These are my top three choices from among the devices tested in 2018, plus an honorable mention. I liked the first two so much that I bought them as gifts for other people.
1. DRINKMATE IDRINK
Published Jan. 3
Although a little pricey at around $100, this gift is one that keeps giving. It resuscitates flat soda and revitalizes beer, which helps lessen waste and save money. The iDrink also will add bubbles to plain water.
Boost the flavor of your home-made sparkling water by adding fruits or vegetables, such as cucumber or the popular watermelon/basil combination.
The only downside is the repeated cost of refilling the CO2 canisters.
At idrink.com.
2. BREVILLE SMOKING GUN
Published March 7
Every foodie who cooks should have this. It’s simple to use, adds a smoky flavor to almost anything and can also provide a great ta-da element for a special meal. It’s a very cool gadget.
About $100 at Williams-Sonoma Ala Moana, williams-sonoma.com and brevilleusa.com; amazon.com has three models starting at about $80.
3. AS SEEN ON TV EGGLETS
Published June 6
I loved this gadget when I tested it, but didn’t think about it again until I bought two hard-boiled eggs.
I tried to pour just a couple of drops of shoyu on top of an egg without making a mess at my desk, but I failed. I thought, “Why didn’t I boil my own eggs in an Egglette?”
Simply break an egg into an Egglette cup and cook. It’s easy to add seasonings before or after cooking, and no need to peel eggshells.
$19.99 for six at getegglettes.com; also at some Target stores.
HONORABLE MENTION: LEKUE’S KIT MINI PIES
Published April 4
This deserves an honorable mention because kids can help make these cute pastries.
The kit turns store-bought dough (I liked phyllo the best) and cans of fruit into more than a dozen delicious tarts quickly.
Or, turn leftover beef stew or pulled pork into tasty meat pies. Sweet or savory, making these pies is quick and easy.
$27 plus $20 shipping at fancyflours.com.