fresh kitchen
tjheffner
2025-06-14
a friend recently asked what items would you get if you were assembling a new home kitchen from scratch on a budget? it’s a really good question. if i had to start my kitchen over, i think these items would provide a strong foundation for making a wide range of dishes.
essentials:
- cast iron pan + lid. 12” if you have the space but 10” will do
- stock pot
- saucepan
- metal spatula
- wooden spoon
- chef knife
- paring knife
- 2-3 cutting board(s)
- 2 rimmed baking sheets
- 2 big mixing bowls (ikea has good ones)
- measuring cups
- baking dish(es)
- colander or strainer
- can opener
- meat thermometer (thermopen, etc)
- storage containers for leftovers
that list will take you very far. then as recipes require, or budget allows, you can expand that core with other helpful additions.
- instant pot
- food processor
- immersion blender
- stand mixer
- cheese grater
- veg peeler
- pizza slicer
- tongs
- bread knife
- sharpening whetstone
- rolling pin
Some items the cheap version will perfectly acceptable, but for others I would spring for some extra quality. Cast iron is cast iron, a $25 lodge is going to work just fine. You’ll notice a difference between a $85 chef’s knife and a $25 knife, I would go higher if the budget allows.
Bon appetit!