The Best Peelers for Every Kitchen
Some specialty kitchen items, mandolines for example, make certain food prep tasks significantly easier and faster but aren't strictly necessary. Peelers, on the other hand, are one of those food prep essentials, much like measuring cups and graters, for which there really is no practical substitute. Of course, you could attempt to peel your fruits and vegetables with a paring knife, but you're likely to remove a lot of usable flesh along with the peel, not to mention the fact that attempting this task with a knife rather than a peeler greatly increases the chances of injury. With a peeler, you can quickly and safely remove the skin from a wide range of fruits and vegetables. Plus, these versatile kitchen tools can be used to julienne produce for spectacular salads and slaws or create veggie noodles and ribbons for a healthy pasta alternative. Make sure to check out Williams Sonoma's collection of gourmet vegetable seasoning mixes for more inspiration.
The Options
Williams Sonoma's collection of vegetable tools includes a variety of peelers in different styles and sizes, so you'll have no trouble finding one or more to add to your kitchen arsenal. Depending on the types of fruits and vegetables you like to eat, you may opt to pick up a few different styles. While a straight swivel peeler can be used to remove the outer skin from just about any fruit or vegetable, you may want to consider purchasing a Y-shaped peeler for larger produce or one with a serrated blade for tomatoes and other fruits with delicate skin. Other styles include the julienne peeler, perfect for transforming carrots, zucchini and more into long, noodle-like strands, and the countertop peeler/corer, which allows you to quickly peel, core and slice apples, potatoes and more. Many of these peelers can also be used to create cheese and chocolate shavings as well as twists and other cocktail garnishes, making them a true kitchen workhorse. Read on for more about a few of the available options.
- Williams Sonoma Prep Tools Big Y Peeler - This Williams Sonoma exclusive makes short work of even the toughest rinds -- easily peeling everything from carrots and potatoes to eggplants and butternut squash. The contoured blade is perfect for large pieces of produce, and the ergonomically shaped handle offers a comfortable grip for both right- and left-handed cooks.
- Microplane Pro Julienne Peeler - With an ergonomic soft-touch handle and a blade made of surgical-grade stainless steel, this peeler is easy and comfortable to use. The peeler allows you to julienne carrots, cucumbers and zucchini with one smooth motion, and the pointed end of the blade is perfect for removing potato eyes, spots and produce stems.
- Global Vegetable Peeler with Interchangeable Blades - Made of tempered, high-carbon stainless steel, this versatile peeler comes from Global Cutlery, a Japan-based company known for its award-winning knives. The Global Vegetable Peeler comes with three interchangeable blades -- straight, serrated and julienne. The dimple pattern on the handle ensures a slip-resistant grip.
- Apple Peeler/Corer - If you're making an apple pie, a pear galette or a big batch of mashed potatoes, nothing will make your life easier than this simple but effective hand crank peeler. The suction base on this classic kitchen tool ensures that the sturdy enameled cast steel peeler stays steady on the countertop as you work to peel, core and slice your produce.