Casio Illuminator AE1500WH: Easy-to-Read, Easy-to-Use Timekeeping for Everyday Life

 

I have not worn a wristwatch for a long time. I only started wearing one when I started to work full-time in the kitchen. Instead of using my phone, I chose a watch. In a busy kitchen, chefs often handle oils and greasy ingredients. Wearing a watch allows me to avoid touching my smartphone, preventing grease transfer. A watch for me is essential to keep track of cooking times, and food preparation schedules and helps me stay on schedule.

A chef's watch must be accurate, durable, and able to withstand the rigors of a busy kitchen. When I buy my watch it must include water resistance, easy-to-read dials, rugged and durable with comfortable straps. For me, my brand of choice for a Chef's watch is Casio. They are accurate timepieces, rugged, durable, comfortable, and provide water resistance.

One of my favorite Casio watches to wear in the kitchen is my Casio Illuminator AE1500WH. The AE1500WH is a rugged quartz wristwatch from Casio and belongs to the Illuminator series.

The best feature of this watch is simplicity and readability. With its large, high-resolution display with bold, positive digits dominates the watch face.  Forget squinting at tiny numbers  -  this watch prioritizes clarity even in low-light conditions, thanks to an orange backlight with a user-friendly button for activation.

I also like this watch very much because of its simplicity, Casio did a really great job of avoiding complex menus here.  Four clearly labeled buttons provide intuitive control over all functions,  from timekeeping to stopwatch, alarm, and countdown timer.  Setting and using these features is a breeze, making this watch perfect for users of all backgrounds.

It is also isn't just about easy reading; it's built to last. The watch boasts  100-meter water resistance,  meaning it can handle splashes, rain, and even a swim. That is why I'm not worried a bit about wearing it at work in the kitchen. It handles water splashes, hot or cold,  grease, and grim like a champ. The  10-year battery life is another perk –  no need to worry about constant replacements. Plus, a daily alarm keeps you on schedule, whether it's for that morning jog or important orders.

The Verdict:

The Casio AE1500WH isn't trying to be fancy. It's a straightforward watch that excels at what it does best: providing clear and easy timekeeping.  With its large, readable display, intuitive controls, and user-friendly features,  the AE1500WH is a great option for everyday wear, work, or anyone who needs a no-nonsense timepiece.  The durability, long battery life, and affordable price tag make it an even more compelling choice.

You can buy the Casio AE1500WH on Amazon for only $21.92 at the time of this writing.

Ka Tato's Corner March 21, 2024

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What's in my Magnetic Knife Block?

 

My Wall Mounted Magnetic Knife Block from Harbour Freight

So what's in my magnetic knife block. The knives you see in my knife block are my go-to knife in my day-to-day work in my restaurant. I remove all the other knives that we don't use. We still have a other knives that are not in my knife block, like pairing knives with a couple of 8-inch chef knives and a santoku knife that other workers use.

From left to right :

1. Tramontina Bolo Machete: This 14" Bolo style Tramontina machete with 1070 carbon steel and a hardwood handle is made in Brazil. It is a really simple machete and to be honest, it looked rough and unfinished when I saw it the first time. I use sandpaper to smoothen the wood handle and everything looks great, it is sharp and really fun to use to chop some leg quarters and pork meat. I don't use it every day because it's to big and too long to use as a chef's knife.
2. 8-inch Vintage EKCO Eterna CHef's Knife with wooden handle, Made in Japan: I don't have a lot of info about this knife, except that is made from High Carbon Steel, keeps its edge nice and it's nice to use, and is well balanced. 
3. 5-inch Vintage Chef's Knife with wooden handle, Made in Taiwan : I also don't have a lot of information about this knife, but like my 8-inch it is made of High Carbon Steel, also keep the edge and easy to sharpen, a really nice backup to the Chef's Knife.
4. Guanfeng Chinese Cleaver : You can read my post here regarding this Cleaver.
5. Zwelling J.A. Henckels Honing Rod
6. Kiwi Brand Cleaver from Thailand,
7. Another Heavy Duty Meat/Bone Cleaver from our Local Asian Store.
8. Dexter-Russell 9" Heavy Duty Cleaver 

Ka Tato's Corner March 17, 2024

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My First Chinese Cleaver, Became my Favorite Knife

When I started working in the kitchen, I was introduced to a chef knife probably bought from a grocery store. I then moved up to a DALSTRONG Chef Knife - 8-inch Blade - Gladiator Series ELITE, I really liked this knife and used it daily for months until I found a used but really nice 8-inch Vintage EKCO Eterna Chef's Knife with a wooden handle. I started to use the EKCO knife daily and reserve the Dalstrong knife for catering jobs together with Dalstrong Meat Cleaver which I carry on my Knife Roll Chef Bag together with my other catering knives.

