It should come as no surprise to you to find that the French rely on a completely different set of kitchen appliances to the ones used in other parts of the world. But knowing that doesn’t answer the question of what to bring with you when you move here.
If you have a crockpot (and like using it) then bring it with you. It’s extremely difficult to get them in France. Flat sandwich presses/grills (without grill lines) and jaffle-makers are impossible to find too. Microwaves, kettles, toasters, coffee-makers and rice-cookers can be found, but they will cost you a fair bit. Australians get electronic stuff very cheap. My advice for most things – If you can spare the space then bring it.
- Image via Wikipedia
Check power guidelines for each appliance and compare with the French electricity standards. We brought lots of 4-point electrical plugs then bought French fittings for them from a hardware shop (wired by us). It’s a cheap and easy way (still safe) to easily keep using Australian appliances. Don’t do anything stupid. Get proper converters if the appliance will need it.
But it’s not all about bringing the old with you. We’ve happily discovered a dish which is a French favourite, the Swiss Raclette (read up on restaurant Raclette here). The French households generally use a dedicated appliance (shown) but it’s well worth the investment. This machine is a crispy meat-making, cheese-melting haven of deliciousness. That’s why almost all French homes have one.
