In the world of countless kitchen gadgets, which ones are truly essential? Which tools actually help you become a better cook? Mike G from Pro Home Cooks has curated a list of 10 kitchen items he considers indispensable – not just basic tools, but items he “couldn’t live without” in the kitchen.

1. Salt

“Obviously the most important ingredient in the kitchen,” Mike recommends having an easy-to-use salt container. He demonstrates a DIY mason jar with drilled holes that allows for perfect sprinkling. “It’s all about knowing your salt levels and how your salt machine works,” he explains. Mastering your salt dispenser – or even making your own – is fundamental to good cooking.

2. Chef’s Knife

When it comes to kitchen gear, knives generate the most questions. Mike’s advice is refreshingly simple: “Whatever feels right for you.” Rather than investing in a large knife block, he suggests starting with just two quality knives: a chef’s style knife (6-8 inches) for all-purpose use, and a smaller knife (3-5 inches) for more detailed work. Between these two, you can handle virtually all kitchen cutting tasks.

3. Microplane

“This thing is all-purpose,” Mike enthuses about this versatile tool. Perfect for zesting or grating cheese, the microplane offers the ideal balance between a box grater and smaller tools. Its specific design makes it essential for countless kitchen applications.

4. Kitchen Tongs

Mike calls tongs “an extra hand” in the kitchen. Whether you use traditional tongs or refined “tweezer tongs,” they provide precise control when handling meat or tossing salads – offering far more control than using a fork.

5. Wooden Spatula/Spoon

For stirring needs, Mike prefers wooden utensils. “It just feels better in my hand and absorbs a little flavor,” he explains. While he owns many metal utensils, having at least one wooden spoon or spatula is essential for his cooking style.

6. Wood Cutting Board

“Get yourself a good wood cutting board,” Mike emphasizes. He showcases one made by his father, noting that with proper maintenance and oiling, it will last forever. The ideal size should fit in your sink for easy washing. He strongly cautions against glass cutting boards, which are slippery, damage knives, and create unpleasant sounds during use.

7. Kitchen Scale

Though he wouldn’t have included this five years ago, Mike now considers a kitchen scale essential for home cooks, particularly those interested in fermentation or bread-making. He points out that even inexpensive models (around $15) work perfectly fine for most cooking needs.

8. Mesh Strainer

Mike demonstrates both a spider strainer (ideal for pasta) and a wire mesh strainer, noting their versatility in the kitchen. With multiple sizes available, a medium-sized metal mesh strainer serves most all-purpose needs, from smoothing sauces to straining soups and teas.

9. Heavy Pot

If forced to choose just one pot, Mike would select a thick, sturdy enameled cast iron pot. “It’s going to last forever, and you can cook anything in here,” he explains. From searing steaks to simmering curries and soups, this versatile pot offers superior temperature control and cooking performance.

10. Thermometer

Mike shows two types: an infrared laser thermometer for surface temperatures (useful for fermentation projects and checking oil temperatures) and a probe thermometer for internal readings. While the probe is useful for meats, Mike finds himself using the infrared version more frequently for his advanced cooking projects.

Mike concludes with wise advice for building your kitchen collection: “Think about it as long-term investing. Start small, pick up one thing here and one thing there. Buy something, learn how to use it, bring it into your cooking routine, and then keep incorporating more stuff over time. Eventually, you’ll have a full kitchen of great gear and be well on your way to becoming a pro cook.”