Welcome to My Kitchen Favorites
Welcome to one of my favorite places in Raw Gourmet La Vie. Over the years, I’ve carefully selected the kitchen tools, equipment, molds, gadgets, and pantry essentials that have helped me create hundreds of recipes. Every item you’ll find here has earned a place in my kitchen through years of regular use and has become part of my creative journey.
Whether you enjoy preparing raw foods, creating delicious vegan meals, or simply love cooking with fresh, wholesome, plant based ingredients, I hope these carefully chosen favorites inspire you to create with confidence. From powerful food dehydrators and high speed blenders to everyday prep tools, specialty molds, storage solutions, and unique kitchen accessories, each product has proven its value time and time again.
These are the tools I reach for every day to prepare everything from fresh salads, smoothies, soups, and juices to gourmet raw creations, hearty vegan meals, beautiful desserts, and everyday favorites. My hope is that these trusted kitchen companions will help make your time in the kitchen more enjoyable, creative, and rewarding.
Thank you for visiting my Kitchen Favorites. I hope you discover products that inspire you to create delicious meals, explore new techniques, and make lasting memories in your own kitchen.
Essentail Kitchen Favorites
Every kitchen has a handful of trusted tools that become indispensable over time. The products featured below are the foundation of my kitchen and the tools I have relied on for years while creating the recipes found throughout Raw Gourmet La Vie. Whether I’m preparing fresh juices and smoothies, dehydrating raw gourmet creations, making wholesome vegan meals, or crafting elegant desserts, these are the products I reach for again and again. As my Kitchen Favorites collection continues to grow, you’ll find even more carefully chosen tools and supplies that have earned a permanent place in my kitchen.
- Excalibur Food Dehydrators
- Vitamix High Speed Blenders
- Food Processors
- Juicers
- Stand Mixers
- Immersion Blenders
Knives and Prep Tools
- Chef’s Knives
- Paring Knives
- Serrated Knives
- Vegetable Peelers
- Julienne Peelers
- Mandolines
- Spiralizers
- Graters
- Zesters
- Garlic Presses
- Citrus Juicers
- Apple Corers
- Cherry Pitters
- Kitchen Shears
Essential Kitchen Favorites
Every kitchen has a handful of trusted tools that become indispensable over time. The products featured below are the foundation of my kitchen and the tools I have relied on for years while creating the recipes found throughout Raw Gourmet La Vie. Whether I’m preparing fresh juices and smoothies, dehydrating gourmet creations, making wholesome vegan meals, or crafting elegant desserts, these are the products I reach for again and again. As my Kitchen Favorites collection continues to grow, you’ll find even more carefully chosen tools and supplies that have earned a permanent place in my kitchen.
Kitchen Equipment
- Excalibur Food Dehydrators
- Vitamix High Speed Blenders
- Food Processors
- Juicers
- Stand Mixers
- Immersion Blenders
Excalibur Accessories
- Non Stick Dehydrator Sheets
- Silicone Dehydrator Mats
- Mesh Drying Screens
View on Amazon
Bench Scraper and Dough Cutter
I’ve been using a bench scraper like this for many years, and it’s one of those simple kitchen tools I reach for again and again. My original scraper has a beautiful copper finish with a wooden handle and has been part of my kitchen for years. Since it’s no longer available, I’ve chosen to recommend this newer version because it performs the same essential tasks.
I use a bench scraper for dividing bread and cracker dough, cutting brownies and dessert bars into neat portions, transferring chopped vegetables from the cutting board, and keeping my work surface clean while preparing recipes. The built in measurement markings are also helpful when working with dough.
If you’re building a kitchen one piece at a time, this is one of those inexpensive tools that you’ll probably find yourself using far more often than you expect.
Knives and Prep Tools
- Chef’s Knives
- Paring Knives
- Serrated Knives
- Vegetable Peelers
- Julienne Peelers
- Mandolines
- Spiralizers
- Graters
- Zesters
- Garlic Presses
- Citrus Juicers
- Apple Corers
- Cherry Pitters
- Kitchen Shears
Chocolate and Dessert Making
- Polycarbonate Chocolate Molds
- Silicone Chocolate Molds
- Silicone Candy Molds
- Silicone Dessert Molds
- Tart Pans with Removable Bottoms
- Springform Pans
- Cake Rings
- Rolling Pins
- Cookie Cutters
- Pastry Tools
- Decorating Tools
View on Amazon
About the Current Excalibur Model
The photographs in my Kitchen Favorites collection show the newer Excalibur dehydrator that I purchased several years ago as a backup for the day my original finally retired. That day still hasn’t come. My original nine tray Excalibur has been in regular use for well over 15 years and continues to be one of the hardest working tools in my kitchen. I photographed the newer dehydrator so you could clearly see its features, while my original continues to help me create the recipes found throughout Raw Gourmet La Vie.
