Set up your kitchen

When I create or look for recipes, I always look to see what tools they require. Sure, some recipes might need a one-off (such as my amazing Montreal Smoked Meat, you kinda need a smoker to cook it). So here is a list of what I think you need to set up your kitchen. There are some kitchen basics that all kitchens need to be functional. I also have a second list of great tools that some feasts and those who want to experiment might want to consider for their kitchen!

The Basics List

Just like it sounds, the ‘basic’ list is all about the stuff you should really prioritize for your kitchen. You don’t need the most amazing equipment on this list, so do stay within your budget. For example, I’d love to own a Damascus steel chefs knife. Ok, they do look AMAZING, and I’d love to own one. However, I own a really good Global knife and a Wüsthof, not to mention one from Misen. So really I should be looking at offloading some of these rather than spending a small fortune on a Damascus or a custom made one.

That said, for some items, it is worth spending a bit more to get a really good product. I used to buy a standard baking sheet from the grocery store until I upgraded to a Nordicware one. I won’t be going back, the Nordicware one is just awesome.

• Mixing bowl
  • You want a good mixing bowl that is big enough that you can make a good loaf or two of bread in it. However, spending a bit of money gets you a really nice one that can also be used as a serving platter.
  • Budget option
  • Really good one (I own one of these and love it)
  • The ‘What’s a Budget?’ option

• Mixing Spoon and spatula
• You need one. It doesn’t have to be fancy, just a good sturdy one.
• Non-stick frying pan
• Baking sheet pan
  • I’ve said it before, I love my Nordicware sheet pan.
• Wire rack
• Ziplock bags
• Chef’s Knife
  • This is a good budget option
  • I personally use this
  • I WISH I owned one of these!
• Foil wrap
• Plastic containers
• Cutting board

The Extra Bit

So when you set up your kitchen, the Extra Bit are things that are nice to have and can make your life easier. Plus you can get some amazing food. That doesn’t mean you need it, there are workarounds, but it is nice to have. On our feasts, some of these make frequent appearances,

• Grill Pan
• Cast Iron Pan
  • This is a great pan, I own one of these and swear by it
  • If you want an amazing pan, but don’t want to season it, this is perfect.
• Serving platter
• Big-serving bowl/salad bowl
• Food processor
• Hand blender
• Juicer
• Fancy wine glasses (TBH, we use IKEA tumblers half the time as they clean up easily in the dishwasher!)