Whether your current cookware has seen better days or you want some fresh crockery for your new place, consider these essential kitchen pieces! From a Dutch oven to griddle sets, we’ll have you fashionably searing, steaming and sautéing in no time. Cookware comes in several shapes, sizes and metals—which include cast iron, copper, non-stick and stainless steel. Check out our list of the best equipment for any cooking need and get ready to embrace your inner Julia Child!
Frying Pan
The frying pan (or skillet) is a kitchen staple and lovely for cooking meat and vegetables. Non-stick and stainless-steel pans require minimal maintenance; cast iron needs to be wiped rather than washed; and copper should be polished. Frying pans are also great for just browning food!
Griddle
From pancakes to eggs, a round griddle is an essential piece of stovetop cookware. While a frying pan has higher sides, griddles are more flat and usually made of aluminum (non-stick) or stainless steel; larger ones are longer and wonderful for making burgers. Griddle sets come in handy as many include accessories like scrubbing brushes and scrapers.
Sauté Pan
Sautéing requires less time and oil but needs a higher heat. It's not deep-frying, so your oil (butter) amount should just cover the pan’s surface; pieces that bake to the bottom can be used to make sauces! Another important tip: sufficiently preheat your pan or food will dry up.
Rectangular or Oval Bakers
If you adore “Lasagna Tuesdays,” opt for a rectangular dish. Are you more of a baker? Choose round pans! Both are excellent cookware pieces, however, so go ahead and invest in both. From cakes and chicken to salmon and squash, these are extremely fundamental, durable and versatile kitchen accessories!
Wok
Best for making stir-fry, woks are round, deep and several come with lids to help steam, simmer or braise your fare. With two side handles, a wok is easy to grip. You should expect to hear sizzling as the combination of heat, oil, seasoning and your food’s natural juices create a loud crackling sound!
Dutch Oven
This piece of cookware proves that bigger is better! When cooking for large groups or making a dish to last a while, the Dutch oven is a heavy pot or kettle with a tight-fitting lid to lock in flavour. It’s ideal for cooking baked beans, pot roast, dumplings and soups and can also be used outdoors for barbecues and big gatherings.
Tea Kettle
A flash of nostalgia seems to accompany the sharp whistle of a stove kettle like it’s tea time at your grandmother’s. Commonly made of metal, steel or iron, this simple piece of cookware proves that if you can boil water, you can do anything! Opt for an ornate look by buying an antique copper or porcelain kettle.
Crock-pot
Similar to the Dutch oven in size, the crock-pot is a convenient way to make your meal with minimal supervision! Its best features? It creates large quantities; your recipe can cook and simmer throughout the day; and you don’t have to stir or add water. Some ingredients break down during the process so ingredients like milk, cream and seafood should be added at the end. Think: lamb, pork, casseroles and stews.
Additional Reading: “Eat Well” and “Silverware 101” provide even more information on essential kitchen equipment!
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