Cooking cultural food is our passion and for some recipes you will need a specific set of tools to create them. For that reason we have created this essential kitchen tools and equipment guide so that you can be well on your way to cooking your favourite recipes at home.
1. Stainless Steel Saucepan with Lid
This stainless steel saucepan is premium quality, holding up to 3.8 liters—ideal for large families or gatherings. It features a glass lid for easy monitoring, and its durable, hollow stainless steel handles and 5.2mm encapsulated aluminum base ensure long-lasting performance. The pan is oven-safe up to 240°C and suitable for all heat sources.
2. Double Oven Glove
This double oven glove is made from 100% cotton with polywadding filling for extra heat protection. It ensures safe handling of hot items, preventing burns or accidents. Unlike regular cloths, it provides a secure grip, even when wet. The subtle, stylish design complements kitchens with yellow or white themes, and it's perfect for animal lovers. It's a practical and eco-friendly choice, reducing the need for plastic materials. Reviewers rave about its quality, safety, and design. A must-have for anyone who values both style and functionality in the kitchen.
3. Cast iron skillet
This cast-iron skillet is perfect for frying, sautéing, and baking. Oven-safe and naturally non-stick once seasoned, it’s built to last a lifetime with proper care. Its heavy-duty construction and even heat distribution ensure optimal cooking with minimal oil. The handle has a hole for easy hanging, and it features spouts for easy pouring. To clean, use hot water and avoid dish soap to maintain the seasoning. Re-season with oil if necessary. This skillet is a must-have for healthy cooking and is the only frying pan you’ll ever need.
4. ZWILLING pro traditional chef’s knife
A good knife is the most important tool in any kitchen. When I first left home, I used a cheap knife from the supermarket, but after years of experimenting with new recipes, I realized I needed a better one. After researching, I tried a true chef’s knife, and it completely transformed my cooking experience. The precision and safety it provides make chopping so much easier.
As many chefs will tell you, a blunt knife is more dangerous than a sharp one. A poorly made or dull knife can slip and cause accidents. Since switching to this Zwilling Pro chef’s knife, I’ve found chopping onions and other ingredients effortless and safe. It’s versatile enough for nearly every kitchen task.
The Zwilling Pro knife is ice-hardened, making it corrosion-resistant, flexible, and great at holding its edge. For passionate cooks who value safety and efficiency, this knife is a must-have. To care for it, simply wash it by hand with warm soapy water, dry it, and store it properly. With the right care, this knife can last a lifetime. Regular sharpening will keep it performing at its best, either by you or a professional service.
5. ZWILLING Paring knife
Every kitchen needs a quality knife, and this one is essential for chopping smaller ingredients like onions, garlic, fruit, and ginger. With its sharp blade, it offers precision and ease for detailed cuts. The seamless design prevents slipping, and the ergonomic handle ensures a secure grip for safe use. Always use a chopping board to protect both your surfaces and your knife. Simply clean it with warm soapy water, dry it with a towel, and store it safely.
Built to last, this knife features a cold-hardened blade for durability. A sharp knife is safer and more effective than a blunt one, requiring less force and reducing the risk of accidents. With only this and a larger knife for tougher tasks, you’ll have everything you need in your kitchen.
6. Lebbeck Spoon
The handcrafted Lebbeck Spoon, made from sustainable Siris wood, features a beautiful reddish-brown color with unique light and dark bands. Choose between a rounded or slotted design, each with its own decorative texture and dark finish. Siris wood is naturally resistant to rot and has medicinal properties, making this spoon both durable and gentle. Ethically made in India by a Fair Trade producer group, it adds a touch of natural elegance to your kitchen.
Unlike stainless steel utensils, which can damage non-stick cookware, our wooden spoon is gentle on surfaces and ideal for mixing. It’s versatile, easy to clean, and kind to the environment, making it a must-have in any kitchen.
7. Stainless steel potato peeler
This stainless steel vegetable peeler is much more than just a potato peeler. Originally designed as an apple peeler in the 1800s, it’s perfect for peeling a variety of vegetables and fruits, and can even core apples. Made from durable stainless steel, it’s a hygienic, long-lasting choice used by professional chefs. The ergonomic handle provides a secure grip, and the peeler is easy to clean—simply wash with warm soapy water or place in the dishwasher. Its hanging loop allows for convenient storage, saving space in your drawers.
