While ordering a counter top today for our upcoming kitchen reno, I made a friend, and pretty much invited myself over to her house to talk gardening, canning, country living, etc… This sweet, independent, older woman is working “just a few more years” to get out of debt and live her best retirement ever! (Cue the “Getting out of Debt” Squeal!)
We had so much in common, with the exception that she has lived it and I plan on living it. She raised her kids in the country, used a wood stove to heat her home 100%, raised and canned the majority of her own food, sold her extra produce, raised meat on her 20 acres. And on and on and on (My smile is huge just thinking about it all over again!!)
Over an hour later, the kids and I left the store, and I drove home pondering how soon I can call my new friend to visit and learn all things country living. Of course, this made me realize, that without a willing teacher, we are unable to learn. If there aren’t people willing to share good times and bad, life lessons and memories, the legacy stops. The same mistakes will happen over and over if we don’t tell our version of the story.
I may not be an expert in many areas, but I sure spend a lot of time in my kitchen. So, I figured, that is the best place to start. Today, I want to share with you…..
My Top 8 Must- Have Kitchen Items
(In no particular order, and not including the obvious- sink, dishwasher, stove/oven, microwave…)
1. Kitchenaid Stand Mixer- This appliance may need to be #1 on any list. I use this mostly for bread making, but it is a beast in the kitchen. I received mine as a wedding present, and it sat in a box for about 5 years (I didn’t know how to cook when I got married….)
2. Ninja Blender- This fantastic blender has been my favorite for years! It is high-powered to make most dough & smoothie recipes, yet doesn’t cost a small fortune.
3. Coffee Maker/ Grinder- This workhorse combo is used daily. I really have enjoyed the option to brew a single cup, but we rarely use it. The grinder apparently can be used for spices, but I’ve kept it solely dedicated to coffee beans!
4. Crock Pot- Another regularly used, well-loved small appliance!!! I have an 8-qt option that holds enough soup for company or several days!
5. Corelle Dishes- Real dishes that are kid friendly and NOT plastic. Yes, please! I have several sets and sizes, and some match….
6. Bakeware/Glassware- The older the dishes are, the better! I look for them at garage/estate sales and thrift stores. I have been gifted several sets as elderly people pass them on, from all parts of the country. And several sets come with lids which act as storage containers, too! (Again, no more plastic!!)
7. Mason jars- I have so so so many of these jars! They are super versatile, and can be used for leftovers, to-go lunches, drinking glasses, science projects, flower vases….
8. Pots & Pans- Years ago, I learned about the dangers of Teflon and quickly replaced the Caphalon set I had with a stainless steel version. This is my favorite brand for pots & pans as they are incredibly sturdy (the kids used them for drums numerous times!) and the set has every size you could possibly need.
I recently jumped onto the cast iron wagon, which is a must for cooking eggs. (Stainless steel is not an ideal cooking surface for delicate eggs.)
As you can see, I am not a minimalist. I have many “favorite” categories, and many, many options in each. (And of course, we use stirring spoons, spatulas, cutting knives and utensils.) Most of these items I have found over the years through trial and error. They have become very-loved and highly recommended.
I’d love to hear about your favorite kitchen item(s)! And, possibly, add it to my collection!!
