Kitchen Gadgets That Work: The Alligator

I come from a long line of kitchen gadget collectors. OK, just two. But still, my Mom and Dad appear to have acquired every plastic tool, gadget or implement that has been invented for the home cook. If "it slices, it dices"...they own it.

While they are very generous, some of the gadgety gifts my parents have given me just aren't very useful. The "chopper" and the "fat mop," just haven't cut it. Literally.

A couple of years back though, they gave me something called "The Alligator." I was skeptical. Heck, I didn't even try it for a couple of years. It was stuffed into a drawer for a long time before I gave it a go.

"Mr. Chompers," as I have since nicknamed him, has become a kitchen gadget that is actual used a great deal in my kitchen. Granted, if I had better knife skills I could probably finely dice an onion in seconds. But, I don't. Enter Mr. Chompers. I can finely dice an onion in seconds. Literally. And, the thing cleans up quickly and has even chomped through carrots and celery.

I still chop onions by hand on occasion. If I just need half an onion or a small onion, I'll chop by hand. If I am cooking for a crowd though, or making a big batch of chili or spaghetti sauce, you better believe I turn to Mr. Chompers.