Kitchen Essentials
When I tell people what I do for a living, I get asked the same questions most of the time: who’s your favourite Chef, what’s your favourite restaurant, your favourite meal, do you ever eat in McDonalds (I’m not proud at saying the answer is yes, sometimes). I got asked a different type of question the other day, I think the person must have had an older child about to flee the nest: ‘If I gave you £100 to spend on non-food kitchen essentials, what would I spend it on?”
While I’ve had the same set of knives since I first started out (given to me by my gran) I admit, like any chef, I love spending money on shiny new toys. But essentials? That’s a harder one to fathom, here’s a few suggestions. You should get a few quid change out of £100 – enough, if all else fails, for the budding cook to buy a takeaway…
Victorinox Pastry Knife £20.00
This high carbon stainless steel blade is razor sharp, and ice tempered to retain that sharpness longer. The soft-grip fibrox handle is also dishwasher safe.
Victorinox Pairing (tomato knife) £10
This super sharp tomato knife from Victorinox makes quick work of tomatoes and other soft fruit with hard exteriors, such as grapes and cucumber. The serrated blade ensures a clean cut through the skin without crushing the fruit itself.
Oxo Good Grips Peeler £10
Sharp, hardened stainless steel blade. A soft, comfortable, non-slip handle cushions during repetitive peeling motion. It’s also got a built-in potato eyer, removable cover protects blade and dishwasher safe.
Mini blender stick with attachments £20 (doesn’t have to be Bodium)
Look for a stick with a couple of easy-to-use stainless steel attachments. Best if you can find a push button power control for easy, one handed blending and an ergonomically designed handle for a comfortable grip/control.
High Heat Spoonula £8
Suitable for use up to 260°. Easy to use and good quality.
Re-usable non-stick baking mat £8
Safely prep and cook bisctuis, pastries, candy, meats, veggies and more.
Good quality Palette Knife £10
Angled blade, lightweight and easy to use – you’ll need this for all baking.
High quality Whisk (non-electric) £4
Get one that’s comfortable, nonslip handle, wet or dry. And dishwasher safe.