by Joseph Kelley

Created on: November 19, 2008

Having worked in a restaurant since I was fourteen I know a thing or two about kitchen gadgets and which ones will get the job done. All of these I use on a regular basis and I have included in their description which company makes the best working one at the best price. Every cook should have these basic items, without them

1. Your Hands

Company: GOD

Yes, I know it is not really a tool you can purchase however it is the chefs number one choice when it comes to certain tasks. Like every other tool you have, treat your hands with respect. Wash and clean your hands constantly and train them by repeating certain movements and exercises, because without them, every tool on this list is useless. One rule of thumb my teachers always told me was "if your hands can do it, you had better let them."

2. Chef's Knife [French Blade]

Company: WSTHOF (I love their knives)

To a professionally trained chef the knife is just an extension of his arm. This is where your hand comes into play; with practice any task is possible with the use of your knife. As with all of a chefs tools, he should keep his knife clean and sharp at all times. If you are serious about cooking, do not be afraid to splurge a little bit on a knife, seeing as how it is the second most important tool in your possession.

2A. Knife Sharpener

Company: Arizona Whetstones

To help maintain your knife a knife sharpener is a necessity. Electric Sharpeners and Diamond Sharpeners are not good for your knife, although they do provide a quick sharp edge to your knife it quickly fades away. Using a Whetstone or a Sharpening Stone can vastly improve your knives performance. Not only does it provide a sharp edge it lasts for a while to.

3. Saut Pan

Company: Any, however look for the following features: Stainless Steel, Durable, and a Copper Bottom

Third on my list is a saut pan. The art of the saut is one of timing and skill, and with the right pan you can become a pro in no time. Look for one that is made of stainless steel, not Teflon. Having worked in the industry for almost 10 years now, I have not once cooked with a Teflon pan. Remember that it may be a bit messier but a good cook knows how to clean up as well. With this pan you can cook a vast number of dishes, from scrambled eggs to shrimp scampi it is made easier with a good saut pan.

Although a simple list, it still gets across the basics of what you should have on hand if you wish to tackle the culinary world. These key three items are the ones that will lead you to success in any cooking venture you may have.

Learn more about this author, Joseph Kelley.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.