cheese). While the grill can be used to cook meats, vegetables, or bread for dipping, the eight pans can be filled by party guests to accommodate their tastes. While the inclusion of a fondue pot means you don't have to use the raclette pans to melt cheese, traditionally that is their purpose.
Peanut butter and jelly. Eggs and bacon. Turkey and cranberries. Some foods just go together, creating perfect a combination. Cheese and more cheese definitely qualifies. Given this party grill's spacious area (approximately 9.2 inches by 23.5 inches by 5.2 inches), your guests will have plenty of opportunity to enjoy cheese any way they like it.
Hot or not?
(Credit: Solutions)Admit it. Go on, admit it. You always wanted an ice sculpture centerpiece. I know I have. I'm not ashamed to admit it. An ice sculpture may be cheesy or fancy depending on your perspective (not to mention the sculpture), but there is no denying there is something just kind of neat about watching an ice sculpture slowly melt before your eyes. With little or no work, you can now have your very own ice sculpture (over and over again).
These Ice Sculpture Molds, available in Penguin or Angelfish, may not be the high art ice sculpture you would use for a very special event, but as a chilled centerpiece for a simple get-together, they are pretty cool. Besides, they're useful. The angelfish could be used to cool down a punch bowl, while the penguin makes for a nice accompaniment for foods that require chilling.
These molds require nothing more than a faucet and some empty room in the freezer. Simply fill with water and freeze. When ready, the flexible plastic easily separates from the finished figure. Measuring from 5 to 7 inches, the molds are small enough to be given alternate uses. For example, filled with gelatin the set figures could be an unexpected fun treat for the kids. The ease of use and fun animal shapes make these ice molds attractive for any age group--whether you admit it or not.
Oh, the places you'll go.
(Credit: Coleman)It's easy to become accustomed to the convenience of kitchen appliances. I know I am appreciative of my indoor grill. It makes me feel good knowing that a quick burger, chicken breast, or panini is but a button press away. It's useful, easy, and always there for me. With a tethered electrical cord, however, the grill is not very portable.
In a case of an outdoor appliance being inspired by an indoor appliance that was originally inspired by an outdoor appliance, we have this outdoor grill (got all that?). The Coleman Fold N Go InstaStart Grill borrows the classic clamshell design of indoor grills and brings its functionality up to date in a portable appliance. Perfect for trips to the park, beach, or the parking lot of the big game, the little propane-powered Coleman grill brings the convenience and flavor of grill cooking anywhere.
Starting with a simple press of the ignition button, the grill delivers flame via its 6,000 BTU horseshoe-shaped stainless-steel burner. The removable porcelain-coated cooking grate offers a good amount of room for a portable grill. Possibly drawing further inspiration from its indoor cousins, this grill features a removable grease tray that is dishwasher safe. Operating for up to 3.5 hours on one canister of propane, this little portable grill is sure to get a lot of use, just about anywhere you go.
Keeps the party going.
(Credit: Organize.com)If my prediction for beer-can chicken gaining in popularity doesn't come true, I have a backup plan: fondue. The once-popular, and practically mandatory, party accessory seems to be making a comeback. In a world where Internet fads come and go like the dying breeze, I see no reason why the fondue party cannot once again dominate the casual get-together scene. Any planned interaction at a party serves two purposes: first to keep your guests entertained, but more importantly, set activities act as an ice-breaker.
Your guests will certainly be talking upon seeing this Blomus 24 Piece Fondue Set. Accommodating six guests, the set includes 12 dipping utensils and six resting bowls, which orbit around a large 3.9-quart nonstick fondue pot. The striking set is crafted from German-engineered stainless steel and stands 10 inches tall, with a 16.5-inch diameter.
With a fun, immersive (and delicious) activity to capture your guests' attention and imagination, your party is sure to be a hit. You really can't miss if you serve cheese or chocolate, and with the simple addition of a lit sterno can, you can please your guests with melted delights. Of course, at almost $500 for this particular set, one might wish to reconsider just cooking up some beer-can chicken.
