Buzz
Hello and welcome to The Grown-up Kitchen. While Allie and I typically focus on enhancing cooking skills with tips, tricks, and hacks, we’re now diving into the fundamentals, giving true beginners the guidance they need.
By 'basics,' I mean just that. You won’t find recipes here, but you will discover tips on selecting essential kitchen tools like pots, pans, knives, spatulas, cooking fats, and seasonings. We’ll help you identify the tools you need based on your cooking goals and budget, ensuring you avoid unnecessary purchases.
If you already own a favorite chef’s knife, use an immersion circulator, or can distinguish between Kosher and table salt without searching online, this series isn’t for you—though you’re welcome to read it. This is for those ready to upgrade from a basic knife block to a high-quality blade (and learn how to maintain it), for those curious about the nuances of black and rainbow peppercorns, and for anyone unsure about the difference between dry and wet measuring cups.
If you’ve recently moved out of your parents’ home and are setting up your first kitchen, aiming to transition from nonstick to cast iron cookware, or striving to replace takeout with homemade meals, we’re here to guide you.
Cooking is a skill everyone can master, and Allie and I recognize that the abundance of cookbooks, gadgets, recipes, and tips can feel daunting. However, with the right tools and knowledge on how to use them, cooking becomes an enjoyable, straightforward, and fulfilling activity. Take a deep breath, trust that you’re in capable hands, and let us assist you in creating your very own grown-up kitchen.
Cast iron pans
Stainless steel cookware
Nonstick pans
Baking gear
Knives
Knife care
Cooking utensils
Cutting boards
Measuring cups, spoons, and scales
Thermometers
Salt
Pepper
Dry and fresh herbs
Peppers, pepper flakes, and hot sauces
Cooking oil
Editor’s note: The links above will become active as each article is published throughout the day.
