Peeler
A peeler is a bar and kitchen tool that allows you to peel fruits and vegetables (eg potatoes, carrots, apples) quickly and with as little loss as possible. It consists essentially of a blade and a handle and is often made entirely of stainless steel. Many models have recesses for a better grip and a small extra blade for removing potato eyes, etc.
In general, two basic types of peelers can be distinguished, namely those with transverse and longitudinal blades. The longitudinal version dates back to a German patent from 1936 and is also known as the Famos economy peeler; these peelers are still produced under the same manufacturer's name today. The blade lying parallel to the handle allows easy guiding, often without much arm movement. This requires special versions for left- and right-handers. The Rex economy peeler was invented later; it has a blade positioned across the handle. This means longer peeling strokes; however, these peelers can be used ambidextrously.
Unlike older potato peelers, the blade is generally movable and therefore easily follows the contours of the food to be peeled. Opposite the blade is a spacer that limits the peeling thickness. This is where the economy peeler gets its name. With some models, the peeling thickness can also be adjusted using screws.
A special function in the bar context is the production of fruit zests - i.e. thin strips from the peel of citrus fruits that are used to decorate and flavor cocktails. For particularly thin zests or so-called 'citrus curls', there is a special tool - the zest ripper or thread cutter. Wider strips of zest, on the other hand, can simply be cut out with a peeler - these can then also be processed with other tools such as craft scissors or cutting dies, or they can be used directly. Zests are either added to the drink or pinned to the rim of the glass; you can also squeeze out the oil contained in the zest to 'splash' the cocktail with it. For the latter, we strongly recommend the use of untreated fruit!
