I’m not a fan of single-use appliances. Living in a cramped Brooklyn apartment with two roommates means limited kitchen space, and as a budget-conscious twenty-something, I don’t like spending money on items that serve only one purpose. However, I believe in getting creative with tools meant for single tasks. For instance, I’ve used my hair straightener to iron a dress hem and turned my waffle iron into a versatile panini press.
I often look to the internet for inspiration on ways to repurpose the appliances I already own. One such versatile tool is a handheld milk frother, which can be more than just for frothing milk. These battery-powered wands with tiny whisks are convenient, easy to clean, and incredibly adaptable in the kitchen. From whipping up salad dressings to fluffing scrambled eggs, a handheld milk frother is a handy multi-tasker.
One creative use for a milk frother is emulsifying salad dressings. Achieving a creamy, uniform vinaigrette requires proper emulsification of oil and vinegar, traditionally done through vigorous whisking or shaking. However, using a milk frother can streamline the process for a more effective emulsification.
Another great use for a milk frother is making fluffier scrambled eggs. Incorporating air bubbles into the eggs results in a lighter scramble, and a milk frother can achieve higher speeds than manual whisking for an even fluffier texture.
To make fluffy scrambled eggs, crack the eggs into a bowl and add salt and your preferred seasonings. For extra fluffiness, consider adding a splash of water or milk to the mixture, as this will create more air bubbles when cooking. Use a frother to mix until air bubbles form, the eggs are fully beaten, and some foam appears on top. Once ready, you can start cooking your eggs.
Enhance your iced coffees at home by using a milk frother to create decorative designs. By dipping the whisk into syrup and turning on the frother inside the glass, you can easily create rings of sweet syrup along the interior for added visual appeal. This technique can elevate the presentation of your coffee drinks and add a touch of sweetness.
For a single serving of whipped cream, use a handheld milk frother to whip a small amount of heavy cream with a bit of sweetener until stiff peaks form. This method is perfect for indulging in whipped cream for personal treats like ice cream sundaes, coffee, or fresh berries.
If you find tequila shots too harsh, try using a milk frother to briefly froth the tequila before drinking. Incorporating air bubbles into the tequila can help dissipate the ethanol vapors, making the spirit go down smoother for a more pleasant experience. This effect is temporary and can provide a short-term relief from the burning sensation of tequila shots.
