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GENERAL COOKING ESSENTIALS


These are kitchen items that I continue to use myself, some for even more than 12 years. Its a list of essentials that I think would significantly improve your kitchen experience, and inspire you to cook more often. Feel free to explore similar items which suit your use and style as you build a well-equipped kitchen in your own home.  
And remember, home cooked meals are most importantly made with love!


Chef’s Knife Set - I have had mine for over 10 years now, and I know how a good knife set can significantly enhance your cooking experience.

 

Cutting Board - Sturdy cutting board for all your chopping and cutting needs.

Pot & Pan Set - Investing in a Zwilling pot and pan set means equipping your kitchen with reliable, high-performance cookware that will serve you for years to come. I use mine for curries, soups and sauces all the time!

Dutch Oven - Nothing beats a Le Crueset. It’s expensive but it’s an heirloom! Le Creuset's primary material is enameled cast iron, which offers superior heat retention and even heat distribution, making it ideal for slow cooking, braising, and baking. If you are investing in one, I'd recommend you get the 5.5 Qt or 7.25 Qt one.

Kadai - A kadai, also spelled kadhai or karahi, is a versatile and essential cooking utensil in many Indian kitchens, and can be used for a wide range of cooking techniques, including frying, sautéing, simmering, boiling, and even slow cooking.


Wok - Whether you are stir-frying, deep-frying, steaming, or braising, a wok provides the functionality and performance needed for both everyday meals and special culinary creations.


Non stick Pan - A controversial cookware - but I use it for cooking delicate items like eggs and pancakes. I have gone through a fair share of non stick cookwares and I find this Kitchen Aid one to be durable and easy to maintain. Even after a year of use, there have been no scratches to its surface.


Tawa - An indispensable tool in Indian kitchens, ideal for making a wide range of traditional dishes from flatbreads to dosas and beyond. In my case, it is used mostly by my mom ☺
 

Mortar & Pestle - A versatile kitchen tool used for grinding, crushing, and mixing various ingredients in small amounts. 
 
 
 
Pressure Cooker - Pressure cookers are versatile, capable of cooking a wide range of dishes from soups and stews to beans, grains, and even desserts in a fraction of the time. Modern pressure cookers come with safety features to regulate pressure and release steam safely, making them convenient and reliable tools for home cooking. 
 
 

Rice Cooker - I cannot say enough good things about this Panasonic Rice Cooker. Any type of rice is cooked to perfection, every time!



Mixer / Blender - An Indian mixer blender, often referred to simply as a mixer grinder, is a versatile and indispensable kitchen appliance commonly found in Indian households. It combines the functionalities of a mixer and a grinder, allowing users to blend, mix, grind, and whip ingredients effortlessly.
 
 
Air Fryer - Air fryers are praised for producing healthier dishes with reduced fat content compared to traditional frying methods, making them popular among health-conscious individuals.
 

Measuring Cups and Spoons - For all those recipes that have teaspoon, tablespoon and cup measurements.

Mixing Bowls - Versatile kitchen essential for mixing batter, marinating meat, soaking grains, etc..


Utensil Set -  This set features heat-resistant silicone heads, sleek stainless-steel handles and integrated tool rests.


Can Opener - A good one will last you forever and you’ll reach for it to safely and efficiently open cans without causing injuries!


Peeler - Time saver! You can get potatoes and carrots and even fruits peeled in no time.

Colander - A multipurpose item. I use it to wash vegetables/fruits and drain excess water from pasta.

Container Set - This set is a little pricy, but it’s airtight and will last you a long time!


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