My husband and I were cleaning up after supper last night and we were talking about the things that bring joy in our lives and one of those things are delicious heartwarming food. Having good kitchen utensils helps immensely with this, so I thought I’d share my favorite kitchen utensils and equipment with you guys. Foodies gotta foodsie, Ammiright?
Know that anything I share is something my hubby and I adore. I only share things that I love and use. And who knows, maybe my favorite kitchen staples will become your next favorite go to in the kitchen?
1. Stand mixer
My mint-colored KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer is one of my all-time favorite kitchen tools. As a busy entrepreneur, I'm always on the lookout for ways to streamline my life and make things easier. And If I can make cooking easier, that's a bonus!
I've been using mine for years now, and I absolutely love it. It's a little pricier than some of the other options out there, but trust me, it's totally worth the investment. Not only does it look stunning on my countertop (hello, gorgeous colors!), but it's incredibly versatile and can handle everything from whipping cream to kneading dough. And my favorite thing to make with it is banana bread and cheesy buns. Let’s talk about YUM!
The mixing bowl is large enough to handle even the biggest batches of dough, and the various attachments (including a dough hook, wire whisk, and flat beater) make it a breeze to switch between tasks. Plus, the mixer is super powerful and can handle even the toughest ingredients with ease.
2. My Ninja Blender
I used to have an Oster Blender but it left much to be desired. It was so clunky and just felt prehistoric. So when I saw the Ninja Blender, I had to try it. Especially since we love smoothies and more.
This blender has been a total game-changer for me! I love that there are several different speed settings and the sharp blades are perfect for chopping veggies. I also love using it as a food processor with nuts and other things.
If you’re looking for a blender, this is the one you’ll want to add to your kitchen.
3. Spiralizer
This tool is small and cheap, but it packs a punch. It’s one of my favorite tools in the kitchen. You can turn your zucchini into noodles! Love to sauté them over some olive oil with minced garlic. YUM… and then toss them into some marinara sauce. Delish!
4. Cookie spatula
You ABSOLUTELY NEED a cookie spatula in your kitchen. Now, you're probably thinking "Devin, it's just a spatula . . . what's the big deal?" Oh let me tell you, this kitchen tool may look small, but she is mighty. A #GameChanger
First of all, have you ever tried using a "normal" spatula to remove a freshly baked cookie? It's a nightmare. It either squishes or crumbles, leaving much to be desired. You're left with a sad mess. But with a cookie spatula, it's magic. It slides that cookie off like magic.
And honestly, I use this for other things than just cookies. I love using it to make eggs. They flip so nicely. Just promise me you'll #AddToCart!
5. Bread machine
I know what you might be thinking, "Why should I get a bread machine when I can just buy bread from the store?"
Having a bread machine is miraculous. It's incredibly easy to use. All you have to do is add your ingredients, and the machine does the rest. It's that easy.
You don't need to knead the dough or worry about the rising process. The bread machine takes care of everything for you, which means you can spend your time doing other things while your bread bakes. #WorkSmarterNotHarder! :) Ammiright?
Plus, this means you can have fresh bread whenever you want. Admit it, there's NOTHING in the world like fresh bread baking in your kitchen. And if you don't know what that's like you have to experience it once, because then you won't go back.
Another thing I love about it, is how you get to customize your bread to your liking. I make a rosemary parmesan bread that I love and then also a delicious pizza bread. #ForTheWin You can even make sourdough or something else entirely.
Plus, if you go through a ton of bread like our family does, then having a bread machine is a great way to save on money. Buying bread from the store can get expensive, especially if you prefer artisanal or specialty bread. With a bread machine, you can make your own bread for a fraction of the cost. Plus, you'll know exactly what ingredients are in your bread, which is especially important if you have any dietary restrictions or just want to eat better.
6. Dehydrator
As you may know, I'm a firm believer in taking care of yourself and your loved ones, and one way way to do that is by eating healthy and delicious food. And making sure your snacks are healthy too!
First of all, having a dehydrator is great for preserving your food without having to use any artificial preservatives or additives. #WINWIN It dries your veggies, fruit, and meats year round. I even dehydrate the mint from my garden for tea I can enjoy all year round.
I always dehydrate fruit chips and put them in baggies that my hubby and I can take to work or enjoy while traveling. Plus, with how expensive things have been lately, bananas are some of the cheapest fruit in our grocery stores so whenever I go to the store I usually grab 2-4 bunches of bananas to turn into banana chips and nice cream.
You can also get special trays to make fruit leather. Which is YUM! Since my husband is South African, he also makes a traditional South African meat snack called biltong and droëwors and he uses the dehydrator to dry it. It's a tasty meat snack kind of like jerky but way better.
7. Air fryer
I'm all for using things that make cooking easier so I can enjoy delicious foods that nourish my body. It's a great way to cook your favorite foods all without using a lot of oil. #YayForYummyAndHealthy
It uses hot air to cook your food, so you can enjoy the crispy and crunchy food guilt free of deep frying (this one is VERY SIMILAR to ours).
I absolutely love my air fryer because it's a 3-in-one. You can air fry, toast, and cook in it. I definitely recommend mine. Also love that it's stainless steel and not made of plastic.
8. Instant pot
Why work harder in the kitchen when you are already working hard the rest of the day? You might be seeing a reoccurring theme here. Anything that helps me get dinner on the table quicker and easier is a win for me especially since I'm already short on time. #Winning
If you aren't familiar with the Instant Pot, it's an all-in-one appliance than can do everything from pressure cooking and slow cooking to sautéing and steaming. You can cook all things from one-pot dishes to soups and pasta. Even desserts.
9. Rice cooker
Now you might be wondering "Devin, why do I need an Instant Pot and a rice cooker?" Well, let me tell you why. I love throwing the main dish in my Instant Pot and then I throw the rice or quinoa in my rice cooker. And then the machines make the meal for me.
A rice cooker takes the guesswork out of cooking the rice. Sometimes cooking rice can be a bit tricky and I like that this makes the perfect rice while also cleaning up nice and easy with the non-stick inner pot.
10. Wooden spoon set
I absolutely love wooden spoons. They aren't just a trend, but using wooden spoons is a time-honored tradition that is passed down through generations. And for good reason. They last.
PLUS, they don't scratch your skillets. I love using the ones from NorthernFern wooden spoons. They are handmade in Minnesota with wood that's been expertly chosen.
11. Fancy measurement cups
I have a Pampered Chef adjustable measuring cup and I love it. You can measure solids and liquids with it. I found this one that's similar and not as expensive.
You Need The Right Kitchen Tools
Cooking is an art that requires skill, patience, and the right tools. When it comes to creating delicious meals, having the right kitchen utensils makes all the difference. As someone who loves food and cooking with my husband, I've really grown fond of these kitchen appliances and I hope you give them a try and that they rock your cooking world!
Let me know in the comments, do you have any favorite cooking appliances? If so, what are they?
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