Must Have Tools
I am often asked what kitchen tools I think are essential. Here is the beginning of that list! This list is for people who already have pots and pans and other basic things like a spatula. A more precise list will be on another post for those of you who are building up your kitchen’s from scratch and want to just have what you will ACTUALLY need rather than what you THINK you might need. I am no Marie Kondo but I don’t like useless things around me.
These are some non-obvious but life changing tools that will make cooking more enjoyable and the outcome better tasting.
Sharp knives: a pairing knife, a chopping knife, a serrated knife and a knife sharpener.
Cutting boards: Two at least. One for raw meats and one for vegetables.
Food scale: digital is easiest, look for water resistant ones.
Thermometer: There are two kinds -instant read and oven thermometer. Either works. I really like the oven thermometer because you can set the temperature you want and it will beep when it is reached. The instant read is great for pan cooking meat and chicken. This Oxo one tells you the ideal temperatures for each kind of meat.
Microplane grater: You can grate cheese, zest a lemon or grate ginger for a ginger, lemon tea. There are many kinds, pick one that looks easy to clean.
Mesh drainer: One medium sized will do but a smaller one could be useful for making tea or getting lemon seeds out.
Hand Blender: I think a hand blender (with add-ons) is essential. This one is the one I have. I can shred, whip and blend with it. I use it daily. A few of my favorite applications are to: blend soups or hummus, shred carrots for carrot cake and make fresh pesto.
