There are a few key cooking supplies that every home cook should have on hand. These items will make your life in the kitchen much easier, and will help you produce better results.
If you’re just starting out in the kitchen, it’s best to buy basic utensils that will last you long. Invest in high-quality knives that will stay sharp, and look for cutting boards made from durable materials like bamboo or hardwood. For measuring cups and spoons, get a set that has both standard and metric measurements so you can use them for any recipe.
As your cooking skills improve, you may want to add more specialized tools to your collection. But even if you’re an experienced cook, these basics will always come in handy.
Pots and pans
Pots and pans are one of the most important things to have in your kitchen. They come in all shapes and sizes, and there is one for every cooking need. If you are just starting out, it is best to invest in a few key pieces that will last you a long time.
A good set of pots and pans will have a few different size options, as well as a variety of materials to choose from. The most popular materials for pots and pans are stainless steel, aluminum, and cast iron. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to do your research before making a purchase.
Stainless steel is the most durable option and is also the easiest to clean. Aluminum is lighter weight and conducts heat better than other metals, but it can be more difficult to clean. Cast iron is heavy and takes longer to heat up, but it retains heat well and can be used on any cooking surface.
No matter what material you choose, make sure that the pots and pans have smooth surfaces with no cracks or chips. These can harbor bacteria and make your food taste bad. Also, look for pots and pans with handles that are comfortable to grip and won’t get too hot while you’re cooking.
Knives
There are many different types of knives that you can buy for your kitchen, but there are a few that are essential. A chef’s knife is a good all-purpose knife that can be used for chopping, slicing, and dicing. A paring knife is good for smaller jobs like peeling and trimming. A serrated knife is good for bread and other things that need to be cut with a sawing motion. A boning knife is good for removing the bones from meat and poultry. A carving knife is good for slicing meat and poultry. And finally, a bread knife is good for, you guessed it, cutting bread!
Small appliances
When it comes to small appliances, there are a few things that every kitchen should have. A good blender is a must for anyone who loves to cook, and a food processor can be a great time-saver when it comes to prep work. A toaster oven is also a handy appliance to have on hand, and if you have the counter space, a stand mixer can be a real game-changer in the kitchen.