Recently my son has been asking if we can get an air fryer. He sees and hears people talk about all the things they make in their air fryers and wants to join the party! And for the past year, I’ve been debating if I should get an Instant Pot. However, when I look around my kitchen, I realize I don’t really have any place to put those items. And when I think about it, do I really need those items to make food for my family? Do I want to spend my money on them? I know some people love their Instant Pots and air fryers while others don’t see a need for them. It doesn’t mean one way is right or wrong. Everyone has different things that are useful to them.

However, there are a few kitchen tools that are more essential and useful in most kitchens. Here are the basic kitchen tools our Spend Smart. Eat Smart. team recommends:

• Measuring: Measuring spoons, dry measuring cups, liquid measuring cup
• Cutting: Paring knife, chef knife, cutting boards, can opener
• Mixing: Mixing bowl, mixing spoon, rubber spatula
• Cookware: Skillet, sauce pan, casserole dish, pot holder, baking sheet, food thermometer, spatula
• Draining: Colander, slotted spoons
• Handy Extras: Blender, rolling pin, stock pot, cooling rack, whisk, muffin tin, slow cooker, tongs, mixer

During the month of November our Spend Smart. Eat Smart. bloggers are going to share our favorite kitchen tools and ways we use them. Any guesses on what Christine’s favorite tool is? Read the blog on November 8 to find out!