When you move into your first apartment, it can be eye-opening to discover just how much you need to have a fully functional house. This is especially true in the kitchen. It may seem like every time you want to prepare a new dish, you quickly discover that missing a key tool or gadget stops the process in its tracks.
To help you build your first kitchen, here’s a starter list of core essentials:
Knives: Skip the knife sets and invest in a chef knife, a paring knife, and a long serrated bread knife. To keep the blades sharp, wash and dry immediately after each use.
Cutting board: These not only keep your surfaces free of gouges and nicks, they also contain messes and germs. Cutting boards can also pull double duty as trivets for hot baking dishes. Tip: Opt for larger boards and designate one board as meat and fish only, while the other can be used for produce. After each use, wash with hot soapy water to keep foodborne illnesses at bay.
Pots and pans: Unlike knives, buying a set is a cost-efficient and smart way to set up your kitchen. Make sure your set includes a stockpot, one or two lidded saucepans, and one or two lidded sauté pans.
Bowls: A set of nesting bowls are perfect for food prep, storage, and serving.
Oven gear: A baking dish, a lidded casserole dish, and a cookie sheet are the three oven essentials. These items will help you prepare desserts, egg bakes, pizza, and, of course, chocolate chip cookies.
Measuring tools: A set of dry measuring cups, a set of measuring spoons, and one liquid measuring cup are essential.
Utensils: A starter set for your countertop crock: a rubber spatula, a metal spatula, a wooden spoon, and a whisk.
Appliances: Stand mixers, blenders, and food processors come in handy in the kitchen. Things like a box grater, a handheld immersion blender, a handheld mixer, and, of course, your high-quality knives, can set you up without breaking the bank.
Once you’re stocked and ready to cook, your designer kitchen at one of our Lewis Apartment Communities will help you with the rest. Our kitchens feature quartz countertops and modern cabinets for ample storage and prep space. With our upgraded energy-efficient appliances, you’ll be prepared to be the perfect host for your next great dinner party!
