What Are the Basic Kitchen Utensils?
Everyone enjoys a delicious home-cooked meal and, even better, cooking in your own kitchen can save you dining costs. To get started, however, you'll need to equip your kitchen with a few basics. Read your favorite recipes to get an idea of the kitchen utensils you'll need and make a list. Don't feel intimidated by the expensive professional kitchen tools you see on TV; you can find a wide selection of affordable kitchen utensils at local discount marts or home interior stores. Does this Spark an idea?
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Knives and Peelers
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A large amount of basic kitchen work involves preparing ingredients, and knives and peelers are essential tools for many of these tasks. Use a chef's knife with a stainless steel blade and durable handle to chop and slice meats and vegetables. You will also need a small paring knife for peeling ingredients such as onions, garlic, potatoes and fruits. Alternatively, a vegetable peeler makes peeling easier and is a safe tool for children who want to help in the kitchen.
Pots and Pans
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Pots and pans are usually the first things that come to mind when thinking of kitchen equipment. To cook soups, vegetables and sauces, you'll need, of course, two or three saucepans in small, medium and large sizes. A frying pan is an essential tool that can be used for many dishes, from breakfast omelets and pancakes to meats and vegetables. You'll need a cookie sheet and baking pan to make home-baked treats.
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Mixing and Storage
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You'll need large and medium-sized mixing bowls to prepare salads and mix baked goods in. Because glass bowls are easy to clean and don't hold food smells, you may also use them as serving dishes and for storing and reheating leftovers if they're microwave-safe. Stainless steel bowls are also versatile and can be used for mixing both breads and pastries as well as main dishes like meatloaf.
Other Useful Tools
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Some kitchen tools make kitchen tasks easier and you'll find yourself reaching for them frequently. Most cooks can't get to square one without a good can opener. A set of measuring spoons and cups are essential for adding the correct ingredient amounts. You will also need several large metal or wooden mixing spoons and spatulas, and you may find a pair of metal tongs useful when you fry foods. Although most electric gadgets are optional, one time-saving electric tool worth purchasing is a hand-held electric beater.
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References
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