KITCHEN ESSENTIALS – Top Tools for the Cook
On occasion I’m asked to recommend tools or utensils to outfit those kitchen drawer organizers. Which are most useful can be subjective, so my default response is to consider the tools I use, if not daily, every week. Here are items I’d be lost without.
Citrus Reamer: Whether its Margarita time or just a dish that needs a little brightening; a reamer is a low cost, humble, tool that makes quick work of juicing citrus. I like the wood ones whose sharper edges are more effective than the stainless or plastic editions.
Micro Planer/Grater: Great for a quick garnish of parmesan or lemon zest. Plus freshly grated nutmeg bears no resemblance to that aging powder in your spice cupboard.
Peeler: If you’re eating your veggies, this would seem obvious 
Pastry Brush: Frankly I use these for brushing oil and marinades more often than an egg wash but, bakers and savory cooks alike can benefit from this inexpensive tool.
Twine: I love trussing a roast or chicken but, I get it if that’s not your thing, twine can be a great temporary binder for almost anything
Scissors: A good pair of kitchen shears will cut a host of foods better served by scissors than a knife. They open stubborn packaging to boot. Mine seem to be in constant use.
Silicone Spatulas: The greatest invention! Flexible yet tough, heat resistant, practically self-healing from stains, I can’t have too many of these in different sizes and shapes.
Measuring Spoons/Cups: I don’t measure 90% of ingredients I cook with but, what I do, really NEEDS to be measured.
Glass Condiment or custard cups: Always good for holding your prep work and storing small quantities
Strainers / Chinois: Call it a colander, china cap, sieve, or strainer some stuff just needs to be strained.
Wooden Spoons: The original utensil for non-stick pans and still a winner today.
Whisk: Whip it, whip it good. Not just for creams and batters, these make lump free sauces, of all kinds. Have a supply of different shapes and sizes.
Tongs: So many things to pick up, pluck out.
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