8. Mango Wood Chopping Board
A Mango Wood Chopping Board is a stunning and eco-friendly addition to your kitchen. Handmade by skilled artisans in India from sustainable mango wood, each board is unique with its own grain. It's not just for food prep - it can also be used as a serving board for bread, cheese, and antipasti. Available in small, medium, or large sizes, Some come with a loop strap for easy hanging. Perfect for a fair trade housewarming or wedding gift, this chopping board adds a rustic touch to your kitchen.
9. Loofco's coconut fibre washing up brush
Loofco offers two eco-friendly cleaning tools made of natural coir fibre and rubberwood - the Coconut Fibre Washing Up Brush and the Coconut Fibre Bottle Brush. Both are durable, versatile, and vegan-friendly. The coir fibre used in the brushes is naturally anti-bacterial, making them perfect for deep-cleaning without harming the environment. To clean with either brush, simply use warm water and washing-up liquid or soap. Once the brushes have worn out, they can be recycled, providing a sustainable and biodegradable alternative to plastic scourers, sponges, and brushes.
10. Pyrex mixing bowl
Every kitchen needs a reliable mixing bowl, and this Pyrex bowl is a must-have. Perfect for mixing large quantities, it holds up to 1 litre and is ideal for everything from bread-making to preparing layered trifles. The clear glass allows you to see your creations, adding a beautiful touch to your kitchen. Pyrex bowls are designed to handle extreme temperatures, from -40°C in the freezer to 300°C in the oven, without cracking. Made from glass, it’s free from harmful chemicals, resists stains and odors, and is easy to clean with a scourer. Scratch-resistant and durable, it’s built to last.
11. Pyrex casserole dish
This Pyrex casserole dish is a kitchen essential for versatile cooking. Made from durable borosilicate glass, it ensures safe, optimal cooking for tender, juicy meals. The easy-grip handles make it simple to move from the oven to the counter or table, but remember to place a towel down if your table isn’t heatproof. It can withstand temperatures up to 300°C, perfect for slow-cooked meats, casseroles, or even desserts like apple crumble and brownies. Pyrex products are freezer and dishwasher safe, shock-resistant, and can handle both high heat and freezing temperatures. Cleaning is easy with hot soapy water and a scourer for tough spots. This is the go-to dish for all your baking and cooking needs.
12. Non Stick Baking Tray
A non stick baking tray will not only save you time when it comes to cleaning but will also allow you peace of mind due to it coming with a five year warranty. The tray is extremely versatile in the kitchen, it can be stored in the fridge, freezer. The carbon steel non stick baking tray is dishwasher safe and is just perfect for cooking roasting meats, and for baking cookies. Using non stick also means that you can use less fats and oil when cooking, this in turn can even improve your health.
13. Pyrex Glass Measuring Jug
This transparent glass jug makes it easy to read measurements in ml, pints, and litres. Its solid, durable design ensures it can withstand regular use without breaking, even for clumsy hands. Although it’s a bit heavy due to its thick material, it’s perfect for a variety of tasks like making pancakes, cakes, cocktails, and more. The pouring spout helps prevent spills, and it’s dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. I also use it to quickly cool my newborn's bottle or heat up soup in the microwave. A reliable kitchen essential for precise measurements and versatile use.
14. Stainless steel whisk
This high-quality stainless steel whisk is perfect for mixing sauces, gravies, custards, batters, and more. Its durable design ensures longevity, and with proper care, it can last a lifetime. The comfortable handle provides a secure grip for smooth, efficient whisking, while the loop above the handle allows for easy storage on a rail. Measuring 15 cm, this whisk is dishwasher safe but hand washing is recommended for better maintenance. Its all-metal construction ensures no harmful chemicals leach into your food, making it a hygienic and reliable choice for your kitchen.
15. Stainless steel stock pot
This stainless steel stock pot is a must-have for anyone who loves cooking large meals. Perfect for stews, broths, curries, and slow-cooked dishes, it’s ideal for big batches and family gatherings. You can even use it to make homemade stock or concentrate it for richer flavors. Its durable stainless steel construction ensures longevity, while its versatile design makes it suitable for both home and commercial kitchens. Easy to clean and built to last, this stock pot is a great gift for passionate cooks and a kitchen essential for meal prep and entertaining.
