Utensils, gadgets and tools for everyday cooking
Good cooking tools make kitchen work smoother. A sturdy spatula, a pair of tongs that grip properly or a sharp peeler saves time and frustration every time you cook.
This category includes spatulas, turners, tongs, whisks, ladles, peelers, graters, mandolines, measuring cups and spoons, thermometers, can openers, utensil sets and clever gadgets for prep and serving.
Choose materials that suit your cookware. Silicone and wooden utensils won't scratch nonstick pans. Stainless steel tools are strong, heat-resistant and last for years. Look for heat-resistant ratings on anything that goes near a hot pan.
A basic set covers most cooking: a silicone spatula, a turner, tongs, a whisk, a ladle, a slotted spoon, a peeler, a box grater and measuring cups and spoons. Add a digital meat thermometer if you cook meat often; it's the easiest way to get it right every time.
Keep frequently used tools in a crock by the stove, and less common gadgets in a drawer organizer. Many tools are dishwasher-safe, but wooden utensils last longer when washed by hand and dried straight away.