Mine is pretty basic like Ottolenghi's except I don't use baking soda when cooking the dried beans. I find it makes the finished product a little pasty. I blend in a food pro. a long time to get a smooth texture. Also use cumin for flavor. It's what I grew up with so it just taste right
I'm perplexed as well. I always get even cooking. No gray. My biggest issue is post SV searing. Getting enough crust without cooking the interior. A torch is the most convent way for me.
Really can't think of a kitchen item. Now one of my guitars or ouds maybe. Even my knives I love but an equally sharp well designed knife could replace a lost one and I'd move on. Guess don't have attachment issues