I’ve done many blogs on tips and tricks for cooking and eating healthy, but many of you may have realized there is a planning process that takes place before you actually start cooking. This may be the first kitchen you’re left alone with, or you may just be ready to step up your cooking game. It’s important to have these tools in your kitchen before you begin your cooking journey. Here is a list of items you should have in your kitchen.

 

• Rice Cooker

 

Investing in a rice cooker will save your life. Forget wasting your time on figuring out if your rice is cooked or the stress you experience when your pot of water boils onto the stove. Rice cookers cook your rice to perfection, leaving you the time and energy to focus on other things. It’s simple to use and keeps your rice warm and fresh all day. You can also use it to cook quinoa, lentils, beans, grains, even oatmeal and grits! Don’t worry, you don’t need to spend $1000 on a rice cooker. A $20 rice cooker from Target will do you great deeds!

 

• Knives

 

Who knew that all knives are made for cutting specific things? Knives can be tricky to pick out and choose, but most knife sets come with various knives for your cutting preferences. It’s important to choose knives that are convenient and will save you money in the long run. Here is a guide for choosing knives.

 

• Cutting Boards

 

Cutting boards are a must have for sanitary reasons (meats or. vegetables), but also to keep your knives in good shape. When you start shopping for your kitchen, you suddenly notice that there are over hundreds of options when it comes to choosing cutting boards, but it really comes down to your beliefs and values. If you’re having trouble choosing boards, this may help you make up your mind. I also prefer to use square cutting boards for extra comfort and preventing injuries.

 

• Pots and Pans

 

You won’t be doing much cooking on the stove without some pots and pans. When it comes to choosing pots and pans, many people choose to focus on the price rather than the quality. One of the most important things to focus on is the heat conductivity, reactivity and durability of the pot or pan. Here is a guide to help you choose your cookware. I recommend cast iron because it is the oldest material for cooking over heat, but be careful- it gets very hot!

 

• Spices

 

Cooking is an art. It’s about getting creative and practicing your skills. Because of this, species are essential in your kitchen. You should always stock up on spices because you never know when you’ll need them in your cooking. It’s also a great way to get you discover new recipes and ideas. Obviously salt and pepper are must have spices, but here is a list of the most essential spices to always keep in your kitchen.