The 3 Best Spider Strainers of 2024 – A Comprehensive Review
Spider strainers are versatile kitchen tools that can make your cooking experience more efficient and enjoyable. With their long handles and wire mesh baskets, spider strainers are designed to scoop up food or skim fat from the top of hot liquids. However, not all colanders are created equal. In this article, we’ll review the three best spider strainers of 2024, giving you all the information you need to make an informed buying decision.
1. Helen’s Asian Kitchen 7-Inch Spider Strainer – Best Spider Strainer for Pasta
The Helen’s Asian Kitchen 7-Inch Spider Strainer is our top pick for the best spider strainer for pasta. With its 7-inch basket, this strainer is perfect for lifting pasta out of boiling water. The large basket can hold a substantial amount of pasta while allowing the pasta water to drain quickly. Made of stainless steel, the basket is resistant to stains, discoloration and rust, ensuring durability. In addition, the natural bamboo handle provides heat insulation to protect your hands. The shallow mesh basket holds pasta securely, preventing splashes and mess. Despite its large size, the Spider Strainer is lightweight and perfectly balanced for ease of use.
2. Hiware 7 Inch Stainless Steel Spider Strainer – Best Large Spider Strainer
If you’re looking for a larger strainer to handle larger cooking tasks, the Hiware 7-inch Stainless Steel Spider Strainer is an excellent choice. With its 7-inch basket, this strainer is perfect for cooking larger quantities of food. Made of premium food-grade 18/8 stainless steel, it offers good heat insulation and durability. The well-proportioned slots in the basket allow liquid and oil to drain easily while holding food securely in place. The total length of the colander is 17.7 inches for a comfortable grip. Whether you’re blanching vegetables or scooping out larger portions of food, the Hiware Spider Strainer will meet your needs.
3. Best Utensils 5 Inch Stainless Steel Spider Strainer – Best Mesh Spider Strainer
For those who prefer a smaller spider strainer with a finer mesh, the Best Utensils 5-Inch Stainless Steel Spider Strainer is an ideal choice. Made of 18/8 stainless steel, this strainer is durable and safe to use. The sleek, high quality satin finish adds a touch of sophistication to your kitchen. The mesh basket, a traditional design, effectively traps grease and small food particles while allowing liquid to drain. The loop on the handle allows for easy storage when not in use. If you need a colander that excels at trapping small food particles and grease, the Best Utensils colander is the perfect option.
What to consider when choosing a colander
There are several important factors to consider when choosing a spider strainer:
1. Size of the screen
Think about the tasks you will be using the screen for and choose a size accordingly. If you expect to use it for a variety of purposes, a medium strainer would be a good choice.
2. Materials Used
Strainers are typically made of wire mesh or bamboo wood. Make sure the colander you choose is made of durable materials that will last a long time in your kitchen.
3. Spider Strainer Uses
Spider strainers have many uses in the kitchen. They allow for more efficient ladling and skimming than slotted spoons. They can be used to remove fat from broths and stews, blanch vegetables, or lift pasta from boiling water. Consider the specific tasks you will be using the strainer for and choose accordingly.
4. Difference between a skimmer and a colander
While similar in function, spider strainers and skimmers have slight differences. Spider strainers have wire mesh shaped like a spider’s web, while skimmers have round wires set in the basket. Spider strainers generally have smaller holes than skimmers, making them more effective at capturing smaller food particles.
In conclusion, spider strainers are valuable tools in the kitchen, and choosing the right one can greatly enhance your cooking experience. The Helen’s Asian Kitchen 7-Inch Spider Strainer is the best option for pasta lovers, offering a large, durable basket and a comfortable bamboo handle. The Hiware 7-Inch Stainless Steel Spider Strainer is perfect for those who need a larger strainer for larger cooking tasks, while the Best Utensils 5-Inch Stainless Steel Spider Strainer excels at capturing small food particles and fat. Consider the size, materials, and specific uses of a colander when making your selection. With the information provided in this review, you can confidently choose the best spider strainer to meet your needs and enhance your culinary endeavors. Happy Cooking!
FAQS
What is a colander and why should I have one in my kitchen?
A colander is a kitchen tool with a long handle and a wire mesh basket that resembles a spider’s web. It is used to scoop food or skim fat from hot liquids. Having a spider strainer in your kitchen can make tasks such as lifting pasta out of boiling water or removing fat from broths more efficient and convenient.
What should I consider when choosing a colander?
When choosing a spider strainer, consider factors such as size, materials used, specific uses, and the difference between a skimmer and a spider strainer. Choose a size that fits your needs, opt for durable materials like stainless steel, and think about the specific tasks you will be using the strainer for. Also, understand the differences between a skimmer and a spider strainer to make an informed decision.
Are the spider strainers mentioned in the article dishwasher safe?
While the article does not specifically mention the dishwasher compatibility of the spider strainers, stainless steel spider strainers are generally dishwasher safe. However, to ensure the longevity of the strainer and its handle (especially if made of bamboo), it is advisable to hand wash them whenever possible.
Can I use a spider strainer for anything other than lifting pasta?
Yes, colanders have many uses in the kitchen. They can be used to remove fat from broths and stews, blanch vegetables in hot water, or even scoop out other types of cooked pasta such as pasta or rice noodles. Their versatility makes them a handy tool for a variety of culinary tasks.
Can I use a colander with non-stick cookware?
While spider strainers with stainless steel baskets are generally safe to use with non-stick cookware, it is recommended that you use caution. The wire mesh of the strainer may scratch the non-stick coating over time. To prevent damage, it is advisable to use silicone or nylon colanders specifically designed for non-stick surfaces.
Are colanders suitable for frying?
Spider strainers can be used for shallow frying or for lifting smaller items out of hot oil. However, for frying larger items or batches of food, it is recommended to use a slotted spoon or a special frying strainer with a sturdier construction and larger capacity to ensure safety and efficiency.