Today there are so many kitchen tools and appliances available on the market that many people feel confused and overwhelmed. Is it possible to narrow the list to just a few essentials? What about all those trendy gadgets your friends buy every time they see a new ad? How can you make your kitchen more practical and convenient?

Kitchens come in all sorts of designs, shapes, and sizes. Some of them lack the space for big gadgets, while others have that luxury. Yet, there are items that every kitchen absolutely must have, no matter the size. These 6 items have multiple uses and they are worth the investment. With the right equipment, cooking is faster, easier, and more enjoyable. Read our simple guide and find out which items every household must own.

Blender

If you want to make nutritious food tasty and easy to consume, a blender is the right answer for you. One of the many benefits is that blenders can turn fruits and veggies into drinks and desserts you will enjoy. They are amazing for families with children. If your child doesn’t want to eat their greens you can sneak them into a tasty smoothie and we guarantee they will love it. You can also make incredible protein shakes to consume after a workout, or as a healthy snack. If you want to indulge you can make a milkshake or a frozen margarita.

Blenders don’t have to be expensive at all. In fact, you can easily buy a good one for under $150. Reviews and guides on this site will help you decide what kind of blender is the best for your needs. Some people want them to look nice and sleek in their trendy kitchen. Others just want the least noisy one. But most of us prefer blenders that are easy to clean.

Knives

A set of quality knives is the best way to invest in your kitchen. You usually don’t need more than 3 but, if you really enjoy cooking, a set of 6 is the best option. Many people have countless knives that are complete rubbish. It’s better to spend your money on just a few quality ones that will make food prep quick and easy. Make sure you have a large chef’s knife you will use for slicing meat and vegetables, a serrated-edge knife for bread and baked goods, and one smaller knife for finer cutting.

Non-Stick Frying Pan

This is the item every household needs. It’s great for making pancakes and eggs without adding a lot of oil, but you can use it for sauteing vegetables, searing meat, and making sauces, as well. Make sure you don’t scratch it or damage it with abrasive tools. Always use a soft sponge and mild cleaning products. When it comes to materials, experts recommend going with aluminum or stainless steel. You can always buy a two-piece set so that you can cook different things at the same time and have different sizes for various meals.

Measuring Cups

Measuring cups are absolutely essential, especially if you like to bake. They are also very useful for everyday cooking and often necessary if you are following recipes strictly. The recommendations are to have at least 4 different sizes for measuring dry and liquid ingredients. Also, consider investing in a one-liter measuring cup, as it will make measuring liquids a lot more efficient. It’s very convenient for making sauces and dressings, too.

Cutting Boards

Cutting board is crucial because it protects both your knives and your countertops. However, don’t forget the hygienic reasons as well. Cutting boards make the cleaning process easier, too. Make sure you have at least two cutting boards – one can be made of plastic and the other one of wood. This way you can cut your meat on one board only (preferably on a plastic one) and avoid the risk of cross-contamination. Cut everything else on your other board and never use the same board for raw meat and other food.

Large Pot

Many people have numerous small pots and don’t know what they are missing. A large pot is essential and it offers flexibility and versatility. It’s best for cooking soups, stews, pasta, or potatoes. When you invest in one it will last for a long time and make your life easier.

Now that you have a list of kitchen essentials, it’s time to go shopping! Enjoying your food and the cooking process. Nothing can compare to that feeling of joy when you sit with your family and friends at a dinner table and appreciate a home-cooked meal. These kitchen items will make your cooking easier and inspire you to prepare your own food every day.