Churning out large quantities of identically sliced fruit and vegetables is a challenge for any cook wielding only a chef’s knife. That’s where the mandoline comes in—a counter-top gadget that allows you to churn out perfect slices with nothing more than running a piece of food against the blade. But we’ve always avoided buying kitchen gadgets that perform the same function as basic tools we already own. But after testing this compact model, we’ll gladly make an exception.
Gadget name: Kyocera Adjustable Ceramic Mandoline Slicer
Price: $22
It looks like: A flat rectangle of plastic about 10 inches long—including the handle—with a ceramic blade across it, and an all-important hand guard to protect your fingers.
How it’s supposed to work: Place an item in at the top of the plastic board, cover it with the hand guard, and slide it down towards the diagonally slanted blade, which cuts easily through tough produce.
How we tested it: We had both novice and experienced testers use it to slice russet potatoes and beefsteak tomatoes.
How it actually works: You won’t believe how quickly—and efficiently—this mandoline performs. Its cuts were so clean, the slices of potato could be reassembled into a perfect whole.
Drawbacks: This no-frills model comes with only one blade—no fancy julienne or waffle options.
Good to know: Its ceramic blade is exceptionally sharp—so make sure to put that hand guard to use!
My favorite part: The slicer has a little notch underneath so you can rest it on the rim of a bowl, or you can prop it up on your cutting board. It’s also dishwasher-safe, and compact enough to fit in a drawer.
Overall: As one tester exclaimed: “It looks like a toy, but it works like crazy!”
About the Author: Lisa McManus
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I have this, and use it often. I don’t use the hand guard; I find that a Kevlar glove gives me more control of the vegetable I’m slicing.