Silicone Solutions

Silicone is used for everything, from lubricants and gaskets to implants and Silly Putty. But its indestructible properties—heat resistant, nonstick, dishwasher safe—also make it perfect for indoor and outdoor cooking.

Article by Aimee Harris

Issue Date: June 2006

Sili Gourmet�,,� takes barbequing seriously. The company's basting brushes have stainless steel handles and silicone, multiridged bristles designed to release a slow, even flow of oil, butter or sauce. The brushes' nonshredding bristles retain their shape and will not stain or absorb odors. Angled 10" basting brush, $17.95. BBQ brush, with long 15" handle keeps hands away from heat, $23.95. Basting brush, perfect for roasts, poultry, fish, bread and pastry dough, $15.95. Executive Chef, The Ward Warehouse, 596-2433.

Space-saving designs, revolutionary, non-stick material and dishwasher safe. What more can you ask from bakeware? Check out the Sleekstor�,,� collapsible silicone measuring cups that expand for use, and contract for storage, $23. Then, the Kitchen Zone's six-cup muffin pan is made with commercial-grade silicone to take the heat and cook evenly, $18.50. And, the flexible silicone baking sheet by Orca® easily releases sticky candies like peanut brittle and praline, cools quickly and then rolls up for storage, $31. The Compleat Kitchen, Ala Moana Shopping Center, 944-1741.

Fi-hot-holders

Colorful silicone HeatBeater pot trivets beat the heat up to 500°F. Plus, their rubbery texture offers an anti-slip grip for opening jars and handling hot pots. $4.99 each, City Mill (Honolulu), 533-3811.

Too sticky. Too flaky. Rolling out the perfect pastry is a pain. But Sil-pin Silicone Rolling Pins are up to the challenge. The pink, 12 x 3-inch, counter-balanced pin has stainless steel ball bearings for a consistent, easy roll, $55.95. The yellow 20 x 2-inch rolling pin is a professional style, $33.95. Use with a nonstick, 12 x 16-inch baking sheet by Le Creuset,® which is ideal for oven, microwave and freezer, $22.95. Executive Chef, The Ward Warehouse, 596-2433.

Fi-utensils
Enjoy cooking with the strength of metal, while protecting your pans' surfaces with Silicone coated spoons, ladles and turners by Bonny.® $9.25 each, Executive Chef, The Ward Warehouse, 596-2433.