Whether you're a homeowner who is just starting or someone who's been living in their home for years, there are some essential kitchen utensils that you should have on hand.
In this blog post, we'll name 19 of the most important kitchen tools and give you a brief description of what they are used for. So whether you're stocking your kitchen for the first time or just looking to add to your collection of tools, be sure to read on!
A chef's knife is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, from chopping vegetables to slicing meat. While it is possible to get by with a smaller knife, a chef's knife provides more versatility and precision. The blade of a chef's knife is usually between six and ten inches long, and the handle is designed to provide a comfortable grip.
The edge of the blade is typically sharpened to a fine point, making it ideal for detailed work. In addition, the broad surface of the blade can be used for more robust tasks, such as chopping through bone. Whether you are a professional chef or a home cook, a chef's knife is an essential tool that should be in your kitchen.
A cutting board is a food preparation utensil which consists of a flat surface with raised sides, designed to protect the user's hands and fingers from being cut by the food being prepared.
A cutting board is also known as a chopping board or a breadboard. The two most common materials used in the manufacture of cutting boards are wood and plastic. Wood is the preferred material for cutting boards used in professional kitchens, as it is more durable than plastic and less likely to dull knives.
Plastic boards are typically cheaper than wood boards and are therefore more popular with home cooks. However, plastic boards are more likely to harbour bacteria than wood boards and should be replaced more frequently. When choosing a cutting board, it is important to select one that is the right size for the task at hand.
Smaller boards are better suited for chopping vegetables, while larger boards are better suited for carving meat. Cutting boards should be made of smooth, non-porous material which is easy to clean. They should also be large enough to allow plenty of room for chopping and should have raised sides to prevent food from sliding off.
Measuring cups and spoons are essential tools in any kitchen. They help to ensure that ingredients are correctly proportioned, making it easier to produce consistent results. Measuring cups come in a variety of sizes, from small teaspoons to large measuring cups. Spoons, on the other hand, are typically used for smaller quantities.
When choosing measuring cups and spoons, it is important to select a set that is easy to read and offers a range of sizes. Stainless steel is a popular material for measuring cups and spoons, as it is durable and easy to clean.
However, plastic may be a better choice for clumsy cooks, as they are less likely to break if dropped. Whichever material you choose, make sure that your measuring cups and spoons are marked and easily accessible.
Kitchen shears are one of the most versatile and essential tools in any cook's arsenal. With a sharp blade and sturdy construction, they can handle a wide range of tasks, from trimming fat off meat to cutting through chicken bones. In addition, kitchen shears can be used to snip herbs, open packages, and even remove splinters. Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned pro, having a good pair of kitchen shears is essential for preparing any meal.
A colander is a kitchen utensil that is used to drain pasta or wash vegetables and fruits. It is typically made of plastic or metal, has a handle, and is perforated with small holes. Some colanders also have feet, which help to keep them elevated above the sink. A colander is an essential kitchen tool for any pasta lover, as it allows you to quickly and easily drain the cooked pasta.
It is also useful for washing leafy greens and other vegetables, as the holes allow water to pass through while trapping dirt and debris. Whether you're cooking a simple pasta dish or preparing a more elaborate feast, a colander can help make meal prep easier. And because they're available in a variety of sizes and materials, there's sure to be a colander that's perfect for your kitchen.
A whisk is a must-have kitchen tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, from mixing ingredients to whipping cream. The most basic type of whisk has a long handle with a series of looped wires attached. The wires can be made of different materials, including stainless steel, copper, or nylon. Some whisks also have a second set of wires that intersect the first set, creating a more efficient design.
When using a whisk, it is important to hold it correctly to get the best results. The handle should be gripped in one hand, with the other hand holding the wires close to the base. Then, the whisk can be moved in a quick back-and-forth motion to mix or aerate ingredients. With a little practice, anyone can master the art of whisking!
A vegetable peeler is a small handheld tool that is used to remove the skin or peel from vegetables. It typically has a small blade that is sharpened on one side and a dull side that is used for gripping the vegetable. The blade is mounted on a handle, which can be made from plastic, wood, or metal.