Since purchasing my dehydrators, Excalibur has continued to refine and update its designs. If you visit Amazon using the link below, you’ll notice that the current models feature stainless steel trays and several modern improvements. While the appearance has evolved over the years, the quality, performance, and reliability that made me choose Excalibur in the first place remain the same. My recommendation comes from more than 15 years of personal experience using an Excalibur dehydrator almost every day. I have complete confidence in the brand and would happily choose an Excalibur again today.
View on Amazon
Bench Scraper and Dough Cutter
I’ve been using a bench scraper like this for many years, and it’s one of those simple kitchen tools I reach for again and again. My original scraper has a beautiful copper finish with a wooden handle and has been part of my kitchen for years. Since it’s no longer available, I’ve chosen to recommend this newer version because it performs the same essential tasks.
I use a bench scraper for dividing bread and cracker dough, cutting brownies and dessert bars into neat portions, transferring chopped vegetables from the cutting board, and keeping my work surface clean while preparing recipes. The built in measurement markings are also helpful when working with dough.
If you’re building a kitchen one piece at a time, this is one of those inexpensive tools that you’ll probably find yourself using far more often than you expect.
Double Melon Baller
This double melon baller is one of those small kitchen tools that I have used for years and still reach for today. It makes it easy to create beautiful melon balls for fruit platters, breakfast bowls, desserts, and elegant raw food presentations. The two scoop sizes let you create a variety of shapes that add a beautiful finishing touch to your recipes.
I also enjoy using it for dragon fruit, mangoes, pears, kiwi, and other fresh fruits when I want to make a dish feel a little more special. It is comfortable to hold, easy to use, and has become one of those dependable tools that has earned a permanent place in my kitchen.
KOM-KOM Superior Carving Knife Set
That means you don’t have to write “similar product” at all. You can confidently recommend the actual carving knives you’ve used.
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KOM KOM Superior Carving Knife Set
This carving knife set has been one of my favorite tools for creating decorative fruits and vegetables. Whether I am adding simple garnishes or more detailed carving to a platter, these knives give me the control I need to create beautiful presentations.
The set includes several different blades, each designed for a specific purpose, making it easy to add elegant finishing touches to recipes, fruit displays, and special occasions. Over the years I have used these knives countless times, and they have remained a dependable part of my kitchen.
If you enjoy adding artistic details to your food, this is a wonderful set to have on hand.
Tescoma Fruit and Vegetable Carving Tool Set
My original fruit and vegetable carving tools have been part of my kitchen for many years and have helped me create countless decorative garnishes for my recipes. Although my exact carving set is no longer available, I searched for a quality replacement that offers the same types of tools and creative possibilities.
This Tescoma carving set includes many of the essential tools used to create beautiful flowers, leaves, curls, and decorative accents from fruits and vegetables. Whether you are preparing everyday meals or creating an elegant presentation for a special occasion, these tools make it easy to add a professional touch.
Decorative carving has always been one of my favorite ways to turn simple ingredients into beautiful works of edible art, and I think this set is a wonderful choice for anyone who wants to learn or expand their creativity in the kitchen.
Stainless Steel Kitchen Tongs
A dependable pair of kitchen tongs is one of those simple tools that ends up being used almost every day. I use tongs for serving salads, turning vegetables, plating recipes, and handling delicate ingredients without damaging them.
I especially like having a lightweight pair with a comfortable grip because they give me more control when arranging food for presentation and photography. It’s one of those basic kitchen tools that’s easy to overlook until you realize how often you reach for it.
While this is not the exact pair I originally purchased, it offers the same function and is the style I would recommend today.
Progressive PrepSolutions Multi Slicer
If you enjoy preparing fresh fruits and vegetables, this is one of those kitchen tools that can save you a lot of time. I’ve used this slicer for years when making salads, vegetable platters, zucchini noodles, cucumber slices, carrots, and many of my raw food recipes.
It offers multiple blade options, making it easy to create everything from thin slices to thicker cuts and julienne strips. The hand guard helps keep your fingers safely away from the blades while providing better control during slicing.