16. Wooden rolling pin
This is one of the most used tools in our kitchen, whether we are rolling out bread doughs, pastries to make pies or even bashing down some biscuits to make a lovely chocolate ganache, this tool is always needed. There are many variations of the traditional rolling pin, and nowadays there are many material options to choose from but wood is always the best. It’s smooth, perfectly round, and the edges have fine rounded detailing. With natural wood products you should hand wash and don’t let them sit in water as it could cause damage to it. Approximate length 40cm, this products offers luxury quality at a budget price.
17. Stainless steel soup gravy ladle
This stainless steel ladle is perfect for serving large portions of gravy, punch, or even pancake mix. Its deep bowl makes it ideal for scooping generous servings, while the smooth handle ensures comfort and control during use. Not only great for serving, but also for stirring and cooking, this ladle offers durability and longevity, with a 25-year guarantee. Easy to clean, it’s dishwasher-safe and can be hung on a pan rack for convenient storage. Reviewers praise it as great value and perfect for American pancakes.
18. Stainless steel potato masher
This stainless steel potato masher is a versatile kitchen tool, perfect for making mashed potatoes, baby food, guacamole, and even blending butter into flour for pastry. Its durable, solid construction ensures long-lasting use, unlike plastic-handled mashers that can break over time. The horizontal handle provides a comfortable grip, and its easy-to-clean design makes it convenient for everyday use. Simply rinse and scrub with warm soapy water. Professional chefs prefer stainless steel for its hygiene benefits, making this masher an essential, reliable tool for your kitchen.
19. Electric Kettle
This electric kettle boils quickly, saving you time and energy. With a 1.7L capacity, it makes up to 8 cups of tea or coffee, ideal for families or entertaining guests. Its sleek, high-gloss finish and polished chrome details complement any kitchen, available in colors like white, red, and cream. The kettle features a rear water window for easy filling, illuminates when boiling, and has a non-slip base for safety. Not only great for drinks, but it’s also perfect for quickly preparing hot water bottles for aches and pains. Pair it with a matching toaster for a complete kitchen set.
20. Toaster
This four-slice toaster adds elegance to any kitchen with its high-gloss finish and ridged texture. It features a high-lift function for easy removal of smaller slices and 9 adjustable toast settings for perfect results. The removable crumb tray makes cleaning simple, and the defrost and reheat functions add convenience. Ideal for families, it ensures you can toast more quickly and easily. Whether for a classic breakfast or a quick lunch, this toaster is a reliable and stylish kitchen companion, bringing warmth and comfort to every meal.
21. Pyrex Glass Roasting Tray
This Pyrex Glass Roasting Tray has been my go-to for years, perfect for everything from roast potatoes to gooey chocolate brownies. It’s versatile, also ideal for cakes, lasagna, casseroles, curries, shepherd’s pie, and apple crumble. The tray distributes heat evenly, ensuring consistent cooking without cold spots. Its large, easy-to-grip handles make it simple to maneuver, while the glass retains heat, keeping food warm after cooking. Safe for oven, microwave, freezer, and dishwasher use, it’s highly durable, scratch-resistant, and free of toxic chemicals, making it a reliable and hygienic kitchen essential.
22. Bread tin
Making your own bread is healthier and more satisfying than store-bought options filled with chemicals. This bread tin creates a 2lb loaf with a perfect shape, thanks to its durable 1mm carbon steel construction that won’t warp or corrode. It’s BPA-free and reinforced with ceramics for extra strength. The non-stick coating ensures easy release, eliminating the need for baking paper. Plus, it’s backed by a 20-year guarantee and 5 years on the non-stick coating. This tin is also great for baking other treats like lemon drizzle or sticky toffee pudding.
23. Cake tin
A quality cake tin is essential for baking a perfect cake, ensuring even cooking and preventing sticking. This tin features a loose base, making it ideal for easily lifting cakes, especially cheesecakes, for a flawless presentation. Its non-stick surface offers peace of mind, and proper care, such as hand washing with warm soapy water and avoiding metal tools, ensures its longevity. Available in sizes ranging from 11 cm to 30 cm, this tin is perfect for baking anything from small cakes to celebration treats. It’s a great gift for baking enthusiasts when paired with a recipe book and ingredients.