 I used this old knife daily for months together with it's smaller 5inch brother, they are great knives and still two of my favorites and the ones that are in my magnetic knife block.

One day, while shopping in a local Asian grocery store, I saw this Chinese Cleaver, sold for only $9.99, I immediately bought it. The next day, I was really excited to use it, being a first timer on using Chinese Cleaver, I was not expecting it to replace my Chef Knife, but it did. I use this Chinese Cleaver to cut anything, from onions to chicken leg quarters to slicing beef. The only cutting job I won't use it for is to chop really thick big beef or pork shanks and hocks. That is a job specifically assigned to my Dexter-Russell 9" Heavy Duty Cleaver.

So what did I like about the Chinese Cleaver:

• First is the Distinctive Blade Shape: Unlike the pointed tip of Western knives, a Chinese cleaver boasts a rectangular, broad blade with a flat profile. This shape makes it perfect for forceful chopping motions and scooping up ingredients. The Chinese cleaver makes it really easy and fast.
• Versatility: While some might think cleavers are just for heavy-duty tasks, Chinese cleavers excel at various jobs. Their sharp, thin blade allows for precise slicing of vegetables, meat, and even fish alongside chopping and minc
• Balance and Technique: Chinese cleavers tend to be front-heavy due to the blade weight. This necessitates a different chopping technique compared to the rocking motion used with Western knives. A cleaver uses an up-and-down motion for powerful cuts.
• Efficiency: The broad, thin blade of the Chinese cleaver allows for more surface area contact with the cutting board, making it more efficient for chopping and slicing. This can help speed up food preparation, which is crucial in busy kitchen environments.
• Material and Construction: Traditionally, Chinese cleavers are crafted from high-carbon steel, known for its exceptional sharpness. However, stainless steel versions are becoming increasingly popular for their lower maintenance needs. They typically feature wooden handles for a comfortable grip.
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I really liked using the Chinese Cleaver compared to a chef knife, it's just so easy to use because of the reasons above. I didn't expect to like it but I did, and its the knife I use every day for almost all cutting jobs in my kitchen.

Leg Quarters for Chicken Adobo

Preparing Pork Butt for Pork Adobo

Preparing Fish

I wanted to buy another one exactly like this, but I cannot find it anymore. The inscription on the knife is Guanfeng. I was hoping to find one online, but none, nothing like it. The second cleaver I bought at the local Asian store is a Kiwi Brand Cleaver from Thailand, which I bought for something like $7 at that time, It is not as good as the Guanfeng when it comes to handling, the Guanfeng is more balanced, but they work equally the same. I like to use two knife when I'm cutting and preparing so that I can switch faster when I need to wash the other one.

I don't think I can ever go back to using a Chef Knife in my day-to-day work. I just like using the Cleaver so much and for me, it makes everything easy and faster. 

Ultimately, the best knife for you depends on your cooking style and preferences.  If you do a lot of chopping like me and enjoy a forceful cutting technique, a cleaver might be a great addition to your knife collection.

Ka Tato's Corner March 16, 2024

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The Gladiator in the Kitchen: My Experience with the Dalstrong 9-inch Meat Cleaver

Sometimes referred to as the "RAVAGER" which means destructive or violent, due to its size, shape, and appearance. I bought my Dalstrong 9-inch Meat Cleaver back in 2018 together with my Dalstrong 8-inch Gladiator Series ELITE Knife. The Cleaver boasts exceptional craftsmanship with a sharp edge that makes cutting or chopping easy, even with the toughest bones and meats. The high-quality German ThyssenKrupp stainless steel is heat treated to 56 Rockwell hardness and is resistant to rust and corrosion, and it has a sharp edge that can easily slice throughmeat and bone. The cleaver is also well-balanced and comfortable to hold. However I find this  heavier compared to my other cleaver which are traditional Chinese Cleaver.

What sets it apart is not just its performance but also its aesthetics. The knife features a striking design, meticulously polished spine, and luxurious Pakkawood handle. The Dalstrong Gladiator Series 9" Meat Cleaver comes with a lifetime warranty. 

Pros::

• The "Ravager" boasts NSF certification, meaning it meets health and sanitation standards for professional kitchens. This signifies its suitability for commercial use in terms of hygiene and material safety.
• I'm impressed by the sharpness, durability, and craftsmanship of the blade.
• I appreciate the ergonomic and ambidextrous handle, which is made of G10 Garolite and has a mosaic and engraving design.
• I find the knife versatile and effective for chopping and slicing different types of meats and bones.
• The shape of the Cleaver makes cutting really easy, it feels like gliding through the meat even though it's heavy.

