My longest companion would have to be the Soda Stream Classic, complete with 2 glass bottles. I believe this was also a $15 purchase. I try to avoid drinking straight store-bought juice, (too much sugar), so I make a glass of soda and add about 1/3 juice. I use it several times a week, so it's probably been my best purchase.
Gadget number 3 is my mini Goldair food processor. I remember that a friend of mine had an "Oskar" mini processor, that she used all the time, and I saw how useful it would be. So I was on the look-out for a second hand one, because I knew I couldn't afford one as a penniless student back then. :-) And how could I make hummus without one?? The Goldair gets used a couple of times a year, so at $10, I think it was worth it.
Gadgets that didn't get the usage? A home espresso machine. One of those weak things that barely gets up enough steam to warm the milk, let alone froth it. Instead I use a plunger (french press) daily. If I want froth, I warm the milk, put it in a glass jar, and shake it. The effect is exactly the same as the machine produced! If I have a lazy day ahead, and it's just me, I can hand-grind some beans and use the stove-top espresso, which only makes enough for one cup. :-)
New-bought gadgets that receive lots of use? Mini-grater. For citrus zests, grating ginger, chocolate, and parmesan. Garlic press. Self explanatory. Pizza cutter wheel. It was a gift that I would never have bought for myself, but I find myself using it a lot. It saves my knives from being blunted on the metal cooking trays!
What got me thinking about the kitchen gadgets, was a bit of fanciful design for my little gypsy caravan. I might have to give up the gadgets if I can't fit them in! So i'm going over things and trying to figure out what is actually essential in my future kitchen....as well as what is actually essential in my bedroom, lounge, bathroom. What has to be housed in the "core"? The space that will be the only heated area in winter. I guess I won't really know until i try it!
