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Every tool in the kitchen has a purpose. But if you try to do everything with just one tool, you’ll either end up hurting yourself or butchering whatever meal you were trying to make. So it makes sense to invest a bit into your cooking inventory. It’s often only after we’ve used something that we realize just how much time and energy we can save.
One Reddit user, u/SuccessExtreme4373, recently shared what appliances have been making her life so much easier in the kitchen. She also asked the r/Cooking online community to share a bit about the kitchen tools they never thought they’d need but can’t live without anymore. We’ve collected some of the top posts that convince you to rethink your kitchen arsenal.
Bored Panda reached out to the author of the thread for a friendly chat, and she was kind enough to answer our questions and share her thoughts. You'll find our interview with u/SuccessExtreme4373, who is very enthusiastic about home cooking, as you read on.
This post may include affiliate links.
#1
Hand (immersion) blender with chopping bowl
tretower424 replied:
I LOVE the immersion blender! Especially when I need to break down or puree a soup. That I can now do that in the pot and not dirty up a Cuisinart or blender is magic to me. I appreciate it every single time I use it.
Terry Tobias 2 years ago
I love my hand blender! It's so nice to be able to puree soups and sauces right in the pot on top of the stove! I bought it over 20 years ago for $25 and it's been a great investment!
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Auntriarch 2 years ago
I bought one in Aldi for my younger goddaughter when she moved out, it was about £14, she's happy with it
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Daniela Lavanza 2 years ago (edited)
Nice but can easily spread food all over the kitchen and your clothes. My tip: I took a microwave plate cover and cut a hole in the middle of it. Now I connect the rod of my blender to its motor trough this hole. The cover fitting all over the bowl prevents any stain around while cooking!
talliloo 2 years ago
first had one of these when i was making soap as it incorporated the fats into the lye solution so well. ended up buying one for the kitchen. especially like it when i need pureed tomatoes and i can put it into a canned quart jar, slowly lift it up and they are all pureed.
Celtic Pirate Queen 2 years ago
Homemade tomato soup: sauteed onions & a can of diced tomatoes, heat & puree. Season to taste. My husband always asks which brand of tomato soup I use. I tell him "It's Mick's". He has yet to figure it out.
Shayne Scott 2 years ago
I was an idiot and managed to almost sever the tip of my finger with one of these. I was using it to make breadcrumbs but the bread was too sticky (gf) and got stuck in the blades. I turned it off and used my finger to dislodge the bread but accidentally turned the machine on. I still have the blender but I just can't use it again
"I'm an enthusiastic home cook who recently discovered some new 'tools' that I was previously skeptical about and have found very handy. I just wanted to share and see what others are finding surprisingly useful," the author of the thread told Bored Panda what had inspired her to start the discussion in the first place. "It was great to get a lot of feedback."
She said that, among the things listed in the thread, she already has some. Others, like the thermometer and mandoline, she already owns and needs to use more. Meanwhile, the OP learned about new uses for the immersion blender and told us that she still needs to get a knife sharpener and cookie scoop.
Bored Panda was very interested to learn more about the pros of owning an air fryer. Redditor u/SuccessExtreme4373 was happy to walk us through her own experience. "I have found an air fryer surprisingly useful. It is great for cooking small batches of food, everything from proteins to roast vegetables. My five-year-old son loves broccoli tossed in olive oil, salt, garlic powder, and air fried for a few minutes," she said.
RELATED:
#2
I can’t believe I was 57 yo before I learned about pre cut flat parchment paper sheets…. I use them all the time. Just about anything that goes in the oven is sitting on parchment paper. Veggies, potatoes, cookies, macarons, melting cheese on sandwich. Total game changer. Makes clean up so much easier, non stick.
majandess 2 years ago
It took me a long time before I started using parchment, too. But I'm not going back. Never. Nope.
Huddo's sister 2 years ago
I now have two silicone baking mats, so I'm not using baking paper much anymore
Elwood Schwartz (it/that) 2 years ago
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Jenny Barton 2 years ago
Better than parchment is the silicon baking sheet. Reusable, nothing sticks to it, and they go in the dishwasher
Gourdeous 2 years ago
We have a washable silicon sheet, does the same job, goes in the dishwasher, no waste. Amazing
Gringa Fabulosa 2 years ago
I saw a cook who actually cut his silicone sheet to fit his pan! Blew my mind! Haven't had the nerve to cut mine yet....
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NancyandCharlie Miller 2 years ago
If you use parchment paper from a roll, cut/rip the size you need, then crumple it up (like you a piece of paper you are going to throw away), then smooth it back out over your cookie sheet/baking tray. It will lay flat, and won't affect your cooking time/food.
Angela Castro 2 years ago
For really messing things, like ribs, I use aluminum foil and then parchment paper on top. Saves so much on clean-up!
#3
I can’t believe I went so many years forming cookies, falafel, meatballs, fillings for pierogis and other dumpling, etc without a cookie scoop.
citrus_sugar replied:
Restaurant secret for sure — I have them in all different sizes.
Say No to Downvoting 2 years ago
I bought one all excited to lift my cookie and meatball game but….no. I’m a left handed and apparently those things are made for right handers. Did not work for me at all - it was very sad.
Spencer's slave 2 years ago
You can get left handed ice cream scoops at half the price for the same result.
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Not only that, but air fryers are also great for reheating leftovers. According to the OP, it works with everything "from lasagna to muffins so that they have closer to a fresh baked texture instead of soggy microwave texture." In the meantime, the appliance is "good for quick homemade pizzas on frozen naan bread."
"You can toast odd-shaped pieces of bread. I sat on the fence for ages before getting one but now use it pretty much every day," the home cook said.
We were curious about what the OP thinks someone should keep in mind before purchasing any new kitchen appliances. She pointed out that a lot will depend on the size of your kitchen space, as well as how you cook.
#4
(1) A digital scale, changed my baking game for the better! I now rarely use measuring cups, plus less dishes to wash.
