my essential kitchen tools; everything you want to know!

Here's what I use in the kitchen. Links included!

We’re switching gears this week because I’m frequently asked about the equipment I use.

And it makes sense because tools are important…and there are so many to choose from. From cutting boards to high-speed blenders, there’s a lot on the market. Some are essential, others are nice to have, and even more are totally unnecessary (I’ve used every gadget and regretted a lot of them).

In my experience, the difference between someone who cooks and someone who doesn’t is equipment and supplies. It can be unbearably frustrating and discouraging to start a recipe and realize you don’t have what you need. And since plant-based cooking is not so different from any other kind of cooking, this list is what you’ll find in most well-equipped kitchens.

The following is what I use, or similar, and in no particular order. It’s not totally inclusive nor is it absolute. This is a suggested list to provide clarity and to take you on a tour of my kitchen. I also have to point out that I’ve been cooking for a long time and I didn’t start out with all of this equipment — I’ve upgraded over the years and as my budget allowed.

I hope it’s helpful!

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TOOLS I USE

Pots & Pans

There are many, many great options. And what you have is likely good enough. I use a copper bottom, stainless steel pot set from Paderno, I’ve had them for over a decade. But sets aren’t always the best investment, you might benefit from buying individual pieces you need. I think there are three essential pots: a large soup (4 or 5 qt) pot, a small sauce (1 qt) sauce pot, and a medium (2 qt) sauce pot. My preferred pot is stainless steel, and again there are so many options.

If I were to upgrade and get a set, I’d go with All Clad or Cuisinart all-inclusive pot and pan set.

Measuring Cups & Spoons

I love using a pinch of this and a spoonful of that, but when I’m teaching and sharing new recipes and when you’re learning how to make them, measurements and measuring tools are essential. I like stainless steel options.

Blender

The most used appliance in my kitchen is my blender. I use a Vitamix because it’s a powerful, game-changing machine capable of pureing whole foods into sauces and dips and whipping up creamy smoothies. It’s the Beyoncé of blenders! It’s certainly an investment but one you won’t regret! I also like to use a smaller blender for small-batch sauces. Newer blenders at cheaper price points are hitting the market all the time, browse around and see what’s available.

This is the Vitamix I’m currently using.

If you like making small-batch sauces, a small blender is useful too. I still use this Magic Bullet Blender.

Food Processor

A food processor is equally important in creating delicious plant-based meals like burgers, ricotta, and bean dips. You can find a great food processor for an affordable price. I suggest getting a 12 to 14 cup-container and skipping the fancy accessories. I generally only use the S blade. There are many brands available and I’ve had the cheapest and the most expensive. I currently have a 14-cup Cuisinart processor and it’s the best food processor I’ve ever used.

Cuisinart Food Processor

Dishers

…and spring release scoops. I use these for easy measuring and shaping of cookies, bean burgers and balls, muffins, and bliss balls! There are 2 sizes that I use most often: ¾ ounce and 3¼ ounce.

¾ Ounce Disher and 3¼ Ounce Disher

Steamer Basket

I have steamed vegetables almost every evening. A steamer basket is cheap and easy to use. I bought mine for less than 10 bucks. This steamer basket bowl is an example of how helpful this cheap tool is.

Microplane

This is a fine grater that can zest lemons but is also great for finely grating fresh ginger.

Box grater

I use this to grate any vegetable by hand. Inexpensive and useful.

Nut Milk Bag

This is a mesh bag that is used to strain nut and seed milk. They’re inexpensive and last a long time.

Fine Mesh Strainer

These are inexpensive and are ideal for rinsing grains straining broths or soups.

Large Non-Stick Pan

This makes cooking without oil much easier. There are many brands and types and lots of reviews to peruse on the internet. I currently use one by Pampered Chef but I’m in the market for a new one. I don’t use nonstick pans in my everyday cooking. I mostly use them for dry frying tofu or tempeh, and making pancakes and crepes.

When cooking with nonstick cookware it’s very important to keep the heat at medium and use non-scratch utensils.

