When it comes to cooking, we often focus on the essentials – the knives, pots, and pans that are a must-have in any kitchen. But what about those hidden gems? The gear that may not be on everyone’s radar but can truly elevate your cooking game?
As Serious Eats senior commerce editors, we’ve had the opportunity to try out a wide range of cooking gear. And while we appreciate the classics, we also have a few less obvious favorites that we can’t help but recommend. These are the unsung heroes of the kitchen, the items that may not be on every “must-have” list but are worth their weight in gold.
So, what are these less obvious editor favorite gear recommendations? And why do we believe they deserve a spot in your kitchen? Let’s dive in and explore the hidden gems that we’ve found to be reliable, effective, and sure to make you a better cook.
Key Takeaways:
- Discover the lesser-known gear that can enhance your cooking experience
- These hidden gems are tried and tested by Serious Eats senior commerce editors
- Find out why these less obvious recommendations are worth your attention
- Explore unconventional tools that can make you a better cook
- Don’t miss out on these less obvious favorites that can elevate your culinary skills
Non-Essential But Essential: Must-Have Gear for Cooks
When it comes to cooking, having the right gear can make all the difference. While some kitchen tools are considered essential, there are hidden gems that can take your cooking to the next level. These top gear recommendations, hand-picked by our editors, may not be the first items that come to mind, but they are essential additions to any culinary arsenal.
Hell’s Kitchen Hybrid 5-Piece Cookware Set
The Hell’s Kitchen Hybrid 5-Piece Cookware Set is a standout gear choice for its excellent heat conduction and large capacity, making it perfect for saucing pasta and preparing delicious meals. Made with quality materials and designed for optimal performance, this cookware set is a hidden gem that every cook should consider.
Tojiro Bread Slicer
The Tojiro Bread Slicer is a nimble serrated knife that excels at cutting through bread with ease and thinly slicing tomatoes without tearing. Its excellent craftsmanship and precision make it a must-have tool for any bread lover or home cook seeking perfect slices.
Y-peelers
Y-peelers are an affordable and superior alternative to swivel peelers, making them the best choice for peeling vegetables. With their sharp blades and ergonomic design, these peelers offer effortless peeling and are a favorite among kitchen enthusiasts.
Japanese Poultry Knife (Honesuki)
The Japanese poultry knife, known as the honesuki, is a specialized knife that excels at butchering poultry with its sharp and triangular blade. With its precise cuts and excellent handling, this knife is a game-changer for any chef or home cook.
Thermapen ONE Instant-Read Thermometer
Accurate temperature measurement is crucial in cooking, and the Thermapen ONE Instant-Read Thermometer is a top pick for achieving precise results. With its quick response time and reliability, this thermometer ensures that your food is perfectly cooked every time.
Quarter and Eighth Sheet Pans
Compact and versatile, quarter and eighth sheet pans are essential for cooking small portions, mise en place, cooling grains, and more. These sheet pans are a reliable choice for any cook looking to enhance their culinary skills.
OXO Angled Measuring Cup
The OXO angled measuring cup is the perfect tool for measuring small amounts of liquid and doubles as a great jigger for cocktail enthusiasts. Its unique design and precision measurements make it a practical addition to any kitchen.
High-Quality Kitchen Shears
Upgrading to a high-quality pair of kitchen shears can greatly enhance your cutting and food prep tasks. With their sharp blades and comfortable handles, these shears are a must-have for trimming herbs, opening packaging, and more.
Immersion Blender
An immersion blender is a versatile tool for blending, emulsifying, and pureeing various ingredients. Its compact design and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any cook’s kitchen.
Chef’s Press
The Chef’s Press is a helpful tool for achieving ideal browning in cooking. With its even weight distribution and ability to apply gentle pressure, this press is a game-changer for professionals and home cooks alike.
Fine-Mesh Strainer from Rösle
A durable and efficient fine-mesh strainer is essential for straining and filtering liquids. The Rösle strainer is a top choice among chefs, known for its quality construction and reliable performance.
All-Purpose Chinese Cleaver
The all-purpose Chinese cleaver is a versatile knife that excels at various culinary tasks, from dicing to slicing. Its sharp blade and unique design make it a favorite among professional chefs.
Bench Scraper
A bench scraper is a helpful tool for transferring ingredients and dividing dough. Its sturdy construction and versatility make it an essential tool for any baker or cook.
Wire Cooling Racks with Six Little Feet
Wire cooling racks with six little feet are stable and ideal for cooling and draining fried foods. Their elevated design allows for proper airflow, ensuring crispy and evenly cooked results.
Cuticle Oil Beads from Bubbeau
While not directly related to cooking, it’s essential to take care of yourself too. Cuticle oil beads from Bubbeau are convenient and effective for nourishing nails and cuticles, ensuring that your hands are as well-groomed as your culinary creations.
Personal Favorites: Everyday Products We Recommend
At CNN Underscored, we believe in the power of quality gear picks. That’s why we’ve hand-picked a collection of everyday products that we, as expert editors, personally stand by and use in our daily lives. These gear suggestions have proven their worth, offering both practicality and enjoyment in equal measure.
One of our top recommendations is the Vinci Cold Brew Maker. This affordable and user-friendly device allows you to effortlessly create fresh and delicious cold brew coffee right in the comfort of your own home. For tea lovers, we can’t get enough of Year & Day Mugs. With their minimalistic design and durable ceramic construction, they are the perfect companion for your daily sip.
Bath time becomes a luxurious experience with the Brooklinen Waffle Bath Sheets. These lightweight, absorbent, and quick-drying towels are not only functional but also incredibly soft to the touch. And for those seeking an extra touch of luxury, the Zadro TWB Towel Warmer provides that spa-like feeling, effortlessly warming your towels to perfection.
Enhance the ambiance of any space with the Apotheke Charcoal Rouge Classic Candle. Its unique scent and striking black wax create an atmosphere of sophistication and indulgence. For coffee connoisseurs, the Mr. Coffee One-Touch CoffeeHouse+ Espresso, Cappuccino, and Latte Maker is a game-changer. Customize your coffee experience at home with this versatile machine.
Sonic Editions offers high-quality framed photographs that cater to all artistic tastes. From the iconic Snoop Dogg & Dr. Dre print to other captivating images, their collection is a must-have for hip-hop fans and collectors alike. And for those looking to elevate their hair care routine, the Volo Hero Hair Towel is an absolute winner. Its plushness, absorbency, and frizz-reducing properties make it an excellent choice.
When it comes to makeup, we recommend EM Cosmetics So Soft Blush in Chiffon. This versatile and user-friendly blush effortlessly achieves natural and soft-looking cheeks. For skincare enthusiasts, the Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Instant Firming Retinol Alternative Serum is a highly effective and luxurious option. It improves skin texture and reduces the signs of aging.
Not forgetting our brows, the Kulfi Free The Brow Volumizing & Laminating Brow Gel allows for flexible and customizable brow looks. And for strong, healthy nails, the OPI Natural Nail Strengthener is a protective barrier that strengthens and shields your natural nails. Those dealing with acne-prone skin will find the Clearstem Sulfur Spot&Mask to be an effective spot treatment and preventative measure.
To nourish your nails and cuticles, reach for the convenient and effective Bubbeau Cuticle Oil Beads. These little beads are a game-changer for keeping your nails healthy and well-maintained.
These are just a few of our personal favorite everyday products that we recommend wholeheartedly. Trusted by expert editors, these quality gear picks have become an indispensable part of our lives, and we’re confident they’ll become favorites in your home as well.