Kitchen essentials; Tools and utensils you must have in your kitchen

BY NOEL CUNNINGHAM

This week I am here to ease some of your stress with my basic kitchen tools that you need to get by in your everyday busy life. Moving in your brand new house, apartment or going on your own for the first time can be super stressful. So many things to get and you don’t know where to start. I’m not a home expert but as your culinary expert I can definitely help you get started in your kitchen.

Here are 10 cool kitchen gadgets that will make your time in the kitchen easy and productive.

KNIVES

Knives are the most important tool you’ll use in your kitchen, it’s important to buy high-quality knives the first time around instead of skimping. Every kitchen needs at least three sharp knives: a chef’s knife to do the bulk of your everyday cutting, a serrated knife for cutting bread, and a paring knife for slicing or mincing smaller items.

CUTTING BOARDS

To go along with your new, sharp knives, you’re going to need some cutting boards! They come in all shapes, sizes, and varieties. Anyone should work. I recommend starting with a medium size board.

MIXING BOWLS

Mixing bowls are often overlooked but they are very essential kitchen tools. Just try mixing a cake without them! They come in many different materials, but I prefer my glass mixing bowls or stainless steel. They’re easy to clean, dishwasher safe, and don’t react to any food products.

MEASURING CUPS & SPOONS

Again, try to make a cake without measuring cups and measuring spoons. You’re going to have a hard time. I like the metal measuring spoons because they are easy to clean. Don’t forget your liquid measuring cup.

CAN OPENER

You’re going to have a hard time opening that can without one of these gadgets!

A can opener is a must have in every kitchen.

COLANDER/ STRAINER

Colanders or strainers come in handy when it’s time to drain your cooked pasta or veggies. This is one of the kitchen tools you might use every day.

SPOONS, WHISKS, SPATULAS, LADLES, AND TONGS

All of these utensils are necessary if you’re planning to cook anything. Wooden spoons are among my favorite for making soups and sauces. Having a slotted spoon helps to make cooking easier and safer when removing something from the pan without the liquid. You will definitely need a spatula to flip your eggs, tongs to pick up any fried food or to serve your salads. A whisk will come in handy when it’s time to scramble some eggs or whisk your sauce.

VEGETABLE PEELER

I don’t only use my peeler for peeling vegetables, but I also use it for preparing salads. I love shaved carrots on my salads! It’s much more efficient than using a normal grater. It’s also perfect for shaving your corn kernel off the cobs. You will use this tool the most along with your knife

HAND MIXER

Hand mixers always come in handy when you want to bake a cake at home, especially around the festive season. The last thing you want is to be ready to bake and don’t have one. They are very inexpensive.

CORKSCREW

And finally corkscrew makes my top 10 list. Imagine you are hosting and it’s time to open the wine and there is no corkscrew? Get a standard waiter’s corkscrew that will open both beer and wine.

Remember a fully stocked kitchen with cookware, tools, and utensils, doesn’t have to be frustrating or cost a lot of money. When purchasing your gadgets think good quality that will last you for a long time. Also look for sales on these items at your favorite store or online. Happy cooking!!