There has been many times when I was starting out in the kitchen where I would get frustrated trying to cook a dish because I either didn’t have a tool or what I had wasn’t good quality. Trying to figure out what to buy in the kitchen can be a huge hurdle to jump when getting out, and can also turn dishes into a complete disaster!
I have put together a list of items that I’ve either used, or have put a good amount of research into, meaning I will also be purchasing myself down the road.
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Pans
This is my go to pan in the kitchen! Cast Iron skillets are a very versatile, great for cooking steaks in, and will last you years if properly maintained. I recommend a Lodge Pre-Seasoned Skillet
. It’s great skillet to get if you’re just starting out or looking for a low-maintenance skillet.
To be totally honest, I usually buy cheap Teflon pans at Home Goods, and replace them after a year or so. I’ve found though with teflon, as they age, the more oils and fats you need to use to keep things from sticking. That’s why I’m recommending Calphalon. These non-stick pans don’t use Teflon and will last you years.
Stainless steel pans are great when you want to get a nice crisp to your food. I love using my stainless steel pan for scallops, fish, and doing sauces as well! I definitely recommend going with an All-Clad or Calphalon. Both great picks!
Pots
I love how versatile stock pots are. You can slow cook soups, Boil lobster or crab, make your own chicken broth, and of course make a big batch of Marinara Sauce! I recommend this Cuisinart Pasta/Steamer Set
. The steaming attachment also doubles as a strainer!
Throwing in this in the pot section because this is a must! Great for steaming rice, and doing quick spanish rice. Recommending this one by Aroma
Cutlery
Knife Sets
I have used this Knife Block from Top Chef
. The knives are great quality for a starter kit and I have had this for the last 5 years and they have held up!
The set I use does not include steak knives, but in my opinion, I find them to be a waste of money in a knife set. I rather have the money go better quality knives, then some steak knives that will probably get misplaced or broken over the years.
Mandoline
This will save you time, mess, and blood in the kitchen! These are great to slice, julienne and grate foods quickly and evenly. Mandolines can get pricey but the best bang for your buck is on by OXO
When getting cutting boards, you can’t go wrong with a wood cutting block. It’s easier on your knives, easy to clean, doesn’t harbor bacteria, and if properly kept, will last you years.
When talking wood cutting blocks I highly recommend a Boos
block. I’ve owned mine for over 5 years, and it’s still going strong!
Kitchen Accessories
. They’re cheap and stack-able so you can’t really beat that.
You’re gonna need spoons, ladles spatulas and measuring spoons right? If you’re looking to start out I wouldn’t really waste too much time buying individual pieces. I would suggest starting off with a bundle, then as time goes on, add and upgrade. KitchenAid
has an affordable set that I would definitely recommend.
To get started, unless you have the budget I wouldn’t suggest a Vitamix. It’s definitely a great blender and I’ll probably buy one down the road, but I think your money is better spent on pots and pans than the blender. If you’re looking for a decent and versatile blender kit, I’ve been using a Ninja
for the past 4 years and have been very pleased with it considering it’s under $40.
