Peelers

Although it is fairly easy to peel fruit and vegetables with a knife, the discarded skin often contains more flavour and nourishment than the peeled item. A good peeler will shave away the skin so finely that little of value is lost.

There are two major types of peeler; the fixed-blade and the swivel-blade. The first type works in the same manner as a knife, although if you are left handed, you must make sure that you buy a left-handed version.

A swivel-bladed (or Y-shaped) peeler can be moved quickly across the fruit or vegetable in any direction.Both varieties usually have pointed tools for digging out potato eyes.

When choosing a peeler, make sure that the handle is easy to grip and comfortable to hold.