Moving into your very first apartment or home can be an incredibly thrilling experience. At the same time, the experience can also be one that is somewhat harrowing due to the sheer amount of furnishing, decor, and unpacking that awaits you. One of the most important rooms in the home that (we believe) should be the first on your priority list is the kitchen. Having a kitchen that contains all the essentials that you’ll need to prepare meals during the stressful period of unpacking can truly take a decent amount of weight off your shoulders. In today’s article, we have a look at the top 10 kitchen essentials for first-time homeowners, so read on to find out more!
1. The Versatile Hand Blender
Let’s face it – most new homeowners are up to their necks in expenses and not looking to splash out on fancy or expensive kitchen gadgets. If there is one thing that you definitely should add to your shopping list, it is a hand blender. Hand blenders are inexpensive, versatile, and a compact alternative to a large blender, which may take up too much space on your counter. Hand blenders are perfect for blending your morning smoothie, preparing condiments, and pureeing veggies and fruit in a jiffy. This is one thing every homeowner should have in their kitchen arsenal!
2. Quality Knife Block
When it comes to knives, always choose quality over quantity. Ideally, you’ll want to invest in a decent set of knives, but don’t fall for the marketing trap that often tells you you need 20 knives to channel your inner chef. In reality, all you will need is a high-quality chef’s knife, a paring knife, and a serrated knife. The combination of these three knives will be able to tackle any food preparation or recipe you’re attempting and is the perfect trio to start with your new kitchen.
Be sure to do some research and explore the new Premium Damascus Kitchen Knife Set | Faneema Cutlery collection and other trusted brands to find the perfect fit for your cooking needs. Keep in mind that these knives require proper care, so make sure you invest in a sturdy and reliable knife block to keep them organized and protected.
3. Kitchen Scale
A kitchen scale is one of the handiest and most inexpensive tools you can have in your kitchen. It is always said that measuring ingredients in weight instead of using measuring cups is one of the best ways to ensure that your recipes turn out perfectly, time and time again. Most kitchen scales come in at under $20 and are a worthy investment for anyone who enjoys cooking and baking.
4. Measuring Spoons
Measuring spoons are another must-have in any kitchen, as they enable you to be incredibly precise with the ingredients you are using. Conventional teaspoons and tablespoons are often inaccurate forms of measurement, especially when it comes to baking. Always look for a set of measuring spoons that have a long and narrow handle that easily reaches into jars and containers.
5. A Sheet Tray
Sheet trays are an incredibly versatile addition to any kitchen as they allow you to roast veggies, cook sheet pan dinners, and bake cookies – all on the same tray (but not at once, of course). Look for a rimmed sheet tray that is at least 30x40cm in length, which is perfect for basic roasting and baking.
6. Fine Mesh Sieve
A fine-mesh sieve is a perfect tool for draining noodles, rice, pasta, and even sifting ingredients such as flour, cocoa powder, and ground almonds. This versatile tool is also great for when you are making sauces, soups, and stocks for a lump-free and silky finish.
7. Basic Pots and Pans
Of course, a kitchen isn’t a kitchen without pots and pans. We highly recommend investing in a frying pan, a saucepan, a large stockpot, and a grill pan for starters. These four pans alone will allow you to cook up a wide variety of dishes with ease, making them the perfect starting point for your new kitchen.
8. Wooden Cutting Board
It’s time to get back to basics with a wooden cutting board. Although it may be tempting to opt for a cheap plastic or glass cutting board, chefs all around the world warn against this as these materials may damage your knives and get dangerously slippery. Opt for a board made out of walnut, hickory, oak, or bamboo for those who would prefer a non-wood alternative
9. Basic Cooking Utensils
Basic cooking utensils such as wooden spoons, slotted spoons, a ladle, skimmer, and slotted turner often come in inexpensive bundles that you can purchase at your local supermarket or discount store.
10. Metal Tongs
Last but not least, no kitchen is complete without a pair (or two) of metal tongs. For just a few dollars, you’ll be able to get yourself a pair of tongs that last you a lifetime. Tongs are perfect for grilling meat, cooking pasta, and great for serving family-style at the dinner table.
Regardless of where you source your tools from, we hope that this article has given you a little inspiration when it comes to getting your brand-new kitchen up and ready in your new home!