(2) Sharpening stone has made my cheap knives razor sharp and much much more enjoyable to use.
Firstname Lastname 2 years ago
My kitchen scale is my favorite kitchen tool. Everything feels precise, and lazy me has less dirty dishes.
UpupaEpops 2 years ago
I'm a scientist. If it would be socially acceptable (and financially possible) to use lab equipment in the kitchen, I would. I only just started exploring the kitchen a couple of years ago and the nerd in me is still dying whenever I add two drops of something instead of one.
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Ace 2 years ago
Of course, been using them for decades but American recipes still nearly always use cup measures, so you're better off searching for UK ones only, with the added bonus that they'll be measured in grams instead of ounces. If you need to add liquids, which may be quoted by volume, just remember that 1ml of water = 1g.
Philly Bobcat 2 years ago
I often buy food in bulk as I have a sub-zero freezer and a vacuum sealer. Portioning out food and sealing it up is great to do and my scale is invaluable to me for this.
Nitka Tsar 2 years ago
We never use measuring cups. That‘s not a thing in some countries. I only know it from Poland and the US. Poland because I have family there and things about the US are just everywhere, lol
SirWriteALot 2 years ago
Measuring weight by volume. How silly is that. SCALE people! And while you're at it ... metric system :-)
Apple Jakes 2 years ago
It's sad that people are forgetting knives need sharpening. A coworker once told they bought new ones whenever they "wore out". Consumerism I guess.
Joann Hart 2 years ago
Use mine for splitting up meat before packing and freezing, even portions.
#5
A stand mixer. It took me years to shell out for a Kitchenaid mini but I’m so glad I did. It’s much more convenient than using beaters and the dough hook is a lifesaver.
Barbara Kelly 2 years ago
Invitation to become a member of Sisters Doin' It For Themselves (if you can save the money and get the mixer on sale)
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Joshua David 2 years ago
When my met my husband he was the chef in his previous marriage and he came with a full set of All-Clad pots and pans and a full Kitchen Aid mixer. Life changing.
CherryCreamCaramel 2 years ago
Can anyone explain what a dough hook is/does? Like I'm 5 haha. Cheers!
mysterious(all pronouns) 2 years ago
A dough hook is a mixer attachment, it's shaped more or less like a hook, although without the sharp point. It's useful for mixing dough as the dough forms a ball around it as the hook kneads and mixes, making your dough easy to remove from the hook and shape to make bread.
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whineygingercat 2 years ago
My hubby wanted one for so long. Since before we got together. I went into a Tuesday Morning I used to work at, wasn't looking for the mixer, there were two on the front counter. The big one. Got a $500+ KitchenAid stand mixer for $149.99.
Nitka Tsar 2 years ago
Try Bosh Mum. A bit cheaper, but a quality product from Germany. The mixing thingies work in every model.
#6
I can’t believe I lived over 40 years without a knife sharpener. Truly, I was lost.
Gary 2 years ago
those types destroy knives, learn how to use a steal its not that difficult. Use it every time just one or two passes before use.
Colt Seavers 2 years ago
I go full-on japanese whetstone on mine, tey're always razor sharp
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Bols 2 years ago
I am so lucky that my partner's favourite hobby is sharpening knives :D For some (slightly disturbing) reason it relaxes him a lot and it changed my kitchen game!
Tamra 2 years ago
Not disturbing at all. It's a peaceful, satisfying job with almost instant results.
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Hugh Cookson 2 years ago
Get yourself a decent 'diamond' steel ; much better, quicker and don't damage your knives. alternatively, invest in a mini rotary grinder and resharpen your knives to razor sharp every two weeks or so - I'm an ex Chef and would never let my pro knives (even the average ones) anywhere near one of these monstrosities.
Sans Serif (Sans) 2 years ago
Well said from a demonstrated "chef of reason" - thanks, Hugh!
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Sara Wilson 2 years ago
Once I finally got a GOOD set of SHARP knives, I've never been able to go back
"Less is generally more if you're like most people and don't have a lot of space. You can do a lot with the basics. And if you can't see it and it's hard to access, you're not going to use it," she explained to Bored Panda that tools that aren't in an accessible space and are stowed away somewhere probably won't end up getting used.
"But I have been on a bit of a spree lately. In addition to the above mentioned, I bought a bread maker last week, after years of thinking that would be a no-no for me—and am currently baking my second loaf."
The OP shared in her original post that she bought an air fryer, a rice cooker, and a cherry pitter, and they were completely satisfied with their performance. Not only did the redditor gush about how convenient everything is, but she's also using the appliances often. So her investment is already paying off.
#7
I don’t know if this counts as a tool but I ended up getting a le creuset for free (I know, lucky duck) and I’ve been using it basically daily since
Robin Roper 2 years ago
Excellent cookware, but it's too heavy for anyone with hand, wrist, or arm mobility issues. Also difficult for anyone with CP, ataxia or other similar issues.
Pamela24 2 years ago
My favourite! My boyfriend bought me one for my birthday a couple years ago. He was even willing to pay extra so that I could get a red one (white one was on sale, but common!). It's my favourite thing in the kitchen, I make everything in it. If you feel like Le Creuset is too expensive for you (which I totally understand), check out America's Test Kitchen review on how to buy a dutch oven on YouTube, they give some great tips.
Chevygirl 1893 2 years ago
I have 4 *knock off* pots and LOVE THEM. I still would never pay what they want for them though
Terry Tobias 2 years ago
Le Creuset makes me drool, but I don't think I'll ever be able to afford one! I'm hoping that I come across one at a yard sale!
Bobert Robertson 2 years ago
I have a Dutch oven le creuset we got for purchase wedding and it's amazing
Shelli Aderman 2 years ago
LOVE my LeCruset! It was a gift, and it makes my brisket and fried chicken just amazing!
#8
I dismissed air fryers for a long time because I have a perfectly good convection oven, and considered them a gimmick.
