Gourmet foods arranged on a table

HIC in the News

Keep up-to-date with the leading distributor of gourmet kitchen supplies, HIC, Harold Import Co.  The latest company happenings and developments will be posted here first, so keep an eye on this page for information about new products, and much more.

the kitchn Reviewed 5 Different Pie Weights

November 6, 2023

With pie baking season upon us, the kitchn reviewed 5 different pie weights in its November 6, 2023 article, citing Mrs. Anderson’s Baking Ceramic Pie Weights in the review. In the article, the author noted that these pie weights “performed just as well as the metal pie weights, but are much less expensive overall.” The author also confirmed that testing resulted in a crust that “didn’t bubble or puff, and the sides didn’t slump. You can read the full article here .

11 Things We Can't Resist Adding to Our Kitchens This Fall

September 24, 2023

Ready to dive into fall cooking and baking projects, Food & Wine writers and editors recently offered up the kitchen products they can’t wait to use in the upcoming colder months. In a September 24, 2023 article, “11 Things We Can’t Resist Adding to Our Kitchens This Fall,” Tayasha Murtaugh, Commerce Director for Food & Wine called HIC Kitchen’s Tip Tea Strainer (#1011G) a ‘genius tool’ that she had experienced while traveling in the UK. Perfect for brewing loose-leaf tea in a teapot, she explains, “the base of the strainer swivels so that it does double duty: it not only keeps the strainer perched on the side of the mug when you're pouring and straining the tea, but it also swings down underneath the mesh to catch drippings when you're done (like a built-in saucer).” You can read the full article here .

Top 10 Best Knife For Cutting Tomatoes To Buy Online

Top 10 Best Knife For Cutting Tomatoes To Buy Online
August 29, 2023

The “Top 10 Best Knife For Cutting Tomatoes To Buy Online” article from 8/29/23 on FactsChronicle.com, names HIC Kitchen’s Serrated Tomato knife (#38043), as Bestseller No. 2. Made from German steel alloy with a plastic handle, the publication noted that the knife’s 4.25”-blade “easily cuts through tough tomato skins without crushing the fruit inside.” The review also mentioned that the knife was perfect for cutting thick or thin slices. Making it into the publication’s Top Ten, the author takes into consideration detailed specifications of a product, ratings, and reviews from customers, as well as determining the product's reliability, availability, and if purchasing it represents money well spent. You can read the full article here .

Best Wok | The 2023 Tasting Table Awards

Best Wok | The 2023 Tasting Table Awards
August 1, 2023

The 2023 Tasting Table Awards are out, and the Best Wok accolades go to Helen’s Asian Kitchen Carbon Steel Wok. The editors vetted several popular woks priced under $140, putting the woks through their testing to determine their worthiness in preparing stir fry and braised dishes. Helen’s Asian Kitchen’s Carbon Steel Wok was chosen as the Best Overall Wok for a variety of reasons. In addition to being made of carbon steel, which can withstand the high temperatures needed to produce maximum results when stir-frying, the article makes note of the wok’s bamboo handle, which doesn’t get hot under high heat, isalso designed for easy and comfortable handling during use due to its rounded shape. The Tasting Table also noted the wide bottom allowed for great braising. In all, “the wok’s versatility and accessibility made it a standout.” (Please note, that the wok featured in the Tasting Table article (#97004) with a two-tone handle has been updated to a single color-heat -resistant bamboo handle.) You can read more about the Best Woks here. And, for a full list of winning kitchenware products, visit here .

The 8 Best Ice Cream Scoops of 2023 | Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Ice Cream Scoops of 2023 | Tested and Reviewed
June 15, 2023

According to the author of the article, “The 8 Best Ice Cream Scoops of 2023, Tested and Reviewed,” which appeared on RealSimple.com June 15, 2023, “the best ice cream scoops are sturdy, durable, and comfortable to hold, making it easy to glide them through a pint of frozen dessert.” That’s exactly why HIC’s Anti-Freeze ice Cream Spade was named the Best Ice Cream Spade, standing out for having “a wide, flat design and contains heat-conductive liquid for easy scooping.” While its design doesn’t create perfectly round scoops, according to the author, “if you don’t care about perfectly round scoops, this was one of the best-performing ice cream scoops we tested.” READ MORE 

