7 Utensils That Every Cook Needs 

A perfect meal starts with the ideal kitchen utensils. If you don’t have the right tools, you won’t be able to make dishes the way you want them. That being said, it takes time to build up the perfect kitchen arsenal. However, buying them all at once can put a strain on your pocket.   

But if you want to collect the best kitchen utensils that will help you get started, we’ve got the right tools curated for you. These are not your fancy electric peelers, compact vegetable choppers, and any other of your impulsive buys that sit on your shelves after a few uses.  

So, if you are a new homeowner building your culinary space one step at a time or someone who is looking to replace the old tools, this list has got you covered. 

7 Basic Utensils for Everyday Kitchen Needs 

Each tool plays a significant role in crafting dishes that not only taste exceptional but also preserve traditional cooking techniques. From a sturdy chef’s knife for precise chopping and slicing, to high-quality pots and pans designed for even heat distribution, having the right utensils can make all the difference.  

Frying Pan 

Counted as among the absolute essentials, the frying pans accommodate shallow cooking, allowing you to braise, sauté, sear, or shallow fry your favorite meals. With a deep round shape (though not deeper than a kadai pan) and a sturdy handle that provides the convenience of stirring the ingredients or moving the pan, you can cook up wonders.  

The frying pans are available in a variety of metals and materials from brass to stainless steel. However, make sure to opt for non-stick pans that keep your food from sticking or cast-iron pans that offer incredible heat retention.  

Saucepan  

This utensil is the ideal tool for slow-cooking classic meals or simmering comforting beverages. The deep, upright sides support cooking liquid contents – from hearty sauces to masala teas, making this one of the best types of utensils to keep in your kitchen.  

Ideally available in many metals like aluminum or copper, the right saucepan can bring out the best in every ingredient.   

Chapati Board & Rolling Pin (Chakla-Belan) 

The roti or the flatbread is a part of a staple of north India food that is eaten with everything from gravy to fried or stirred vegetables. The chapati board & rolling pin are often used to shape these treats into their round, iconic forms. The board (called the chakla) has a flat surface where the wheat flour ball is kept and the rolling pin (known as the belan) is pressed upon it to flatten it into rotis. 

This classic duo of utensils is often made of wood but can also be seen in other materials like marble or ceramic.  

Brass Tawa 

Whether you’re cooking chapatis, parathas, or any other flatbread, a brass tawa is the perfect cooking companion that can handle it all. But why brass tawa? Firstly, brass is a healthier alternative that is not coated with harmful chemicals and does not release dangerous toxins into your food. Secondly, it is an extremely sturdy metal, lasting years of everyday use with proper maintenance. Lastly, it is an incredible conductor of heat and spreads that heat evenly allowing you to cook quickly and with more control.  

Brass tawa is easy to clean and maintain, making it a convenient addition to any kitchen. Plus, its lightweight design makes it easy to store and handle. You can even easily buy a brass tawa online.  

Spatulas & Ladles  

So, you’ve built the perfect combo of kitchen utensils, now you only need the right tools to stir and serve the food. For this purpose, opt for spatulas and ladles that will help you scoop, dip, and serve your lunch or dinner with utmost ease. These utensils can be easily found in metals and materials such as brass, stainless steel, or wood. And proper maintenance, you can use them for a long time. 

Knives 

Knives are one item that every cook is most particular about. Everyone has a favorite knife that they continue to use even after a generous show of wear and tear. No matter how many years pass or how many new knives come into their kitchen – a specific set is always reached. So, how do you choose your favorite knife? You have two options: If you are buying it from a store, see how it feels in your hand. Try acting it out, using it to cut imaginary vegetables. If the ergonomics feel just right, you can give that knife a go.  

But if you are planning to buy online, look for reviews, build, and quality. You can even choose more well-known names in the market. Even though their knives are often on the expensive side, they make a great investment. 

Plates 

Those who have never given cooking difficult recipes a try will never know how useful plates are even during the process of cooking. Sure, beautiful plates elevate simple recipes, but they also make cooking easier. If you are cooking a dish that requires some 5-6 different ingredients, you cannot keep them ready on your countertop. This is where plates come in. 

The trick is to buy two sets of plates, one that is beautiful and the other that is functional – and voila! Your kitchen arsenal will be complete (for now, that is).   

The Bottom Line 

To build a collection of perfect kitchen utensils, make sure to consider factors like functionality, versatility, and sturdiness for everyday use. And of course, if you are into aesthetics you might lean towards beautifully made utensils that give your kitchen a distinct look. But to help you get started, this list can remain your go-to guide.  

By keeping these utensils in mind, you’ll create a functional and stylish kitchen that reflects your personal taste and meets your cooking needs.