But for *reasons* I ended up buying one, and I love it. It is just a convection oven, but it heats super fast without making the kitchen hot, and yields really good vegetables. I use it almost every day and love it.
Years ago my husband bought me a Zojirushi and I almost returned it because it seemed extravagant, and because I had no problem with rice in a pot on the stovetop, but I love it too.
The strawberry stemmer is a nice little gadget also.
And IDGAF if Alton Brown hates a single purpose kitchen tool. They make me happy.
Bouche and Audi and Shyla, Oh My! 2 years ago
Whoever Alton Brown is, if he isn't the one cooking, it's none of his business how the food is cooked. If he doesn't like it, don't invite him.
Gustav Gallifrey 2 years ago
People go on about 'single purpose appliances'. I ask them, 'do you own a toaster'?
RP 2 years ago
Don't own one of those anymore either. A sandwich press does toast, and toasties, wraps, and with a solid flat plate, even fry eggs
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Blondie23 2 years ago
My daughter inherited one from her grandfather when he upgraded to a newer one. I laughed but after using it a few times I have to say it's very nice to have when you just want to cook up a few things. Especially living in Texas, not having to heat up the whole oven is nice.
Joshua David 2 years ago
I use mine to reheat everything. Also if you like to eat things in the frozen food section (ie mozzarella sticks, poppers etc) it's perfect for that.
Zophra 2 years ago
I might be the rarity, but I got an expensive one for Christmas and am not impressed. It takes up way too much of our limited counter space and everything it does can be done equally well on the stove or oven. I only lug it up from the basement to make recipes that need a lot of bacon.
Ken Beattie 2 years ago
Or buy a small toaster oven with a convection feature, smaller space than a full over so it heats quicker and it's more versatile than *just* an air fryer.
KittyMommy 2 years ago
That's the kind I have and absolutely love. Couldn't justify buying one that's just an air fryer but the multi function ones are great
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The Starsong Princess 2 years ago
I love my air fryer oven and use it for most things. For holidays and big dinners, I always wanted a second oven but the air fryer oven does the job instead.
freakingbee (any pronouns) 2 years ago
my uncle bought us one for christmas after years of me begging my mom to get one and she always says she regrets not listening to me earlier lol
#9
high quality kitchen shears. great for cutting garnishes, flatbread/pizzas, meats, really anything. mainly i love not having to wash another cutting board
Nick (He/Him) 2 years ago
I bought my mom these scissors that have like 4 blades a few years ago for herbs, and they are super useful.
But before you go off and buy every single thing mentioned in this list, seriously think about your cooking and eating habits. No, you will not magically transform into a Masterchef contender just because you’ve got a few new toys. You need to focus on the tools that you’d actually use, not that some ideal version of you as a person would love to use. Trust us, that’ll stop you from making a lot of impulse purchases.
For instance, cherry pitters are great for someone who bakes a lot, grows cherries, or buys a lot of fresh berries at their local market. But for many of us, it would be money down the drain. The pitter would be used twice, then left to rot in some God-forsaken corner of the cupboard, with only rats and roaches to keep it company.
On the flip side, a rice cooker is a great investment if rice is an important part of your diet. If you’re constantly frustrated at having to ‘babysit’ the rice pot so it doesn’t burn or overcook, you may want to splurge a bit to save yourself a lot of future headaches. However, the cooker would be next to useless to someone who mostly eats pasta (a pasta machine might be a better fit) or bread (some utensils to make bread-baking easier may be the way to go there).
#10
Mortar and pestle, low tech, can really up your spice game when you crush them on the spot
Yaniji1923 replied:
Mine never leaves my counter. I only buy whole spices and grind them. It takes seconds to do once you get the hang of it. It's WAY worth the effort to learn and use it.
Heather Talma 2 years ago
Yaniji must not have cats to leave something like that on the counter.
Ozzie Ogawa 2 years ago
Grinding whole spices with them are better than using food processor, since they press the spices and bring those oils out. And most processor are using metal that spins fast therefore generating heat that could reduce some of those oils.
#11
Salad spinner. I use it every day.
sturmwesen 2 years ago
You can use a kitchen towell instead- easier to clean and less items in the kitchen
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Mason Kronol 2 years ago
Don't know how I ever lived without one. I just got done using one to wash some black berries and blueberries! The top broke on my first one after years of use so I use the bowl and strainer still and hand spin more delicate foods.
Mary Kelly 2 years ago
i have 2...one for the kitchen, and one for spinning hand washables dry!
Joann Hart 2 years ago
Back when we ate salads, it was a godsend. You can wash stuff in it too
Dreaming Spirit 2 years ago
Kind of - the colander part fits inside a bowl, you close it with a lid. The lid has a crank and the colander spins, draining water
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#12
A hand lemon juicer! I don't know what else to call it... It looks like a big garlic press. ZILLION TIMES more practical than a stupid lemon juicer with ten parts. I use fresh squeezed lemon and lime juice all the time now when before I couldn't be bothered. So on that front it's worth it ten times over.
Bittersweetie 2 years ago
I won a margarita basket from a raffle and it came with a super solid hand juicer for lemons and limes and it is one of my favorite things in the gadget drawer!
Whatever new kitchen equipment you do end up buying, remember that you can tell a lot about someone from the way they take care of their tools. You do not want to be the chef who buys all the coolest gadgets and fanciest tools, only to let everything slowly deteriorate.
Clean them well and often after use, store them properly, and remember to maintain them. That can mean anything from regularly sharpening your knives to tightening the screws in whatever fab postmodern gadget you have in your drawer. Your tools will also last longer if you use them according to their purpose. So don’t go boiling rice in a frying pan or cutting steaks with spoons.
#13
Thermapen. I thought it cost too much for a thermometer. My husband offered to buy it for me as a gift.
It’s paid me back a zillion times over. I use it to make yogurt, bread, candy, custard, ice cream, etc.