The Best Pie Weights | 2023

Food & Wine highlights Mrs. Anderson’s, Pie Shield
June 7, 2023

Mrs. Anderson’s Baking Ceramic Pie Weights (#108) were named the Top Pick in “The Best Pie Weights” review appearing June 7, 2023 online at Don’t Waste Your Money website. A simple-to-use, but essential item for so many pie bakers, the review noted, “These ceramic beads come in an almond color. The pack includes 0.35 pounds of them, so you can buy as many as you need for your pie crust size. You can keep them in the small plastic package. READ MORE 

Food & Wine highlights Mrs. Anderson’s, Pie Shield

Food & Wine highlights Mrs. Anderson’s, Pie Shield
May 31, 2023

After testing several pie crust shields through the years, author, Elisabeth Sherman, sings praises for the Mrs. Anderson’s Aluminum 9.5-Inch Pie Crust Shield, especially when compared to silicone versions available on the market. To that point, she notes, “The metal pie crust shield is so much sturdier than the silicone. It keeps its shape so it doesn’t require constant readjusting. All you have to do is place the metal circle over the pie crust, and you’re done.” Aside from being an effective way to prevent crusts from getting too dark, the author concludes that this aluminum version is effective, easy to use, and the price is right. READ MORE 

The Best Gravy Boat | 2023

The Best Gravy Boat | 2023
May 1, 2023

HIC Kitchen’s Hotel Gravy Boat with Saucer (NT750) was chosen as Runner Up in “The Best Gravy Boats, 2023” article Don’tWasteYourMoney.com.
As described, “This 24-ounce gravy boat features soft angles and includes a porcelain saucer to help cut down on messes. Both the saucer and gravy boat are microwave safe, making them as functional as they are stylish.” Visit here to view the full article. READ MORE 

HIC’s Tortilla Press is heralded as “Worth Checking Out”

HIC’s Tortilla Press is heralded as Worth Checking Out
March 29, 2023

HIC’s Tortilla Press is heralded as “Worth Checking Out,” in a March 29, 2023 article, “The Best Tortilla Press,” which appeared on WPRI.com, serving Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts. Noting that HIC’s press is “for home cooks who want smaller tortillas,” adding that it is “a press that is light and compact for easy storage in small spaces.” The article also points out that the tortilla press presses them thin enough to make homemade tortilla chips, too. You can view the entire article here. READ MORE 

Best Ice Cream Scoops of 2023

Best Ice Cream Scoops of 2023
February 22, 2023

There are a lot of ice cream scoops on the market and not all scoops are created equal,” begins the Feb. 22, 2023 article, “The 14 Best Ice Cream Scoops” from Better Homes & Gardens. Among the publication’s tops picks is the HIC’s Anti-Freeze Ice Cream Scoop (#AFS) which is cited for its affordability and its quick and easy use. The author noted that the anti-freeze ice cream scoop “is one of the most affordable ice cream scoops on the list,” adding, “it does make shopping quick and easy.” READ MORE 

HIC has acquired the EVO brand, officially bringing the award-winning line of EVO Oil Sprayers and accessories to the HIC Family of Brands.

Evo - Harold Import's another kitchen tool brand
December 2022

“The Evo Oil Sprayer is the perfect marriage of quality design that functions consistently for the home and professional chef,” said Robert Laub, president of the Lakewood, NJ - based HIC-Harold Import Company. “Since 2014, HIC has offered our customers this innovative culinary tool as part of our extended family of brands. We are excited about this new opportunity as the EVO oil sprayer and accessories have found a new home here in the HIC Family of Brands.” READ MORE 

The Best Spatulas Deserve a Permanent Place in Your Apron Pocket

Google Alert - Helen's Asian Kitchen
August 2022

The Helen’s Asian Kitchen Stir Fry Spatula received praise from Mark Tarbell, chef and owner of Tarbell’s in Phoenix in the April 15th Saveur article, “The Best Spatulas Deserve a Permanent Place in your Apron Pocket.” Tarbell takes notice of the intrinsic benefits from its bamboo construction - including its durability and being safe for use on all cookware (as it won’t scratch the surface). Tarbell also notes its light weight gives a gentler touch and better feel when stirring. For the full review, including additional thoughts from Maggie Zhu, of the food blog Omnivore’s Cookbook, click here. READ MORE 

