Assembling a well-equipped kitchen takes time. With so many tools and gadgets on the market, it can be hard to determine what you really need. To help you stock your own kitchen, our team compiled a list of the tools and equipment that we reach for repeatedly. Here, 12 essentials for every home cook’s arsenal.
1. 8-inch Chef’s Knife
Instead of splurging on a full knife set with more pieces than may be needed, we rely on three knives that can tackle just about any kitchen job. And the first of those is the chef’s knife. Our pick from high-end knife maker Shun is lightweight, has a Japanese-style blade that retains sharpness for longer, and comes at a more accessible price than most. The 8-inch blade is long enough for slicing and carving, but easier to wield than a 10-inch. Shun Sora 8-inch Chef’s Knife, $100
2. Large Cutting Board
Every cook needs a clean, expansive work space (nothing is more annoying than trying to chop a bunch of vegetables on a tiny cutting board!). We love this large plastic carving board from OXO, which is easy to clean and sanitize and has rubber grips on the ends that keep the board in place while you’re working. OXO Good Grips Carving Board, $33
3. Rimmed Baking Sheets
Rimmed baking sheets are the ultimate kitchen workhorse. We use them for baking cookies, roasting vegetables, curing a whole side of salmon, or making all-in-one sheet pan dinners. This set from Nordic Ware comes with three different sizes to fit whatever the job may be. Plus, they’re made of durable aluminum and won’t warp in the oven. Nordic Ware 3-Piece Bakers’s Delight Set, $36
4. Microplane Grater
We use our Microplane grater for finely zesting citrus, getting nice fluffy threads of grated Parmesan, and finely grating garlic or ginger for sauces and marinades. Plus, it comes in many fun colors so you can coordinate it with your kitchen. Microplane Classic Grater, $18
5. Round 6-Quart Dutch Oven
A Dutch oven has thick, insulated cast-iron walls that disperse heat evenly, making it perfect for cooking foods low and slow. This 6-quart enameled version from Lodge is the ideal size for making a stew, soup, or braise for four, plus the metal knob makes it safe to pop in your oven. Lodge 6-Quart Enameled Dutch Oven, $80
6. Paring Knife
In addition to a chef’s knife, a paring knife is one of our essentials. The small, wieldy blade is good for more precise jobs like coring a strawberry, cutting a strip of lemon zest, or deveining shrimp. We like the plastic-handled knives from Victorinox because they’re durable, retain their sharpness for a long time, and come in an affordable pack of four. Victorinox Paring Knives, $17 for 4
7. Offset Serrated Knife
Our third must-have knife is an offset serrated knife. Use this for slicing bread or delicate tomatoes. The offset handle also makes slicing more efficient and easier on your wrist. Mercer 9-inch Offset Serrated Knife, $20
8. 12-inch Metal Tongs
These lightweight OXO tongs are just the right length for most tasks (12 inches). We use them to turn seared steaks, snatch blistered chiles out from under the broiler, and, because of the metal tips, handle just about anything on the grill. OXO 12-inch Stainless-Steel Locking Tongs, $15
9. Swiss Vegetable Peeler
If you haven’t tried using a Swiss vegetable peeler, get ready to have your mind blown! These lightweight “Y” peelers have a dual rotating head so you can peel in both directions for maximum efficiency. Plus, they’re super lightweight and easy for kids to use. Kuhn Rikon Swiss Peelers, $14 for 3
10. 9 x 13 Baking Dish
A ceramic 9-by-13-inch baking dish has unlimited uses. From casseroles, to sheet cakes, to enchiladas and roast chicken, this all-purpose size always comes in handy. We especially like the handles and clean shape of this one because it works with any decor we have on our table. Baking Dish, $34
11. Carbon Steel Skillet
If you aren’t familiar with carbon steel, this versatile skillet (available in four sizes) from BK Cookware is a great place to start. These pans are like a cross between cast iron and stainless steel, meaning they’re great for searing, roasting, and sautéing. This oven-safe option comes pre-seasoned to create a nonstick coating over time. Stronger and more durable than the traditional gray carbon steel, this black frying pan produces a great sear and will last for life. BK Black Carbon Steel Induction 12-inch Skillet, $59
12. Nonstick Skillet
If you’re cooking delicate proteins like eggs or fish, then you’ll need a nonstick skillet. This OXO pan has a stainless-steel handle so it’s safe to pop in the oven if you’re making a frittata or shakshuka. One thing to note is that nonstick skillets do not last forever—once the coating starts to scratch and peel, then it’s time to replace it. To get the most out of your nonstick, only use soft, silicone spatulas and always hand-wash it. OXO Good Grips Pro Nonstick 10-inch Frying Pan, $50
Paula says
Thank you for sharing the basic tools for a successful and simple start to enjoy cooking.
Gigi Gough says
Love your show. Like the recipes, but forget to go to web site and copy them, darn it!