Thanksgiving will soon be here. One of the best feasts of the year will be prepared in the kitchen by many Americans during the course of the day. Many kitchen innovations throughout the years have greatly aided the preparation of Thanksgiving dinner. We can be grateful that these kitchen innovations have made cooking and cleanup easier all year long.
Although there have been a lot of kitchen inventions throughout the years to be grateful for, we’ve whittled them down to the top 7.
1. Electric Range
Since the Qin Dynasty controlled China about 200 B.C., stoves have existed. The first wood-burning stove was created in the United States in the 18th century by Benjamin Franklin. Gas stoves were created soon after. Thomas Ahearn, a Canadian inventor, built the first electric range in 1892. The initial ranges included an oven light, a timer, a thermostat, burners, and broil and bake rods. Can you imagine not having an electric range for preparing a Thanksgiving meal?
2. KitchenAid Mixer
The first KitchenAid mixer was invented by Herbert Johnston in 1908. These huge mixers were only used by professional bakers. Small mixers, however, saw a surge in popularity after being introduced to the market by home cooks. The device, originally called a “food preparer,” was renamed after a housewife praised it as the best “kitchen aid” ever. The KitchenAid Mixer was initially created to mix dough, but it has many other uses as well. Making mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving dinner is an excellent use for the KitchenAid mixer.
3. Blender
The blender was created in 1922 by Stephen Poplawski, the proprietor of Stevens Electric Company in Racine, Wisconsin. He made the blender so he could prepare milkshakes and malts, which are still popular treats today. You can make a delicious sweet potato dish for Thanksgiving in the blender.
4. Slow Cooker
In 1940, Irving Nachumsohn received a patent for a slow cooker. His mother was Russian and in 1902, Nachumsohn was born in New Jersey. He eventually settled in Chicago where he created the slow cooker, primarily to avoid using the oven in the summer. Despite its practicality, the slow cooker took some time to gain popularity. It was rebranded the Crock-Pot, in the 1970s and quickly became sought-after. Casseroles, stuffing, turkey breasts, creamed corn, candied pecans, and more can be prepared in the Crock-Pot for Thanksgiving.
5. Food Processor
In 1971, Pierre Verdon invented the first food processor, followed by the Cuisinart food processor by American inventor Carl Sontheimer. In the late 1970s, food processors became popular in many kitchens. This culinary tool is widely used nowadays to chop, pulverize, and combine a range of foods. When it comes to preparing food the day before Thanksgiving, this machine is a great time saver.
6. Microwave
In 1946, Percy Spencer invented the microwave inadvertently. He discovered that he had melted his food while testing magnetrons. Today, it’s difficult to picture what life would be like without the microwave. On the day following Thanksgiving we can quickly reheat those delicious leftovers thanks to this ingenious kitchen technology.
7. Dishwasher
The first dishwasher was created in 1850 by Joel Houghton. The dishwasher was seen as a luxury appliance in the 1950s, but today approximately 75% of Americans own a dishwasher. After a substantial meal like Thanksgiving dinner, this kitchen tool is invaluable.
We at Innovative Kitchen & Bath would like to express our gratitude to all our amazing clients. Thank you for the support you have shown us. If you need anything from us, we would love to hear from you. We wish you and your loved ones a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving!