Cooking is an essential life skill that can bring joy and satisfaction, but it can also be daunting for those who are new to it. Whether you’re moving out of your parents’ house for the first time, or you’ve just decided to take control of your health and eating habits, learning to cook can seem like a daunting task.
But don’t worry, it’s easier than you think! With the right essential basic kitchen tools, basic cooking techniques for beginners, and mindset, anyone can become a great cook.
This article is designed to provide you with all the information and tips you need to get started on your cooking journey.
I’ll cover everything from the basic kitchen tools and equipment you’ll need, to basic cooking techniques and recipes that are easy and delicious.
I’ll also provide tips for meal planning and preparation, so you can make the most of your time and ingredients. My goal is to make cooking accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of your skill level.
So, whether you’re a complete beginner or just looking to brush up on your skills, this article is for you.
Let’s get started and discover the joys of cooking together!
Essential Basic Kitchen Tools
List of Must-Have Tools and Equipment for Cooking
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Pots and pans
- Baking sheets
- Tongs
- Spatulas
- Colander
- Whisk
- Oven mitts
In order to cook effectively, there are certain essential basic kitchen tools and equipment that you will need in your kitchen. Below is a list of must-have items that every beginner cook should have:
Chef’s Knife
This is the most important tool in the kitchen, and is essential for chopping, slicing, and dicing. Look for a knife with a comfortable handle and a sharp, durable blade.
Cutting Board
A cutting board is essential for protecting your countertops and providing a stable surface for chopping. Wooden cutting boards are a popular choice, but plastic or composite boards are also an option.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
These are necessary for following recipes accurately.
Mixing Bowls
These come in various sizes and are useful for preparing ingredients, mixing batter, and serving food.
Pots and Pans
A set of pots and pans in various sizes is essential for cooking on the stovetop. Stainless steel or non-stick options are both good choices.
Baking Sheets
These are perfect for baking cookies and other baked goods, and can also be used for roasting vegetables and meats.
Tongs
These are useful for flipping food while cooking, and can also be used for serving food.
Spatulas
These come in various shapes and sizes and are useful for stirring, flipping and serving food.
Colander
This is useful for straining pasta, vegetables, and other foods.
Whisk
A whisk is great for mixing ingredients, whipping cream, and making sauces.
Oven Mitts
These will protect your hands from heat when you are cooking with the oven or stove top.
When choosing kitchen tools and equipment, it’s important to consider their intended use, quality, and durability. Look for items that are made of high-quality materials, and that feel comfortable and sturdy in your hands. Additionally, it’s important to maintain your kitchen tools and equipment properly by cleaning them regularly and storing them in a dry place.
Basic Cooking Techniques for Beginners
Cooking is all about understanding the basic techniques and methods used in the kitchen. In this section, I will cover some of the most essential basic cooking techniques for beginners that every beginner cook should know.
Chopping
The first step in many recipes is to chop your ingredients. It’s important to have a sharp chef’s knife and a stable cutting board to get the job done quickly and safely.
Hold the knife with a comfortable grip, and chop your ingredients using a rocking motion, keeping your fingers curled under and away from the blade.
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking method that involves cooking food quickly in a little bit of oil over high heat. It’s a great way to add flavor and color to vegetables and meats. Heat a pan over medium-high heat, add oil, and once hot, add your ingredients. Stir occasionally, and cook until the food is browned and tender.
Boiling
Boiling is a method of cooking food by immersing it in boiling water or broth. It’s commonly used for pasta, vegetables, and eggs. To boil food, bring a pot of water to a boil, and then add your ingredients.
Once the water comes back to a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the food is cooked through.
Baking
Baking involves cooking food in an oven, using dry heat. It’s commonly used for cakes, cookies, and bread. Preheat your oven to the desired temperature, and place your food on a baking sheet or in a baking dish. Bake according to the recipe instructions, and use a thermometer to check if the food is cooked through.
Grilling
Grilling is a cooking method that involves cooking food over an open flame. It’s a great way to add flavor to meats, vegetables, and fruits.
Preheat your grill to the desired temperature, and place your food on the grill grates. Cook until the food is cooked through, and flip occasionally to ensure even cooking.
By mastering these basic cooking techniques, you will be able to tackle any recipe and cook with confidence. Remember to always pay attention to the recipe instructions and use a timer to keep track of cooking time. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to cook delicious meals in no time.
Meal Planning and Prep
Meal planning and preparation are key to achieving success in the kitchen. Not only does it save time and money, but it also helps to ensure that you’re eating healthy, well-balanced meals.
First, it’s important to understand the importance of meal planning. By planning ahead, you’ll be able to make sure that you have all the ingredients you need on hand, and that you’re not resorting to takeout or processed foods. It also allows you to plan for leftovers, reducing food waste and saving money.
To create a weekly meal plan, you can start by thinking about the types of meals you want to make and what ingredients you’ll need. Then, make a grocery list of those ingredients, and stick to it when you go shopping. This will help you to avoid impulse buying and ensure that you have everything you need for your planned meals.
Once you’ve planned your meals, it’s also important to do some meal prep. This can include washing and chopping vegetables, cooking grains or beans in advance, and portioning out leftovers for easy access throughout the week.
Using leftovers is another great way to save time and reduce food waste. You can use leftovers to make soups, casseroles, and sandwiches, or you can freeze them for later use. You can also use leftovers to create a completely new dish.
Overall, meal planning and preparation are essential basic kitchen tools to help you achieve success in the kitchen. By taking the time to plan and prepare your meals, you’ll be able to save time and money, reduce food waste, and ensure that you’re eating healthy, well-balanced meals.
3 Easy Recipes By Using Basic Kitchen Tools
Cooking can be intimidating, but with a few simple recipes, you’ll be able to create delicious meals in no time. Below are some easy and delicious recipes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that are perfect for beginners.
Breakfast
Scrambled Eggs Recipe
This is the very basic recipe that anyone can cook.
Ingredients: 2 eggs, 2 tablespoons milk, salt, pepper, butter
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Instructions:
Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk together with milk, salt, and pepper.
Heat a pan over medium heat and add butter.
Once the butter is melted, add the egg mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are scrambled and cooked through.
Serve with toast and enjoy!
Lunch
Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients: 2 slices of bread, 2 slices of cheese, butter
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Instructions:
Lay out the bread slices and place cheese between them.
Heat a pan over medium heat and add butter.
Once the butter is melted, place the sandwich in the pan and cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Serve with a side of soup or salad and enjoy!
Dinner
Baked Chicken Recipe
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, salt, pepper, olive oil
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper and place them in a baking dish.
Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Serve with a side of vegetables or a salad and enjoy!
These recipes are just the beginning, and as you become more comfortable in the kitchen, you can experiment with more complex recipes and ingredients.
Remember to always read the recipe through before starting and to use a timer to keep track of cooking time. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be able to cook delicious meals in no time!
Conclusion
Cooking is a skill that takes time and practice to master, but with the right tools, techniques, and mindset, anyone can do it. By following the basic kitchen tools list and cooking techniques outlined in this article, you can start your cooking journey with confidence and discover the joys of cooking for yourself and others.
Remember to have fun and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Happy cooking!
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