One of my goals this year has been to cook more often. And so far, I've been doing well and really enjoying it. It's relaxing, fun while learning new recipes, and challenges my creativity in the kitchen. And because I've been cooking more, I felt like I needed just the right gadgets to aid me in my journey.
So what gadgets have I invested in? Nope, it's not a mixer or food processor or dehydrator. Actually, I did get all of the recently and it's been great. But there are other gadgets that are way more important for me in the kitchen. And thats.... wait for it..... Apple gear!
Ahhh yes, Tom the Apple nerd. One of the most recent things I've bought is the HoverBar for my iPad. It's a flexible bar that can attach to the back of your computer or a kitchen counter or cabinet, and holds your iPad in the direction you may need. I have my iPad hooked onto the HoverBar which is attached to my kitchen cabinet.
This setup is great whenever I need to follow a recipe via a youtube video I'm watching, a recipe app I'm using, or just when I need to jam out to some streaming music while cooking. Which leads me to the next gadget, the Airport Express.
An Apple Airport Express is a small device that can act as a router or even extend your wireless network. It also has a USB port and a 3.5mm audio port where you can even connect speakers so they can be accessed wirelessly via Apple's Airplay. I've had one for my bedroom speakers for awhile now, but recently picked up a couple more inexpensively on Craigslist. I have that hooked up in my kitchen with just some basic speakers I got at Microcenter.
So when I get home and start cooking and want to groove to some music, I just use my iPad or my iPhone and start streaming away. I highly recommend creating an atmosphere where you can truly enjoy what you're about to be doing. This apple ecosystem has definitely been vital to my cooking journey. But if you don't have any of this, a good ole portable radio will easily do the job. Be creative and have fun setting up your kitchen environment!