Cons:

• I find this Cleaver quite heavy. After using it to cut chicken leg quarters and meat bones for long periods my arms start to hurt.
• The cleaver's hefty weight can be tiring for some users, those with weaker grip strength or who prefer lighter knives. Because of this, I still prefer to use my traditional Chinese Cleavers.

Overall Verdict:

     Whether you're a professional chef or a home cook, the Dalstrong Meat Cleaver Knife is a solid investment. It combines functionality with style, making every culinary task a pleasure. Overall, a top-notch choice for those who appreciate quality cutlery.  However, its premium price, weight, and size might deter some budget-conscious cooks or those with limited kitchen space or strength. 

    Like me for example, I no longer use it regularly, I only use it when I really need something to cut through big bony parts like beef /pork shin, hocks, or feet.  My favorite do it all knife is a not so expensive chinese cleaver very much like the Winco Chinese cleaver that you can find on Amazon.

    I still like this Dalstrong Ravager, it's just too heavy for me. I use it for catering jobs together with my Dalstrong 8-inch Gladiator Series ELITE Knife which I carry on my Knife Roll Chef Bag together with my other catering tools.

If you're a serious home cook or professional chef seeking a top-tier cleaver for tackling tough meat cuts and a variety of hard to cut veggies, like those Kalabasa, the "Ravager" could be a worthwhile investment. Just be prepared for its hefty price tag and consider its size and maintenance requirements before diving in.

You can buy the Dalstrong 9-inch Meat Cleaver "The RAVAGER" here.

Ka Tato's Corner March 12, 2024

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Lodge 8FB2 9-inch Deep Fry Basket. A Solid Addition to Any Kitchen Arsenal

When I  added the Lodge 8FB2 Deep Fry Basket to my kitchen, it quickly became a go-to tool for my cooking adventures. The 9-inch size is perfect for various frying tasks, making it versatile for different recipes.

What stands out immediately is the durability and quality craftsmanship, typical of Lodge products. The silver finish gives it a sleek appearance, and the sturdy construction ensures it can handle the rigors of deep frying without any issues.

The basket is designed for convenience, with a practical handle that stays cool during use, allowing for easy and safe maneuvering. The size is just right for small to medium batches, making it suitable for everyday cooking or entertaining guests.

Cleaning is a breeze, thanks to the well-thought-out design and high-quality materials. The construction not only aids in efficient frying but also makes maintenance hassle-free.

Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, the Lodge 8FB2 Deep Fry Basket is a reliable and efficient addition to your kitchen toolkit. It brings a perfect blend of functionality and durability, making frying tasks a delight. Highly recommended for anyone looking to use their lodge Dutch ovens as a deep fryer.

Ka Tato's Corner January 12, 2024

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Tech meets Fashion: The Casio AE-1000W-4BVCF Orange Watch

Happy New Year to everyone. For my first post this year, I'm writing about one of my favorite everyday watches, the reliable, multi-functional Casio AE-1000W-4BVCF in orange color.

Features and Specifications:

Case and Material:

• Case size (LWH): 48.2 × 45 × 13.8 mm
• Case, bezel and Band Material : Resin
• Weight : 40g
• Water resistance : 100-meter water resistance

Major Functions:

• Multi Time (4 different cities)
• World Time - 
• 31 time zones (48 cities + coordinated universal time), daylight saving on/off, Home city/World time city swapping
• 1/100th-second stopwatch,
• Stopwatch measuring capacity: 23:59'59.99''
• Measuring modes: Elapsed time, split time, 1st-2nd place times
• Countdown timer Unit: 1/10 second
• Countdown timer range: 24 hours
• Countdown start time setting range: 1 minute to 24 hours (1-minute increments and 1-hour increments)
• 5 daily alarms or one-time alarms
• Full auto-calendar (to year 2099)
• LED light Selectable illumination duration, afterglow Light color
• 12/24-hour format
• Accuracy: ±30 seconds per month
• Telememo
• Mem capacity: Up to 30 Sets of Data, with 8 character name and 16-digit tel no.
• Analog: 2 hands (hour, minute (hands move every 20 seconds))
• Digital: Hour, minute, second, pm, month, date, day

Power Supply

• Battery: CR2025
• Battery Life: Approx. 10 years

Dimensions

• Weight: 49 grams

Additional Features

• Classic analog-digital display

What I like about the Casio HDC-700-1AVCF.

• Most of the functionality written above.
• I Love the display with the world map on the left, and the Analog display on the right that looks like a Radar making this watch unique.
• Provides accurate timekeeping, has multiple time zones, a stopwatch, a countdown timer, and an LED backlight.
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What I don't like.

