Pounder :

This is a miniature mortar and pestle used to crush small amounts of items, from cardamoms, to chillies, to peas, etc. in a jiffy. Take one which has a sturdy base, and fairly heavy, so the job gets done fast. Comes in stone, steel alloys, brass, etc.

Potato Masher :

This is a flat perforated base attached to a handle, and is used for mashing boiled potatoes, vegetables, and even to mash pavbhaji while cooking it.

Can Opener :

If you open can once in a way, then you need not buy the costly electrical ones. A simple small, inexpensive one, opens them very fast, anyway. They also usually come with a facility of bottle opener, too.

Kitchen Scissors :

One pair of scissors is very necessary in the kitchen and for foods only. You can chop chillies, greens, etc. so fast and with not burning on the hands. Make sure you have a pair which is rust proof.

By Saroj Kering