A vegetable peeler is a convenient tool for quickly removing the skin from carrots, potatoes, and other vegetables. It can also be used to make thin strips of cheese or chocolate. Some vegetable peelers also have a built-in julienne cutter, which can be used to create thin matchstick-sized pieces of vegetables. A vegetable peeler is an inexpensive and versatile kitchen tool that should be in every home cook's arsenal.
Rolling pins are one of the most versatile tools in the kitchen. They can be used to roll out the dough, flatten chicken breasts, crush crackers, and even tenderize the beef. The key to using a rolling pin effectively is to apply even pressure while rolling. This can be accomplished by using a light touch and rolling back and forth in a consistent motion.
For dough that is particularly sticky or difficult to work with, dusting it lightly with flour before beginning will help to prevent sticking. With a little practice, you'll be able to use your rolling pin to create perfectly flat sheets of dough for pies, pastries, and more.
A saucepan is a kitchen staple that every home cook should have in their arsenal. Whether you're making a simple tomato sauce or a complex curry, a good saucepan will help you to create delicious dishes with ease. Saucepans are usually made from materials like stainless steel or aluminium, which conduct heat well and are easy to clean.
They typically have a single long handle, making them easy to stir without getting burned. A longer handle is particularly important if you are using a boiling water tap to fill up your pots and pans - as you can hold them under the tap more effectively.
When choosing a saucepan, it's important to consider the size and shape of the pan, as well as the type of stove you have. For example, if you have a gas stove, you'll need a heavy-bottomed pan that won't warp under high heat. Once you've found the perfect saucepan for your kitchen, you'll be able to create all sorts of delicious meals.
A sauté pan is a kitchen essential for anyone who loves to cook. This type of pan is designed with a wide, shallow surface that allows food to be cooked quickly over high heat. This makes it ideal for searing meat, sautéing vegetables, or even making pan sauces.
A sauté pan also has straight sides, which make it easier to toss ingredients and prevent them from sticking. Additionally, most sauté pans come with a lid, which helps to trap heat and moisture. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting in the kitchen, a sauté pan is a versatile tool that you're sure to use again and again.
A skillet is a kitchen staple that can be used for a variety of tasks, from frying eggs to searing meat. It's important to choose the right skillet for the job, as different materials and sizes can make a big difference in how your food turns out.
For example, cast iron skillets are excellent for browning meat, but they can be difficult to clean if you don't season them properly. Stainless steel skillets are more versatile and easier to care for, but they don't conduct heat as evenly as other materials.
When it comes to size, it's important to pick a skillet that's big enough to accommodate the amount of food you're cooking. A 10-inch skillet is usually sufficient for most recipes, but if you're cooking for a large crowd, you may need to upgrade to a 12-inch or even 14-inch model. No matter what type of skillet you choose, proper care and cleaning will help extend its lifespan.
Any cook knows the importance of oven mitts. Whether you're pulling a hot pizza out of the oven or taking a roast chicken out of the pan, oven mitts provide an essential layer of protection between your hands and the heat. But with so many different types and styles of oven mitts on the market, how do you know which ones are right for you?
First, consider what material you want your oven mitts to be made from. Cotton and silicone are popular choices because they're heat-resistant and easy to clean. Second, think about how much insulation you need. If you'll be working with very hot items, look for oven mitts with extra padding.
Finally, consider the style of oven mitts that best fits your needs. If you have a small kitchen, choose oven mitts that can be hung up or stored away easily. Whatever type of oven mitts you choose, make sure they're durable and easy to use so you can focus on the task at hand: cooking up a delicious meal.
A roasting pan is a large, deep pan that is designed for roasting meat and vegetables. The pan typically has a rack that allows the meat or vegetables to be lifted out of the fat and juices, making it easier to brown them evenly. Roasting pans come in a variety of sizes and styles, so it is important to choose one that is the right size for your needs.
For example, if you are planning on roasting a whole turkey, you will need a large pan that can accommodate the bird. Roasting pans can be made from a variety of materials, including aluminium, stainless steel, and cast iron.