• The Countdown Timer doesn't have an auto-repeat
• Resin glass prone to scratches
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I've had this watch for over a year now, and like my other Casio watches, I have never had any issues with it.  This watch is a digital quartz watch that offers a lot of features for a low price. 

The Casio AE-1000W-4BVCF, affectionately nicknamed the "Royale Orange," is a watch that punches far above its weight class. Don't let the modest $20 price tag fool you; this resin-clad timepiece packs a surprising punch of features and personality.

It has a world map and time display, a stopwatch, a timer, and 5 alarms. The watch has an orange resin band and a black/silver two-tone case. The display is large and clear, with a mini-dial and a mini-map that shows the current time zone. The watch is easy to use and adjust, with four buttons and a light function. All of these features are surprisingly easy to navigate through the intuitive button setup, even for those of us who struggle with anything more complex than a microwave timer.

Casio didn't skimp on the durability department. The resin case feels surprisingly solid, and the 100-meter water resistance means you can take this bad boy from the boardroom to the beach without breaking a sweat (or a crystal). The battery life is also a beast, with Casio promising a decade of ticking before you need to crack it open.

The AE-1000W isn't perfect. The digital time display can be a bit small for some, the world time abbreviations can be cryptic at times, and the one that is important to me, is there is no Auto-Repeat feature on the countdown timer. But these are minor quibbles in the face of the watch's overall charm and value.

Overall, I highly recommend the Casio AE-1000W-4BVCF (Royale Orange), is a watch that delivers more than what you pay for. It is perfect for those with a global lifestyle or travel plans. It is a watch that you can wear for a long time without worrying about changing batteries or damaging it. If you are looking for a watch that has a lot of features, a cool design, and a low price, the Casio AE-1000W-4BVCF might be the one for you.

Ka Tato's Corner January 10, 2024

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Casio HDC-700-1AVCF Review: A Durable, Reliable, and Accurate Watch for Everyday Wear

Today, I'm writing about my Casio HDC-700-1AVCF. Like any other Casio in the market the HDC-700-1AVCF is a tough watch. It is made of a heavy-duty resin watch which makes it durable and very reliable and it also looks good. 

First the Features and Specifications:

Case and Bezel

• Material: Resin
• Case Size (LWH): 53.3 mm x 48.8 mm x 16.6 mm
• Water Resistance: 100 meters (330 feet)

Band : Resin

Functions:

• World Time - 29 time zones (30 cities), Daylight saving on/off
• 1/100th-second stopwatch,
• Stopwatch measuring capacity: 23:59'59.99''
• Measuring modes: Elapsed time, split time, 1st-2nd place times
• Countdown timer Unit: 1 second
• Countdown timer range: 24 hours
• Countdown start time setting range: 1 minute to 24 hours (1-minute increments and 1-hour increments)
• 3 daily alarms with 1 snooze alarm
• Full auto-calendar (to year 2099)
• LED backlight with afterglow
• 12/24-hour format
• Accuracy: ±30 seconds per month
• Telememo
• Mem capacity: Up to 30 Sets of Data, with 8 character name and 16-digit tel no.
• Analog: 2 hands (hour, minute (hands move every 20 seconds))
• Digital: Hour, minute, second, pm, month, date, day

Power Supply

• Battery: CR2025
• Battery Life: Approx. 10 years

Dimensions

• Weight: 49 grams

Additional Features

• Classic analog-digital display

What I like about the Casio HDC-700-1AVCF.

• Most of the functionality written above.

What I don't like.

• The Countdown Timer doesn't have auto-repeat
• Only 3 Alarms instead of 5
• Resin glass prone to scratches
• Led backlight, is not so bright.

This watch is a great all-around, everyday watch. Like most Casio watches, it is durable, water-resistant, and has tons of useful features, including 10 years battery life, world time, multiple alarms, stop watch, countdown timer, and an Analog Digital display. Before I forget, the Casio HDC-700-1AVCF is available in 3 Colors, the Black Silver, Tan, and Black Green. 

Casio HDC-700-1ACF Black/Green

This watch looks great and feels good on my arms. It's durable, and provides reliable time, it can be worn everyday and never fails. With the 10 year battery I won't have to worry about charging or replacing the battery anytime soon and the best part of it is the affordable price.

If you are looking for an everyday work watch, look no further. The Casio HDC-700-1ACF is a very good choice.

At the time of this writing it is available at Amazon for only $31.92

Ka Tato's Corner November 17, 2023

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Breville Smart Oven Pro Toaster Oven, Brushed Stainless Steel, BOV845BSS

 When we started in the restaurant business 5 years ago, we needed a toaster for occasional use since we don't serve dishes that will require us to use an oven toaster daily, but still we need one. So I started to shop for one, our criteria are simple, small, reliable, and affordable. Small because our kitchen is small and it must fit under the prep table.

