Love to Cook? Trick Out Your Kitchen With These 7 Kitchen Necessities

Cooking at home is one of the most rewarding things you can do for your body, mind and soul. It’s an opportunity to flex your creative muscles, explore new tastes, and create a nourishing meal with your own two hands. But cooking can also be a hassle if you don’t have the right tools and environment. In this post, we’ll look at seven essentials to help you trick out your kitchen for cooking.

Quality Knives

A set of quality knives is essential for any home cook. A good knife makes food prep a breeze, allowing you to chop, dice and slice with ease. Look for knives that are well-balanced, comfortable to hold and made from high-quality materials. It’s worth investing in a good set of knives as they will last longer and make your cooking experience more enjoyable.

It’s important to regularly check the sharpness of your knives and sharpen them when necessary. A dull knife can make food prep more difficult, leading to uneven cuts and even accidents. To test your knife’s sharpness, hold a sheet of paper in one hand and try to slice through it with the knife in the other hand. If the knife smoothly slices through the paper, it’s still sharp. However, if it tears the paper or doesn’t cut through at all, it’s time to sharpen your knife.

Some Quality Cutting Boards

A good cutting board is another essential for any home kitchen. Invest in a sturdy, durable cutting board that won’t dull your knives and is easy to clean. Wooden or plastic boards are both great options, but make sure you choose one that is large enough for your needs. You can also consider having multiple cutting boards for different types of food to avoid cross-contamination.

When it comes to storing a cutting board, the key is convenience. You want to have easy access to your cutting board while cooking, so it’s best to store it in close proximity to your kitchen counter or prep area. If you have limited counter space, you can consider hanging your cutting board on a wall or inside a cabinet door using hooks or adhesive clips.

A Cast Iron Skillet

A cast iron skillet is a versatile piece of cookware that every home cook should have. It’s perfect for searing, sautéing, and even baking. Cast iron skillets are incredibly durable and can last a lifetime if properly cared for. They also provide great heat distribution, making them ideal for cooking evenly and achieving the perfect crust on your food.

To properly clean a cast iron skillet, use hot water and a gentle scrub brush to remove any food particles. Avoid using soap as it can strip the pan’s seasoning, which is essential for achieving a non-stick surface. After cleaning, dry the skillet thoroughly and coat with a thin layer of oil before storing.

A Dutch Oven

A dutch oven is a heavy pot with a tight-fitting lid that’s perfect for slow-cooking, braising, and even baking. It’s an incredibly versatile piece of cookware that can be used on the stovetop or in the oven. The thick walls of a dutch oven provide great heat retention, making it ideal for cooking dishes that require low and even heat, such as stews and casseroles.

When choosing a dutch oven, opt for one made from high-quality materials like cast iron or enameled cast iron. These materials are durable and provide excellent heat distribution. You can also choose between round or oval-shaped dutch ovens, depending on your cooking needs. Whichever one you choose, make sure it has a tight-fitting lid to keep moisture and flavors locked in.

A Spacious Workspace

Having a spacious workspace is crucial for any home cook. It not only allows you to comfortably prepare and cook your meals, but it also makes cleaning up easier and more efficient.

When designing your kitchen, make sure to prioritize counter space, as this is where most of the food prep happens. Consider investing in the best quality surfaces, such as bamboo or marble countertops. Be sure to find a reputable source for these, such as Marble & Granite Creations.

You can also consider adding an island or a designated cooking area with enough room for all your cookware and ingredients. Having a clutter-free and spacious workspace will make cooking more enjoyable and convenient.

A High-Quality Blender

Blenders are a must-have for any home cook who enjoys making soups, smoothies, and sauces. A high-quality blender will make your life easier as it can quickly blend even the toughest ingredients into a smooth consistency. Look for a blender with sharp blades and different speed settings to suit your blending needs. It’s also worth investing in a blender that is easy to clean and has a durable motor that can withstand frequent use.

A Well-Organized Pantry

The key to efficient cooking is having a well-stocked and organized pantry. Make sure you have all your essential ingredients such as spices, oils, grains, and canned goods on hand at all times. It’s also important to regularly check the expiration dates of your pantry items and restock when necessary.

To keep your pantry organized, use clear containers to store dry goods and label them for easy identification. You can also group similar items together and consider using shelves or racks to maximize vertical space. A well-organized pantry will not only make cooking more convenient but also save you time and money in the long run.

With these seven essentials, you can trick out your kitchen for cooking and take your culinary skills to the next level. Each item on this list is designed to make your cooking experience easier, more efficient, and more enjoyable. So go ahead and stock up on quality knives, a cutting board, a cast iron skillet, a Dutch oven, an instant read thermometer, a blender, and organization tools. Your taste buds (and your family and friends) will thank you!