Dutch oven (5 to 6 quart)
Holds steady heat and traps steam, which is what gives homemade bread its crackly crust. Also great for soups, stews and braises.
Check options on AmazonKitchen Tools Worth Owning
A short, practical list of equipment that makes the recipes on this site easier. You do not need all of it.
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12-inch skillet
A wide, flat-bottomed pan gives sauces room to reduce and lets pasta toss easily. Look for a heavy base that heats evenly.
Check options on Amazon8-inch chef's knife
The single most useful blade in the kitchen. A sharp knife is safer and makes slicing vegetables for salads quick and even.
Check options on AmazonDigital kitchen scale
Weighing flour and other dry goods is more accurate than measuring cups, which matters most for baking.
Check options on AmazonLarge stockpot with lid
Plenty of room for pasta to move freely, which helps it cook evenly and prevents sticking.
Check options on AmazonInstant-read thermometer
Takes the guesswork out of doneness for bread, poultry and more. Useful for food-safety checks.
Check options on AmazonNesting mixing bowls
A stackable set saves cupboard space and covers everything from dressings to dough.
Check options on AmazonLarge cutting board
Gives you room to work and protects your knife edge. Choose one that stays put on the counter.
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Cookbook pick (affiliate)
The Anabolic Cooking Cookbook by Dave Ruel
A digital (PDF) cookbook of high-protein recipes with a meal-prep and nutrition guide, if you like planning meals ahead and cooking in batches. It is sold and delivered by the seller through ClickBank, not by CookAfill.
Check the seller's page for the current price, what is included and the refund terms before you buy. The seller makes its own claims about results; we do not endorse them, and results vary from person to person. This is an affiliate link, so we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more. For personal health or diet advice, speak to a qualified professional.
Buy NowHow we choose
We favor tools that do more than one job, last for years and are easy to clean. A well-made pot, pan or knife is often cheaper over time than replacing flimsy ones. Before buying, read recent customer reviews on the retailer's page and check the size against your stove and storage space.