EQUIP YOUR KITCHEN LIKE A PRO

After months of chopping, searing, baking, tasting, and more, here are our top-tested appliances, tools, and gadgets to make cooking easier and more enjoyable. Plus, the ingredients that deserve a place in every pantry.

- By NICOLE PAPANTONIOU and TRISH CLASEN MARSANICO

Smart Investments

Next-Gen Cooktop

As induction cooktops become more popular alternatives to gas, they’re becoming more affordable. This new 36-inch model from KitchenAid has a high-end frameless design, five cooking zones, and two bridge burners for larger cookware. It connects with an app for more capabilities.

LAB RESULTS: This cooktop tested as well as others that cost twice as much. An analyst especially liked how the burners could be set to an exact numeric temp.

KITCHENAID 36" TEMP COOK INDUCTION COOKTOP, $2,200

High-Tech Fridge

Samsung's latest smart fridge features its signature large screen, streaming capabilities, and a camera that tracks ingredients (which the fridge uses to suggest recipes!). It has ample storage space, advanced water and ice dispensers, and a freezer section that can convert into a fridge.

LAB RESULTS: A consumer tester really put this fridge through its paces with her two kids. The whole family found it easy and fun to use.

SAMSUNG BESPOKE 4-DOOR FLEX REFRIGERATOR WITH AI FAMILY HUB, $3,399

Fully Accessible Rack

Designed with people with limited mobility in mind, in partnership with the United Spinal Association, this Whirlpool brand dishwasher rack rotates 360° so all areas of the lower compartment can be accessed easily. It works with all 24-inch Whirlpool Corp. dishwashers manufactured after 2018.