I especially appreciate how quickly it helps me prepare beautiful, uniform vegetables that make every dish look more professional. Whether you’re making everyday meals or creating elegant raw gourmet presentations, this slicer is a wonderful addition to the kitchen.
Why I Love It
- Multiple slicing and julienne options
- Creates consistent, even cuts
- Saves valuable prep time
- Great for salads, vegetables, fruits, and raw food recipes
- A dependable tool I’ve personally used for many years
Infrared Thermometer
Making raw chocolate is both an art and a science, and maintaining the proper temperature is one of the keys to achieving the best results. This infrared thermometer allows you to quickly and accurately check the surface temperature of your chocolate without making contact.
Whether you’re melting cacao butter, blending chocolate ingredients, or working to keep your recipes within your preferred temperature range, this tool provides fast, reliable readings in seconds.
I’ve found it to be an invaluable kitchen companion when preparing raw chocolates and other temperature-sensitive recipes. It’s simple to use, accurate, and gives me confidence that my ingredients are being handled with care.
Why I Love It
- Quick, non-contact temperature readings
- Ideal for preparing raw chocolates
- Helps monitor temperature-sensitive ingredients
- Easy-to-read digital display
- Fast, accurate, and simple to use
Raw Chocolate Favorites
Over the years, I’ve collected many chocolate molds that I’ve used to create homemade raw chocolates for family, friends, and special occasions. From simple rounds to decorative shapes, the right mold adds a beautiful finishing touch to every creation.
Below are some of my favorite molds that I’ve personally used in my own kitchen.
Then each mold can have a very short description.
Round Chocolate Mold
One of my favorite molds for creating elegant homemade raw chocolates. The smooth, rounded shape creates beautiful bite-sized treats that are perfect for gifting, entertaining, or enjoying at home.
Why I Love It
- Easy to use
- Creates professional-looking chocolates
- Perfect size for individual treats
- Reusable and easy to clean
Mini Chocolate Cup Mold
This mini peanut butter chocolate cup mold is one of my favorites for creating beautiful bite-sized raw chocolates. The small cup shape is perfect for layered chocolates, creamy nut butter fillings, fruit-infused centers, and other homemade treats.
I love using this style of mold because the finished chocolates are the perfect size for sharing, gifting, or enjoying as a small indulgence. They’re also ideal for parties, holiday gift boxes, and elegant dessert platters.
Why I Love It
- Creates perfectly sized bite-sized chocolates
- Great for nut butter, coconut cream, fruit, or ganache fillings
- Reusable and easy to clean
- Perfect for homemade gifts and entertaining
- One of my favorite molds for raw chocolate making
Round Chocolate Mold
This round chocolate mold is one of my favorite choices for creating elegant homemade raw chocolates. The simple round design creates beautiful bite-sized treats that are perfect for everyday enjoyment, holiday gift boxes, dessert platters, or sharing with family and friends.
I enjoy using this mold because its classic shape works well with so many different chocolate recipes. Whether I’m making plain dark chocolate, adding crunchy ingredients, or creating flavored centers, the finished chocolates always have a clean, professional appearance.
Why I Love It
- Creates beautiful round bite-sized chocolates
- Perfect for everyday treats or special occasions
- Great for a variety of chocolate recipes and fillings
- Reusable and easy to clean
- A versatile mold I’ve enjoyed using for many years
Heart Chocolate Mold for Gifts and Special Occasions
There is something extra special about serving or giving homemade chocolates made in the shape of hearts. This heart chocolate mold has been one of my favorite ways to create beautiful raw chocolates that add a thoughtful personal touch to birthdays, Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, holidays, or simply to let someone know they are loved.
The classic heart design creates elegant bite sized chocolates that are perfect for gift boxes, dessert platters, party favors, or sharing with family and friends. Whether filled with creamy nut butter, fruit centers, or rich raw chocolate, these little hearts always make a beautiful presentation.
Why I Love It
• Creates beautiful heart shaped bite sized chocolates
• Perfect for gifts, holidays, and special occasions
• Great for plain chocolates or delicious filled centers
• Reusable and easy to clean
• Adds a thoughtful handmade touch to every chocolate creation
Large Round Dome Chocolate Mold
This large round dome chocolate mold is one of my favorite molds for creating elegant homemade raw chocolates with a smooth, professional appearance. The larger size makes it perfect for chocolates with creamy fillings, crunchy centers, or beautiful layered creations.
