Table of Contents
Introduction
Top 10 Essential Tools for a Home Cook
The story of your first encounter with the kitchen will bring a smile for years to come. The nervousness of handling knives, spilling flour, nearly burning chicken, and much more – it will be a cherished memory throughout your life. To start your cooking journey with confidence, it’s important to know the most essential tools for a home cook as a beginner. By equipping yourself with these 10 essential tools, you can streamline your cooking process and achieve good results. Just as your story is likely to stay with you, quality tools will accompany you for a long time. Let’s have a look on 10 Essential Tools for Home Cook as a Beginner.
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Knives
The preparation of cooking stars with knives. Every cook needs a sharp metal to dice/slice the raw stuff to make a presentable dish. In the list of most essential tools for a home cook knife stands at number one.
- There are three essential knives that every home cook should have: a chef knife, a serrated knife, and a paring knife.
- The chef knife is versatile and can be used for a wide range of tasks such as cutting meat, dicing vegetables, slicing herbs, and chopping nuts. It can even be used to crush garlic with its flat side.
- Serrated knives have a scalloped edge similar to a saw and are designed for cutting through foods that are hard on the outside and soft on the inside, such as bread loaves, pineapples, and cakes.
- The paring knife is best for detailed and delicate cutting that requires precision and control, such as slicing strawberries or a clove of garlic.
- Choosing the right knife for specific tasks is essential to ensure efficiency and precision in your cooking.
Proper care and maintenance of knives are crucial for their longevity and better performance. Regular sharpening and proper storage will keep your knives in top condition.
Cutting Boards
In order to find a proper place to cut raw food stuff and prepare hygienic food, cutting boards have proved their utility. It’s a universal item may you be a beginner or a professional cook, every one needs it.
- There are various types of cutting boards available in the market, including wood, plastic, and bamboo. Selecting the appropriate cutting board material depends on personal preference. However, for me, wood surpasses all other materials in terms of quality and performance.
- Properly maintaining and cleaning cutting boards is essential for food safety and preventing cross-contamination.
Also read: https://dealveel.com/ultimate-guide-to-kitchen-gloves-for-safe-cutting/
Pots and Pans
As a beginner it is advised to buy multipurpose pots, lighter on pocket and the most essential cookware pieces for beginner home cook include saucepans, frying pans, and stockpots.
- Cast iron pots are best for searing pork chops, grilling steaks, sautéing veggies, and frying eggs and bacon.
- A stainless steel pan is ideal for making sauces, soups, and stews.
- Nonstick pans are used for frying or scrambling eggs, cooking pancakes, or sautéing delicate foods like fish. A nonstick saucepan is also good for cooking rice or making custards, allowing for easy cleanup.
- Proper use and maintenance of pots and pans will extend their lifespan and ensure consistent cooking results.
Mixing Bowls
Mixing bowls are a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, including whisking ingredients and serving salads.
- Different materials, such as glass, stainless steel, and ceramic, have their own advantages. As a beginner, stainless steel is recommended as it offers certain benefits.
- When it comes to kitchen utensils, their usage is largely based on our imagination and creativity. So, unleash your inner magician in the kitchen and make best use of your arsenal.
Measuring Tools
To follow a recipe as a beginner, one should have measuring cups, spoons, and kitchen scales.
- Converting measurements and ensuring precision in recipes is crucial for an enjoyable dining experience.
Utensils
- Spatulas, wooden spoons, and tongs make cooking tasks more efficient and enjoyable.
- Different utensils serve various purposes, including stirring, flipping, and serving.
Appliances
Use of kitchen appliances such as blenders, food processors, and slow cookers will undoubtedly enhance the convenience of cooking. Investing in these machines will ensure that you never regret your decision.
Baking Essentials
Initially few basic molds and pans will work perfectly for you. As your skills and experience develop, you will gain better insight into the types and quantities of these items that are truly essential for your culinary needs.
Small Gadgets
Small gadgets, like garlic presser, citrus juicers, peeler, bottle opener, cane opener, can make your work in kitchen easier and more efficient
Cleaning kit
Cleaning supplies such as dish soap, sponges, and disinfectants, are essential for a clean and safe kitchen environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the essential knives every beginner should own?
Chef knife, serrated knife and paring knife.
- How often should I replace my cutting board?
It depends on the board condition. So keep inspecting it and its physical condition will dictate its replacement.
- Are non-stick pans safe for cooking?
Health agencies have raised concerns about the compound PFOA, which was previously used to make Teflon. However, Teflon has been PFOA-free since 2013. Today’s nonstick and Teflon cookware is considered safe for everyday home cooking, as long as temperatures do not exceed 500°F (260°C).
- Do I need to buy different measuring tools for liquid and dry ingredients?
As a beginner, you require them more often but with experience you need them only for new recipe.