24. Stainless steel sieve
Not owning a sieve limits your cooking potential. Without one, simple tasks like draining pasta or potatoes become tricky, often resulting in spills. A sieve is essential for straining soups, removing leftover bits, and even composting them for your plants. It’s also a must for baking—sifting flour ensures a light, airy texture and removes any unwanted chaff. For perfect scrambled eggs, strain them through a sieve into a hot pan for a silky, fluffy result. Made from stainless steel, this sieve is rust-resistant and healthier for cooking, keeping your meals cleaner.
25. Hot chocolate molinillo whisk
★★★★★ - "Lovely item which is ideal for cacao ceremonies. Arrived so quickly.." - Verified Buyer
This handmade molinillo whisk features a comfortable handle, perfect for frothing milk with ease. Essential for making traditional Mexican hot chocolate, it creates a rich, frothy texture that a regular whisk can't achieve. Unlike a metal balloon whisk, which mixes ingredients, the molinillo is designed specifically for frothing. While some may argue it’s unnecessary, using this whisk improve your drinks, turning simple coffee or hot chocolate into luxurious, café-worthy beverages. Each molinillo is handcrafted in Mexico and features an intricate design. Available in two styles, it’s the ideal gift for any hot chocolate lover. Free UK shipping included.
Order the Traditional Mexican Molinillo Whisk Today.
26. Beechwood Spatula
This ethically sourced, FSC certified beechwood spatula is a must-have in your kitchen. It's perfect for flipping meat, pancakes, or removing cakes from tins without damaging non-stick surfaces, unlike metal spatulas. Its wooden design also prevents the unpleasant high-pitched sound metal utensils make when scraping. At 30 cm, it’s ideal for larger pans and dishes. Plus, it doesn’t conduct heat, maintaining your cooking temperature. Easy to clean by hand, this spatula is not just functional but also eco-friendly, adding natural beauty to your kitchen.
27. Wood bristle pastry brush
This pastry brush is perfect for applying egg wash to pastries, giving them that golden brown finish. Unlike DIY substitutes like paper towels or toothbrushes, which can damage the pastry, this brush is designed for precise, gentle glazing. With a wooden handle, it's easy to use and clean by hand with warm water. Beyond pastries, it’s also great for glazing meats, cakes, and cookies. If you or someone you know loves baking, this is an essential kitchen tool and makes a thoughtful gift for any home chef.
28. Heavy duty garlic press
This heavy-duty stainless steel garlic press saves you time and effort by efficiently mincing garlic, extracting more flavor from each clove. Ideal for those who cook from scratch and want to streamline meal prep, it helps enhance creativity in the kitchen. Durable and long-lasting, this tool is a must-have for anyone looking to save time and improve their cooking experience. It’s also versatile enough for kids to use in play, making it a great all-around tool.
29. Stainless steel pizza cutter wheel
This stainless steel pizza cutter ensures perfect, even slices every time, whether you're cutting thick or thin crusts, flatbread, or tart. Its finger guards provide safety, and the rust-resistant design guarantees long-lasting durability. With a handy hanging hole, it's easy to store and clean, either by hand or in the dishwasher. Ideal for pizza lovers, it also comes with a 25-year guarantee. A must-have kitchen tool for any pizza night.
30. Yorkshire Pudding Baking Tray
The Yorkshire Pudding Baking Tray, made from durable carbon steel, features 12 non-stick slots ideal for baking perfect Yorkshire puddings or muffins. Its heavy-duty construction resists warping and staining, and it's dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning. Each cup has a 3cm depth, and the tray measures approximately 35cm x 26cm. For longer-lasting use, avoid metal utensils and opt for wooden or silicone tools. This tray is perfect for making classic Sunday roasts and muffins. Purchase the baking tray here and get our Yorkshire pudding recipe!
31. Acacia serving board
The Acacia Serving Board is a durable and water-resistant chopping board, made from naturally antibacterial acacia wood, which prevents warping and fungus growth. Its stunning grain adds visual appeal, while the handle allows for easy serving and hanging for space-saving storage. Ideal for food preparation and serving, this board is part of the Jamie Oliver range and is easy to clean with warm soapy water.