35+ Sweetest Gifts for Bakers of All Kinds

Pie weights
May 2022

Country Living’s May 18, 2022 article, ‘35+ Sweetest Gifts for Bakers of All Kinds,” included Mrs. Anderson’s Baking Ceramic Pie Weights. The list includes the editors’ suggestions for gift-giving to the baker in your life, and offered up baking gifts ranging from practical to just-for-fun. The ceramic pie weights are noted for their practicality, reusability and ease of use when pre-baking pie crusts. READ MORE 

The Best Gear for Teen Cooks

Wooden rolling pin
May 2022

The Cook’s Illustrated article, “The Best Gear for Teen Cooks” is a gathering of all the basic cookware, bakeware and knives, their editors think teens need in the kitchen. Among their must-have suggestions is the Mrs. Anderson’s Baking Wooden Rolling Pin, 10” Beechwood, (#1351) noted for its long length, smoothing rolling motion and slightly heavier weight, which makes rolling pie dough a breeze. One of the kid testers found it the easiest to use, and another stated, “It’s heavier so you don’t have to press on it as much.” No doubt, a perfect tool for adults and children alike. The Cook’s Illustrated article served as a complement to their latest cookbook for young chefs, entitled, The Complete Cookbook for Teen Chef. READ MORE 

Best Cooking and Baking Gifts for Mother's Day

Pie weights
April 2022

Mother’s Day is coming, and USA Today’s Reviewed editors compiled a list of “13 Sweet gifts for moms who love to cook or bake, (4/18/22). “For the pie-loving mom,” reviewers recommended Mrs. Anderson’s Baking Ceramic Pie Weights. According to the article, “reviewers swear by Mrs. Anderson’s ceramic pie weights,” adding that “Some people recommend buying two boxes at once, so you’ll definitely have enough to cover the bottom of any shell you make.” READ MORE 

Culinary Futures’ Reach for the Stars a Success

Culinary Futures’ fundraiser
April 2022

HFN’s digital news (April 5, 2022) highlighted the success of the 2022 Culinary Futures event, Reach for the Stars, which was held in Chicago in early March. “After a two-year hiatus, Culinary Futures’ fundraiser a success,” written by Andrea Lillo, mentioned the more than $50,000 raised to help fund scholarships for underserved students within Chicago Public Schools. As well, it was noted that this annual event, drew more than 100 supporters to benefit No Matter What and Millie’s Camp, with the added support from Foxpro, Ateco, Aerolatte, Marcato, KAF and HIC who sponsored the event. READ MORE 

Get the Crispiest Bacon With This Bacon Press

crispiest bacon
March 2022

“Get the crispiest bacon of your life,” with the HIC Kitchen Bacon Press (#43202), reports Andrew Koopman in the March 25, 2022 article in TheTelegraph.com. Throughout the article, Koopman showers the Bacon Press with accolades not only for its design and function: “What this does is prevent the sides, ends, and edges from curling up and away from the hot surface. This ensures an even, crispy piece of bacon every time.”), but its versatility: “. . . perfect for ensuring that our steaks burgers, and just about anything else gets evenly cooked. You can also use it to press unwanted fat out of meat or whey out of cheese. Heck, it’s even perfect for grilling the perfect panini sandwich every time.”
In addition to highlighting the versatility of the Bacon Press, he makes note of The Bacon Press’ great price. Of course, HIC – Harold Import Company has always offered the best quality cooking tools at the best possible prices. READ MORE 

Culinary Futures benefit returns to Chicago

chefs offering assorted plates
February 2022

HFN Digital shares the love for the return of the 2022 Culinary Futures: Reach for the Stars event in their February 14th digital newsletter. HIC – Harold Import Company’s 18-year tradition of funding scholarships for underserved students within Chicago Public Schools will take place from 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. at Loft on Lake, 1366 W Lake St., Chicago.  READ MORE 

27 Stocking Stuffers for Everyone on Your List

frother
December 2021

CNN Underscored article, “27 Stocking Stuffers for Everyone on Your List,” two items from HIC were highlighted. For anyone looking to step up their latte game, the author noted the Aerolatte Milk Frother (#005) , that will instantly give mornings a more luxurious feel. And for all those times when you need to open boxes, clip recipes, cut gift wrap and more, the Slice Ceramic Blade Safety Cutter (#112366) was recommended.  READ MORE 