Stella Parks recipes state what temperature doughs/batters should be so I use it for them. Stella Parks recipes also have instructions for if your kitchen is over 74 degrees Fahrenheit. I use it to test the air temperature.
It’s also handy in deciding if it’s too hot to bring the dog with us.
Mycroft1967 2 years ago
Great for check food temperatures and making sure food is done. Use this all the time too.
Philly Bobcat 2 years ago
I not only have a thermometer but I also bought a few of those new gadgets called "Meaters" that are bluetooth probes for meat. You insert one into your meat then on your phone you dial up what meat it is and how you want it done. Perfect steaks every time. (Yeah, I cook professionally and can make a steak without one but hey!)
Mary Kelly 2 years ago
yes, yes, and yes...found out i was overcooking my chicken and pork...no more guess work...and nothing is better when making candies, caramels, etc.
#14
Ooh also- my bread machine. I got it for $20 on Facebook marketplace and now I live a life of fresh naan, pizza dough, baguettes, sandwich loaves, cinnamon raisin bread… I know myself, I won’t spend time kneading these things, but I sure can toss them in the bread maker.
Huddo's sister 2 years ago
I had one for a little while, but didn't use it that much, so it was just another appliance taking up space on the bench. It was also annoying because you end up with a hole in the bread where the mixer attachment is, and just as easy to just use a mixer and the oven.
Bittersweetie 2 years ago
My first bread machine was from the 80s and took up half the counter and weighed a metric ton. I hated it. It FINALLY broke and I was gifted a new tiny one just before Covid which was actually good timing. It also has an alarm for when to remove the paddle so you avoid the big black hole. The size and alarm made all the difference for me! Now I love it.
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Jon Lee 2 years ago
I've had a number over the years, had my first in the late 90's. I now have a very good Panasonic. I mostly make dough which I shape into rolls and bake in the oven. My daily bread is made with wholemeal flour, olive oil, toasted sesame oil, sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds. Everyone who has tried it says it's some of the best bread they have ever tasted.
Bittersweetie 2 years ago
Suppose I'm lazy or without talent but if it weren't for my breadmaker I'd never make the things it makes for me!
#15
Potato ricer. I don't use it often, but you can make a big batch of mashed potatoes with the perfect texture in very little time.
talliloo 2 years ago
omg! i never thought about using it for this reason! i have always done it old school with cheese cloth and squeezing until my knuckle turn white. no more after reading this!
Load More Replies... CherryCreamCaramel 2 years ago
TIL about the existence of a kitchen tool called... Potato Ricer. Fun potato-filled times ahead!! :))
Dreaming Spirit 2 years ago
It's a must-have in Polish kitchens - we have a lot of dishes which require potato mash. Pierogi, kluski śląskie, kopytka, pyzy... ohh I'm suddenly so hungry now 😂
Debby Keir 2 years ago
Common in WW2 Europe - you couldn't get rice easily so you could make 'pretend' stuff. Also works for (cooked) cauliflower.
Joann Hart 2 years ago
I only use one to make lefse and that is so infrequent now. Just can't stand all the standing in the kitchen
Richard Willis 2 years ago
We had an antique one, the quadrant type, that was galvanised and going rusty. We bough a new, stainless steel one, much the same.
#16
Meat thermometer. Why did I spend years and years trying to guess when meat was done and then beating myself up when I was wrong? I dunno
Philly Bobcat 2 years ago
See my above comment about a gadget called "Meater." Can cost from $50 to $125 US (some have a 40 ft range and some a 160 ft range... bluetooth) but I have 3 and totally worth it if you don't want to stand right by the oven!
#17
It’s so simple but one of those dough cutters and I use it to scoop chopped veggies , clean my cutting board, and obvs cut dough. I don’t know how I lived without it.
Shelli Aderman 2 years ago
We have countertops that you can knead on, and I use it to scrape the counter clean, too. The best!
#18
Mandoline (with cut proof glove) I make a fair amount of pickles and that makes it easy!
majandess 2 years ago
I have to admit I'm intimidated by these still. I've used one, but I prefer not. I took the coward's way out and bought the different thickness/cut blades for my food processor.
sturmwesen 2 years ago
I made a few non vegan salads by losing fingertips. Your concern is valid
Load More Replies... Hugh Cookson 2 years ago
Failing that, improve your knife skills. As a now retired high end Chef, unless I was making specific dishes that required a lot of very finely cut vegetables, I, and my contemporaries, would never use a Mandolin for two reasons ; 1) they are bloody (literally) dangerous even with a guard on and I've seen more tips of fingers and palms of hands whipped off by these bloody things than any knife has ever caused regardless of how sharp. 2). They are a pain to clean without chipping yourself with the blade when taking it to peices, washing it or putting it back together - I still have a scar from 35 + years ago caused precisely by this. Tools of the devil !!
Philly Bobcat 2 years ago
I use mine for cutting cucumbers for salads and pickles, cutting carrots, onions etc. It's great to have. Gotta be mindful of your fingers though. I corked up and caught the tip of a finger once. Bled like a pig and hurt like hell for days. No stitches as I just caught it but still.
Kelsie Marx 2 years ago
I sliced my thumb so deep with one of these, that I have stayed away from them. They are the perfect kitchen gadget to up your hospital bill, and to make doctors happy because of all the money you are allowing them to make🥴
Aaron Bredon 2 years ago (edited)
For me, a commercial quality deli slicer replaces the dangerous mandoline. Around $400-$450 for a 10" blade slicer. Cuts deli meats, cheeses, potatoes for au gratin, tomatoes, lettuce, etc. And can reliably cut paper thin or quite thick. I use it often enough that it gets permanent counter space. And it saves enough on deli meats alone to pay for itself. Plus it's actually safer to clean if you know how.
#19
A slotted fish spatula. Was never even on my radar for the first 20 years I lived/cooked alone. A few years ago a close friend (and chef) got me one and insisted that it’s life changing. Mf’er was right.
