Must Have Tools

Below are some of my favorite tools that make life SO much easier when cooking. You don’t need them for my recipes but good to get a collection going.

Microplane

Quite frankly I would be lost without my microplane. Its so good for mincing garlic and ginger and of course lets not forget grating the snowiest of snow like Parmigiano cheese all over your pasta (or straight into your mouth). I got mine from MIGHTYape but you can get them all over the place!

A Great Cooks Knife

Every cook needs a great knife. At first I was drawn to the pretty ones but over time realized that my favorite were Wusthof. Don’t get me wrong Wusthof knives are pretty but more importantly they are sturdy and hold their edge very well. Great traits for home cooks who are perhaps not to good at sharpening. Which brings me to my next point… make sure you have a nice sharpening steel to go with your knife.

KitchenAid Stand Mixer

Honestly I don’t know how people get by without one of these. Not only does it do all the hard work for you, it looks F-ing gorgeous on the bench while it awaits your next creation. I am the proud owner of a shiny white KitchenAid stand mixer.

Oven-Proof Casserole Dish

I was a chef at The Engine Room (best restaurant in Auckland) for about 6 years. They are an owner operated business that made you feel like you were one big ol family! They brought the best Christmas presents for our team and one year I was lucky enough to receive a Le Creuset casserole dish. I use it for all sorts like baking sourdough loaves or roasting my favorite tomato sauce! You can get cheaper versions just make sure you get one that has a lid and is sturdy/safe enough to use on top of the oven as well as inside.

Mandoline Slicer

Where oh where would I be without my mandoline slicer! It saves me so much time I would have it to slice potatoes for dauphinoise or topping a potato focaccia alone! Just make sure when you do get one of these in your life, don’t be a hero…use the guard! they are so sharp and no one wants a trip to A&E.

Small Victorinox Serrated Knives

These little babies are a must in every kitchen. My gosh they are so handy and keep a decent edge on them for like ever! Probably not forever but mine have lasted a while! A good tip for knives, don’t ever put them in the dishwasher. They loose their edge. Just a nice soapy wash by hand thanks.