One of the most debated subjects when it comes to cooking is the cookware. There are chefs that use a lot of cookware in cooking when in fact there are only a few you need. Now, what are the things that we really need when speaking of real cookware essentials?
The things that we really need are only a good knife, chopping board and pans. You can add a few more cookware but just the three alone are enough for you to use in cooking.
The most important piece of cookware that you need in cooking is a cook’s knife which is usually around 8 inches long with a slight curve for rocking motion. Also, it is best to have a smaller knife that you can use for slicing vegetables and lastly a carving knife for shaping fruits, vegetables and other food.
If you plan to buy a whole set of knives, it is wise to check the set carefully and make sure it has everything you need so you won’t be wasting your money purchasing knives that you can’t use often. If you are having difficulty in choosing a set of knives then don’t bother buying it. There are sets that offer free gifts but it would be useless to have many designer knives if they are not what you need and you can’t use them. It would be wiser to buy per piece so you won’t waste your money buying those that are useless to you. Some of us have French Sabatiers which are expensive and comfortable to use but not as fashionable as Japanese globals. But then, if you find chopping easier when using French Sabatiers then you should definitely go for the French Sabatiers.
When you learn how to use knives especially, expensive ones, it is best for you to know how to maintain these knives and keep them sharp always. You can use steel or a grinding stone in making them sharp. There are also sharpeners that you can purchase for easy sharpening of knives.
Another important cookware is a pan. Your pans should be of good quality so even though it is a bit expensive but then it is a wise move to buy these high quality pans. A good quality pan can help prevent food from burning because the heat is evenly distributed throughout the pan. Also, a good wok which is made of thin light steel is a good choice also although you have to make sure that the handle is tightly attached. One of the best places to find and buy good quality pans is in a local Chinese supermarket.
Of course, chopping board is also important in preparing food and it is advisable to have two chopping boards. One chopping board for chopping vegetables and fruits and another one for slicing meats. This can prevent food contamination. Even when you wash your hands and your utensils after using them, it is still better to have two chopping boards to further prevent contamination.
Well, of course, it is still great to have other equipments or utensils like mixers or blenders. If you love to bake but don’t bake often, you can just buy the hand held mixer instead of heavy, electric mixers that are quite expensive. When it comes to blenders, a blender is very useful when you prepare soups, shakes or smoothies.
A grinder is another useful utensil especially when adding nuts in your food or grinding coffee beans. If you want a combination of both blender and grinder, then you should purchase a food processor. They can help you save space and money than buying these equipments by piece. There are really many kitchen equipments that you can buy. If you are not sure what equipments or utensils to buy then ask the owner of a cookery shop or ask the opinion of your friends.