Blueprinty replied:
Yes!! I have about every kitchen tool known to man and this is my ‘desert island’ spatula. It's not just for fish. It’s thin enough and wide enough and flexible enough to scoop up anything like cookies, roasted veggies, eggs, burgers — whatever.
Spencer's slave 2 years ago
These are more common than not in British/Kiwi/Aussie kitchens. They've been around for donkeys.
Robert Trebor 2 years ago
Also a very wide spatula for coaxing reluctant omelets or lasagna out of pans.
You Should Do Nothing with the Fence 2 years ago
Does anyone else find the plug anxiety inducing?
Lara Harris 2 years ago
I thought all fish slides were slotted? This must be a cultural difference.
GFSTaylor 2 years ago
I have a slotted spatula like that I use for cleaning out the litter trays. It's particularly useful when a cat's peed close to the edge of the tray - it slices though the clump so you can free it from the wall of the tray and get the clump of dirty litter out. I've been using it for some 30 years as a litter scoop and it looks good for as long again, which is more than you can say for any plastic litter scoop.
#20
My kitchen blow torch - I use it to toast marshmallows for hot chocolate, and to do an easy lemon curd and toasted meringue dessert. I've also used it for lighting candles when I can't find a lighter/matches.
Bouche and Audi and Shyla, Oh My! 2 years ago
"My kitchen blow torch" is a phrase I never expected to read in my lifetime, particularly as I didn't know such a thing existed.
Joann Hart 2 years ago
I have one, had to have it...never used it need the fuel canister. Dreamed of making creme Brule
Dreaming Spirit 2 years ago
I like to add charred onion to my soups, especially chicken stock, it gives a very nice and deep flavor. Torch is perfect for doing that
Joshua David 2 years ago
When my recovered addict brother was smoking meth, he stole my mom's torch and well...
Gabriele Alfredo Pini 2 years ago
I use a torch for many jobs in the garage, from darkening wood to burn small roots between the concrete.
#21
Tiny prep bowls
majandess 2 years ago
I have collected a pile of Pyrex custard cups from all the deceased grandmas in the family. My son doesn't know what a custard cup is. To him, they're the mise en place bowls because we use them all the time for prepping food.
Barbara Kelly 2 years ago
Oven-safe custard cups are so versatile! They are great for serving small amounts of garnishes, individual servings of dip (double-dipping hazard eliminated) , string leftovers, and as holders for tealight or votive candles...among other uses.
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Aisling Raye 2 years ago
I had this come to Jesus moment about 6 months ago. I'm embarrassed to say that it took me until my 40s to realize what a game changer having a large amount of these on hand would be. I've always had a few, but I lost my mind a bit and bought 20 more when I found a good deal. My world has been changed.
Celtic Pirate Queen 2 years ago
Yep. I figured that out when I went to make a lemon meringue pie for my Dad. You have to have certain items ready to go & can't waste time doing it on the fly.
#22
Microplane. I even have 2 of them now because I use them so often and I repaired the first one after it broke.
Ace 2 years ago
OK, so TIL that Microplane is an American brand name for a cheese grater. It's a grater, nothing special to see here. Everybody's got one.
Couragetcd 2 years ago
I would not get out my box grater to grate some nutmeg on top of my eggnog when my micrograter does so more easily
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Skara Brae 2 years ago (edited)
Microplane graters are much sharper than a regular one, and the teeth are smaller. It's almost fun to grate the zest from a lemon for recipes. EDIT: Close up view - https://bakestarters.com/blogs/education/8-ways-to-use-microplane-zester
Ace 2 years ago
Every grater I've ever seen has at least two different sizes of teeth, and they've always been plenty sharp enough. Sounds like this brand in the US has had some very good marketing.
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Ryan-James O'Driscoll 2 years ago
I've had a box grater, now I have a Microplane. The Microplane is far better for fine grating, mincing and zesting than a box grater.
Mary Kelly 2 years ago (edited)
i think OP actually means a rasp-type zester, not a standard grater...they are often referred to by the brandname in the US...and they are a thing of beauty...perfect zesting...so easy to clean and use https://www.amazon.com/Microplane-40020-Classic-Zester-Grater/dp/B00004S7V8
Joshua David 2 years ago
I use one with raw potatoes to make hash browns. Or wait, maybe it's a cheese grater. It looks similar.
Mary Kelly 2 years ago (edited)
you're thinking of a standard box grater...this is a different thing...https://www.amazon.com/Microplane-40020-Classic-Zester-Grater/dp/B00004S7V8
Load More Replies... #23
Tofu press. Yes, I could waste a ton of paper towel and make the Leaning Tower of Pisa of heavy things on top, but once I got the press, I’ll never go back!
Mary Kelly 2 years ago
here's a tip taught to me by an indian coworker for making paneer...same concept....place your curd into cheese cloth, place the bundle of curds on cutting board that is slanted at an angle in the sink, place a tea kettle of water on top of the bundle and walk away...very little mess and very little waste...and no additional gadgets
#24
Instant pot - mainly for chicken stock. I’ll never waste a chicken carcass again!
Philly Bobcat 2 years ago
I use mine to make chili and stews... pressure for an hour then slow cook for another 6. Also can take a medium sised roast from frozen to table in about an hour and a half and tender as all hell! I do like to take the roast out and run it under the broiler for a few minutes to brown it a bit, though.
Julie Schulz 2 years ago
I'm learning to use mine more and more. I especially like it for making what we call Burrito Bowls. Cook the rice, then remove from the pot. Turn on the browning function, add hamburger and black beans and brown. Turn off pot, add back rice and taco seasoning. Mix and voila! Add to tortilla shells or just plain in a bowl topped w/ lettuce, tomato, salsa, etc. And the best part, only one dish to clean!
talliloo 2 years ago
i realize that there is convenience with an instant pot because of timer and such but i still can't bring myself to getting one.
DJR 2 years ago
There's nothing actually magical about the IP, but it has introduced pressure cooking to a lot of people.
