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Cravings: Stuff We Gotta Have

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By JEFF HOUCK

jhouck@tampatrib.com

Published: November 23, 2008

FOR A NICE SLICE

There is no way to count with existing technology the numbers of pies, cakes, lasagnas and casseroles we've senselessly massacred because we lacked adequate tools to make the transfer to the plate in a clean and aesthetically pleasing fashion. Maybe that's why we were wowed by the two-in-one serving knife by Kuhn Rikon, which provides a built-in serrated edge to slice through foods. Then, with a twist of the wrist, it can slide under the food to serve it up easily without having to switch between two tools. The 10-inch knife retails about $14, while the 12-inch version goes for $16. Available at specialty and online retailers, including www.factorydirect2you.com (866) 233-6587.

ONE-BUTTON TURKEY

Remember when they told us we'd all be riding in flying cars in the future and we'd only have to push a button to prepare dinner? The cars part didn't pan out, but new models of Electrolux wall ovens and ranges feature - get this - the Perfect Turkey Button, which uses a temperature probe to control cooking and a convection system that browns the turkey. (Yes, the oven does more than just cook turkey.) Cost: Single-oven models start at $1,899. Available at Famous Tate, Best Buy, Lowe's and Sears.

WINE ON YOUR TIME

Just because you don't live in Napa Valley doesn't mean you can't make your own wine at home. Facilitating the effort is the WinePod, a state-of-the-art tool for small-lot winemaking. From fermentation to pressing to ageing, the process is contained in one unit. And if your batch doesn't make decent wine, you can always claim it's a funeral urn. Cost: $4,499, including WineCoach step-by-step software, wine press and wireless communication.

Jeff Houck

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