I’m guessing if I logged my hours outside of work, most of them would be spent in the kitchen. Well, that and logged in here. Even though I’m in the kitchen a lot, I still consider myself a beginner when it comes to cooking and baking. Especially baking. I enjoy cooking much more. It’s been a little over five years since I started exploring the kitchen seriously. And I feel like it’s going to be five more before I really feel like I know what I’m doing. Regardless, over the years, I’ve definitely found a handful of kitchen essentials I just can’t live without. They include anything from small tools to appliances, but I’ve rounded up my top five for you below.
Williams Sonoma Goldtouch Bakeware
To be fair, we registered for this entire collection and received all of it as wedding gifts (so thankful), but I truly believe these pieces are worth every penny. I’ve had “nonstick” pans before, but nothing compares to the Goldtouch from Williams Sonoma. Banana muffins slide right out of the pan without a wrapper, cookies never stick and meatloaf bakes with ease. I’ve got my mom hooked, so you’re next.
Williams Sonoma Fry Pans
Ok, yes, I would stock my kitchen with Williams Sonoma if I could. But their products speak for themselves. Until I started cooking more regularly, I didn’t realize how important it is to have nice fry pans. I use them every single day. I’m not much of a baker, so these pans get a workout. And they’ve held up – they cook food evenly, nothing sticks (again) and they still look brand new. Three plus years later.
Prep Bowls
Ok, I don’t care where you get your prep bowls from. Or what brand they are. I simply say, every kitchen needs some! I have one set of four of the same size and I use them all the time. Especially when doing stir fry or soup. I dice up all my ingredients and use my handy prep bowls until it’s time to dump them into the mix. They’re also great for baking (you know, the wet vs dry ingredient thing). Some people would argue a cereal bowl works just fine, but it’s different. It’s just different. Get some and I guarantee you’ll feel the same way.
Dutch Oven
Man, oh, man. I actually thought having one of these would be a waste. I thought I’d never use it. They’re heavy and take up space, but I love my dutch oven so much. I use it every time we make soup and it makes me very happy. They heat up nice and evenly, they stay warm for hours and they’re just great. Don’t get worked up about spending too much money on Le Creuset – even though those are beautiful – mine is from Kohls & under $75. Works great.
KitchenAid
I don’t even bake that much and I use this thing all the time. Again, a registry item that I gratefully received as a gift. But if you’re ever considering making the investment, I say go for it. Not only is it such a good mixer, but the attachments are amazing! I’ve made zucchini noodles, pasta (a personal fav), bread, and obviously, chocolate chip cookies. Plus, doesn’t it look great sitting out on the counter? Functional & good design. You know I’m a fan of that.
Do you have any favorite kitchen essentials?
All items listed above can be shopped here!
xoxo. B
I love posts like these! Yes to prep bowls, and a dutch oven is still on my kitchen wish list. Glad to know that it’s worth having!
You will love a dutch oven. I almost had to be talked into it, but absolutely love it now!