Load More Replies... Joann Hart 2 years ago
Instant is filling chapter 11. I have a ninja foodi. Took me one year to get the guts up to use it (intimidating). Love it now
Donald Crocker, Jr. 2 years ago
The bankruptcy is because of the Pyrex scandal, nothing wrong with Instapots that I know of. https://gizmodo.com/the-pyrex-glass-controversy-that-just-wont-die-1833040962
Load More Replies... #25
A funnel
Beck 2 years ago
We make a gallon of sweet tea every other day. Gotta get that sugar in the jug. And my kids go through tons of Gatorade so we buy the powder kind and make it at home. Tastes the exact same. But funnels are a must have.
Zee Fam 2 years ago
Have you tried just putting the sugar in the water once it comes to a simmer in the pan? It dissolves while your tea is steeping.
Load More Replies... Manic Mama 2 years ago
We have a preserving funnel - i don't make preserves. Youngest child heats up frozen meals in the mornings then slides them into a thermos flask for school lunches in the winter. She used to make an awful mess until I found the preserving funnel - it has a very wide neck & everything ends up where it's supposed to.
Joann Hart 2 years ago
I have a mini one to fill salt and pepper and a mini one for hummingbird feeders.
Sven Grammersdorf 2 years ago
I make my own funnels by cutting the top off of a plastic bottle
Auntriarch 2 years ago
Several funnels. Two jam funnels, one of which only gets used for pickles. A bottle funnel. A medium funnel for lumpy concoctions that you want to put in small necked jars
#26
In the realm of “technically unnecessary but super useful” - my pineapple corer/slicer and my Danish dough whisk.
I love fresh pineapple but hated dealing with the peel and core. Not anymore. Just chop off the top, and use the corer. I basically get a spiralized pineapple that I just cut into individual chunks.
And the dough whisk makes mixing thick batters/sticky doughs so much easier. Stuff doesn’t get stuck in it like it would in a balloon whisk and there’s practically no drag compared to using a wooden spoon or something.
Mary Kelly 2 years ago
it is a bread dough whisk, as opposed to the standard french whisks used for making meringues, whipped cream, souffles...https://www.amazon.com/TEEVEA-Danish-Whisk-Stainless-Dough/dp/B07CKKDBF1/ref=asc_df_B07CKKDBF1/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=242033841575&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=17572869918690765604&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9052078&hvtargid=pla-447726063988&th=1
#27
Pizza cutter. Little did I know how much we would eat some frozen pizza on busy nights..lol 🤣
Bittersweetie 2 years ago
I prefer a rocker pizza cutter to the wheel style cutter. Much simpler and doesn't move the ingredients around.
Cassie 2 years ago
Growing up, we used scissors. I worked at a pizza place when I was a teenager and the rocker was so much better, but I never got one for home because we just don't eat pizza enough.
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Shelli Aderman 2 years ago
We have a hand held pizza cutter, and it comes apart to go in the dishwasher. We use it for pancakes, quesadillas, waffles, ANYTHING that needs cutting. It’s great!
#28
An olive oil dispenser I randomly picked up at kohl’s. It’s one of those little things that feels good to use.
Huddo's sister 2 years ago
Almost all the bottles of olive oil now in Australia have an attached nozzle so you can pour it easily
Rinso the Red 2 years ago
Not sure why you got downvote. Let's cancel that out...
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#29
Cherry pitter is also an olive pitter...
But one of the most basic tools is one of the most useful. A bench knife. Yes, useful when baking but also a great way to pick up diced food and slide it into the pan.
#30
Legit pepper grinder
Huddo's sister 2 years ago
I just bought a battery powered one, because my hands hurt if I grind it by hand, but I haven't been able to use it yet because I can't unscrew the top to fill it!
Rebekah 2 years ago
I feel ya. I wrap a big rubber band around the top, and that gives me extra grip. Worth a shot.
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Debby Keir 2 years ago
Aldi and Lidl sell disposable pepper (and salt) grinders for about £1. The pepper one lasts me about 2 years.
David A Paterson 2 years ago
The pepper jar I bought from the supermarket has an inbuilt pepper grinder. I love it, but it means I don't need a separate one.
Joann Hart 2 years ago
I have one way in the back of my cupboard I think. Used to use grinders.
#31
Pliers.
Ever bite into a chicken leg and get a mouth full of tendons? They aren't easy to grab onto with your fingers but a nice set of pliers or needle nose pliers can make quick work of those.
Deboning fish such as a salmon steak gets easier when you use pliers.
Have you had a peach that was a little bit too ripe so that you couldn't cut it in half and twist it? Going through the top of the peach, grab the pit with your needle nose pliers and pull it up and out.
A thermal gun or infrared thermometer is something I know I need in the kitchen because I bake and cook a lot and have a bakerstone Pizza oven outside. A thermal gun is so much more specific than setting my stove to medium or medium high or 7 out of 10. Takes the guess work out of cooking and baking as far as temperature control is concerned.
Mason Kronol 2 years ago
"Ever bite into a chicken leg and get a mouth full of tendons?" Yeah, I'm Hungarian, Slovakian and Polish so there's nothing left but the bone because I ate it. Knuckles/cartridge are good for you! Also, when I eat chicken wings I get my monies worth!
LMW 2 years ago
Yes!! Growing up in a Polish household, we ate it all but the bone. We would chew on the bone for the marrow. The cartilage is the best 😋
Load More Replies... #32
Canning funnel and Mason jars. Yup.
#33
Teeny non-stick saucepans and frypans. Like, would hold under a cup of liquid. Bought some from an Asian mart when my kid started solids- so quick to make that ‘1 pureed carrot’ or reheat little portions. Still use them 15 years later, more than I ever dreamed I would. Make a handful of croutons to use up that last 2 slices of bread, toast seeds and nuts for a salad sprinkle, warm garlic in oil, melt a lil cheese for a boiled potato, defrost stock cubes, shallow fry hard herbs, and many more uses. Wish the better brands made them too!
