This post was written by Maddy Jacquay, RDN, LD, Parkview Health.
Let’s face it, cooking at home can be challenging. It requires time, research and planning. It’s no wonder many people opt for quick, convenient options, like drive-thrus, takeout and delivery apps. Unfortunately, these choices usually mean sacrificing nutrition. Cooking at home is better for our health (as well as our wallets). Investing in the right tools can make the process easier and, dare I say, even enjoyable. Here are my top five picks for items that are worth the investment, can last a lifetime, and allow you to up your home chef status.
Item No. 1 – Knives
As any chef will tell you, a chef is only as good as their knives, and there’s good reason for that. Using a knife that is dull, uncomfortable to hold and/or that rusts easily, you will have a difficult time cooking. Not to mention, dull knives tend to cause more injuries than sharp knives, as dull knives cause instability when cutting tough items like potatoes or carrots. A sharp knife will make prepping dinner a breeze and help improve the quality of the dish as well.
If you have done research on knives, you know that they can be expensive, costing upwards of thousands of dollars. But if you aren’t looking to be the next Gordon Ramsay, you could get by spending less on a set for your home. You can always look at a set like this one to provide more options, but if you have a tight budget, it’s generally recommended that you at least get a good chef knife or paring knife.
Item No. 2 – Stainless steel pots and pans
There are many different types of pots and pans on the market. Depending on what you’re cooking, some are better than others, but the most versatile option, that is worth the money, is a stainless steel set like this. They are scratch- and dent-resistant, have superior heat transfer and are easy to maintain. If you are used to nonstick pans, there will be a learning curve, but it will be well worth it in the end. I recommend opting for a high-quality stainless steel, as cheaper options tend to warp.
Item No. 3 – Food processor
A food processor is great for speeding up prep. It can easily grind, chop and slice large quantities of ingredients, reducing time spent on tedious tasks. Food processors are also essential in making dips and sauces, like pesto and hummus. An option like this would be a great addition to your kitchen.
Item No. 4 – Blender
Another gadget to add to your list is a good blender. Whether you are making smoothies or pureed soup, a quality blender is going to give you the smooth consistency you want. While some models may cost over $400, there are some mid-range options like this one that can work well for your everyday needs.
Item No. 5 – Slow cooker
Slow cookers are a lifesaver for busy families. Models like this one are easy to use and can make nutritious meals, like roasts, casseroles, soups and much more, while you’re going about your appointments and obligations. If you aren’t quite sure where to start, Pinterest is a tremendous tool for searching and saving simple recipes to try. Knowing that you have a meal ready when you get home also lessens the temptation to order out or opt for fast food.
