For thousands of years, cooking has always been considered the heart of life. house. Nowadays if you live in a apartment in Dakaryour kitchen may need a little more attention. Apartment kitchens generally offer less space, and the layout of the kitchen can also have an impact on how much you can store. If you're shopping for your first apartmentIf you're not sure which kitchen accessories are worth your while, you may find it hard to decide.
Should you invest in a coffee maker or an air fryer?
Maybe you're prone to burning food, so you have no idea what appliances to buy. This list of kitchen essentials includes must-haves and tips to help you love your apartment kitchen, whether you're an aspiring chef or trying to work out more storage space.
ARTICLES OF KITCHEN EVERY TENANT SHOULD HAVE
These kitchen essentials are perfect for your first apartment, but every tenant should have these items in their kitchen.
- A good set of knives
Invest in a set of sharp knives. Not only will quality knives make cutting vegetables and meat easier, they'll also save you money in the long run because you won't have to constantly replace them. Cheap, low-quality knives become duller more quickly, which could lead to injury (dull knives are more prone to cut people than sharp knives). You could save a few extra francs, but it's a good idea to avoid buying cheaper knives.
- Basic principles of cooking
You should have these basic kitchen utensils, especially if you're moving into your first apartment. These staples will enable you to prepare Thiébou Dieun, Mafé, snacks and desserts.
A large saucepan
stock jar
Small and large skillets (if you want all your bases covered, get an 8", 10" and 12" skillet)
Metal and wooden spoons and serving utensils such as a ladle
Vegetable grater or peeler
tweezers
Hand blender
Rolling pin
Silicon and metal spatulas
whips
Cutting board
A complete set of measuring cups and spoons
Sheet metal
Casserole
Mixing bowls
Strainer
Mortar and pestle
Calabash
oven mitts
Can opener
Blender
Toaster
Trash can
Cleaning supplies and materials (bucket, mop, broom, dustpan, vacuum cleaner, etc.)
Functional decor
You can combine practicality and style with functional decorative items such as coasters, placemats and a kitchen rug.
- Silverware, plates, bowls, cups and assorted glasses
Presentation is also a big part of preparing a good Thieb meal. Matching silverware, crockery and cups will complete your homemade Thiof en croûte fillet while keeping your kitchen clean and organized.
- Silverware organizer and kitchen utensil holder
Many people overlook these two underrated kitchen accessories, but they're essential. Both will help keep your items decluttered so they're easy to grab.
- Versatile glass dishes
While you can start with plastic storage containers, dishwasher-, freezer-, microwave- and oven-safe glass dishes are an excellent choice. In addition to cooking with these dishes, you can also use glass containers to store leftovers.
KITCHEN ESSENTIALS FOR EVERYONE WHO LOVE TO COOK
If you're a passionate home chef, these essentials will help you cook and bake your favorite dishes much more easily.
- Spoon rest
A spoon rest is another underrated kitchen item, but many seasoned chefs use them. A spoon rest prevents the spoon from touching any contaminants that may be present on your countertop. A spoon rest will also prevent your countertop from being damaged by food stains so you can make sure money isn't deducted from your security deposit. Of course, you could simply place your spoon on a tea towel or small dish, but the spoon rest is a more elegant option.
- Kitchen scale
Experienced home chefs are eyeballs, but if you're making baked goods, consider a kitchen scale, which can help you achieve accuracy in seconds. You'll also save on cleaning time! Kitchen scales are also ideal for portioning meat and vegetables.
- Spice rack
A spice rack that hangs or spins makes it easy to grab ingredients, while also providing decoration.
- Food processor
Chopping, grating, slicing, shredding - food processors can do it all in seconds. The handy machines will save you time, and you can even use them to make sauces, pie crusts and fillings.
- Cast-iron frying pan and/or cooking pot
A cast-iron skillet and stockpot will have your guests thinking your grandmother has prepared their meal. Both items are extremely versatile and can take flavor and texture to the next level. Roast a whole chicken in your cast-iron skillet or whip up a hearty batch of stew in your stockpot. Both are also perfect for embers!
KITCHEN ESSENTIALS FOR TENANTS WITH A SMALL KITCHEN
Rent a apartment with a small kitchen means you have to get creative. These tips and tricks will help you understand how to make the most of your space.
- Functional dish rack
Instead of buying a dryer that sits on the counter, opt for one that fits in the sink so you don't have to use counter space.
- Hanging time
Use all the space you can to hang your pots, pans and other items. Use racks, perforated panels and magnetic strips on your walls and backsplash. Don't forget that you can also use the sides of cabinets and the inside of cabinet doors. Of course, before installing anything, be sure to get your landlord's permission.
- Storage baskets or boxes
As with organizing a small closet, try buying chic storage boxes or baskets to store items on your cabinets or refrigerator. Use smaller boxes to organize the inside of cabinets or under your sink. For a clean, chic look, try storing spices and dry foods like pasta in acrylic or glass containers.
- Shelves and/or shelf risers
Installing shelves on even the smallest part of a wall can make all the difference. Shelf risers will add even more storage space to your countertop or inside your refrigerator. If you need more space, consider buying a bookcase or shelving unit, which can serve as a decorative feature.
- Mirrors
Many tenants with small apartments add mirrors to make spaces appear larger, and you can do the same in your kitchen. Try hanging mirrors in areas that tend to be darker, such as above your sink or oven. Light will reflect off the mirrors, creating the illusion of a brighter, larger space.
- utility cart
If you still need more space, buy a utility cart. As the cart has wheels, it can easily be pushed into a corner, closet or other nearby room.
KITCHEN ESSENTIALS FOR EVERYONE WHO DON'T LIKE TO COOK
These practical, time-saving items are perfect if you don't like to cook, or need an easy way to prepare meals when you're not far from the kitchen.
- panini press
Depending on the model, a panini press can make much more than sandwiches. There are some excellent multi-functional presses that can grill meat, fish and vegetables.
- Pressure cooker or slow cooker
Instead of standing in the kitchen next to the stove, with pressure cookers or slow cookers, you can simply empty your ingredients into the pan and go. Both appliances can prepare a plethora of meals, including soups, meats, rice and chili. With a slow cooker, you can simply turn it on low in the morning before work and have dinner ready by the time you get home. A pressure cooker achieves the same rich flavors as a slow cooker, but is much faster.
- Air fryer
Like pressure cookers and slow cookers, air fryers are extremely versatile. While they can make crispy fries, air fryers can also be used to heat pizza and make home fries! Air fryers are a healthier alternative to frying and ideal for meal preparation. They're extremely easy to use and clean too.
- Coffee maker or electric kettle
A coffee maker will shave a few minutes off your morning routine. Coffee makers come in a variety of styles and sizes so you can buy the right one to suit your preferences. Instead of listening to the old-fashioned whistle, consider buying an electric kettle that will have hot water for your tea in seconds.
Your apartment kitchen may be smaller than the kitchen in a house or villa, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your style or preferences. Hopefully, this list can help you fall in love with your kitchen so you can turn your apartment into a house.