Which kitchen items are absolutely necessary? Let’s take a look at mine and examine things from a hygiene and safety perspective too. There are just a few things that make life really easy.
The kitchen needn’t be a complicated place, really, or cost a fortune either. The most expensive thing in my our kitchen is the electric wok - and I wouldn’t have it if we had gas here.
In the picture above we can see the staple items that keep my our kitchen moving.
Electric Wok
A large fry pan would do the same thing 90% of the time, however I really prefer a wok for most frying tasks as it’s much easier to fry a large amount of food in. The high sides mean less flying broccoli will make it out of the pan. Obviously gas is the environmentally friendly choice but for us there wasn’t a choice (and I’m a little scared of gas, since I had that dream… more on that in another blog…).
Oh, and if you’re going to buy one, look for one with the heating element as an actual part of the wok, not the base (as above). IT will be far hotter and more energy efficient. Ours is a Kambrook but I believe Breville is also a good choice. You should be able to take off the bottom in the store and see the element for yourself. Make sure it can serve over 2000 watts as well, or your electric wok will be become a soup cooker.
Knife
Although it doesn’t matter what knife you are using, a cheap serrated knife will have safety advantages. You (or your friends kids) will have to place far more pressure on the blade to be injured by it. It’s also much easier to cut with even compared to the super sharp dangerous and scary type of knives I used to cut myself with.
Cutting Board
I don’t like the cutting board in this picture but it was a freeby. It’s wooden surface is porous, so it’s difficult to clean and dry and more likely to carry bacteria. I think the best option for a cutting board would be glass or some other flat, wipeable surface.
Strainer
I find that keeping a strainer in the sink while cooking provides an easy place to dump “waste” such as vege off-cuts and packaging. Throw it in, allow the water to drain, and deal with the solid rubbish after (compost or whatever). It’ll save on constant hand washing.
Pots
Actually the pot in this picture is about the minimum size needed for cooking many items in bulk. At least it forces me to not cook too bulky… You will also notice that it’s black! I probably could have cleaned the underneath after using… live and learn.
Comments
Leave a Reply