31 Awesome Kitchen Gadgets for Every Cook
Ever wondered what were the most helpful kitchen gadgets for chefs and home cooks alike?
Welcome to Abel Ruddachew’s cooking world, where the art of cooking is celebrated with every chop, stir, and simmer.
Whether you’re starting your journey as a beginner cook or you’re a seasoned chef looking for new gadgets to spice up your kitchen arsenal, this guide to “31 Essential Kitchen Gadgets for Every Type of Cuisine” is tailored just for you.
Our kitchens are the heart of our homes, a place where we spend time with our friends and family, study for exams or even have business meetings. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the essential kitchen utensils that make cooking not just easier, but more enjoyable, allowing you to explore a range of cuisines from the comfort of your home.
Let’s equip your kitchen with the right tools to explore the flavors of the world – we will also let you know where you can pick up these tools either in a brick-and-mortar shop or in an online store.
1. Chef’s Knife
The chef’s knife, often considered the crown jewel of the kitchen, is the ultimate multitasker. Whether you’re chopping vegetables, slicing meat, or mincing garlic, a good chef’s knife can handle it all. Its design, featuring a broad and sharp blade, allows for precision and versatility in cooking tasks.
Choosing a knife that feels comfortable in your hand and maintains a sharp edge can elevate your cooking from good to great. It’s the first tool every aspiring chef or home cook should invest in, setting the foundation for culinary exploration.
Here are some great Chef knives which are great to use and affordable! Check it out here.
2. Paring Knife
Small but mighty, the paring knife is perfect for the meticulous tasks in the kitchen that a chef’s knife is too large for.
Peeling fruits, deveining shrimp, or slicing garnishes, the paring knife’s precision is unmatched. Its compact size offers excellent control, making delicate kitchen tasks easier and safer.
A good paring knife is an extension of the chef’s hand, essential for those detailed touches that make dishes special. Pick yourself up a great deal here.
3. Bread Knife
The serrated edge of a bread knife is designed specifically for cutting through the crust of bread without squashing its soft interior.
But its uses go beyond bread; it’s excellent for slicing through soft fruits and vegetables like tomatoes or even for neatly cutting cakes. The saw-like edge ensures clean cuts every time, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen toolkit. Check out this awesome precision bread knife here.
4. Cutting Board (wooden and plastic)
A sturdy cutting board provides a safe and reliable surface for all your chopping needs.
Wooden boards are durable and gentle on knife edges, perfect for fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Plastic boards, being dishwasher safe, are ideal for raw meat and fish due to their easy-to-sanitize nature. Having both types in your kitchen allows for versatility and proper hygiene practices, preventing cross-contamination. Check out some great boards here.
5. Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accuracy is key in cooking and baking. Measuring cups and spoons ensure that you’re adding just the right amount of each ingredient.
Whether it’s spices, liquids, or flour, using these tools helps in achieving consistent and delicious results every time. They’re the unsung heroes of the kitchen, guaranteeing your recipes turn out perfectly.
Now that’s not to say you can’t ‘measure with your heart’ as I often do in the kitchen but when it comes to trying new recipes or more precise ingredients, measuring cups and spoons are really helpful! Here are some that I use which work great and are really durable.
6. Kitchen Scale
A kitchen scale can be your best friend in the kitchen. It takes the guesswork out of ingredient proportions, ensuring accuracy whether you’re baking bread or counting calories.
A digital kitchen scale can be a game-changer, especially for recipes that hinge on precise measurements or if you are just trying to watch how many calories you consume. There are so many options available online from vintage scales, analogue and digital scales. There are even some scales that can calculate the nutritional composition of the food you are measuring. Check one out here if you are interested in picking one up.
7. Mixing Bowls
A set of mixing bowls of various sizes is another great tool for any kitchen. They’re not just for mixing; they’re also great for marinating meats, assembling ingredients, or even serving salads.
Look out for bowls that nest within each other to save space. With their multifunctional uses, mixing bowls are a backbone in the preparation of countless meals. I prefer stainless steel bowls as they are easy to clean, wont break and are dishwasher safe but you can get glass, plastic or even wooden bowls depending on your preferences.
8. Whisk
A whisk is great for getting air into mixtures, ensuring smooth sauces, and perfectly emulsified dressings.
If you’re whipping cream, beating eggs, or stirring batter, a whisk makes the job easier and more efficient. Its simple design belies its importance in creating textures that a spoon just can’t achieve. They can be a bit of a pain to clean at times but I tend to let them soak in water after using it to make the clean up much quicker and easier.
9. Wooden Spoons
Wooden spoons are a classic kitchen tool for a good reason. They’re durable, don’t conduct heat, and won’t scratch your cookware. They are perfect for stirring soups, sauces, and stews and their gentle touch on cooking surfaces makes them a favorite. Plus, they bring a touch of tradition and warmth to the kitchen. You can wash them in the dishwasher, in the sink or for a deep clean, boil them in water for about 10 minutes.