#34
Just bought an induction cooktop for the summer. If you don't want to heat up the kitchen or your whole place when its already hot I highly recommend. Easy to clean, has 2 modes that are super simple to navigate and even a timer.
Cyber Returns 2 years ago
I've just bought Bev an induction cooker and a new pan set for it. She loves it. I can buy the upgrades to my mobility scooter at a later date. I love to see her smile
#35
A vegetable peeler. Used to peel potatoes and carrots with a knife and I hated it a lot. Now it's so easy and I eat them more often
#36
Rice cooker. My husband insisted on one and I really did not think it was necessary. Damn it I was wrong. It makes way better rice than me.
#37
Zozirushi hot water dispenser
#38
Fully stocked spice rack. Swing by your local Asian market and get bags of chilies, cumin and so to properly season your food
#39
A microplane grater. Didn't have one. Bought one. Use it ALL THE TIME for garlic, ginger, etc
Molly M 2 years ago
Life hack: freeze your ginger root! Tightly double wrap it in plastic wrap and toss it in yhr freezer. It lasts forever and makes it easier to grate. The frozen ginger does come out fluffier when microplaned so you need to grate a bit more than you think, but totally worth it
columbokateUK 2 years ago
I always used one for garlic and ginger too... then I hot a pestle & morter. So much better! Really brings out the flavour in your seasonings 🤗
#40
Long before I went to culinary school, and even long before I started baking (that eventually LEAD me to culinary school), it was a bench scraper. The one I have is just a single piece of six-inch wide steel and the "handle" is just the flat metal curled to maybe 270 degrees (i.e. not a closed circle). It's kinda nice cuz if you have small items or even flour/grains, you can scoop them up and that opening lets them funnel together to pour off. I don't like the wood or plastic handled ones, but this thing is like a best friend you can always count on. Baking, regular cooking, cleaning up after cooking, I love that simple fixed tool.
Firstname Lastname 2 years ago
I went to culinary school for a semester before deciding it wasn't for me, but this was the one tool that I kept before selling my school kit. So utile.
#41
Kitchen aid mixer with attachments. I use to think they were over priced electronics for things you can do by hand. But man was I wrong. It’s my most used electronic next to to my air fryer. Now we usually have fresh bread and pasta at hand. And it makes cooking so much faster.
#42
A good vacuum sealer. I currently have a chamber vac, so I can include liquids, but a basic one will work fine until you need to upgrade. A somewhat investment up front, but being able to buy bulk and shop sales (vac and freeze immediately), it has paid for itself. I do have an immersion circulator as well, and while I don't necessarily do steaks and such, I buy pork shoulder and cheap beef and spice them up (southwest) in smaller packs. I sous vide them, cool and freeze. Pull out one here, one there. I can do beef and pork (separate bags) together in a session. Toss in a pot of boiling water to warm up.
#44
Panini press!!
RP 2 years ago
100% get a flat one though. They are easier to clean and you can even fry eggs, pancakes, flapjacks etc on them
BewilderedBanana 2 years ago
I use parchment paper between the food and the grill plates and very rarely have to clean anything
#48
Meat masher. Hate mashing up ground beef with a spatula or rubber spoon. Never heard of a meat masher (and I've cooked for years.) I felt really dumb when I saw one on YouTube and I was like, "WOW how come I never thought of that and looked for a meat mashing tool???" Got one now! LOVE love LoVe it! Just FYI to others out there like me who never had one before - if you get one - don't use it on potatoes. Huge mess, they stick all over it and it's too hard to get them out. Just don't.
#49
The melon baller is great for taking scoops out of cupcakes for putting curd or jam in
Megan Curl 2 years ago
Also great for taking the center core out of apples or pits out of small stone fruits.
#51
Cherry pitter for sure! Kids got us one that does 5 or 6 at a time. We both thought it was ridiculous, but they said we thought it was silly, but it's fun to use. And it is. KitchenAid mixer-- I discovered I enjoy making homemade pizzas and the dough hook makes it possible (arthritis). Also shredding hot meat is fast and easy. Salad spinner with large and small bowl. Even if I only use the baskets to rinse and I dry with a towel it gets used every day. Tschitokatoka replied: I used to look at cherry season with the pitting process in mind and it held me back. Such a small price to pay for the freedom and ease it provides to the menu.
#52
Apple corer/slicer we eat alot of apples lol excellent with tajin
Argle Bargle 2 years ago
Anyone got an apple peeler, corer and curler? My kids used to love curly apples
#53
I bought an electric smoker. Holy c**p is it good. No messing about with coal. Set it up and let it run. Just have to replace the chips every hour or so. Got a WiFi thermometer to go with it. Now I can set alarms that tell me when I need to flip/move/baste/uncover/cover things based on inner temp. It lets me cook perfect smoked brisket every time. Incredibly low effort. Incredibly good food.
Cyber Returns 2 years ago
Bought a Ninja Woodfire. Roast and smoke a whole chicken with hickory chips and you will be looking for other stuff to put in it too
#54
A 30-inch Boos block cutting board. It’s like moving from a dinky 13” laptop to a giant and powerful desktop computer.
#55
Plastic razor blade scraper. It’s like the regular razor blade scraper but doesn’t harm things like a wooden cutting board. Have something stuck anywhere and scrape it right off. Counters, sink, cutting board. Stuck stuff comes right off
#56
Silicone tube to remove garlic skins with
Hugh Cookson 2 years ago
Even easier, get an old, clean towel, roll up however many garlic cloves you want to peel in it, fold the ends over to make a seal (like a big doughnut) then gently smack the whole thing with a rolling pin ; the skins fall off, you can easily retrieve the garlic - unless you've been a bit over enthusiastic, in which case it's a tad messy - and then all you need to do is gather up the corners of the tea towel and chuck the skins / odd bits into the compost or your food waste.
