I know most of the time it’s all fashion here on NYC Recessionista, but one of my favorite things to do when I’m not shopping is cooking. I have a pretty small kitchen in my apartment right now, but I’ve got it stocked with lots of different kitchen tools that I absolutely love.
Some of these pieces are super affordable while others are a major investment piece (the hubs and I registered for them when we got married) … but nevertheless, they’re all absolutely crucial to my culinary routine.
All product images courtesy of retailers as follows)
Pyrex prepware 4 cup measuring cup … I’ve done everything with this cup from measure out liquids to make homemade salad dressing right in it. These things are an absolute staple and I couldn’t imagine my life without them (I actually have more than one!).
Stainless steel pastry scraper … whoever invented this thing is a freaking genius. I mainly use this when I am making soups and other multiple-ingredient dishes. When you’re dicing and chopping a ton of things (like onions, celery, garlic, carrots, etc.) and then trying to transfer them over to your pot or pan without dropping half of it on the floor, this thing is a god-send.
Le Creuset round cast-iron dutch oven … this is definitely an investment piece, but it’s sooo worth it. I have made everything from soups, stews to casseroles, sauces and braised meats in this thing. I have a running joke that you could basically put absolutely anything in a Le Creuset with some olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper and onions, put the cover on and it will turn out perfectly.
All-Clad stainless steel 3 qt. covered sauté pan … when we had the chance to invest in an All-Clad, we went with the big momma saute pan. Being half Italian, I need a pan that can tackle large jobs like chicken cutlets, and this thing can fit virtually anything.
Pull-apart kitchen shears … this is another one of those tools that I cannot possibly quantify how much I use it. They’re incredibly sharp and powerful, so you need to be careful, but they can pretty much cut through anything you need them to. An absolute must in the kitchen.
What kitchen tools do you have that you absolutely cannot live without? Please share your favorites in the comments and help me build my arsenal!
My food processor! Especially now in the winter, I can chop, dice and mince countless veggies to add to hearty soups in seconds!
I have a shun knife that is my go to, and I have a huge wooden cutting board.