5 best kitchen tools for the aspiring chef

Do you have an aspiring chef or a foodie in training in the house? These five best kitchen tools could have her whipping up some Instagram worthy dishes.

The best kitchen tools can be a subjective list. While everyone has a strong opinion on the best pan, knife and gadget, a few items always are on the top of everyone’s list. When it comes to choosing kitchen tools for an aspiring chef or foodie, quality is key.

Good kitchen tools are an investment. For some people spending $200 on a pan or a knife might cause some sticker shock. There is a difference between a $20 knife and a $100 knife. The same can be said for a pan or other kitchen tool.

Still, a big price tag doesn’t automatically mean that one kitchen tool is better than another. The key to picking the right kitchen tool is purpose. How do you cook? How does it feel in your hand? What will you be using it for? All these questions, and others, are important when choosing kitchen tools.

If you are an aspiring chef or a foodie, here are five of the best kitchen tools to consider purchasing.

Hestan NanoBond Cookware sauté pan

One good pan can be a workhorse in the kitchen. From that perfect protein to a beautiful side dish, a good sauté pan can do it all. The Hestan NanoBond has a higher capacity sauté pan that is perfect for all types of cooking. Whether it is that perfect Sunday dinner or a huge serving to be portioned out for the week, this particular pan does it all.

This particular pan has so many versatile features. The surface heats up quickly due to its greater conductivity. It is lightweight but still comfortable in your hand. Plus, the flared seared rims make for easy pouring.

Hestan NanoBond cookware is available at Williams-Sonoma.

WÜSTHOF CLASSIC Cook’s Knife 8-inch

Wusthof chef’s knife

A good knife is an investment. While it might be an expensive purchase, a good knife can last a very long time. While there are many, many types of knives, a good chef’s knife can do everything in the kitchen. From chopping to slicing and everything in between, this knife is the workhorse in the kitchen.

Personally, the Wusthof chef’s knife is worth the investment. The German crafted knife is sturdy in your hand. The grip is comfortable and it offers stability.

One big item to remember with any good knife is to keep it sharp. A dull knife won’t be efficient in the kitchen. And, a good knife should never go in the dishwasher.

Le Creuset Dutch Oven

While the colorful, ceramic might be pretty to look at, a Le Creuset Dutch oven is quite versatile in the kitchen. Braises, stews, soups and more can be made in this Dutch oven. It can go from stove to oven to table.

Although the brand might not want me to say this, this pan can last for a long, long time. While new colors can entice another purchase, the pan can be a kitchen essential for years. Again, this pan is an investment it best to take care of it.

KitchenAid launches heritage-inspired Misty Blue color for its 100 years celebration, photo provided by KitchenAid

KitchenAid Stand Mixer

The KitchenAid Stand Mixer is a vital kitchen essential. Bakers can’t live without this small kitchen appliance, it is more than just a kitchen tool for bakers. With so many attachments, the KitchenAid Stand Mixer can make kitchen prep a breeze. From rolling out pasta to grinding meat, those two examples are a couple of the many attachments available. That KitchenAid on the counter isn’t just a pretty addition to the kitchen décor, it is vital to another great meal.

Immersion blender

While most people have a blender to make their favorite smoothie or cocktail, an immersion blender can be the kitchen tool that you never knew that you needed. This kitchen gadget can create a quick soup, a lovely sauce or even a dessert.

When choosing an immersion blender, research all the attachments that come with the model. Braun makes a great one that blends, chops and even whisks. With ActiveBlade technology, it is considered the number one immersion blender.

Do you have a list of the best kitchen tools that are essential to your cooking? Share your suggestions with us in the comment section or tag at on social media using #FoodSided.