Are you about moving into a new apartment or your own home? Perhaps you will be living alone for the very first time and you need to equip your kitchen. Or your current gear needs a facelift since it has been in use for many years.

Because there are many kitchen tools that are considered essential (based on your cooking preferences), the kitchen is usually a tough place to stock. In order to assist you, we have compiled a list of essential kitchen tools that you need. This list includes different items – from appliances to utensils – that are necessary for a functional kitchen.

Chinese Cooking Equipment

Utensils

We will begin with the utensils. We know that is the first thing that will cross your mind when you want to equip your kitchen. Plastic utensils could be useful when you are yet to buy the necessary utensils. But it will be better to invest in quality knives, spoons, forks, and more. Below are some essential utensils that you may consider buying.

1. A Knife Set

When shopping for a knife, you may decide to go for a big chef knife. However, you would be doing yourself a huge favor by opting for a complete knife set. And if it comes in a block, it makes it better for storing on your countertop. It is also safe and will save you some drawer space.

You can also look for a set that contains honing steel for sharpening the knives, a chef’s knife for dicing and slicing, a paring knife for tiny, detail-oriented activities, and a serrated knife for slicing bread and fruits with hard barks like watermelon.

The prices of knife sets vary, but it is important to buy high-quality products that will last for a longer time.  ­However, if you want only one knife, you can get a Japanese knife that is of good quality.

2. A Big Cooking Spoon

This tool is versatile. You can use it to serve, scoop, and stir most foods. It comes in different options – metal, wood, and plastic. However, you could get a silicon version because it is resistant to heat, does not attract food stains, and easier to clean.

3. Measuring Spoons

Except you can pinch a perfect half teaspoon with ease, you need to get measuring spoons. They come in a set. Find those with measurement labels that are easy to understand and rings to clip them open for easy cleaning.

4. Can Opener

You would need to open a can at some points in your cooking. Thus, a can opener will be useful in your new kitchen. Although an electric opener is good, you can get a manual one that will not cause cramps in your hand or leave rough edges on the can’s top.

Cookware

Now, let’s look at the cookware that you need. Trays, pans, pots, and skillets are items that are mostly used. Different types of cookware have been reviewed by Healthy Cookware Lab so you may want to check it out before settling for whatever type of cookware – granite, ceramic, stainless steel, cast iron, or glass.

1. Skillet

Everyone needs this tool in their kitchen. It is useful when you want to fry eggs, toast sandwiches, and more. You will be using it for almost every meal that will be made on a stovetop. You could get a stainless-steel skillet of 12 inches, with an interior that is non-stick.

You could also get one that has a lid in case you want to steam or simmer. For additional flavor, you could consider a cast-iron skillet.

2. Stock Pot

This tool is designed for making spaghetti sauce, boiling potatoes, and making stews and soups. You should look out for a product that is sturdy and thick with designs that can retain heat. An 8 quarts pot that has a lid will be just fine.

3. Saucepan

For those moments when you do not need a big stockpot, a medium-sized pan will be preferable. You can reduce the recipe portions you cook in the stockpot when you want to use a saucepan. You can also cook veggies and canned soups in it. Remember to buy one that has a coated handle and a lid.

4. Sheet Tray

If you love making pizzas, cookies, bacon, and finger foods, you will need a sheet tray. You can also place it under a roasting tray to collect spills or drips. Ensure you get the grade that restaurants use. They are large and more durable.

5. Strainer

This is one tool that you may not think about until when you have the need for it. An example of this is when you want to drain pasta by sliding the lid a bit while the hot steam threatens to burn your eyes. You can get a version with fine mesh because the small openings make them versatile. 

Appliances

While they may be expensive, they make a huge difference in meal preparations. You may want to read about how to choose a suitable appliance for your kitchen: https://www.homestolove.co.nz/inspiration/tips-and-advice/choose-right-appliances-for-kitchen-and-laundry

1. Slow Cooker

This appliance is very versatile and makes cooking meals easy. From chicken wings to pot roast, you can make it in the slow cooker. Just add all your ingredients cover the pot and leave it to cook.

2. Toaster

If you are into Pop-Tarts, English muffins, bagels, or bread, your new kitchen needs a toaster. You may want to lookout for a model that has wide slots for cooking thicker bagels and bread.

Other Items

The other items that you should consider are:

1. Oven mitts and potholders – to keep the cooking surface clean and prevent your hands from burn and wounds
2. Cutting boards
3. Towels
4. A rack for drying your dishes
5. Plastic containers for storing leftover foods
6. Cups
7. Mixing bowls
8. Serving platter

Conclusion

We have discussed some of the essential tools that you need in your new kitchen. So, while you are settling in, you can use the list we have shared in this article as a shopping guide. Do not forget to go for high-quality products as they will last you for a longer time. Ogormans have a good range of essential items for your kitchen.