In my search, I found the Breville Smart Oven Pro Toaster Oven, Brushed Stainless Steel, BOV845BSS, this fits in my criteria. Its small size allowed me to put it under the prep table, it is durable and reliable enough based on our usage at the restaurant.

Before anything else, let me tell you something about the Breville Smart Oven Pro. It is a powerful and versatile countertop oven that can handle a variety of cooking tasks. It has a capacity of 1 cubic foot and can toast up to 6 slices of bread at a time. The oven comes with a variety of features, including:

• Element iQ Technology: This technology uses 5 independent quartz elements and smart algorithms to steer power to where and when it's needed to create the ideal cooking environment for perfect results every time.
• Convection Setting: This setting reduces cooking time by up to 30%.
• 10 Smart Cooking Functions: Toast, bagel, bake, roast, slow cook, warm, pizza, reheat, frozen, and air fry.
• Interior Oven Light
• 1800 Watt Preheat: Gets your meals on the table more quickly.
• Easy-to-Clean Interior: Wipes clean with a damp cloth.
• Removable Crumb Tray: For easy cleanup.

Specifications:

• Brand: Breville
• Model: BOV845BSS
• Color: Brushed Stainless Steel
• Product Dimensions: 14.5"D x 18.5"W x 11"H
• Capacity: 1 Cubic Feet
• Weight: 23.8 pounds
• Power Consumption: 1800 watts
• Warranty: 1 year

The Breville Smart Oven Pro Toaster Oven, Brushed Stainless Steel, BOV845BSS is a high-quality appliance that is designed for home use. While it is a durable and well-made product, it is not specifically designed to withstand the rigors of a commercial kitchen. The oven's interior is coated with a nonstick surface that could be damaged by frequent use and high temperatures. Additionally, the oven's delicate controls could be easily damaged by spills and splashes. As I mentioned above, we don't use this heavily in the restaurant kitchen. 

If I need a toaster for commercial use I would go with other brands which typically have a heavier-duty construction and are designed to withstand the abuse of a commercial kitchen. These oven toasters are designed for commercial use and have the features that I need to keep up with the demands of a busy restaurant kitchen.

However, for the home kitchen, this Smart Oven Pro Toaster model BOV845BSS is a perfect choice and will last a long time.

If you want to check out The Breville Smart Oven Pro Toaster Oven, Brushed Stainless Steel, BOV845BSS. It's available on Amazon.

Ka Tato's Corner November 08, 2023

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Durability and Usability: The Casio WS-1300H-8AV Gray Color Review

Here is another Casio watch that I always use in my kitchen,  the Casio WS-1300H-8AV. I have the  Gray Color. Like most Casio watches, it is durable, provides accurate time, is water resistant, and the best feature that I love is the Auto-Repeat Countdown Timer which for me is very useful in the restaurant kitchen.

This watch  is a great all-around digital watch for the price. It is durable, water-resistant, and has a variety of useful features, including a tide graph, moon phase display, stopwatch, timer, alarm, dual time function, and full auto-calendar. The watch is well-built, light and feels good in the hand. The resin band is comfortable to wear, even for extended periods of time. The display is easy to read, even in low light conditions, thanks to the LED light.

Specification:

World time

• Dual time
• Moon data

Moon data (moon age of a specific date, moon phase graph)

• Tide graph
• Tide graph (tide level for specific date and time)

Stopwatch

• 1/100-second stopwatch
• Measuring capacity: 23:59'59.99''
• Measuring modes: Elapsed time, split time, 1st-2nd place times

Timer

• Countdown timer
• Measuring unit: 1 second
• Countdown range: 24 hours
• Countdown start time setting range: 1 minute to 24 hours (1-minute increments and 1-hour increments)
• Other: Auto-repeat

Alarm/hourly time signal

• Multi-function alarms
• 3 independent multi-function alarms (2 one-time alarms and 1 snooze/one-time alarm)
• Alarm type: Daily alarm, date alarm, 1-month alarm, monthly alarm
• Hourly time signal

Light

• LED light
• Selectable illumination duration (1.5 seconds or 3 seconds), afterglow
• Light color = LED:Amber

Calendar: Full auto-calendar (to year 2099)

Mute feature: Button operation tone on/off

Accuracy: Accuracy: ±30 seconds per month

Other features

• 12/24-hour format
• Regular timekeeping:
• Hour, minute, second, am/pm, month, date, day

For people who like fishing and other water sports, the tide graph and moon phase display are two of the most useful features of this watch. The tide graph can be used to plan activities around the tides, such as fishing, surfing, and swimming. The moon phase display can be used to track the lunar cycle, which can be helpful for fishermen and other people who are affected by the tides. I don't use this feature, so I cannot tell if it is accurate or not. I set it up based on the manual, and that's about it.

