The Starter Kitchen: Equipment

Let’s face it: while I can clean, design, decorate and even handle some major DIY projects my partner doesn’t even allow me to use his good knives or wash our cast-iron pans. When it comes to the kitchen, Kris is an absolute genius. I stole this post from his food blog, 500 Tasty Sandwiches; I think it’s very helpful to know the essential equipment for the kitchen. Just moving out on your own? Or transitioning from that tiny NYC kitchen to a large suburban kitchen? Read this and thank me later! You can also check out Kris’ post on The Starter Kitchen: Equipment, for more detailed information.

Cutlery (Yes, you only need three knives!)

• Ceramic paring knife
• Stainless steel bread knife
• Very good stainless steel santoku knife
• Kitchen scissors

Pots & Pans*

• 4-quart sauce pan with cover
• 10-inch nonstick frying pan
• Cast iron skillet
• Roasting pan

Tools

• Can opener
• Mortar and pestle
• French press
• Vegetable peeler
• Wine key

Utensils

• Kitchen Tongs
• Ladle
• Silicone spatula
• Spider (wire skimmer)
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon

Supplies

• Aluminum foil
• Baking soda
• Kitchen string
• Parchment paper
• White vinegar

Miscellaneous

• Colander
• Cutting board (Epicurean)
• Kettle
• 1-quart Pyrex measuring cup
• Measuring spoons
• Salad spinner
• Vintage set of nesting mixing bowls
• The Joy of Cooking

*Workhorse cookware from a restaurant supply store, not expensive showpieces (e.g., All-Clad from Williams-Sonoma or Sur La Table)