Wooden utensils won’t be able to withstand the extreme drying process of dishwashers, either. While wood is durable, but it will crack after being washed in the dishwasher several times. Plastic may come in handy, but they melt when used for cooking in high heat.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more versatile kitchen essential, metal kitchen utensils are the best option. They are must-have kitchen items on your list because they are easier to clean and safer to use, with the exception of copper and lead.
Some of the top metals for kitchenware are aluminum, stainless steel, Teflon, and iron. Although each type of metal has its own functions depending on their intended use, stainless steel is the most popular of these.
Here’s a list of metal kitchen items to add to your home essentials.
1. Stainless Steel Skillet
There are several types of metal you can choose from, when it comes to skillets. It may be cast iron, stainless steel, or non-stick. A skillet made of stainless steel, however, is the way to go if you want versatility when cooking.
2. Large Pots
A pot is another item that should be on your kitchen essentials checklist. It will be best to choose one that evenly distributes heat. You may opt for the three-ply clad pots crafted using a seamless layering of different metals such as stainless steel for the outer portion and aluminum inserted in between the layers.
These pots are perfect for cooking pasta and blanching your vegetables in.
3. Spoons
There are several types of spoon that you can add to your kitchen essentials. One example is the large spoon, commonly used for serving food. You can also include metallic measuring spoons which are sturdier.
4. Sheet Pans
If you’re into baking, this is a definite must-have in your kitchen. Metallic sheet pans will come in handy not just when you’re baking, but also if you’re planning on serving that perfect roast for a special dinner with guests.
You can check out more kitchen updates online to find out what the best ones are to use in a particular meal.
5. Fine Mesh Sieve
A metal sieve is a better option, as it won’t absorb too much grease, especially if you’re draining fried food in it. You may also use it for blanching and draining pasta and other sauces. It also makes the rinsing of grains and beans fairly easy.
6. Stainless Steel Whisk
This metallic kitchen tool is perfect not only for baking, but also for whisking anything–from sauces to scrambled eggs. A stainless-steel whisk has to make it to your kitchen essentials list of equipment. Getting a metal one will make it easier to clean and less messy to use.
7. Grill Spatula
If you’re a grilled food lover, this metal grill spatula is your perfect kitchen partner. Cleaning the grease off of it is easier, and it’s also very easy to store and use. Choose one with either a wooden or plastic handle to make grilling more convenient.
8. Gourmet Wire Masher
A stainless-steel wire masher will make food preparation easier. You can use it to mash boiled vegetables for your baby’s food or your side dish. Cleaning this kitchen tool is easier in contrast to using a food processor. Better yet, it won’t take up much space in your kitchen cabinet.
9. Stainless Steel Meat Fork
A stainless-steel meat fork does its wonder when you want to check if the meat is tender or cooked. Instead of using a regular fork with its short handle, a meat fork will allow you to easily flip your meat without the hassle of oil splatters. You can even use this to replace a slotted turner.
10. Metal Locking Tongs
This is a perfect kitchen tool when cooking any large piece of food. This can withstand extreme vs. the plastic variety. Opt for those with longer handles; so, you can use them when you’re cooking in pans or in large pots.
How to clean and store your metal kitchen items
1. Make sure to let metal cooking tools cool down to room temperature, first, before cleaning them. A sudden change in temperature will cause metal to warp and cause the base to become uneven.
2. Rinse them with water, first, to remove stains or embedded food, then wash with dishwashing liquid.
3. If there are tough stains, make sure to avoid using chlorine-based cleaners, as this will remove the luster of your metal utensils and cookware. Instead, dilute a non-abrasive cleaning solution to produce a paste-like soap. Apply this using to your metal tools and cookware using a damp paper towel. Finally, wash the solution off with soapy water.
4. Though most metal cookware and utensils are dishwasher safe, it would still be best to hand wash them to preserve their metallic finish.
5. Before you store your metal kitchenware in your kitchen cabinets, sanitize them in hot water for 2 to 5 minutes to reduce the level of bacteria growth.
6. Store metallic cookware in a dry place, and hang your metal kitchen cooking tools on your kitchen wall. This will eliminate the inconvenience of rummaging through your drawers every time you’re in a hurry to get them.
7. If you plan to store your metal kitchen tools inside the drawer, one kitchen upgrade idea you can try is to find the right angle of how you can store them; so, you can also fit the large ones with them. This will also help you organize those that have metallic parts that may be sticking out and need to be kept in specific locations where they won’t cause any injury.
Your kitchen utensils and cookware need not be the only metal essentials in your kitchen. You can also add a tinge of metal and silver finish to your kitchen sinks, kitchen tops, and cabinets for a more modern kitchen renovation. These are kitchen upgrades that cost less but will lend a classic finish, to compliment the modern vibe of your home.
About Author: Jeanette Anzon is an architect, enjoys photography, sketching, arts, film and continuous education. She is currently working as a broker and a home stylist, accommodating clients in North America. Her exposure to the market has initiated a deeper learning in real estate, marketing communication and home design.
