You Didn’t Know You Couldn’t Live Without A . . .

When I go on vacation, I tend to watch a lot of really bad TV, mostly because much of my everyday free time is taken up with reading, helping with homework, cleaning, etc., but I also just want to escape. Unfortunately, "bad" TV usually means really bad commercials that you see over and over again. So, imagine my surprise when this was the commercial I kept seeing on my last vacation.

A bacon bowl─who knew? This got me thinking, what other crazy kitchen gadgets are out there that we think we can’t live without? Maybe it’s the salad spinner, the ultimate brownie pan or the flavor injector. Whatever your kitchen gadget is, embrace its usefulness for you or try one of these gadget friendly books to find your favorite.

Gadgetology showcases 35 different gadgets, which can be found in most kitchens, and offers recipes, experiments, games and crafts that parents and children can do together.

Consider the Fork is an entertaining look at the history and science behind how we make and consume our food.

Alton Brown's Guide to Gear for your Kitchen is my favorite book for learning how to use gadgets that you might actually need in the kitchen.