Chef-Approved Tools of the Trade

When it comes to cooking, having the right tools is just as important as having the right ingredients. There are literally thousands of utensils to choose from and it seems like a new, gimmicky gadget pops up every day.

To cut down on countertop clutter and kitchen-drawer disarray, I’ve put together a list of the top 5 tools every at-home chef should own (no tool belt required):


1. 10” Global Heavy Duty Chef Knife - I honestly can’t work in, own or borrow a kitchen if I don't have one of these on me. Without a chef knife, there is no chef!

2. 8" Heavy Duty Tongs - These are literally an extension of your hands, and you’ll wonder how you ever got along without them. Flip, stir, toss … the options are
limitless.

3. Taylor Cooking Thermometer - This crucial contraption helps ensure that food is cooked to a safe temperature and is “done” perfectly.

4. 10” Piano Whip (Whisk) - You’ll be making sweet, culinary music with this tool in hand. The wires have a thinner gage, so you’ll find it really useful when whipping up an emulsified dressing or making a meringue.

5. Fish Spatula - This lightweight, go-to gizmo slides neatly beneath fish without breaking the delicate flesh. The slots allow cooking oil or poaching liquid to drain back into the pan.


You can find most of these items at your local kitchen supply store, but all are available online from a variety of merchants. They’re not the only tools you’ll need, but they’re certainly ones to put at the top of your list when you’re ready to get cooking!