10. Silicone Spatulas
Silicone spatulas can reach into the corners of pans and bowls, getting every last bit of mixture is used. They’re heat-resistant, versatile, and gentle on all cooking surfaces. Whether folding, mixing, or scraping, silicone spatulas are an essential tool for any kitchen. There are so many styles, colors and designs you can choose from.
11. Tongs
Tongs are the extended hands of the kitchen. They provide precision and safety when flipping meats, tossing salads, or serving hot dishes. A pair of sturdy tongs becomes an indispensable tool for cooking and serving, combining strength, precision, and versatility.
Whether you choose silicone tongs or stainless steel ones, they will be a go-to tool in your kitchen. I personally prefer stainless steel ones as food tends to be gripped better but either can really work great. For a fancier option, why not get some large tweezers to get that ‘chef look’.
12. Ladle
A ladle is essential for serving soups, stews, and sauces. Its deep bowl-shaped scoop allows for easy and mess-free serving. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, a ladle ensures that servings are generous and neat.
There are so many different kinds of ladles that you can get which can really help for a range of dishes. Slotted spoons (ladles with holes) are great for scooping up meats without the residual fat and spaghetti ladles make taking pasta out the pot so easy!
13. Vegetable Peeler
A vegetable peeler makes quick work of removing skins from fruits and vegetables, saving time and effort. It’s a simple tool but a huge time saver, making it easier to incorporate fresh produce into your meals. A sharp peeler can also create thin vegetable ribbons for salads and garnishes. They are so versatile you can also use it slice cheese.
14. Box Grater
A box grater is super handy, with different sides for coarse or fine grating, slicing, and zesting. It’s perfect for cheese, vegetables, and even for making breadcrumbs. A box grater is an all-in-one tool that simplifies preparation and adds texture to your meals.
15. Pots and Pans
At the foundation of any kitchen are pots and pans. They’re your go-to for nearly every cooking task, from sautéing vegetables to searing meats. A solid set should include a variety of sizes to suit different dishes. Look for quality materials that provide even heat distribution, ensuring your food cooks evenly without burning.
While non-stick surfaces and durable designs make for easier cooking and cleanup, it’s important to choose pieces that will last. A good set of pots and pans isn’t just a purchase, it’s an investment in countless meals to come. The options are endless from non-stick, stainless steel, cast iron, copper and hex-clad pots and pans. Check out our article on how to keep your cast-iron pans clean or this article on how to cook gammon steaks.
16. Digital Instant-Read Thermometer
A digital instant-read thermometer might seem like a small addition to your kitchen, but it’s a game-changer for cooking meat to perfection. It eliminates the uncertainty, letting you know exactly when your dish has reached the ideal internal temperature. This isn’t just about nailing the perfect medium-rare steak; it’s about ensuring food safety and avoiding undercooked poultry or overdone pork. It’s a straightforward tool that significantly elevates your cooking confidence and precision.
17. Dough Scraper
Don’t be fooled by its simplicity; a dough scraper is a multitasker that belongs in every kitchen. It’s not just for handling dough. This tool can chop, scoop, and clean, making it incredibly useful for a variety of tasks. Whether you’re dividing dough, transferring chopped veggies, or cleaning up your workspace, a dough scraper does it all efficiently. It’s a small tool with a big impact on your kitchen productivity and cleanliness.
18. Electric Kettle
The electric kettle is a must-have, especiallynfor British households but goes far beyond just brewing tea or coffee. It’s the fastest way to boil water for pasta, steam vegetables, or start a broth, saving you precious time and energy. The kettle’s efficiency makes it an indispensable tool in the kitchen, proving its worth beyond its simple appearance. It’s about more than just hot drinks; it’s about streamlining your cooking process.
19. Coffee Maker
Coffee is more than a morning drink; it’s a ritual for many. A good coffee maker does more than just brew a decent cup; it brings a piece of that café experience into your home. Whether you’re into espresso, drip coffee, or anything in between, selecting the right coffee maker can transform your mornings. It’s about finding the machine that fits your lifestyle and taste preferences, ensuring that every day starts on the right note.
20. Blender
The right blender can do wonders in the kitchen, from making smoothies to blending soups. It’s not just about power; it’s about the flexibility to handle various tasks with ease. A blender with adjustable speeds allows you to achieve the perfect texture for any recipe. It’s an essential tool for both simplicity and complex dishes, making it a must-have in any well-equipped kitchen.
21. Food Processor
A food processor is your kitchen’s multitasking champion. This powerhouse tool does much more than chop vegetables. It can mix dough, grind nuts, shred cheese, and even puree soups. The beauty of a food processor lies in its time and effort-saving features. Whether you’re prepping ingredients for a big meal or making your own sauces and dips, the food processor handles tedious tasks with precision and speed, making it an indispensable ally in the kitchen.