32. Stainless steel pasta maker machine
The Stainless Steel Pasta Maker allows you to easily make fresh pasta at home, offering seven thickness settings to create spaghetti, lasagne, and tagliatelle. Simply mix flour and egg, roll out the dough, and cut with the machine. Compact and easy to store, it’s perfect for anyone who enjoys Italian food and wants to enhance their cooking with fresh pasta.
33. Morphy Richards Slow Cooker
The Morphy Richards Slow Cooker is an energy-efficient kitchen essential with a 4.5-liter capacity, perfect for making stews, soups, casseroles, and more. It features a removable, non-stick ceramic dish for easy serving and cleaning, and a stainless steel frame with cool-touch handles for safe handling. Ideal for cooking tough meats, it maintains a low, consistent heat for hours, ensuring tender results with minimal effort—perfect for busy families or as a thoughtful gift.
34. Kenwood Food Chopper
The Kenwood Food Chopper is a versatile kitchen tool that saves time and effort by quickly chopping vegetables, onions, and even making items like mayonnaise, ice cream, and homemade butter. It’s easy to clean, either by hand or in the dishwasher, and perfect for tasks like shredding potatoes for hash browns or turning rolled oats into gluten-free flour. A must-have for simplifying meal prep.
35. Soapstone Pestle & Mortar
The Soapstone Pestle & Mortar is perfect for crushing herbs, spices, and making sauces like pesto or Caesar dressing. Its heavy weight provides stability for grinding powders and sauces. Made from durable soapstone, it’s easy to clean with warm water and should be dried immediately. This versatile tool has been used for centuries in both cooking and medicine.
36. Silicone Non-Stick Baking Mat
The silicone non stick baking mat allows you to cook all your favourites without worrying about food sticking. This results in less washing up as it will prevent trays from getting dirty and to clean the mat it is easy to wipe down. Simply wipe clean, no scrubbing needed. This is an absolute must for baking and catering businesses. Simply place the silicone mat on a baking tray and you’re ready to go, no greasing is required.
The alternative to using a mat like this is baking paper but this is more sustainable and will save you money. Baking paper is used as a disposable solution but this is permanent and in turn is a better option for the environment. To provide peace of mind the manufacturer offers a 10-year-guarantee. Silicone bakeware is suitable for high heat, all ovens, microwave, freezer, and dishwasher. The size of this heavy duty silicone mat is 37cm x 27cm.
37. Haji ceramic spice chest
The Haji Ceramic Chest - a vibrant and colourful addition to your home decor. Handcrafted by skilled artisans from sustainable mango wood and hand-painted ceramic drawers, this chest is perfect for storing trinkets, small jewellery, or spices in your kitchen. Each drawer is hand-painted in complementary colours and designs, making every piece unique and full of character. Keep your go-to spices organised and easily accessible, or use it to store your favourite jewelry pieces.
38. Patna Small Bowls
The Patna small bowl set is a gorgeous addition to your dinnerware. Each bowl is hand-painted with a blue rim, star motifs, and a floral pastel bloom in the center. These bowls are perfect for serving tapas, snacks, and more. They make your food look outstanding. The collection also includes cups, dinner plates, and spice jars with the same design. These bowls are a lovely housewarming or wedding gift for anyone.
39. Nyeri Spice Spoons
Experience the beauty and functionality of Nyeri Spice Spoons - handcrafted from African-grown olive wood. Available in four designs, each has a unique natural wood grain for an authentic cooking experience. Handmade in Kenya using traditional skills passed down from generations, olive wood is a strong, beautiful, and sustainable material with antibacterial properties. Your Nyeri Spice Spoons can last a lifetime with proper care, making them a must-have for any kitchen.
Purchase the Nyeri Spice Spoon here.
40 Le Creuset Saucepan
The Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Saucepan is oven-safe, eliminating the need to transfer dishes between pans. Built to last a lifetime, it features heat-resistant handles and a vented lid to prevent spills. Its cast iron construction retains heat, saving on energy costs, and it's versatile enough for soups, stews, pasta, rice, and more. The pan is dishwasher-safe and easy to clean.