The Best Gift For The Home Cook In 2021

pie weights
November 2021

Our ceramic pie weights received more accolades in the Nov. 15, 2021 article, “The Best Gift for the Home Cook in 2021,” which appeared in The Province, from Postmedia. The author noted that Mrs. Anderson’s Baking Ceramic Pie Weights (#108) are great for those who like a professional-looking pie. You can read the full article here.” READ MORE 

Thanksgiving Classics, Reimagined

pie weights
November 2021

Well-Equipped Cook Newsletter, America’s Test Kitchen highlighted “Thanksgiving Classics, Reimagined,” including an Essential Equipment Guide which featured the Mrs. Anderson’s Baking Lasagna Pan with Handle (Rose) (#98048RS). According to ATK, what makes the pan great is its looped handles that were easy to grab, as well as the pan with the best capacity to accommodate all foods with ease.” READ MORE 

What Exactly Are Pie Weights?

pie weights
November 2021

As the pie baking season arrives, the Mrs. Anderson’s Pie Weights were recommended as an essential pie-baking tool in the November 11, 2021 article, “What Exactly Are Pie Weights, And Should You Being Using Them?” On Delish.com. The author noted, “if you’re gonna blind bake a crust, you gotta have pie weights.” READ MORE 

Best Value Carbon Steel Wok’ in Saveur

pie weights
September 2021

Helen’s Asian Kitchen Carbon Steel Wok was chosen as the ‘Best Value Carbon Steel Wok’ in Saveur’s, “When it Comes to the Best Woks for Home Kitchens, Carbon Steel is King,” article. Author Jarrett Melendez noted, “When it came to the cooking test, this wok did everything I wanted it to do.” Melendez also praised the Helen’s Asian Kitchen Carbo Steel Wok for the ease of creating the perfect sear, it’s ample size, comfortable handle, and ease of cleaning, Helen’s Asian Kitchen offers a range of Carbon Steel Woks including: Carbon Steel Round Bottom Wok Set (#97146), 8” Carbon Steel Wok (#97147), 12” Carbon Steel Stir Fry Pan (#97087), 13.5” Carbon Steel Stir Fry Pan with lid (#97005), and the 14” Carbon Steel Stir Fry Pan (#97004).” READ MORE 

America's Test Kitchen: The Best Pie Gear + Maple Syrup Pie

pie weights
September 2021

KATU, the ABC affiliate in Portland, Ore.) showcased the ‘Best Pie Gear,’ segment during which Hannah Crowley, executive editor of equipment testing and ingredient tasting for America’s Test Kitchen, named Mrs. Anderson’s Baking Pie Weights as an essential tool for pie baking. Crowley noted the ease of use to keep crusts from shrinking and bubbling when baking without a filling. ” READ MORE 

The Best Spatulas- Helen’s Asian Kitchen Bamboo Stir Fry Spatula

stir-fry in wok
July 2021

Helen’s Asian Kitchen Bamboo Stir Fry Spatula was recently named the Top Pick as the best wooden spatula for stirring and scraping by Wirecutter, in it’s Best Spatulas article. Chosen for its perfect marriage of wooden spoon and spatula, the Bamboo Stir Fry Spatula features a flat edge that easily scrapes the bottom of a pan, and the rounded corner gets into the hard-to-reach areas of slope-sided cookware. Overall, Wirecutter noted the Helen’s Asian Kitchen Bamboo Stir Fry Spatula, “A great wooden spatula for a good price.” READ MORE 

GC Buying Group Names Annual Best Vendor Awards

GC Buying Group logo
July 2021

HIC - Harold Import Company was recently named the leader in the “Shipping” category in the GC Buying Group’s 2021 Best Vendor Awards. The annual winners are chosen by the CG Buying Group store members, who vote on vendor members for outstanding service and products in several areas. Additionally, As part of GC’s 40-year celebration, HIC, along with Le Creuset of America, were honored by the GC Buying Group, receiving awards commemorating the two vendors who have been part of the GC program since the beginning in 1981.“We are especially pleased to have sustained excellent working relationships with these two outstanding vendors for all the years GC has been in the industry,” explained Janis Johnson, GC Buying Group founder and president..” READ MORE 

