Cooking is not just about skill and technique. Having the right tools and kitchen gadgets can make your culinary adventures more efficient, enjoyable, and successful. Our selection may not be expected since there are very basic tools, but they are the top ones we use every day. We will share our top 5 and give some tips on what we look for in them.
1. Chef’s Knife
A high-quality chef’s knife is the workhorse of the kitchen. It is also arguably the most essential tool for any cook. The versatility offers it to be used for a wide range of tasks, from slicing and dicing to chopping and mincing. Look for a chef’s knife with a comfortable grip and a sharp, durable blade. The preference in style of knife may differ from person to person, but investing in a good knife will not only make your food prep easier but also ensure safety and precision. Make sure to keep your knife sharp as this helps with those skills as well.
2. Cutting Board
To go along with the first tool, a reliable cutting board order of boards is a must-have kitchen gadget. Choose a cutting board that is large enough to accommodate your tasks and has a non-slip surface for safety. We also recommend color coded boards for specific tasks/ ingredients.
3. Kitchen Thermometer
A kitchen thermometer is an invaluable tool for achieving perfect cooking. It helps you monitor the internal temperature of food, ensuring it’s cooked to a safe level and preventing over or undercooking. Look for a digital kitchen thermometer with a fast and accurate reading to simplify your cooking and make your dishes consistently delicious. You may also want to look for a thermometer that can be easily recalibrated as necessary. We always recommend using a thermometer since we can make mistakes, but a thermometer doesn’t.
4. Good Pans
Investing in a good set of pots and pans is essential for achieving even cooking and outstanding results. Look for a set of durable well-constructed pots and pans in various sizes. Whether you’re searing, sautéing, or simmering, good pans are your kitchen allies. They distribute heat evenly and prevent food from sticking, making your cooking experience more enjoyable.
5. Immersion Blender (or Food Processor or Blender)
An immersion blender (also called a hand blender or stick blender) is a versatile gadget that’s perfect for pureeing soups, making smoothies, and creating silky sauces. We love this tool as it’s more compact and easier to clean than a traditional blender. Look for one with variable speed settings and durable stainless-steel blades for smooth results. You could also opt for a blender or food processor which are also multitasking powerhouses that can save you time and effort in the kitchen. They are perfect for an array of tasks and are used all the time by us as chefs.
These five essential kitchen gadgets are the foundation of any well-equipped kitchen, and they will not only enhance your cooking experience but also allow you to explore new recipes with confidence. While there are numerous other kitchen gadgets available, having the basics in your culinary toolkit will set you on the path to becoming a more efficient and skilled home chef as well as many other tools are not always necessary.
If you haven’t joined our Facebook group Meal Planning for Busy Parents yet, please check it out HERE. That is where you can find our community and easily chat with us. We also go live every Friday to answer your questions and talk about all kinds of cooking and meal planning topics. We’ll see you tomorrow!