41. Waffle Maker Iron Machine
The VonShef Waffle Iron brings excitement to your breakfast routine with endless sweet and savory waffle options. Make two waffles at a time with ease, using simple ingredients. The non-stick, removable tray ensures mess-free cooking and easy cleaning. Its compact size fits neatly in any kitchen, and it comes with a two-year warranty for peace of mind. Whether for breakfast or dessert, this waffle maker is a perfect gift for waffle lovers.
42. Senegalese Woven Fruit Bowl
The Senegalese-made woven fruit bowl adds a unique, visually pleasing touch to your home decor. Handmade by skilled artisans, these bowls are not just decorative but also a functional storage solution for your fruit or household items. Each bowl is unique due to its handmade nature.. It's also a sustainable and eco-friendly choice that adds a touch of natural elegance to your home.
43. Copper Cup
Our handcrafted Copper Cup, made of 99.7% pure copper, offers amazing Ayurveda benefits, balancing the three doshas and turning water into natural alkaline water. With three design options, a capacity of 300ml, and a size of 10 x 6 cm, it's perfect for everyday use, picnics, and outdoor activities. It's lighter than glass, more eco-friendly than plastic, and adds a touch of elegance and health to your daily routine.
44. Copper Serving Tray
Our Copper Serving Tray - a versatile and elegant addition to your dining experience. Handcrafted with pride by skilled artisans using traditional techniques, this tray is made of 99.7% pure copper, ensuring its high quality and durability. Use it as a decorative tray or an eye-catching under plate for serving, and impress your guests with its style. Available in two design options - classic or hammered - this tray adds a touch of sophistication to any setting.
45. Lagos Salad Servers
These Lagos salad servers are a beautiful addition to your dining experience. Handcrafted from African-grown olive wood, these salad servers feature intricate beaded details on the handles. The set includes a spoon and a spork, providing the perfect combination for mixing and serving your salads. Each piece is unique, with a sturdy and durable construction that is built to last. Add a touch of natural elegance to your dining table with these beautiful salad servers.
46. Mango wood tea box
The mango wood tea box is a simple yet stunning addition to your home decor. Handcrafted from sustainable mango wood, this box features the word "Tea" imprinted on the top and comes with three compartments, making it perfect for separating your different types of teabags. The rustic design of this box adds a touch of countryside cottage feel to your home, making it a perfect housewarming gift for someone special. The strong metal closing fixture on the front keeps your tea bags safe and secure. Pair this box with some fair trade tea bags and you have the perfect gift for any tea lover.
47. Mango wood recipe book stand
Introduce functionality to your kitchen with a stunning mango wood recipe book stand. This handmade stand features intricate carvings of mushrooms and hedgehogs, painted with a white wash finish to create a rustic look. Measuring approximately 19(W) x 26.5(H)cm, with a 4.5cm book space, this free-standing stand is perfect for holding cookbooks while you cook. Handmade in India and Fair Trade certified, this outdoor-friendly piece is a perfect addition to your kitchen decor.
48. Young chef baking set
The Young Chefs Baking Kit is a perfect introduction to real baking for children. Equipped with essential tools like oven gloves, a rolling pin, and a whisk, it allows kids to create cookies, cupcakes, or even a small cake. This kit encourages skill development and a love for baking, offering hours of fun and bonding as you help your child bake and enjoy delicious treats together.
49. George foreman grill
The George Foreman Grill is perfect for making toasted sandwiches, including grilled cheese and other popular variations like basil pesto, red onion, and mozzarella. It evenly cooks sandwiches by pressing the bread together, keeping the filling intact, and ensuring perfect results every time. The non-stick tray makes cleaning easy and reduces mess.
Beyond sandwiches, this grill is versatile enough to cook meats like burgers, steak, and salmon, without the need for added fats. Natural fat drains into the drip tray, promoting healthier cooking. Available in gunmetal grey or red, this grill is an excellent gift and comes with a two-year guarantee.
50. Teak pestle and mortar set
Improve your cooking with the solid wood Pestle & Mortar Set, crafted with love by skilled artisans in Bali. Available in small, medium, and large sizes, this set adds sophistication to your kitchen while being resistant to decay, insects, and bacteria. Made from carefully managed teak reserves, it's a perfect investment for any home cook.
