Nobody sets out to buy a kitchen tool but soon realizes they’re missing something essential. But if you’ve ever tried to cook without the right tools, you know how much easier it is when they’re all in place. But the truth is that some of these are must-haves for everyone who likes to cook at home (or anywhere else!). So before your next meal, take a look at these useful kitchen tools and see if any of them might make life easier for your cooking adventures.
A good chef’s knife
A chef’s knife, like a santoku knife, is your kitchen’s most important tool. It’s versatile, durable and can be used for a variety of purposes. For example, a chef’s knife has a broad blade that curves down towards the tip; this design allows you to rock the blade back and forth as you slice into foods like fruits and vegetables.
Chef’s knives are also useful for chopping meat because they have room to break down larger cuts into smaller pieces or thin slices with precision.
In addition to its versatility on the cutting board, a good quality santoku knife can last for years if taken care of properly by sharpening it regularly with a sharpening steel or stone (depending on what type of steel your particular knife is made from).
A wooden cutting board
Cutting boards are used for various purposes, from chopping vegetables to preparing meat. A good cutting board should be as durable and sanitary as possible. Wooden ones are the best choice because they’re more durable than plastic and glass boards, which can crack when dropped or expose you to harmful chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA). Wood is also more hygienic than plastic—it doesn’t absorb bacteria as some plastics do—and it’s better for your health since it contains no toxic chemicals.
Wooden cutting boards are also better for the environment since they’re made from renewable resources rather than petroleum products that take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills once discarded.
Cast iron skillet
A cast iron skillet is one of the most versatile items in your kitchen. It can be used on the stovetop to sear meat, or it can go in the oven at high temperatures. Cast iron skillets are very durable and last for years if properly taken care of.
Stainless steel stock pot
A stainless steel stock pot is an essential tool that you’ll use to boil pasta, make soup, and cook rice. It can also be used to braise meat or vegetables in the oven or even on top of the stove. When shopping for one, look for a heavy bottom so it doesn’t scorch food and a tight-fitting lid, so evaporation isn’t an issue.
A set of mixing bowls
A set of mixing bowls is a must-have for any kitchen. You’ll want to have at least one (small) bowl for baking, as well as larger ones that can be used while baking or cooking. Mixing bowls come in glass and plastic, stainless steel, and other materials. Some even have built-in handles!
Mixing bowls are also great for serving food on the table after it’s been prepared—so they’re perfect if you entertain friends frequently. They’re also useful for holding leftovers in the fridge or freezer until they’re ready to be eaten again!
There are so many great tools to invest in for your kitchen, but these five items are absolutely essential. With them, you can make almost anything!