Each type of material has its advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose one that will work best for your needs. Aluminium roasting pans are lightweight and conduct heat well, but they can also scratch easily. Stainless steel roasting pans are durable and easy to clean, but they can be more costly than other options.
Cast iron roasting pans are very durable and retain heat well, but they can be heavy and difficult to clean. No matter what type of material you choose, a good roasting pan will help you create delicious meals that your family will love.
A potato masher is a kitchen tool that is used to mash cooked potatoes. It consists of a large, flat, circular base with a handle attached to one side. When vegetables are cooked, they become soft and can be easily mashed with a potato masher.
The tools can also be used to mash other soft vegetables, such as squash, carrots, and beans. Some potato mashers also have serrated edges that can be used to grate or shred cooked potatoes. Mashers are usually made from metal or plastic, and they vary in size and shape.
Whether you are making mashed potatoes for a family dinner or preparing for a large holiday feast, a potato masher is an essential tool for any cook.
Anyone who enjoys a glass of wine knows that having a good wine opener on hand is essential. There are many different types of wine openers, from simple corkscrews to electric models. However, not all wine openers are created equal. When choosing a wine opener, it is important to consider factors such as ergonomics and ease of use.
Additionally, some wine openers come with handy features like foil cutters and bottle stoppers. With so many options available, choosing the right wine opener can be daunting. However, taking the time to find the perfect wine opener is well worth it. After all, the right wine opener will make enjoying a glass of wine even more enjoyable.
A can opener is a tool used to open metal cans. It comprises a blade attached to a handle, which is operated by a lever. The first can opener was invented in 1858 by Ezra Warner. His design was called the "lid lifter", and it was made using a piece of sheet metal shaped like a tooth.
The invention of the can opener led to mass production of canned food, which was essential for soldiers during military campaigns and sailors on long voyages.
Today, can openers are found in almost every kitchen, and they come in a variety of styles, including manual and electric. Whether you're opening up a can of soup or tuna fish, a can opener is an essential tool for any kitchen.
Any cook will tell you that having a good set of mixing bowls is essential to success in the kitchen. After all, mixing bowls are used for everything from preparing the dough to tossing salads. When choosing mixing bowls, it is important to consider both size and material. For most tasks, a medium-sized bowl made of glass or ceramic will suffice.
However, if you frequently bake bread or make large batches of soup, you may want to invest in a larger bowl. As for material, glass and ceramic are both durable and easy to clean. However, many cooks prefer metal bowls because they conduct heat evenly and can be placed in the oven for tasks like warming soup or roasting vegetables. No matter what your needs, there is sure to be a type of mixing bowl that is perfect for you.
While some cooks enjoy the challenge of mincing garlic by hand, others prefer to use a garlic press. A garlic press is a small kitchen gadget that helps to quickly and easily crush cloves of garlic. By placing a clove of garlic into the press and pushing it down on the handle, the cook can create a fine paste that is perfect for adding flavour to innumerable dishes.
In addition to being quicker than mincing by hand, a garlic press also helps to avoid contact with the potent oils that can cause skin irritation. As a result, it is no wonder that this handy little gadget has become a kitchen staple in homes around the world.
If you're looking for a fun and easy way to add more fruits and vegetables to your diet, a spiralizer is a great kitchen gadget to have on hand. Spiralizers come in a variety of sizes and styles, but they all work by shaving fruits and vegetables into thin, noodle-like strands.
This is a great way to add some extra nutrition to your meals without changing the flavour or texture too much. For example, you can use a spiralizer to turn carrots into healthy "carrot noodles" that are perfect for stir-fries or salads.
You can also use it to make zucchini noodles, beet noodles, sweet potato noodles, and more. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even use a spiralizer to make fruit salad "noodles" out of apples, pears, or grapes. The possibilities are endless!
As you can see, there are many different types of kitchen utensils available to help you with all sorts of tasks. From chopping vegetables to opening cans, there is sure to be a kitchen gadget that can make your life easier. So, next time you're in the market for new kitchen utensils, be sure to keep these essential items in mind.
Now that you’ve got the basics covered, check out our list of kitchen appliance essentials, where we cover all of the electricals needed for a fully functioning kitchen.
