Discover the top 10 essential kitchen tools for home cooks in 2021 to elevate your cooking experience and efficiency.
Introduction
In today’s modern kitchen, having the right tools can make all the difference in the world when it comes to preparing delicious meals. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which cooking tools are truly essential, and which are just nice to have. That’s where our expert team comes in. We independently evaluate all of our recommendations, rigorously testing and evaluating every item to bring you a curated list of 25 essential pieces of kitchen equipment for serious home cooks.
Our List of Tested Tools Includes:
– A trusty cutting board
– Essential kitchen appliances
– Durable knife sets
We understand that high-quality chef’s knives and good cookware are essential for cooking restaurant-level meals at home. But in the last few years, we’ve been introduced to more versatile kitchen tools that help make cooks more efficient — many are even outfitted with smart connectivity, so you can set it and forget it, test new recipes, and elevate your skills. You likely already have the essential tools for beginners, so how do you know what to buy next (or where to buy)? Our list covers the basics, plus the chef-approved goods that will be appreciated by cooks looking to level up their skills. We’ve also included a tight, curated list of products that make cleaning and organizing your kitchen quick and painless.
Knives and Cutting Tools
When it comes to essential kitchen tools, a trusty cutting board and durable knife set are at the top of the list. In our rigorous testing and evaluation, we found that the Mac Knife 8-Inch Hollow Edge Chef’s Knife is a standout choice for home cooks. This Japanese-style knife features dimples on both sides of the super thin blade, preventing food from sticking during slicing. Its ultra-grippy handle made from natural materials and full tang construction make it a top performer for efficient chopping and slicing. Plus, at just over $100, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality.
Our Top Pick: Mac Knife 8-Inch Hollow Edge Chef’s Knife
– Japanese-style knife with dimples on both sides of the blade
– Ultra-grippy handle made from natural materials
– Full tang construction for efficient chopping and slicing
– Budget-friendly option at just over $100
In our testing of essential kitchen tools, the John Boos Chop-N-Slice Maple Cutting Board stood out for its XL capacity and roomy dimensions, making it perfect for prep work. Made from sustainably-sourced maple wood with edge-grain construction, this cutting board is resistant to gashes and knife marks, even after years of use. Its reversible design and 1.5-inch height make it a versatile and durable option for home cooks. While it’s not dishwasher safe, regular treatment with food-safe oil can ensure its longevity for decades.
Our Top Pick: John Boos Chop-N-Slice Maple Cutting Board
– XL capacity and roomy dimensions for prep work
– Made from sustainably-sourced maple wood with edge-grain construction
– Reversible design and 1.5-inch height for versatility and durability
– Regular treatment with food-safe oil for longevity
When it comes to cookware, cast iron pans are essential for their searing capability, heat retention, and longevity. In our testing, the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet scored perfect 5s across the board, acing the tests in performance, design, ease of cleaning, and value. Pre-seasoned and with a silicone handle for easy maneuvering, this skillet is substantial yet not unwieldy. Plus, it comes at a price point that is dozens of dollars less than other popular cast iron brands, making it a top choice for serious home cooks.
Our Top Pick: Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
– Pre-seasoned with a silicone handle for easy maneuvering
– Substantial yet not unwieldy
– Affordable price point compared to other popular cast iron brands
Cookware
When it comes to cookware, having the right pieces can make all the difference in the kitchen. From nonstick pans to durable cast iron, the right cookware can help you achieve professional-level results at home. Our testing and evaluation of various cookware sets have led us to recommend the following essential pieces for every home cook:
Essential Cookware Pieces:
– Nonstick frying pans: Perfect for cooking eggs, pancakes, and delicate foods without the risk of sticking.
– Cast iron skillet: Ideal for searing, sautéing, and baking, a cast iron skillet is a versatile and long-lasting addition to any kitchen.
– Stainless steel pots and pans: These durable and easy-to-clean pieces are essential for a wide range of cooking tasks, from boiling pasta to making sauces.
Our recommendations are based on rigorous testing and evaluation, ensuring that each piece of cookware meets our high standards for performance, durability, and value.
As experts in kitchen equipment and tools, we strive to provide trustworthy and reliable recommendations for home cooks looking to elevate their skills and create delicious meals with the right cookware.
Prep Tools
Mac Knife 8-Inch Hollow Edge Chef’s Knife
When it comes to essential kitchen tools, a high-quality chef’s knife is a must-have. The Mac Knife 8-Inch Hollow Edge Chef’s Knife is our top pick for its Japanese-style design, super thin blade with dimples on both sides, and ultra-grippy handle made from natural materials. This affordable knife is perfect for smooth and efficient prep work, especially with sticky or juicy foods. It’s a versatile and durable tool that every home cook needs in their kitchen.
John Boos Chop-N-Slice Maple Cutting Board
A trusty cutting board is another essential prep tool for home cooks. The John Boos Chop-N-Slice Maple Cutting Board is a top choice for its edge-grain construction, sustainably-sourced maple wood, and reversible design. This board is not only roomy and durable, but also resistant to gashes and knife marks. It’s a long-lasting and practical addition to any kitchen, perfect for marathon cooking sessions.
Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
Cast iron cookware is a staple in any kitchen, and the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet is a top performer in our tests. This moderately sized skillet is perfect for searing, heat retention, and longevity. It comes pre-seasoned and is easy to clean, making it a versatile and reliable tool for cooking restaurant-level meals at home. Plus, it’s affordable and offers excellent value for its performance and quality.
Wusthof Classic Ikon 7 Piece Block Set
For home cooks looking to level up their skills, a high-quality knife set is essential. The Wusthof Classic Ikon 7 Piece Block Set is our top pick for its slim profile, fully forged carbon steel construction, and long-lasting synthetic handle. This set includes 6 knives and a set of shears, making it a comprehensive and professional choice for building a kitchen from scratch.
KitchenAid 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer
When it comes to prep tools, a stand mixer is a game-changer for home cooks. The KitchenAid 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer is our top choice for its sturdiness, large capacity, and powerful motor. It’s well-designed for both large and small-scale mixing, making it a versatile and efficient tool for baking and cooking. The extra attachments, including a whisk, dough hook, and multiple beaters, add to its functionality and value.
These prep tools are essential for serious home cooks looking to elevate their skills and efficiency in the kitchen. Each of these items has been rigorously tested and evaluated to ensure their quality, performance, and value for home cooking needs.
Cooking Utensils
When it comes to cooking utensils, having the right tools can make a world of difference in the kitchen. From spatulas to tongs to whisks, the right utensils can help you cook more efficiently and with better results. Look for utensils made from durable materials like stainless steel or silicone, as these will hold up well to regular use and are easy to clean. Consider investing in a set of utensils that includes a variety of tools so that you have everything you need at your fingertips.
Essential Cooking Utensils
– Spatula
– Tongs
– Whisk
– Wooden spoon
– Slotted spoon
– Ladle
– Pasta fork
– Kitchen shears
Having a well-rounded collection of cooking utensils will ensure that you’re prepared for any recipe or cooking task. Whether you’re sautéing vegetables, stirring a pot of soup, or flipping pancakes, the right utensils can make the job easier and more enjoyable.
Cleaning and Maintenance
After each use, be sure to clean your cooking utensils thoroughly to remove any food residue. Many utensils are dishwasher safe, but it’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s recommendations. Additionally, store your utensils in a convenient location so that they are easily accessible when you need them. Proper care and maintenance of your cooking utensils will help them last for years to come, making them a worthwhile investment for any home cook.
Small Appliances
KitchenAid 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer
The KitchenAid 7 Quart Bowl-Lift Stand Mixer is a powerful and versatile small appliance that can handle large batches of dough, batter, and other mixtures. With a 500-watt motor and a 7-quart bowl capacity, this stand mixer is perfect for serious home cooks who want to take their baking and cooking to the next level. It comes with a variety of attachments, including a whisk, dough hook, and three separate beaters, making it a versatile tool for all kinds of recipes.
Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-Quart Air Fryer
The Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-Quart Air Fryer is a top-of-the-line air fryer that offers a wide range of cooking options. It features an intuitive display, a nonstick interior for easy cleaning, and a 6-quart fry basket that is perfect for most households. In addition to air frying, this model can also roast, dehydrate, broil, bake, and reheat, making it a versatile and essential small appliance for any home cook.
Breville Citrus Press Pro Juicer
For those who love fresh-squeezed citrus juice, the Breville Citrus Press Pro Juicer is a must-have small appliance. With its almost-silent motor and power-assisted lever, this juicer makes juicing citrus fruits a breeze. It scored highly in our tests for design, performance, ease of use, and value, making it a top choice for anyone looking for a high-powered and efficient juicer.
Conclusion
After rigorously testing and evaluating numerous kitchen products, we have compiled a list of 25 essential pieces of kitchen equipment for serious home cooks. From chef’s knives to cutting boards to stand mixers, our list covers the basics and chef-approved goods that will elevate your cooking skills. We have also included a curated list of products that make cleaning and organizing your kitchen quick and painless.
Our testing process has led us to recommend the Mac Knife 8-Inch Hollow Edge Chef’s Knife as our overall winner for the best chef’s knife. This Japanese-style knife with dimples on both sides of the super thin blade is efficient for slicing and makes prep work smooth and easy. Additionally, the John Boos Chop-N-Slice Maple Cutting Board and Wusthof Classic Ikon 7 Piece Block Set are highly recommended for their quality and durability.
In conclusion, our list of kitchen products has been carefully curated and tested to provide the best recommendations for home cooks looking to level up their skills and make their cooking experience more efficient and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for essential tools or products to make cleaning and organizing your kitchen easier, our recommendations have been thoroughly evaluated to ensure quality and functionality.
In conclusion, having essential kitchen tools is crucial for home cooks to effectively prepare and cook meals. From knives to cutting boards, and from pots and pans to measuring cups, these tools are indispensable for creating delicious and satisfying dishes at home.