Forget the fancy tools and novelty gadgets! For the everyday cook, it’s important to have these basic kitchen tools that you can easily access and reuse over and over.
BY: JEANNE REILLY, MS, RD
Are you one of those people who lets loose in a kitchen supply store and comes home with an empty wallet? There are so many gadgets and gizmos out there that claim to make prepping and cooking easier, but end up just cluttering your drawers after you try them once and never use them again.
Instead of wasting your money on the latest “As Seen On TV” must-have, consider saving your money and investing in some quality kitchen tools that will last you a lifetime. Often times, there are just a few items that you use almost every time you go in the kitchen. Here are a few to consider:
1. A GREAT SET OF POTS & PANS
A 10-piece stainless steel set can be a hefty investment, but with a lifetime warranty, you’ll never need to buy another pot or pan in your life! Stainless steel is preferred because you don’t have to worry about non-stick coating eventually breaking down and flaking off into your food. If you really want to splurge, go for the copper core. The copper layer ensures fast, even heat distribution. Either of these sets can go right into the oven, work on induction cooktops, and are dishwasher-safe.
2. A GROWN-UP KNIFE SET
Invest in high-quality, full tang knives made from a single piece of steel. A word to the wise: NEVER put your knives in the dishwasher. It dulls them. You may also want to get a honing and sharpening tool to hone the knives before each use. This gives you a nice, straight point to cut with rather than a bent or dulled point, which happens naturally with use. The process of honing your blade works wonders when you’re trying to cut those tomatoes!
3. A SOLID WOOD (NOT BAMBOO!) CUTTING BOARD
Because bamboo is such a dense wood, it dulls knife blades the same way that cutting on glass or granite countertops will. A good, solid wood cutting board will absorb the knife, and won’t create too much resistance against it.
4. A BIG, STURDY COLANDER
Mesh colanders are a pain. Food gets caught under the rim and is near impossible to get out. Invest in a solidly constructed colander that’s easy to clean and can easily sit in the sink without tipping over while you wash all your fruits & veggies.
5. A SET OF MIXING BOWLS
These are a basic kitchen essential that make every task easier. Whether it’s a container for food scraps as you chop and prep, a vessel to hold those prepped veggies as you toss them in a bit of oil before roasting, or a way to easily store a big batch of cooked leftovers in the fridge with the handy lids – a great set of bowls can be indispensable.
Here’s to more fun cooking in the kitchen!
Adapted from the original article.
HEADER IMAGE: CAROLINE ATTWOOD
Jeanne Reilly, MS, RD is a San Diego-based Registered Dietitian empowering parents to help their children develop lifelong healthy relationships with food and their bodies. She is dedicated to helping parents overcome the confusion and challenges of society-imposed rules in family nutrition and body image. Learn more and connect with her at Jeanne Reilly, RD.