The features of the watch that are very useful for me in the kitchen is the water resistance, rugged built, countdown timer with auto repeat, and the alarms. 

The dual time function allows me to track two different time zones, which is handy even if I don't travel frequently. The full auto-calendar keeps track of the date and day of the week, so I never have to worry about forgetting what day it is.

Overall, the Casio WS-1300H-8AV is a great all-around digital watch for the price. It is durable, water-resistant, and has a variety of useful features. It is perfect for water sports enthusiasts, travelers, and anyone else who needs a reliable and feature-rich watch.

Pros:

• Durable
• Water-resistant (100 meters)
• Variety of useful features, including tide graph, moon phase display, stopwatch, timer, alarm, dual time function, and full auto-calendar
• Comfortable to wear
• Affordable

Cons:

Some owners have said that the resin band can be stiff at first, but it loosens up over time.

The display can be difficult to read in direct sunlight.

I would recommend the Casio WS-1300H-8AV to anyone looking for a durable and feature-rich digital watch at an affordable price. It is perfect for water sports enthusiasts, travelers, and anyone else who needs a reliable and versatile watch.

Ka Tato's Corner October 31, 2023

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Elevate Your Cooking Game with the Dalstrong 8-inch Gladiator Series ELITE Knife

I bought this knife five years ago back in 2018 when I started to work seriously in the restaurant kitchen. I slowly realized the difference between cheap grocery store knives and good quality knives. I quickly fell in love with this knife and I don't think I'm replacing it anytime soon.

The Dalstrong Chef Knife - 8-inch Blade - Gladiator Series ELITE is a professional-grade chef's knife that is perfect for chefs of all levels of experience. It is made from high-carbon German steel that is incredibly sharp and durable. The blade is also hand-polished to a satin finish, which makes it easy to clean and maintain.

The knife has a full tang design, which means that the blade runs the entire length of the handle. This gives the knife excellent balance and control. The handle is made from black G10, which is a highly durable and non-slip material.

The knife also comes with a sheath, which is perfect for storing and transporting the knife. The sheath is made from high-quality materials and is designed to protect the knife from damage.

The Dalstrong Chef Knife - 8-inch Blade - Gladiator Series ELITE is pretty sharp and brand new. The blade is hand-polished to a 16-18 degree angle per side, which gives it a razor-sharp edge. The knife can slice through even the toughest cases of meats and vegetables with no problems at all.

The knife is made from high-carbon German steel, which is renowned for its durability. The blade is also tempered to a hardness of 56+ Rockwell, which makes it even more durable. The knife can withstand heavy use in a professional kitchen environment.

The knife's blade can retain its edge for an extended period. This is due to the high-carbon German steel and the hand-polished trim. The knife will not need to be sharpened as often as other knives, but I always use a honing rod before and after every use or whenever I switch from cutting meat to veggies, the honing rod is a must for me in my kitchen. It has a complete tang design, which gives it excellent balance and control. The knife is also relatively lightweight, which makes it easy to maneuver.

The handle is made from black G10, which is a highly durable and non-slip material. The handle is also ergonomically designed to provide a comfortable grip.

The knife comes with a sheath, which is perfect for storing and transporting the knife. The sheath is made from high-quality materials and is designed to protect the knife from damage.

Overall, the Dalstrong Chef Knife - 8-inch Blade - Gladiator Series ELITE is an excellent chef's knife that is perfect for chefs of all levels of experience. It is sharp, durable, and easy to use, this knife can take a beating and will last a long time. The knife is also backed by Dalstrong's satisfaction guarantee, so you can be sure that you are making a wise investment.

This is my Dalstrong 8-inch Gladiator Series ELITE Knife after five years of everyday restaurant kitchen abuse. It is really durable, reliable, and retains its edge for a long time.

You can buy the DALSTRONG Chef Knife - 8-inch Blade - Gladiator Series ELITE

Ka Tato's Corner October 26, 2023

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The Kota Japan Whetstone: A Must-Have Tool for Every Chef

I needed a sharpener for my kitchen knives and some of my fixed blades and I was curious about this so called Japanese whetstone sharpener. and the Kota Japan 1000-grit Coarse Side and 6000-grit Polishing Side Knife Sharpening Whetstone fits the price.

Pros:

• Double Sided 1000 | 6000 Grit
• Comes with Genuine Bamboo Holder
• includes Protective Rubber No-Slip
• Blade Angle Guide included

Cons:

• Not Japanese made 
• Can be time-consuming to use, especially if your knives are very dull
• Difficult to use for beginners.