22. Stand Mixer
The stand mixer is a baker’s best friend, but its usefulness extends well beyond baking. Equipped with various attachments, it can knead dough, whip cream, beat eggs, and even grind meat or roll pasta. Its strength and versatility make it a valuable asset for anyone who loves to experiment with recipes and tackle new recipes. Investing in a stand mixer is like adding an extra pair of hands to your kitchen, ready to take on the heavy lifting of mixing and kneading. You will not be disappointed after you get one.
23. Rice Cooker
Cooking rice might seem straightforward, but achieving the perfect texture every time can be tricky. Enter the rice cooker: a simple yet transformative device that guarantees fluffy, perfectly cooked rice with minimal effort. It’s not just about convenience; a rice cooker ensures consistent results, freeing you to focus on other parts of your meal. Many models also offer settings for different types of rice and grains, making this gadget a versatile addition to your kitchen.
24. Slow Cooker
The slow cooker is a master of low and slow cooking, allowing flavors to develop and melt over hours, resulting in deeply flavorful and tender dishes. It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it appliance, ideal for busy individuals who want to come home to a warm, home-cooked meal. From soups and stews to casseroles and roasts, the slow cooker offers a hands-off approach to cooking that doesn’t sacrifice taste or quality.
25. Pressure Cooker
For those looking to speed up their cooking without losing depth of flavor, the pressure cooker is a revelation. By cooking under pressure, it drastically reduces cooking times while still yielding dishes that taste like they’ve been simmering for hours. It’s especially useful for legumes, tough cuts of meat, and stews. Modern pressure cookers come with safety features and easy-to-use interfaces, making them accessible and essential tools for efficient, flavorful cooking.
26. Microwave Oven
The microwave oven is a hallmark of convenience in modern kitchens, but its utility goes far beyond reheating leftovers. Its use in steaming vegetables, softening butter, and even baking cakes make the microwave a must-have tool. Its ability to quickly heat and cook food using minimal energy is unmatched, making it indispensable for those with busy lifestyles. Whether you’re in a rush to prepare a meal or simply need to melt chocolate for a baking project, the microwave oven is your go-to appliance for speed and convenience.
27. Air Fryer
If you’re aiming for healthier eating without sacrificing the crispy texture of fried foods, the air fryer is your solution. Using hot air circulation, it makes food crispy with little to no oil, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. From crunchy fries to tender chicken wings, the air fryer delivers on taste while promoting healthier cooking habits. Its compact size and ease of use make it a favorite among home cooks. Its great additional tool and not as big or expensive as grills, smokers or barbecues.
28. Electric Spice and Coffee Grinder
The electric spice and coffee grinder is a small but mighty addition to your kitchen. Freshly ground spices and coffee beans not only elevate the flavor of your dishes and brews but also enhance the overall sensory experience of cooking and eating. This gadget allows you to quickly grind spices for a dry brine, herbs, and coffee beans to your desired coarseness, unlocking their full aroma and flavor potential. Wh Whether you’re brewing your morning coffee or adding a spice blend to a recipe, the electric grinder ensures peak freshness and taste. They are very versatile and also do not come with a hefty price tag.
29. Immersion Blender
An immersion blender, or stick blender, is a great tool which can blend, puree and emulsify directly in the pot or bowl. It’s ideal for making smooth soups, creamy sauces, and even homemade mayonnaise. Its compact design and easy cleanup make it a preferred alternative to traditional blenders, especially for quick tasks or small batches. With an immersion blender, achieving smooth, lump-free textures becomes effortless.
30. Digital Kitchen Scale
Precision in baking and cooking is key to consistency and success, making a digital kitchen scale an essential gadget. It ensures accurate measurements of ingredients, which is critical for baking recipes where precision can make or break the recipe. Beyond baking, it’s useful for portion control and adhering to recipes that specify weight measurements for ingredients. A digital kitchen scale is a simple tool that significantly impacts the quality and consistency of your cooking and baking.
31. Bread Maker
The bread maker brings the aroma of freshly baked bread into your home with ease. By automating the mixing, kneading, rising, and baking processes, it allows anyone to produce bakery-quality bread with minimal effort. Whether you prefer classic white, whole wheat, or artisanal bread with nuts and seeds, the bread maker offers customizable settings to suit your taste.
It’s a wonderful way to introduce homemade, preservative-free bread into your diet, enhancing meals with the unbeatable taste of freshly baked loaves. Bread makers can make more than just bread too. Pizza dough, burger buns, jams and marmalades can all be made with most bread makers.
Kitchen Tools Wrapped Up
Equipping your kitchen with the right kitchen tools and gadgets will really help you enjoy cooking and preparing meals. From the precise measurements from digital kitchen scales to the convenience of bread makers and the multi-use functionalities of immersion blenders, each kitchen gadget will really be a improvement to your life. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, integrating these essential gadgets can significantly improve your cooking experience.
Stay updated with this blog post for the latest in kitchen gadgets and cooking techniques. We’re committed to keeping you up to date with the latest and best seller kitchen tools, brands, techniques and recipes. Keep coming back for regular updates and tips to keep your kitchen well-equipped and your cooking adventures exciting, we will also find you discounts off the regular price of some kitchen equipment.