The Basic Setup

Before I begin documenting my kitchen trials, I think its important to discuss the infrastructure, the setup, the basics. What does a single guy need to survive on his own in the kitchen?

1) A good set of pots and pans - stainless steel (or some durable material that can be thrown in the oven). I dislike the non-stick materials - just use enough butter, oil, or bacon grease and it won't stick. What to buy? Believe it or not, Walmart sells a damn good 8-piece set by Tramontina. It was rated very highly by Cooks Illustrated for quality and value. I personally use this set as well and really like it. The design is simple and attractive, construction is durable, and the price is right. A great place to start.

2) Salt, Pepper, Olive Oil. Don’t go too cheap here. I really like Whole Foods 365 Brand Olive Oil. Morton’s plain salt is great (although smoked Artisan salts can be unbelievable, though pricey). I use the cheap pepper from the store. My dad prefers fresh ground cracked pepper. Personally, I also added a few other spices to my collection: ground Cayenne Pepper for heat, ground cumin for eccentricity, and paprika for a smoky flavor.

3) Cooking utensils. A good spatula, pair of tongs, and some wooden spoons, some slatted and some not, are essential. I found a great set at Bed, Bath and beyond.

4) Knives. I got a great deal at Macy’s on a cutlery set by JA Henckels International. They are great quality: forged steal, but came at a lower price point because these are the Spanish production, not German. I have no allegiance to Germany so it was fine by me and I absolutely love them. Make sure to by a sharpener... and use it.

5) Cutting Board. I am a big fan of the Epicurean brand of cutting boards. A small, a big and then get a really big poly (plastic) cutting board with a groove around the edge to catch juices and what not when you cut meat.

6) One bottle of red and one bottle of white. Drinking wine, and playing good music, while cooking is essential. It reminds me of home, and puts me in the right mood. Plus, wine is a very useful ingredients.

7) Hot pads. Despite owning a hot glove and pad, I still find a way to burn my fingers.

8) Baking sheets – not for cookies (although that’s not a bad idea), but for roasting veggies, meats, etc.

9) Zip lock bags and plastic containers. We are on a budget, saving, and storage is key. Leftovers and scraps equal lunch for tomorrow and maybe dinner too.

And the "Unecessary Essentials,"

10) Personal herb garden, I have two potted herb plants on my kitchen window sill. Its satisfying to use your own homegrown fresh herbs... I'm like so Seattle and so Green too.

11) Serving spoons... I like to cook for women. Women enjoy good food, but presentation and perception is key. Having the right stuff is a plus.

12) A good balsamic vinegar --- salads, drizzle over veggies... or make a reduction and serve on ice cream

13) Confidence. Cooking is all about confidence (and some skill, organization, and attention to detail)

14)  A good sense of humour. Trust me, at some point you'll yell: "Shit, I burned the fish!" Laugh about it, don't get upset.

With these basics, and a few of the unecessary essentials, you should be good to go without having busted your budget, or overly cluttered your place. Now we just neeed to find some time to put it all to use.