Statistics show that Dallol, Ethiopa is the warmest place on Earth with an average yearly temperature of 34.4°C.  You can change that this winter by adding a single oven and other flourishes to make your kitchen the embodiment of warmth and love.

While living in London, it took me about two months to realize that a daily diet of microwave curries from Waitrose wasn’t going to be enough to keep me happy.  I then bought an oven and never looked back.  A single oven can instantly transform a kitchen from simply functional to fab without breaking the bank.  To get the best bang for your buck, look for electric wall ovens that heat fast and are easy to clean.  I recommend low to mid-priced units from Bosch and AEG, which are proven by Consumer Reports to perform just as well as professional models that cost thousands of pounds more.  A large single oven should provide plenty of space when cooking for guests, and installing a wall unit will free up space for you to move about your kitchen.

Of course, you’ll need a place to sit and relax while waiting for your pies to cook, so it’s important to have a good kitchen table with enough seating for the family.  A round pedestal dining table will allow you to eat with your loved ones without the chasms of space that often define the family dining experience.  I like the solid oak dining table at right that comes with a pyramid base and four stylish wave back chairs.  The table top is small but cozy, and you’ll appreciate the intimate space when the conversation is flowing the food is to die for.

Speaking of food, what better way to show off your new oven than by baking a delicious dessert for guests?  A hot fudge brownie sundae served in fun and classic sundae glasses is just the dish to top off a memorable dinner party.  Look online for your favourite recipe, and when your friends and family ask where you got such a great idea, tell them an old friend helped you.

Did you know?

The hot fudge sundae first appeared at an ice cream parlour in Hollywood, California in 1906.

-Jeff O.

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