When it comes to kitchen prep, peeling vegetables may be the most dreadful of tasks. This process can be tedious and time-consuming, resulting in semi-peeled potatoes, carrots and apples. However, all that can change with the right vegetable peeler.
A quality vegetable peeler can significantly streamline the prep process. The ergonomic grip can be comfortable to hold, and the sharp blades can remove vegetable skin with ease. You can finally enjoy the process of making your favorite recipes.
So, what should you look for when buying a new vegetable peeler? Unlike your old rusty kitchen tool, your new peeler should have a smooth grip. The product should sit in your hand comfortably without slipping out. There are also several shapes to consider. Some vegetable peelers have a Y-shaped blade and horizontal blade, while others have a vertical blade. Each of these can be effective, so your choice will come down to personal preference.
As you figure out ways to use this season’s produce, here are some of the best vegetable peelers to consider.
1. Spring Chef Premium Swivel Vegetable Peeler
Spring Chef’s vegetable peeler features a set of dual blades that swivel for comfortable peeling. These blades are two inches long and won’t clog easily. The non-slip handle includes finger divots and works for both right and left-handed users. You can use the built-in blemish remover to remove potato eyes and other imperfections. Keep in mind that the sharp blades make this an effective peeler, but they may cause some finger cuts if you aren’t careful. It’s best to keep this product away from young kids.
Pros: The swivel feature makes peeling essentially effortless. This peeler can be effective on larger vegetables like squash.
Cons: This product can be awkward to hold if you have small hands. The blades aren’t replaceable.
2. KitchenAid Classic Euro Peeler
This vegetable peeler has a classic design and is available in aqua sky, black, red and white. The sturdy handle is easy to hold, and the blade head swivels as you peel. You can toss this peeler in the dishwasher for cleaning, and the high-carbon stainless steel blade won’t rust easily. This product includes a plastic sheath to protect the blades while you store it. Note that this vegetable peeler doesn’t have a blemish remover, so you’ll need a separate tool for that task.
Pros: KitchenAid sells other tools to match this vegetable peeler. The plastic sheath is a useful feature.
Cons: The handle might feel bulky for some users. This peeler doesn’t include a blemish remover to cut out potato eyes.
3. OXO Good Grips Prep Y-Peeler
This sturdy vegetable Y-peeler has a straight blade that’s easy to maneuver. The blades are sharp and won’t rust easily, so you can wash them in the sink or dishwasher. This product has a non-slip handle with a rubber texture. The built-in blemish remover is double-sided, so both right and left-handed people can use it easily. OXO’s four-inch peeler may feel small if you have larger hands, but it’s also compact and easy to store.
Pros: The design prevents you from nicking your fingers while you peel. The blades are sharp enough to peel most fruits and vegetables.
Cons: This peeler is smaller than some other options. The product may slip from your hand when wet.
4. Honsen Stainless Steel Vegetable Peeler
Honsen’s vegetable peeler features a sleek and ergonomic design. The stainless steel blades are sharp and include dual blemish removers. The rubber handle is comfortable to grip, and it won’t feel bulky in your hand. This product is lightweight, so it’s easy to maneuver around irregularly-shaped vegetables. You can clean this peeler in the dishwasher, but it might rust if left in water for too long. The open design makes it easy to rinse after use.
Pros: The sharp blades and general shape can cut down on peeling time. The dual blemish-removers work well for both right and left-handed users.
Cons: The blemish removers are flat rather than curved, so they can get stuck in the vegetable.
5. Kuhn Rikon Swiss Peeler
Kuhn Rikon’s vegetable peelers are available in a set of three, so you’ll always have a tool nearby. The ultra-sharp blade cuts smoothly and quickly. These blades are made of durable carbon steel, but they aren’t dishwasher safe. It’s best to hand wash this product and dry them as soon as possible since the blades can rust easily. Keep in mind that the blade is sharper than most peelers, so it’s important to keep this product away from kids.
Pros: The blade is sharp enough to cut through tough fruit peels like oranges. If one peeler breaks or rusts, you’ll have two backups on hand.
Cons: The handle isn’t the most comfortable to hold. The blades rust quickly, so be sure to keep them dry.