Are you someone who admires the work of great chefs, and how effortlessly they create mouthwatering dishes? If cooking interests you, becoming a chef one day might be your true calling. However, having talent and passion aren’t the only things necessary to succeed in this profession.
You must also supply yourself with the right tools that will help you elevate your cooking game and create incredibly flavourful dishes from scratch. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a chef, you are in the right place. Here are three kitchen essentials every chef needs to improve their cooking skills and bring their culinary creations to life.
A Quality Set of Knives
When it comes to choosing the right kitchen essentials for aspiring chefs, a quality set of knives can make all the difference. But how do you choose the right knives that will allow you to perform tasks such as chopping, slicing and dicing meat and vegetables with ease? To choose a high-quality set of knives, look for designs made by renowned brands that produce sets made with exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
For example, you can opt for a kiritsuke knife set made from high-quality carbon or stainless steel which represents a symbol of mastery and expertise in the Japanese kitchen. These Japanese knife sets feature a rustic hammered finish and a long straight edge with a pointed tip, which makes them suitable for slicing fish and vegetables. They combine the features of two traditional knives: the yanigba (used for slicing fish), and the usuba (used for cutting vegetables).
For example, the kiritsuke knife from the series Okimoto Saba is made from durable stainless molybdenum vanadium steel, which contributes to the knife’s durability, corrosion resistance, and sharpness. This feature allows the knife to maintain its edge for a longer period and requires less frequent sharpening. The kiritsuke knives from the Okimoto series were named for the legendary drinking samurai from the Mori clan.
You can find them available with single-bevelled or double-bevelled edges which makes them perfect for performing various culinary tasks such as chopping meat or dicing vegetables. For example, you can use single-bevelled knives to perform precise and delicate cuts or opt for double-bevelled for more general tasks such as cutting bread or preparing hearty stews.
These knives feature ergonomic handles which are typically crafted from materials such as high-quality wood or synthetic composites. This combination of design and versatility makes the kiritsuke knives an invaluable addition to any chef looking for high-quality and premium crafted knives. They can meet the demands of both professional and home cooks, and help them transform their everyday cooking into a delightful and rewarding experience.
Cutting Board
In addition to choosing the right set of knives, you should explore other kitchen essentials that will help you preserve the good look of your knives and make your tasks in the kitchen easier. For example, you should consider investing in a quality chopping board that will serve as a durable and protective surface when performing a variety of cutting tasks. To select the ideal design, consider boards made from durable and eco-friendly materials such as bamboo or wood that won’t dull your knife blades quickly.
You should also consider the size and thickness of the board and pick one that aligns with your needs. If you are performing multiple cutting tasks at once, such as chopping meat, herbs or vegetables, a larger board with ample space can make your tasks much easier. This will allow you to separate each of the ingredients while preparing meals, and keep your kitchen table well-organised and clutter-free.
Cookware Essentials
Investing in a quality cutting board is no doubt important, but no chef’s job can be done without a reliable set of cookware essentials. Tools, like quality pots, pans, and baking sheets are just some of the many items chefs need when preparing their mouthwatering delicacies. A high-quality saucepan is essential for tasks such as boiling, simmering, and making sauces. A nonstick frying pan, on the other hand, is perfect for preparing everything from delicate omelettes and fluffy pancakes to perfectly seared meats and vegetables.
In addition to supplying yourself with a diverse set of cookware essentials, you should pay attention to the material and choose one that is durable and provides good heat distribution. Invest in pots and pans made from materials such as stainless steel, cast iron, or hard-anodised aluminium that are scratch-resistant and easy to clean.
By carefully considering each one of these features, you can choose quality cookware that will allow you to unleash your cooking skills and ensure every dish you make is tender and flavourful. This can help you experiment with new cooking techniques and flavours, and discover the true art of gastronomy by transforming everyday ingredients into culinary masterpieces.