15 Essential Kitchen Tools for Cooks That Help Minimize Clutter

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Having the right tools in the kitchen can make cooking more efficient and enjoyable. However, having too much of anything can be overwhelming and unnecessary. 

Streamline your cooking process with the necessary tools to free up much-needed space and simplify cooking. 

Decluttering unnecessary items and keeping the right tools means each tool serves a vital function in the kitchen. Here’s a list of 15 must-have kitchen tools and the corresponding items that can be discarded to minimize clutter while maximizing utility.  

1. A Sharp Paring and Chef’s Knife

Toss old cheap knife blocks filled with randomly used knives and invest in a couple of high-quality knives that cover nearly all your cutting needs.

A chef’s knife is indispensable because of its versatility. It can chop, slice, mince, and dice various foods efficiently. On the other hand, a paring knife is perfect for more delicate tasks like peeling and trimming, where more precision is required. Together, they cover almost all cutting needs without cluttering your space with redundant knives. 

2. A Sturdy Cutting Board

Instead of accumulating multiple flimsy plastic cutting boards that can degrade and harbor bacteria over time, invest in a single high-quality thick wood cutting board for longevity and better hygiene. 

A good, sturdy cutting board provides a stable and durable surface for all kinds of food preparation (and decor). It won’t dull knives as quickly as harder materials, making cutting easier and extending the life of your knives.

3. A Large Colander

Every chef benefits from having a large colander, which offers more versatility and efficiency than multiple smaller strainers. Large colanders are designed to keep food items secure while quickly draining out water, making them perfect for everything from washing vegetables to straining pasta.

Some colanders have features like a cover, fine mesh interior, or extendable handle, enhancing their functionality and allowing them to serve multiple purposes in the kitchen, such as steaming or washing delicate foods.

4. A High Heat-Resistant Silicone Spatula

Get rid of flimsy rubber spatulas that melt and degrade over time. You just need one sturdy, high-heat-resistant silicone spatula.

Silicone spatulas are heat-resistant and won’t melt or warp like traditional rubber versions. They’re ideal for scraping every last bit of food from bowls and pans and reducing waste during food preparation.

5. Cast Iron Skillet

You don’t need many pots and pans. A well-seasoned cast iron skillet can replace multiple nonstick pans that scratch easily and often need replacing anyway. It is naturally nonstick, heats consistently, and lasts a lifetime.

6. Stainless Steel or Copper Pot

Toss old sets of cheap, thin pots that don’t distribute heat evenly. A high-quality stainless steel or copper pot is essential for its excellent heat conductivity and versatility in cooking various dishes, from soup to pasta. The durability of stainless steel can withstand years of use, making it a better investment than cheaper, less durable pots.

7. Digital Thermometer

Every cook needs a reliable thermometer. Avoid old-fashioned or novelty thermometers, which are less accurate. A digital thermometer ensures precise cooking temperatures.

8. Dutch Oven

Let go of extra slow cookers and crock pots. A Dutch oven is more versatile. It’s known for its ability to conduct heat evenly and its versatility across cooking methods, from stovetop to oven.

It is ideal for making stews, braising meat, and even baking bread, replacing the need for additional specialty pots. It also comes in various colors that make it perfect for serving dishes.

9. Adjustable Measuring Spoon

You don’t need multiple sets of measuring spoons. An adjustable spoon can cover all measurements and save drawer space.

10. Microplane Grater

It’s time to toss bulky box graters. A microplane is easier to handle, clean, and store and is excellent for zesting and grating finely.

It’s essential for finely grating ingredients like cheese, zest, and spices, providing superior results compared to larger, bulkier graters. Its fine blades produce perfect textures for garnishes and ingredient integration.

11. Nesting Mixing Bowls

Miscellaneous bowls that don’t stack well take up too much space. Nesting bowls save space and come in varied sizes suitable for multiple tasks. They are multi-functional and helpful for preparing ingredients, mixing, and even serving.

12. Immersion Blender

You don’t need a large countertop blender unless you frequently make large batches. An immersion blender can blend soups and sauces directly in the pot and is easier to clean and store.

13. Baking Sheet

Multiple worn-out baking trays aren’t helping. A single baking sheet can serve multiple purposes, from baking cookies to roasting vegetables. Consider a high-quality aluminum or stone sheet that will last for many years to come.

14. Tongs

Tongs act as an extension of the chef’s hand, providing a safe way to flip, turn, and serve hot food. They’re more precise than spatulas for many tasks and indispensable in the kitchen. 

However, old plastic tongs can melt and are often too flimsy. Silicone or metal tongs are more durable and versatile for cooking and serving. 

15. Rice Cooker With Steamer Basket

Steamers take up a lot of room in the kitchen. Let go of separate steamers and try a rice cooker with a steamer basket. This cooker can cook rice and steamed vegetables or fish at the same time, simplifying meal preparation.

Featured Image Credit: Gorodenkoff and Shutterstock.