#58
The only regret i have about buying my rice cooker is that I didn't get a bigger one, doesn't leave alot for leftovers when we're done with dinner
Robin Roper 2 years ago
I'm married to a Japanese man, we have 2 - a small for our everyday use and a large one for when we have company or family meals. These are essential small appliances in our house.
#59
Instant Pot. An electric pressure cooker. I don't use it for anything else and it's incredible at making broths, beans, and probably a binch of other things I don't do with them.
Cora Han 2 years ago
It's AWESOME at making hard boiled eggs. Add a cup of water and set the pressure timer for 5 minutes. As soon as it's done, release the presssure and put cold water in with the hot to almost full. It' won't chill the eggs, but get them just cool enough to handle. Peel immediately and the shells just fall off!
#60
My most recent purchase was 8th sheet pans. They're so multi-functional. I also purchased a dutch oven, but in hindsight I think I should have gotten the braiser.
#62
Sizzle trays and kitchen tweezers. I find tweezers so much easier than tongs in most of my home applications, and reheating leftovers on a sizzle tray in the oven. Perfect.
#63
Avocado slicer. I bought it purely out of curiosity but it works really nicely.
Bouche and Audi and Shyla, Oh My! 2 years ago
Just don't put the avocado on your toast, or you'll never be able to buy a house.
#64
Butter curler. I used it exclusively for taking out the seeds of squash, but now I can't find it 😔
What do you think ?
Jeremy James 2 years ago
One of my game-changers was an oven thermometer that hangs from the rack. Now I know that when my elderly oven claims it's at 400°F, it's actually at 430°F.
Aaron Rohde 2 years ago
If it's one of the 'twist the k**b to number' ovens, some of them have an adjustment plate/screw combo so you can bring it back into line
Load More Replies...
VonBlade 2 years ago
As we've got a lot of kitchen-y people here, anyone else do the double-click tongs thing before using them? As if the tongs would stop working.
Cathy Jo Baker 2 years ago
You HAVE to click the tongs twice before using. It's in the rules!
Load More Replies... The Starsong Princess 2 years ago
My ninja Creami ice cream maker. Life changing. I love ice cream but I am lactose intolerant. With the Creami, I can make dairy free, low calorie ( using sugar substitutes) ice creams that are quick with very little mess.
BravePanda 2 years ago
A set of good knives. Not spectacular knives, just solid and decent. Life is so much easier. I have one exceptional knife and every time I use it, I can't get over the difference and I've owned it for 8 years and use it daily. Still, everytine.
Joann Hart 2 years ago
Sharp knives, nothing drives me more nuts than dull kitchen knives
Load More Replies...
Kaylla Steadman 2 years ago
My two favorites are an electric peeler. It seems ridiculous but I can’t physically handle a peeler and if I want apples I can’t eat the skin. We’ve used it to help with other things too. My second favorite is a plastic pizza cutter. Mine is like a wheel on a car, the blade part is inside a round handle so it is only a circle shape. (Hopefully that makes sense) I love it because I can’t use knives, I cut sandwiches, cooked meats, cheese, quesadillas, and anything else. Funnily enough I have never used it for pizza.
SirWriteALot 2 years ago
Game changer for me: proper knives. Buy good knives and take care of them. No dishwasher.
Suzy Creamcheese 2 years ago
A lot of these would be nice to have, but I don't have space for things that might get used every three or four months.
Pterodactyl in Disguise 2 years ago
Can we just let others live with their decisions on micro plane vs cheese grater or whatever it was called and random tool vs other random tool? You get what works best for you, and if others are curious, tell them what works for you and they might like it too! If the don’t, it’s not the end of the world, you can like ice cream scoops more than cookie scoops or whatever. Anyways, I loved this list and now want to go upgrade my entire kitchen!
Jeremy James 2 years ago
One of my game-changers was an oven thermometer that hangs from the rack. Now I know that when my elderly oven claims it's at 400°F, it's actually at 430°F.
Aaron Rohde 2 years ago
If it's one of the 'twist the k**b to number' ovens, some of them have an adjustment plate/screw combo so you can bring it back into line
Load More Replies... VonBlade 2 years ago
As we've got a lot of kitchen-y people here, anyone else do the double-click tongs thing before using them? As if the tongs would stop working.
Cathy Jo Baker 2 years ago
You HAVE to click the tongs twice before using. It's in the rules!
Load More Replies... The Starsong Princess 2 years ago
My ninja Creami ice cream maker. Life changing. I love ice cream but I am lactose intolerant. With the Creami, I can make dairy free, low calorie ( using sugar substitutes) ice creams that are quick with very little mess.
BravePanda 2 years ago
A set of good knives. Not spectacular knives, just solid and decent. Life is so much easier. I have one exceptional knife and every time I use it, I can't get over the difference and I've owned it for 8 years and use it daily. Still, everytine.
Joann Hart 2 years ago
Sharp knives, nothing drives me more nuts than dull kitchen knives
Load More Replies... Kaylla Steadman 2 years ago
My two favorites are an electric peeler. It seems ridiculous but I can’t physically handle a peeler and if I want apples I can’t eat the skin. We’ve used it to help with other things too. My second favorite is a plastic pizza cutter. Mine is like a wheel on a car, the blade part is inside a round handle so it is only a circle shape. (Hopefully that makes sense) I love it because I can’t use knives, I cut sandwiches, cooked meats, cheese, quesadillas, and anything else. Funnily enough I have never used it for pizza.
SirWriteALot 2 years ago
Game changer for me: proper knives. Buy good knives and take care of them. No dishwasher.
Suzy Creamcheese 2 years ago
A lot of these would be nice to have, but I don't have space for things that might get used every three or four months.
Pterodactyl in Disguise 2 years ago
Can we just let others live with their decisions on micro plane vs cheese grater or whatever it was called and random tool vs other random tool? You get what works best for you, and if others are curious, tell them what works for you and they might like it too! If the don’t, it’s not the end of the world, you can like ice cream scoops more than cookie scoops or whatever. Anyways, I loved this list and now want to go upgrade my entire kitchen!
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