The must buy kitchen gadgets

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Introduction

If the idea of slaving away in the kitchen after a long day at work seems horrifying, the addition of a few items might make the job seem a lot easier. Think about the time and effort you could save if you didn't have to slice garlic or wait for the oven to heat up.

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Tipping the scales

If you like baking cakes, kitchen scales are indispensable, as getting your flour, sugar or butter measurements wrong can make all the difference. They are also necessary for bread and pastry making, and measuring out quantities of meat, fish and vegetables, particularly if you're making things like stews and pies.

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Air-tight containers

Coffee, tea, sugar and flour require airtight containers to remain fresh and prevent unwanted aromas from getting in. Also, if you keep powdered foods in their original packaging they can easily spill. Homemade chutneys and pickles also require airtight jars or tins. Look for stackable ones to save space.

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Knives

Regardless of your level of expertise in the kitchen, a set of sharp knives is a must. Japanese knives have the best reputation, and you can buy sets which include a knife for every occasion. Otherwise, ensure you have a knife for meat, one for chopping vegetables and another with a serrated edge for sawing through connective tissue.

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Non-stick frying pan

As well as being easier to clean than conventional frying pans, they are healthier as they reduce the need for oil or butter. They won't chip and even the hardest, most dried-in ingredients will wash off with little effort, just don't use the scouring side of the sponge.

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Garlic Press

A garlic press will save valuable time in the kitchen, who wants to spend ages chopping? They are easy to use and also beneficial to cooking, as pressed garlic will mix better and add more flavour than chopped. Plus, they won't leave your fingers smelling of garlic for days on end.

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Microwave

Microwaves get a lot of bad press from professional cooks but let's face it; we aren't all Nigella Lawson. Microwaves save time as they can heat up dinners in a matter of seconds compared to a conventional oven. Most modern microwaves have settings for defrosting food too, so you can cook foods from the freezer in minimal time, very handy if you're in a hurry.

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Measuring jug

A measuring jug is essential for the same reasons as kitchen scales. Milk, water and lemon juice can be measured out precisely this way, far better than going by the cupful.

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Juicer

As well as creating your own healthy, freshly squeezed juices with the fruit of your choice, you'll be able to make smoothies and milkshakes with a juicer.

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Bread maker

Invest in a bread maker to produce your own preservative-free bread. Most bread makers will allow you to make different kinds of bread like rye bread, pizza bread and ciabatta, and some even have settings that let you make jam.