Whether it is that back yard cook out with friends, a graduation party, or any other special event there are just times when you want to have a fresh fruit dish that looks as attractive as it tastes. That being the case, a melon baller is just one of those inexpensive kitchen gadgets that most of us could use from time to time.
What is a Melon Baller
A melon baller is a simple handle with a rounded scoop on one or both ends that were designed to use in fresh melons that have the seeds removed to created small melon balls such as you see in melon baskets, and those edible floral displays. The two scooped melon ballers usually have two different size scoops so you can make two different size melon balls to add variety to your fruity offerings.
Though designed for scooping melons the melon baller can come in handy for making other things in the kitchen. For example, you would be surprised how simple it is to remove seeds from fruits such as apples, pears, and papaya using this neat little inexpensive tool.
It is also great for making miniature cookies for Children's parties or afternoon tea and you can use a melon baller to scoop out tiny scoops of ice cream that is perfect for making tiny ice cream sandwich cookies or simply to make serving ice cream for dessert look a little more elegant.
If you want to make miniature meatballs for that spaghetti dinner you are planning a melon baller will not only make them perfectly round but, will insure they are also uniform in shape as well. They also make great tiny dumplings for that chicken dumpling soup you have been meaning to try.
For those of you who love throwing parties and like to make elegant and tasty appetizers then try using a melon baller to stuff tuna or chicken salad into tiny cherry tomatoes. The effect is actually, very stunning and it is a low fat appetizer than anyone can eat no matter what their dietary needs.
What to Look for in a Melon Baller
When looking to purchase a melon baller one thing you are going to want to look for is a comfortable handle. If you are filling a melon basket with melon balls then you are going to want to get the job done with something that is comfortable to hold. Choosing a melon baller with two heads instead of one will allow you to have a choice of sizes for your melon balls or meat balls and will also allow you get more of the actual fruit out of each melon.
Where to Find a Melon Baller
One of the nicest things about melon baller is that you can find them almost anywhere from your local supermarket to online stores specializing in kitchen equipment for chefs and restaurants. These handy kitchen items are quite inexpensive costing usually no more than $10.00 or $12.00 and sometimes as low as $5.00. It’s affordable and worthwhile, even if you only use them only on rare occasions.