Hey there, fellow moms! Let’s talk about something that makes our hectic lives a little more manageable and a lot more enjoyable: having the right kitchen tools. As a mom of two, I’ve learned that the right kitchen essentials can turn cooking from a chore into a delightful experience. Today, I want to share my top picks for kitchen essentials that have made my life easier, my meals tastier, and my time in the kitchen more enjoyable.
1. Dutch Oven
Versatility and Durability
If there’s one item in my kitchen I absolutely couldn’t live without, it’s my Dutch oven. This beauty can do it all – from braising meats to baking bread and even simmering stews. Its versatility is unmatched, and it’s built to last. I’ve had mine for a few years, and it’s still going strong. Plus, it goes from stovetop to oven, which is a lifesaver when you’re trying to multitask.
Favorite Dishes
My favorite dishes to make in the Dutch oven is any kind of soup, the flavors just hit different. I love how it can handle the slow cooking needed to make the meat tender and the flavors meld together perfectly. Another go-to is homemade bread – there’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh sourdough bread baking in a Dutch oven. It’s also perfect for casseroles and soups, making it a true kitchen essential. If you are looking for a good Dutch oven, I will link mine here.
2. Mixer
Baking Made Easy
Baking is one of my favorite ways to unwind, and my stand mixer is my best friend in the kitchen. Whether I’m whipping up a batch of cookies, mixing bread dough, or making frosting, my mixer saves me so much time and effort. It’s like having an extra pair of hands, and who couldn’t use that?
Must-Try Recipes
If you haven’t tried making homemade pizza dough with a stand mixer, you’re missing out. It’s so much easier than kneading by hand, and the results are amazing. I also love using it for cakes and muffins – the batter comes together so quickly and smoothly, and it takes a lot of the stress out of baking. I grew up using a Kitchen Aid Mixer and that is still my favorite, you can find it here.
3. Air Fryer and Instapot
Quick and Healthy Cooking
Let’s talk about the dynamic duo: the air fryer and Instapot. The air fryer has revolutionized how I make quick, healthy meals for my family. From crispy chicken wings to roasted veggies, it does it all with minimal oil. The Instapot, on the other hand, is a miracle worker for fast, pressure-cooked meals. When I’m short on time but still want to serve a home-cooked meal, these two gadgets are my go-tos.
Favorite Uses
We love to use our air fryer for fries, chicken tenders or nuggets, and really anything that could have been deep fried. It’s so much healthier than deep-fried, and even the kids love them. For the Instapot, I frequently make a quick beef stew or a batch of perfect rice. It’s also fantastic for making yogurt and even baking cakes! I have the Ninja Foodi Deluxe XL Pressure Cooker and Air Fryer, I love it because it is one small appliance to store instead of two. If need to save on space too, you can find it here.
4. Crockpot
Slow Cooking Magic
There’s something magical about a crockpot. You can throw in your ingredients in the morning, set it, and forget it. By dinner time, you have a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort. It’s perfect for those busy days when you have a million things to do and still want to serve a nutritious dinner.
Best Recipes
Our family favorite is a classic chili – it’s hearty, flavorful, and the slow cooking process makes it incredibly rich. I also love making pulled pork in the crockpot; it’s so tender and juicy, perfect for sandwiches or tacos.
5. Blender
Smoothies and More
A good blender is indispensable in my kitchen. From making smoothies in the morning to blending soups and sauces, it’s incredibly versatile. Having a powerful blender makes a big difference, especially when you’re dealing with tough ingredients like ice or nuts.
6. Veggie Chopper
Time-Saving Tool
Chopping vegetables can be time-consuming, but a good veggie chopper can speed up the process significantly. It’s especially handy when you’re prepping for a big meal or want to get dinner on the table quickly.
Quick Tips
I love using my veggie chopper for making salsa or prepping ingredients. It’s also great for chopping onions without the tears! Just make sure to clean it right after use to keep it in good condition.
7. Recipe Keeper
Organize Your Culinary Creations
Keeping your recipes organized is key to efficient cooking. Whether you prefer a digital app or a physical recipe binder, having a dedicated place for your recipes makes meal planning and cooking so much easier. Don’t get burned like me and find a new recipe that your family loves and then go to make it again and the blog where you got it is no longer live.
Personal Favorites
I personally love using the Happy Planner Recipe Organizer. I like that you can add more pages to each section if you need to. And some day my boys may love it because the recipes are all handwritten and family favorites. It’s so convenient to have all my recipes in one place.
8. Cast Iron Pans
Cooking with Tradition
Cast iron pans are a must-have in any kitchen. They’re incredibly durable, retain heat well, and can go from stovetop to oven. With proper care, they can last a lifetime and even be passed down to the next generation. I personally prefer the vintage cast iron compared to the newer Lodge cast iron pans due to them being truly non-stick. The best places for finding vintage cast iron is thrift stores, estate sales, and yard sales.
9. Knife Set
The Backbone of the Kitchen
A good knife set is essential for any home cook. It makes prep work faster and safer, and having the right knife for each task can make a huge difference in your cooking experience. Also proper care will extend their lifespan and keep them performing well.
10. 9×13 Pans and Cookie Sheets
Baking Essentials
9×13 pans and cookie sheets are staples in my kitchen. They’re incredibly versatile and essential for baking and cooking a variety of dishes.
Baking Favorites
I use my 9×13 pans for everything from lasagna to casseroles and cakes. They’re perfect for big family meals and potlucks. I personally love the Pyrex pans, you can find them here. My cookie sheets get a workout with everything from cookies to sheet pan dinners – they’re indispensable. I love the ones in Sam’s Club, here are some similar ones.
11. Assorted Utensils
Tools of the Trade
Having a variety of utensils makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable. Spatulas, whisks, tongs, and other tools are essential for different cooking tasks.
Must-Have Utensils
Some of my must-have utensils include a good spatula, a sturdy whisk, and silicone tongs. They make cooking easier and help ensure your food turns out just right. Here is a set that includes the basics for starting a kitchen.
12. Coffee Machine
Morning Essential
For many of us, coffee is a vital part of the morning routine. A good coffee machine can make a huge difference in starting the day off right. Personally I love anything coffee and all the coffee gadgets. To be honest, coffee is the best part of my day! My favorite French Press is here. I also love the Nepresso Vertuo Plus Deluxe by Breville, my hubby got it for my birthday a couple years ago. You can find it here.
Conclusion: Equip Your Kitchen for Success
There you have it – my top picks for kitchen essentials that make cooking easier, more efficient, and a lot more fun. Investing in quality tools can transform your time in the kitchen and help you create delicious meals for your family. Remember, the right kitchen essentials are not just about convenience; they’re about making your cooking experience enjoyable and stress-free. So go ahead, equip your kitchen with these must-haves and enjoy the joy of cooking!
If you have any favorite kitchen tools or tips, I’d love to hear about them in the comments!
Some pictures are from pexel.com