Helen's Asian Kitchen Stir Fry Spatula

Bamboo stir fry spatula
May 2021

An NBC News article "The Instant Pot and my Taiwanese grandmother's cooking lessons,” recently mentioned Helen’s Asian Kitchen Stir Fry Spatula as an “an essential tool from my grandma’s kitchen for cooking Asian meals.” Author, Kala Herh, of Shop TODAY recently connected with her grandmother who taught her how to embrace and enjoy cooking traditional Chinese meals, using a few essential tools. And, one of her grandmother’s essential tools for cooking Asian cuisine is Helen’s Asian Kitchen Stir Fry Spatula (#97056). Her grandma’s favorite feature is “the angled edge that makes it easy to get the hard-to-reach parts in sloped skillets.” READ MORE 

HIC Kitchen Stainless Steel Chinois

Stainless steel chinois
April 2021

The South Florida Sun Sentinel named the HIC Kitchen Stainless Steel Chinois (#43657) as the Best of the Best Chinois Strainer. As noted in the review, this strainer checks all the boxes when it comes to sturdy construction, a fine mesh filter, and a reasonable price tag. The review further notes the chinois is built to last and the fine mesh is highly effective at removing even the smallest particles. Also noted was how easy the tool is to clean.  READ MORE 

Marcato Atlas Ravioli Tablet

Atlas Ravioli Tablet
March 2021

Marcato Atlas Ravioli Tablet (item #8343RD), available from HIC, was a featured product during the IHA Market Watch 2021 video series focusing on Time. Within the segment, the Marcato Ravioli Tablet was presented as a key product that represents how consumers are looking for meaningful ways to spend their time. The iconic pasta maker brand’s Ravioli Tablet was highlighted, showcasing how the process of making pasta together, with family and friends, creates meaningful time well spent.  READ MORE 

HIC Citrus Juicer Reamer

Glass citrus juicer
March 2021

The South Florida Sun Sentinel named the HIC Citrus Juicer Reamer (item #43214) the “Best Bang for the Buck” choice for its simple, classic and heavy-duty design. The glass, manual reamer is made of heavyweight glass, with a handle and spout for efficient juicing.  READ MORE 

Mrs. Anderson's Baking Non Stick Springform Pan

Non Stick Springform Pan
February 2021 

Baking cheesecake is a breeze with Mrs. Anderson’s Baking Springform Pan (item #43690), which was featured in The Inspired Home’s New York Style Cheesecake post. This versatile carbon steel pan features a premium nonstick coating for easy release.  READ MORE 

Fino Stovetop Espresso Maker

Stovetop Espresso Maker
January 2021

HIC’s newest brand, Fino, was highlighted in HFN’s “What’s New for the Kitchen? A Housewares Roundup” article (Jan. 20 2021). The article noted the addition of the Fino line to the company’s Family of Brands, and highlighted the Fino Stovetop Espresso Maker.  READ MORE 

HIC Kitchen’s Silicone Oven Rack

silicone oven rack shield
October 2020

HIC Kitchen’s Silicone Oven Rack Shield was recently featured as a Top Pick in Ode Magazine’s Best Guards for Oven Racks. READ MORE 

Aerolatte Milk Frother

Milk frother
September 2017

Whether you need to beat eggs for a breakfast scramble or make whipped cream to top a decadent dessert.  READ MORE 

HIC Splatter Screen

HIC Splatter Screen
August 2017

The HIC Splatter Screen is featured in the September/October 2017 issue of Cook's Illustrated. READ MORE 

The Pasta Machine of Choice

Pasta Machine
August 2017

The pasta machine of choice during the August 16th episode of Master Chef was the Marcato Atlas. Showcased during the final challenge portion of the episode, which was held in Las Vegas to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Caesars Palace. READ MORE 

The Marcato Atlas 150 Wellness Pasta Machine

Atlas 150 Wellness Pasta Machine
April 2017

The Marcato Atlas 150 Wellness Pasta Machine was chosen as the Highly Recommended choice for a manual pasta maker by Cook’s Illustrated. READ MORE 

Helen's Asian Kitchen14-inch Carbon Steel Wok

Carbon Steel Wok
September 2016

Helen Chen’s Asian Kitchen 14-inch Carbon Steel Wok was recently highlighted in a post, written by blogger Tieghan Gerard on IHH+S The Inspired Home website. READ MORE 

 

 

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