A colander is a kitchen utensil drains water from boiled pasta or washed vegetables. It is often used to strain liquids from cooked food items such as pasta, rice, or vegetables. The term ‘pasta strainer’ is used interchangeably with a colander daily.
But did you know there are different types of colanders made from different materials, shapes, and sizes? In this article, we will explore some of the most common varieties of kitchen colander and their origins.
Metal Colander
A metal colander is the most basic and common type in most kitchens. They are usually made from stainless steel, aluminium, or thinly rolled steel. It has small holes or perforations that allow the water to drain quickly and efficiently. A metal colander is durable, easy to clean, and resistant to rust and corrosion.
A Metal colander has been around for a long time, dating back to ancient times. The word colander comes from the Latin colum, meaning sieve. Metal colander was used by the Greeks and Romans to strain foods such as cheese, wine, and honey. That is also used for religious purposes, such as sprinkling holy water or offering sacrifices.
Some of the best metal colanders you can buy are:
- ExcelSteel Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Colander: This colander has a solid ring base and riveted handles for stability and durability. It can hold up to 5 quarts of food and is dishwasher safe.
- Bellemain Micro-Perforated Stainless Steel Colander: This colander has tiny holes that prevent small foods from slipping through. It has a pedestal base and riveted handles for easy lifting and shaking. It can hold up to 5 quarts of food and is dishwasher safe.
- PriorityChef Stainless Steel Colander: This colander has a unique design that allows it to fit over the sink, saving space and making draining easier. It has a fine mesh that works well with rice, quinoa, and other grains. It can hold up to 3 quarts of food and is dishwasher safe.
Ceramic Colander
A ceramic colander is another popular type that adds a touch of style and elegance to your kitchen. It is made from clay or porcelain and glazed with various colours and patterns. A ceramic colander is ideal for rinsing and serving fruits, berries, and salads. It is also great for decorating your kitchen counter or table.
The ceramic colander is not as old as the metal colander but has been around for centuries. They originated from pottery, which is one of the oldest human inventions. Pottery was used for making various vessels and utensils, including colanders. The Ceramic colander was especially popular in Europe, often decorated with floral or geometric motifs.
Some of the best ceramic colanders you can buy are:
- Woouch Ceramic Berry Basket: This colander has a square shape and a rustic stoneware look. It has holes and handles for easy draining and carrying. It can hold up to 5.7 inches of berries, fruits, or vegetables and is dishwasher-safe.
- Farmhouse Ceramic Berry Basket: This colander has a round shape and a cute strawberry pattern. It has holes and a saucer for catching excess water. It can hold up to 4.25 inches of berries, fruits, or vegetables and is dishwasher-safe.
- Creative Co-Op Stoneware Colander: This colander has a bowl shape and a reactive glaze finish. It has holes and handles for easy draining and lifting. It can hold up to 9 inches of pasta, fruits, or vegetables and is dishwasher-safe.
Copper Colander
A copper colander is a type of metal colander that has a warm and shiny appearance. It is made from copper or copper-plated steel and has a thin layer of nickel and chromium to prevent tarnishing. A copper colander is perfect for adding a vintage or rustic charm to your kitchen. It is also good for conducting heat, which can help keep your food warm.
The copper colander is uncommon, but it has a rich history. Copper is one of the oldest metals used by humans, dating back to the Bronze Age. Copper was used for making various tools and utensils, including colanders. Copper colander was especially popular in France, used for making cheese, wine, and vinegar.
Some of the best copper colanders you can buy are:
- Williams Sonoma Copper Colander : This colander has a stainless steel base and polished copper plating. It has riveted handles and a brass plaque that reads “Magnolia”. It can hold up to 5 quarts of food and is hand-washed only.
- Brass and Copper Colander : This colander has a stainless steel bowl and a copper-finished exterior. It has brass-finished handles and a brass plaque that reads “Copper and Brass”. It can hold up to 5 quarts of food and is hand-washed only.
- Vintage Copper Colander : This colander has a copper body and a brass handle. It has a footed pedestal and a heart-shaped drain hole pattern. It can hold up to 11.5 inches of food and is hand-wash only.
Collapsible Colander
A collapsible colander is a type of colander that can be folded or collapsed for easy storage and transport. It is usually made from silicone or plastic and has a flexible or retractable design. A collapsible colander is ideal for small kitchens, RVs, camping, or travelling. It is also good for saving space and reducing clutter.
A collapsible colander is a relatively new invention, but it has become very popular recently. It results from advancing technology and materials and the demand for convenience and efficiency. The collapsible colander is designed to be user-friendly, versatile, and eco-friendly.
Some of the best collapsible colanders you can buy are:
- QiMH Collapsible Colander and Strainer : This colander has a round shape and a sturdy plastic base. It has holes and extendable handles for easy draining and fitting over the sink. It can hold up to 6 quarts of food and is dishwasher safe.
- Oxo Good Grips Collapsible Colander : This colander has a square shape and a soft silicone body. It has holes and a snap-on base for easy draining and standing. It can hold up to 5 quarts of food and is dishwasher safe.
- Kitchen Gizmo Snap N Strain Pot Strainer : This colander has a clip-on design that attaches to any pot, pan, or bowl. It has holes and a silicone strainer for easy draining and pouring. It can hold up to 3 quarts of food and is dishwasher safe.
Berry Colander
Berry colander is a type of colander that is specially designed for washing and serving berries. It is usually small, cute, colourful, and has a basket or carton shape. Berry colander has small holes or slits that allow the water to drain while keeping the berries intact. Berry colander is perfect for enjoying fresh and healthy berries at home or on the go.
Berry colander is not a traditional type, but it has become very trendy and popular in recent years. It is inspired by the farmer’s market berry boxes, which are used to store and sell fresh berries. Berry colander is meant to be fun, functional, and fashionable.
Some of the best berry colanders you can buy are:
- Chef’n Bramble Berry Colander and Basket: This colander has a round shape and a cherry red colour. It has holes and a lid for easy draining and storing. It can hold up to 1 quart of berries and is dishwasher safe.
- Norpro Strawberry Colander: This colander has a heart shape and a bright red colour. It has holes and a stem handle for easy draining and lifting. It can hold up to 1.5 quarts of berries and is dishwasher safe.
- White Basket Berry Colander : This colander has a square shape and a white colour. It has holes and a saucer for easy draining and catching excess water. It can hold up to 4.25 inches of berries and is dishwasher-safe.
I hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new about the varieties of kitchen colander and their origins. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Thank you for reading!
