Top 10 Must-Have Kitchen Gadgets for Home Cooks& Professional Chefs

Feb 13, 2024

When it comes to professional chefs, having the right tools in the kitchen can make all the difference. From cutting-edge technology to time-saving gadgets, there are a plethora of kitchen gadgets that every professional chef should have in their arsenal. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting out, these top 10 must-have kitchen gadgets will take your culinary skills to the next level

1. Chef's Knife

A chef's knife is the most essential tool in any chef's kitchen. With a sharp, high-quality blade, this versatile knife can handle a variety of tasks, from slicing and dicing to chopping and mincing. Invest in a durable chef's knife that feels comfortable in your hand and is made from high-quality materials

chef knife

2. Cast Iron Skillet

A cast iron skillet is a must-have for any chef who loves to sear, sauté, and fry. This durable and versatile pan retains heat evenly, allowing for excellent heat distribution and superior cooking performance. With proper care, a cast iron skillet can last a lifetime and become a cherished heirloom in your kitchen

three gray cast iron skillets

3. Instant-Read Thermometer

Cooking meat to the perfect temperature is essential for food safety and flavour. An instant-read thermometer allows you to quickly and accurately measure the internal temperature of your food, ensuring that it's cooked to perfection. Look for a thermometer with a fast response time and a wide temperature range

grilled meat on black and orange kettle grill

4. Digital Food Scale

Accurate measurements are crucial in cooking, especially in baking. A digital food scale ensures that you're using the right amount of ingredients, leading to consistent and delicious results. Look for a scale that can measure both metric and imperial units and has a large, easy-to-read display

Diet. Fruits and vegetables with measuring tape on weight scale

5. Grater

A standard grater is an indispensable tool in any chef's kitchen, perfect for grating cheese, vegetables, and even zesting citrus fruits. Offering various grating sizes from fine to coarse, it allows for versatile culinary applications, from adding texture to salads to enhancing flavour with freshly grated spices. Choose a grater that is durable, easy to clean, and comfortable to use, ensuring it can withstand the demands of a professional kitchen environment

Pieces of grated dark chocolate next to a metal grater on a white plate close up

6. Immersion Blender

An immersion blender is a must-have for any chef who loves to make soups, sauces, and purées. This handheld blender allows you to blend ingredients directly in the pot or bowl, eliminating the need for transferring hot liquids to a traditional blender. It's a time-saving tool that also offers precise control over the texture of your creations

instant-read thermometer

7. Stand Mixer

A stand mixer is a versatile tool that can handle a wide range of tasks, from mixing dough and batter to whipping cream and kneading bread. It's a time-saving gadget that takes the effort out of mixing ingredients by providing consistent and efficient results. Look for a stand mixer with multiple speed settings and a variety of attachments

stand mixer

8. Mandoline Slicer

A mandoline slicer is a game-changer when it comes to slicing fruits and vegetables with precision. This handy gadget allows you to create uniform slices of various thicknesses, making it perfect for creating beautiful garnishes or evenly sliced ingredients for your dishes

cast iron skillet

9. Sous Vide Cooker

The sous vide cooking technique has gained popularity among professional chefs for its ability to cook food to perfection. A sous vide cooker allows you to cook food at a precise temperature in a water bath, resulting in tender, juicy, and flavourful dishes every time. It's a must-have gadget for any chef who wants to elevate their cooking game

food processor

10. Miscellaneous Tools

Every professional chef's kitchen should be equipped with an assortment of miscellaneous tools that enhance preparation and presentation. This includes kitchen scissors for snipping herbs, opening packages, and cutting through poultry; butcher's twine for trussing meats to ensure even cooking; cooking rings for creating perfectly shaped appetizers, desserts, and plated dishes; and cheesecloth for straining stocks, making cheese, and infusing flavors. These tools, while small, are essential for executing a wide range of culinary tasks with precision and creativity

Various kitchen tools