Having the right equipment in the kitchen makes cooking effortless and enjoyable. After years of exploration and experimentation, I’ve compiled a list of durable and versatile kitchen tools designed to simplify your cooking process, making your daily meals more efficient and enjoyable. This article will detail these time-tested pieces to help you create your ideal kitchen.
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1. Investing Carefully: Less, More, More is the Key
With so many kitchen appliances available, buying a full set of cookware may seem like a good deal, but most people only use two or three of them regularly. Instead, investing the time and budget to purchase a few high-quality, multi-purpose kitchen tools is far more cost-effective and space-saving than buying a box of generic equipment. The key is to find the perfect items that will truly last a lifetime.
2. Pots: The Soul of a Multipurpose Kitchen
1. The Best Overall Skillet
- Staub Cast Iron Chistera 28 cm
I use this skillet for nearly every recipe and it’s the most-used skillet in my videos. Sturdy and durable, it distributes heat evenly, perfect for stir-frying, searing, braising, steaming, deep-frying, and baking. - Scanpan Stainless Steel Chef’s Pot 32 cm
A great alternative for those on a budget. It’s lightweight, durable, and suitable for all stovetops (including induction), easily transferring from the stovetop to the oven. Compared to cast iron, stainless steel requires a bit more control over the heat, but it still performs well.
2. Large-Capacity, High-Efficiency Stockpot
- Scanpan 11L Stockpot 26 cm
Lightweight and distributes heat evenly, it’s perfect for cooking pasta, large soups, or meal prepping.
Staub Cast Iron Roaster 28 cm
Combines stockpot and roasting pan, with a large capacity perfect for roasting a whole leg of lamb or pork shoulder.
3. Choosing a Frying Pan
Solidteknics 26 cm Wrought Iron Frying Pan
Lighter than cast iron, but with the same excellent heat conductivity and durability.
Lodge 30 cm Cast Iron Frying Pan
Pre-seasoned, perfect for cooks who prefer traditional cast iron.
Scanpan 26 cm Stainless Steel Frying Pan
Easy to clean, perfect for everyday cooking.
Scanpan 28 cm Non-Stick Frying Pan
Use for low-fat cooking, frying eggs, or making pancakes, but avoid high temperatures.
3. Small Pots and Pans: Essential for Everyday Use
- Scanpan Small Stainless Steel Stock Pots 16 cm & 20 cm
Effective for poaching eggs, scrambling sauces, and heating small amounts of food. The 16 cm is perfect for single servings and small batches; the 20 cm can handle larger quantities.
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4. Baking and Bakeware
A quality set of baking and baking equipment is the guarantee for delicious baked goods.
- Solidteknics BIGGA 35 cm Baking Pan
Crafted from wrought iron, it’s ideal for heavy baking and grilling, and is compatible with a variety of heat sources. - Chasseur Rectangular Baking Pan 40 x 26 cm
Enameled cast iron, perfect for roasting vegetables and small roasts. - Scanpan Stainless Steel Baking Pan with Rack 42 x 26 x 11 cm
Sturdy and easy to clean, suitable for a variety of baking needs. - Scanpan Non-Stick Large Baking Pan with Rack, 44 x 32 cm
Affordable, lightweight, and easy to use, it’s a great choice for grilling. - Stainless Steel Baking Pan and Cooling Rack Set
For baking, roasting vegetables, and making cookies. - Ceramic Baking Pan
Perfect for gratins, pies, and roasted vegetables, it’s easy to serve straight from the oven.
5. Kitchen Knives and Cutting Boards: The Foundation of Precision and Safety
- Global Cromova 18 Chef’s Knife, 18 cm
A high-quality chef’s knife meets most cutting needs, remaining sharp and durable, enhancing your meal preparation experience. - Recommended Bread Knife
For long-lasting durability, choose the Global Serrated Bread Knife, perfect for cutting toast and delicate ingredients. - Knife Sharpener
Convenient and practical, choose the Global Minosharp, which keeps your knife’s edge sharp and prevents injury.
Cutting Board Options
Wolstead Bonn End-Cut Cutting Board (50 x 35 cm)
Sturdy and durable, perfect for cutting vegetables and prepared foods.
Plastic Cutting Board
Designed for raw meats, prevents cross-contamination, is easy to clean, and can be color-coded to distinguish ingredients.
6. Kitchen Gadgets: The Secret Weapon for Efficiency
Bench Scraper
Simple yet significantly improves efficiency, preventing blade damage to the cutting board.
Microplane Grater
Great for chopping garlic and ginger, zesting lemons, and grating cheese—a highly used option.
Julienne Peeler
Quickly create “vegetable noodles” and easily shape carrots and cucumbers.
Salad Spinner
Wash and drain fruits and vegetables for extended freshness, perfect for meal prep.
Recommended Cutlery
Silicone and wood are more heat-resistant and durable, avoiding the potential risks of plastic.
7. Storage Containers and Other Essentials
- Glass Storage Boxes
Keep food fresh and durable. Choose uniform sizes for easy stacking.
- Reusable Silicone Bags (such as Stasher)
Eco-friendly and convenient, freezer- and microwave-safe.
- Spice Grinders, Measuring Utensils, Oil Spray Bottles
Practical and aesthetically pleasing, enhancing your kitchen experience.
Creating your ideal kitchen doesn’t require blindly pursuing a plethora of appliances. Instead, carefully select high-quality, practical, and versatile kitchenware, combined with the right tool combinations and storage methods. Each cherished item will make cooking smoother, making it a pleasure rather than a burden. May you experience this ease and joy with every wield of your knife in the kitchen.