Non-Stick Pan (I’ve been eyeing this set from Caraway for a while)

Silicone Baking Pans

I use silicon donut, muffin, and bread pans interchangeably with traditional baking pans. They’re easy to clean and make oil-free baking even easier.

Silicone Muffin Pan and Donut Pan

Spiralizer or Julienne Peeler

Being able to turn whole foods into noodles still fascinates me. I like to spiralize zucchini for a fresh and crisp side dish or in place of pasta. A good julienne peeler can also create the same effect. Here’s how to use both.

Spiralizer and Julienne Peeler

Spice Grinder

I use a spice grinder (which doubles as a coffee grinder) to grind whole spices like coriander, cumin, and fennel seed but I also use it to grind my own flax seeds. This way I can make fresh ground flax meal as needed.

Silicone Utensils

These are ideal for oil-free cooking and especially when using nonstick cookware.

Chef’s Knife

A knife is a special thing. You have to hold it to see how it feels in your hand. What I like might not suit you. But since I’m sharing what I use, here are my preferences. I like Mercer knives and still use the starter kit I bought in culinary school. I have small hands and am really comfortable with a 6-inch knife. I also have 8-inch knives and a pairing knife.

6-inch Chef’s Knife

Weigh Scale

I use a weight scale when I’m creating recipes and need to know the weight. In the US and Canada we use mostly measuring cups and spoons (imperial system). Most other parts of the world go by weight (metric system) as do bakers. I use an electronic weigh scale for measuring flours and spices and smaller quantities of whole foods. I use a mechanical weigh scale for vegetables and large amounts of grains and beans. I keep the mechanical scale on my kitchen counter at all times.

Electronic Weigh Scale and Mechanical Weigh Scale

Dutch Oven

A Dutch oven is a heavy-duty pot that can be used on the stove or in the oven. They usually have a cast iron core. I use Dutch ovens with ceramic coating as it’s easier for oil-free cooking. A Dutch oven can be expensive and is definitely optional. If you’re budgeting, this wouldn’t be a priority purchase. I have everything from 2 quart to 8 quart Le Creuset Dutch ovens but there are many cheaper versions like the link below.

Dutch Oven by Amazon

Cutting Board

There is much debate about the right kind of cutting board to use. I say use whatever you have as long as it’s safe and hygienic. I wouldn’t use a glass cutting board, ever. These are very unsafe and bad for your knives. I usually opt for a wooden cutting board but I also use a large plastic chef’s cutting board.

Large Cutting Board and Small Cutting Board

I also use a plastic chef’s kitchen cutting board.

Juicer

This is really a luxury item in my opinion. I use it often but it is an investment — financial and time! I’ll just leave you with the one I use.

Omega Juicer

Dehydrator

This is another piece of equipment that isn’t essential. If you like preparing raw vegan recipes, drying your own fruits, veggies, or herbs, or want to ferment, then a dehydrator might be of interest to you. I use an Excalibur 9 tray dehydrator which is quite large. I love it.

Pressure & Slow Cooker

I use the 10 qt Instant Pot. It’s huge. In hindsight, I would have purchased a smaller model. I use it mostly for pressure-cooking beans. I don’t love its slow cooker function. I know the Instant Pot has a ginormous following of dedicated home cooks. They celebrate it’s convenience and easy cleanup. But I actually don’t use it! I prefer old-fashioned stove-top cooking or the OG slow cookers.

Instant Pot and Slow Cooker

Air Fryer

The ai fryer is having a moment (a very big one!). An air fryer does exactly what it promises — cooks and “fries” using air circulation. Added oils aren’t needed so it really is a wonderful way of preparing crispy foods. You might be surprised to learn that I have only recently invested in an air-fryer and I don’t use it much! Maybe I’m old school or set in my culinary ways! Either way, this is the one I have. If you’d like more air-fryer recipes, let me know!

I’ll keep adding to this list as new tools come to mind. If you have any questions or additions, please add them in the comments below!

Disclaimer stuff: Most of the links above are affiliate links and I receive a small commission if you purchase the linked product.