I enjoy using this mold because it creates chocolates that look impressive while still being easy to make. Whether I am preparing chocolates for family, friends, holidays, or special occasions, this mold always produces beautiful results.
Why I Love It
• Creates elegant large round dome chocolates
• Perfect for creamy fillings, fruit centers, and layered chocolates
• Ideal for homemade gifts and dessert platters
• Reusable and easy to clean
• Creates beautiful chocolates with a professional appearance
Large Half Dome Chocolate Mold
This large half dome chocolate mold is one of my favorite molds for creating beautiful filled raw chocolates with an elegant professional look. The deep cavities make it perfect for creamy centers, nut butter fillings, fruit fillings, caramel style recipes, and layered chocolate creations.
I enjoy using this mold because it gives me a little more room to be creative. The larger size makes it easy to add delicious fillings while creating chocolates that are both beautiful and satisfying.
Why I Love It
• Creates beautiful large dome shaped chocolates
• Perfect for creamy fillings and layered creations
• Ideal for nut butter, fruit, and other homemade fillings
• Reusable and easy to clean
• Great for special occasions, gifts, and elegant dessert platters
Rectangle Mini Silicone Cups
These rectangle mini silicone cups are one of my favorite ways to create elegant individual raw desserts. I love using them for mini cheesecakes, frozen treats, chocolates, and other bite sized creations. The rectangular shape gives each dessert a clean, contemporary presentation that’s perfect for everyday enjoyment or special occasions.
Why I Love Them
• Perfect for individual raw desserts and frozen treats
• Great for homemade chocolates and bite sized recipes
• Wonderful for dehydrating small creations
• Naturally nonstick for easy release
• Reusable, durable, and easy to clean
The rectangle shape offers a unique presentation that adds a touch of elegance to every creation. They’re a versatile little kitchen tool that I enjoy using again and again.
Square Mini Silicone Cups
These mini square silicone cups are perfect for creating beautifully shaped individual raw desserts and bite sized treats. I enjoy using them for mini cheesecakes, frozen desserts, chocolate treats, and small dehydrated creations. The square shape gives each serving a clean, modern presentation.
Why I Love Them
• Perfect for individual raw desserts
• Great for mini cheesecakes and frozen treats
• Wonderful for dehydrating bite sized recipes
• Naturally nonstick for easy release
• Reusable, durable, and easy to clean
Whether I’m preparing a special dessert or creating small individual portions, these little square cups add a beautiful finishing touch.
Triangle Mini Silicone Cups
These mini triangle silicone cups are a fun and unique addition to my kitchen. I enjoy using them to create individual raw desserts, frozen treats, chocolates, and bite sized recipes. The distinctive triangle shape adds a creative presentation that makes even the simplest treats feel a little more special.
Why I Love Them
• Perfect for individual raw desserts and frozen treats
• Great for homemade chocolates and bite sized recipes
• Wonderful for dehydrating small creations
• Naturally nonstick for easy release
• Reusable, durable, and easy to clean
Whether I’m creating treats for entertaining or simply enjoying a special dessert at home, these triangle cups add a beautiful and unexpected touch to every serving.
Flower Mini Silicone Cups
These flower shaped mini silicone cups are one of my favorite ways to create beautifully presented individual raw desserts. I love using them for mini cheesecakes, frozen treats, chocolates, and other bite sized recipes. The flower shape adds a lovely decorative touch that makes every creation feel a little more special.
Why I Love Them
• Perfect for mini raw desserts and frozen treats
• Great for homemade chocolates and bite sized treats
• Wonderful for dehydrating small recipes
• Naturally nonstick for easy release
• Reusable, durable, and easy to clean
The flower shape creates a beautiful presentation that’s perfect for everyday treats, entertaining, or sharing with family and friends. These charming little cups always add an elegant finishing touch to my creations.
Cupcake Style Silicone Cups
These cupcake style silicone cups are one of my favorite kitchen essentials for creating beautiful individual raw desserts. I use them for mini cheesecakes, frozen treats, and dehydrated recipes that hold their shape beautifully. Their classic design gives every dessert a timeless presentation.
Why I Love Them
• Perfect for individual raw desserts and frozen treats
• Great for mini cheesecakes and other single serving creations
• Wonderful for dehydrating individual recipes
• Naturally nonstick for easy release
• Reusable, durable, and easy to clean
Whether I’m preparing desserts for family, entertaining friends, or simply creating something special for myself, these cupcake style silicone cups help every creation look beautiful.