A Mess Free Life may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page.
There are certain kitchen gadgets that no matter what your skill level you’ll reach for again and again. They range from innovative invention to the tried and true classics; these tools are guaranteed to make your work easier and the results far better than without them. Here are my eight must-have kitchen gadgets that you’ll use and shouldn’t be without.
Table of Contents
8 Must have Kitchen Gadgets You’ll Actually Use
1. Microplane Grater/Zester
This handy little tool is used so frequently in my kitchen that often it’s in the dishwasher waiting to be cleaned, and I’m looking to use it again. I use it on everything from cheese to spices and chocolate to citrus. I’ve recently started using it to grate garlic for any recipe that calls for minced garlic. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself buying two!
2. Garlic Press
I know I’m probably going to get a lot of flack from the professional cooks out there, but I’m sorry, I use my garlic press ALL the time! Maybe it’s because I have such a deep appreciation for the taste and smell (not to mention the health benefits) of this little bulb, but when you cook as much as I do and with as much garlic as I do, a garlic press is essential.
Read: Deep Cleaning Your Kitchen the Easy, Professional Way
3. Cutting Boards
There are many reasons I love these cutting mats (technically not a gadget). First, they take up literally no space compared to the thick cutting boards of past. Second, they are uber sanitary because you use a different colored mat for various foods: blue for fish, yellow for poultry, green for vegetables. Literally no chance of cross contamination if used properly. I love that! Best of all, it’s easy to transport cut-up food to a bowl or pan; just hold the mat by the edges and tilt to funnel the food into the pan or bowl.
4. Pepper Mill
There is nothing like a good pepper mill; it’s a must have essential in any kitchen. Fresh ground pepper is so much tastier when it comes from a pepper mill. Here’s a neat idea: buy two and fill one with black pepper and the other with white pepper.
Read: The 8 Dirtiest Places In Your Kitchen
5. Kitchen Timer
Never overcook or burn your food again! A portable kitchen timer is a must have essential that is always within reach no matter where you are in your home.
6. Small Custard Cups
I don’t have a big kitchen, so prepping ingredients are essential for me when I cook. Using these handy small custard cups keeps everything organized and ready to use when I start the preparation process. You’ll find that by using this setup, you’re less likely to forget an ingredient or get overly flustered when you’re cooking. These are a must have and honestly you’ll need two sets.
Read: The Best Way To Clean Your Refrigerator
7. Thermometer
I never used thermometers until recently, and I have to admit that my meat and chicken is now cooked to perfection – and I have my kitchen thermometer to thank for that. You’ll be amazed at how much you’ll end up using it once you start. There are different kinds so make sure you buy the right one for the recipe – instant read, oven, deep fry/candy.
8. Kitchen Shears
Last but certainly not least is kitchen shears. There are so many ways to use kitchen shear. I cut herbs, I chop tomatoes in a can with my kitchen shears, I cut twine, open packages, trim vegetables and meats, and on and on and on it goes with the ways you can use a pair of kitchen shears. Stop using a regular scissors and invest in a good pair of kitchen shears.
Did I miss any? What is your favorite and essential kitchen gadget? I’d love to know!
