15 Basic Kitchen Tools
/Any way you slice it, dice it or shred it, eat well to live well! Having the right tools to help you prepare meals and snacks will make cooking fun, easy, nutritious and delicious. You only need a few basic food preparation items to get started on your path to eating well, feeling great and even saving money by preparing food at home. As you become more comfortable cooking, you can add other items, depending on your needs but here are the 15 basics…
Tool | Purpose | |
---|---|---|
For more information about food sensitivities or allergies, contact your health care provider. | ||
Non-slip Plastic Cutting board | Prevents slipping and protects food and counters. Be sure to prep meats last and wash well before using again | |
Chef’s Knife | Used for chopping everything from herbs to vegetables | |
Paring Knife | Good for delicate tasks such as peeling, coring, or trimming | |
Serrated Knife | Best for foods that have a different texture inside versus outside such as breads, tomatoes, and meats | |
Knife Sharpening Steel | All knives work best when sharpened briefly prior to use | |
Strainer | Choose a stand-alone for washing fruits and vegetables and straining pastas | |
Grater | Use for veggies, cheeses and more as toppings, and in salads, and slaws | |
Large Skillet with Lid | Great for browning, sautéing, frying, omelets, pancakes, and stir-fries | |
Saucepan with Lid | Great for rice, smaller servings, and sauces | |
Large Cooking Pot with Lid | Best for soups, pastas, and steamed veggies | |
Mixing Bowls, Measuring Spoons and Cup | Essential for preparation and when clean bowls can also be used for serving | |
Large Spoon and Spatula | Use plastic or rubber for non-stick surfaces and remove quickly so they don’t melt | |
Pot Holders | Hot steam and handles on pots and pans can easily burn | |
Meat Thermometer | To be sure meat is safely cooked, test the internal temperature with a meat thermometer | |
Jellyroll Pan | Used for baking meats, veggies or cookies |