- A set of sharp knives. For sure a chopping or butchers knife, a paring knife and a serrated edge knife. I also like a good old fashioned sharpening rod. They work well and are very appealing to you know who when used with grace. They must be kept sharp to be safe. Its like having a clean gun.
- A can opener. I suggest both a manual and an electric. Manual, in case the electric fails.
- A couple of good cooking spoons. One with holes and one without.
- A couple of food turners or spatula’s
- Spatula for getting ingredients out of the jar like sauces and such.
- Large fork for turning meats
- Thongs. (Oops, I meant tongs).
- Blender
- Juicer
- Coffee grinder, unless you don’t drink the stuff. Even so, they are handy for spices.
- Coffee maker
- Small Greek coffee maker
- Electric tea kettle
- Counter top convection oven.
- Set of 2 non stick fry pans.
- Set of high quality, low water use pots. At least one dutch oven.
- Large cast iron skillet and/or stove top grill
- Sandwich style electric press grill i.e. George Foreman type grill.
- Colander
- Dish washing supplies, strainer, stainless steel pads, sponges, dish soap.
- Good quality water filter. I do not support reverse osmosis for a number of reasons, not the least of which is the cost. Nor am I a fan of water softeners. There are some excellent above and below counter carbon filter systems. Water is essential in most cooking events. It absolutely needs to be filtered and clean. Spend whatever it takes to get a good filter.
- A couple of ice trays for freezing fresh squeezed juice.
- Paper towels – I prefer the tri-fold’s. I seem to always knock over those little paper towel holders when I am working. Get what works best for you.
- I don’t use an apron. But you can. The temptation of an apron is to be messy. There is no need for a mess in a non commercial kitchen!
- Dish towels.
- A set of left over dishes. I have met men who absolutely will not eat left overs. I can’t think of what brainless thinking that is. Many dishes actually improve in flavor after being stored for a day or two in the fridge.
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