This whetstone is a two-sided wonder, featuring a 1000-grit coarse side for initial sharpening and a 6000-grit polishing side for that extra razor-sharp edge. It comes with a sturdy bamboo base to keep it steady during use and a blade guide to maintain the perfect angle while sharpening.

The beauty of this product lies in its versatility. The coarse 1000 grit side is perfect for smoothing your blade before fine finishing. On the other hand, the fine 6000 grit side gives your knife a razor-sharp finish. This fine grit type offers many knives to be sharpened with only one whetstone

The included bamboo base ensures stability during the sharpening process, making it a breeze to maintain the right angle for your knife. Whether you're a professional chef like me or a home cook, this whetstone's simplicity is a huge advantage.

The Kota Japan whetstone is made of aluminum oxide imported from Japan4. It’s large in size, allowing you to sharpen knives of different sizes. The whetstone is also durable and long-lasting.

Final Thoughts

For someone new to whetstone like me I find this difficult to use, especially that I'm new to sharpening knives with a whetstone, it is hard to maintain a consistent angle. After spending time, I find that  it didn't sharpen my knife as well as I'd hope. Again, it did sharpen two of my carbon steel chef knives, but it took me several tries and a long time to get it sharpen the way I want it. I may need to spend more time using this whetstone. 

So, If you have use a whetstone before and if you're looking for an affordable one, You can try the Kota Japan Whetstone. 

For now I will use my ever reliable electric sharpener from Chef's Choice, the Trizor 15XV has really been a reliable companion.

Ka Tato's Corner October 20, 2023

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Why You Should Consider the Casio AEQ110W-2AV Heavy Duty Quartz Watch as Your Next Accessory

The Casio Men’s Heavy Duty Quartz Resin Watch, Model: AEQ110W-2AV is a rugged watch that combines functionality and style. This review will focus into the features and benefits of this very affordable and reliable wrist watch.

Pros:

• 100 Meters Water Resistance
• Analog and Digital Quartz
• Durable Build, can take a beating
• Can withstand daily kitchen work
• Illuminated Marker
• World Time
• 3 Daily Alarms
• Stop Watch
• Countdown Timers
• 10 year battery life
• Very Affordable

Cons:

• No light
• Illumination does not last long
• Countdown Timer Does not have Auto Repeat Feature

When I buy a watch, I intend to use it while working in a commercial kitchen, and the water resistance, countdown timer and build quality features of this watch makes it perfect for the job.

This Casio features a resin case and bezel, giving it a sturdy and durable build. The band is also made of resin, ensuring comfort and longevity. The watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters, making it suitable for swimming, snorkeling and day to day work in a restaurant kitchen.

The watch face is big enough for the analog hands, but the digital display is too small for my aging eyes. This watch however doesn't have a LED backlight which makes it hard to read in darkness. The illumination on the analog hands and markers doesn't stay long.

One of the standout features of this watch is its 10-year battery life. This means you won’t have to worry about changing batteries for a decade.

The watch also boasts a 30-city world time feature, making it great for overseas travel. It has 3 daily alarms and dual countdown timers, adding to its functionality.

The watch also includes a stopwatch with a measuring capacity of 23:59’59.99’'. The measuring modes include elapsed time, split time, and 1st-2nd place times.

The Casio Men’s Heavy Duty Quartz Resin Watch is priced at $19.59 on Amazon, making it an affordable option for those looking for a reliable and functional watch.

Conclusion

The Casio Men’s Heavy Duty Quartz Resin Watch, Color: Blue Model: AEQ110W-2AV is a robust and accurate timepiece. Its long battery life, water resistance, world time feature, and affordable price make it an excellent choice for anyone in need of a reliable watch. Whether you’re traveling the world or simply need a dependable everyday watch, this Casio model won’t let you down. However if you need a watch that you can use in the dark, this may not be the watch for you.

The Casio Men’s Heavy Duty Quartz Resin Watch, Color: Blue Model: AEQ110W-2AV is available at Amazon.com

Ka Tato's Corner October 20, 2023

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A Closer Look at the Casio MRW200H-2B2V

The Casio MRW200H-2B2V is a real classic, perfect for those who appreciate simplicity and functionality in their timepieces. It might not have all the bells and whistles of some high-end watches, but it shines in its own right. 

Pros:

• 100 Meters Water Resistance
• 3 hand analog, with day/date
• Rotating bezel (Bi-directional)
• Timer Bezel
• Accurate Quartz movement

Cons:

• Only 3 years  battery life
• Bi-directional Rotating Bezel

When I buy a watch I intend on using it while working in a commercial kitchen, and the water resistance feature of this watch makes it perfect for the job.

I have had this since January of 2022 and have not had any problem with it. This watch rocks a classic analog look with a dark blue face and white time markers. It's a straightforward design that works well with just about any outfit, whether you're in the kitchen or out exploring your tech hobbies.

As someone who works daily in the kitchen, you know things can get messy and most of all greasy. The MRW200H-2B2V is ready for the challenge.

The quartz movement in this Casio ensures you're always on point. Plus, the bold hour and minute hands make reading the time a breeze, even when you're in a rush.

The watch is lightweight and comfortable to wear, which is a must when you're on your feet all day or out and about pursuing your tech interests.

Now, here's the best part of this watch. This Casio analog divers watch won't break the bank. It's incredibly affordable for $20 or less, leaving room in your budget for another casio or maybe even a  new gear.

So, if you're someone who likes analog  or divers type timepieces that blend well with your simplistic culinary and tech-centric lifestyle, the Casio Men's MRW200H-2B2V is a fantastic choice. It's a simple, reliable, and won't empty your wallet. Happy timekeeping, and keep rocking your unique blend of interests!

Ka Tato's Corner October 15, 2023

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Never Let Tough Kitchen Conditions Stop You: Casio Men’s G-Shock G2310 Tough Solar Sport Watch

The “Casio Men’s G-Shock G2310 Tough Solar Sport Watch” is a reliable and durable timepiece that is perfect for people who lead an active lifestyle. Release around 2001, this watch has been the  basis  of newer G-Shocks and its successor, the GW2310-1. This watch is designed to withstand tough conditions and is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and swimming. 

The watch is powered by solar energy so you don't have to worry about battery replacement. It also has a 48-city World Time feature, which makes it easy to keep track of time across different time zones.

The watch is designed to be shock-resistant and water-resistant up to 200 meters, making it perfect for people who work in harsh environments or lead an active lifestyle. It also has a full auto EL backlight, which makes it easy to read the time in low-light conditions.

If you’re a chef who works in a busy kitchen, timing is everything. The timer feature is  my most use functionality of this G-Shock. It's just too bad the timer on this model doesn't have  auto-repeat feature.  Newer Casio's mosThe “Casio Men’s G-Shock G2310 Tough Solar Sport Watch” ensures that you never miss a beat with its accurate timekeeping and durable design, this watch is built to last and keep up with your daily schedule.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a reliable, dependable and durable timepiece that can withstand tough conditions, the “Casio Men’s G-Shock G2310 Tough Solar Sport Watch” is the perfect choice for you. My G2310 was a gift from my sister back in 2009 and its  still as reliable and dependable as ever. It's like brand new.

You can still buy the Casio Men’s G-Shock G2310 Tough Solar Sport Watch from Amazon

Ka Tato's Corner October 14, 2023

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The Aroma Housewares 60-Cup Commercial Rice Cooker: A Game Changer for Asian Chefs

 Rice is a staple food for many cuisines around the world, but cooking it can be tricky and time-consuming. If you’re a chef who wants to serve perfect rice every time, without hassle or waste, you need the Aroma Housewares 60-Cup (Cooked) (30-Cup UNCOOKED) Commercial Rice Cooker (ARC-1033E),White12.

This rice cooker is designed for commercial use, but it can also be a great addition to your home kitchen. It has a large capacity, simple operation, durable construction, and automatic keep warm mode. Here are some of the benefits of using this rice cooker:

• Large capacity: You can cook up to 60 cups of cooked rice from just 30 cups of uncooked rice in one batch. This is ideal for restaurants, catering events, or large family gatherings. You can also cook different varieties of rice, such as white, brown, sushi, or multigrain12
  
  
• Simple operation: This rice cooker has a one-touch operation that makes it easy to use. Just fill it with rice and water, power it on, and let it do its magic. You don’t need to worry about measuring, timing, or stirring12
  
  
• Durable construction: This rice cooker has a heavy-duty stainless steel body and lid that can withstand continuous use. It also has a nonstick inner pot that is easy to clean and ensures that your rice comes out fluffy and not sticky12.
  
  
• Automatic keep warm mode: This rice cooker has an automatic keep warm mode that switches on once the cooking cycle is completed. This keeps your rice at perfect serving temperatures all day long. You don’t need to reheat or transfer your rice to another container12.

The Aroma Housewares 60-Cup Commercial Rice Cooker also comes with two rice measuring cups and a serving spatula as accessories2. It has a power consumption of 120V/60Hz 1650W2. It is also available on Amazon.

If you want to cook rice like a pro, you need the Aroma Housewares 60-Cup Commercial Rice Cooker. It will save you time, energy, and money, while delivering delicious and consistent results. Order yours today and enjoy the convenience and quality of this amazing appliance!

Ka Tato's Corner October 13, 2023

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