When it comes to outfitting your kitchen, most of the attention goes to the big-ticket items: pots, pans, and maybe that coveted cast iron skillet. But what about the smaller, often-overlooked tools that can seriously elevate your cooking game? The right cookware accessories might not get the spotlight, but they can make your kitchen more efficient and enjoyable.
Here are some essential cookware accessories that often fly under the radar but can be game-changers in your cooking routine.
1. Silicone Spatulas: Your Kitchen’s MVP
If you don’t already own a few silicone spatulas, you’re missing out. These versatile tools can do everything from stirring to scraping, making them the perfect sidekick for both baking and cooking. Silicone is heat-resistant, so you can use it in hot pans without worrying about melting. Plus, they’re gentle on non-stick surfaces, ensuring that your pans stay scratch-free.
Pro Tip: A set of spatulas in different sizes will make your life easier, whether you’re scraping out batter from a mixing bowl or flipping an omelet.
2. Tongs: Not Just for BBQs
Tongs are one of those accessories you don’t realize you need until you start using them. Whether you’re flipping meat, tossing a salad, or even just grabbing something from a pot of boiling water, tongs are an essential kitchen tool. Stainless steel tongs with silicone tips work well with non-stick pans and offer a solid grip on your food.
Why they matter: Using tongs instead of a fork for flipping meats reduces the chance of puncturing them, which helps retain their juices.
3. Lid Holders: The Unsung Heroes
Picture this: you’re in the middle of cooking, you need to lift the lid off a pot, and now you’re left with a hot, dripping lid and nowhere to place it. Enter the lid holder—a simple yet brilliant tool that holds your pot lids while catching any condensation. This accessory is a lifesaver when you’re juggling multiple pots and pans.
If you’ve ever cooked a multi-course meal, you’ll know how handy a lid holder can be to keep your countertops clean and organized.
4. Splatter Guards: Less Mess, Less Stress
Frying up bacon or searing a steak? A splatter guard is your best friend. These mesh covers sit over your pan and let steam escape while keeping hot oil from splattering all over your kitchen. They reduce the mess and keep you safe from burns.
You can find basic splatter guards, but some brands like Le Creuset make heavy-duty versions that last longer and are easier to clean. Just think of how much time you’ll save on cleaning up greasy stovetops.
5. Wooden Spoons: The Classic that Never Fails
There’s something timeless about a good wooden spoon. Unlike metal or plastic utensils, wooden spoons are gentle on cookware and won’t react with acidic ingredients like tomato sauce. They’re also sturdy enough to handle thicker batters or sauces without bending or breaking.
Grab a set with a variety of shapes and sizes—you’ll reach for these more often than you think.
6. Trivets: For More Than Just Hot Pots
Trivets are essential for protecting your countertops and table from hot cookware. They come in various materials, from silicone to cast iron, and are designed to hold heavy pots or pans straight from the stove or oven.
Le Creuset’s silicone trivets are both functional and stylish, adding a pop of color to your kitchen while keeping surfaces safe from heat. Trivets might seem like a simple accessory, but once you have one, you’ll wonder how you managed without it.
7. Thermometers: Accuracy Matters
A reliable kitchen thermometer can take the guesswork out of cooking. Whether you’re roasting a chicken, grilling steaks, or deep-frying, knowing the exact internal temperature of your food ensures it’s perfectly cooked—every time.
Pro Tip: Instant-read thermometers are particularly useful for quick temperature checks. They’re compact, easy to use, and provide accurate readings in seconds.
8. Basting Brushes: Even Distribution, Every Time
Basting brushes are excellent for applying marinades, oils, or glazes evenly over your food. Silicone basting brushes, in particular, are a great upgrade from their traditional bristle counterparts because they’re easy to clean and don’t retain strong odors or colors.
A good basting brush comes in handy more than you’d expect—whether you’re grilling, roasting, or baking.
9. Kitchen Shears: Cut with Precision
Sure, you could use a knife, but kitchen shears are often quicker and safer for certain tasks. They’re perfect for cutting herbs, trimming meat, or opening packages without dragging out a cutting board. Some shears even come apart for easy cleaning, making them even more practical.
Why they matter: A good pair of kitchen shears can save you time and reduce the risk of accidents. They’re more versatile than you might think.
10. Pot Holders: Because Burns are the Worst
Last but definitely not least: pot holders. They may seem basic, but they’re essential. Whether you’re pulling a heavy casserole dish out of the oven or transferring a hot pan from the stove to the table, pot holders keep your hands safe from burns.
While a standard cloth mitt will do, you can upgrade to silicone pot holders for better heat resistance and easier cleaning. Le Creuset also offers stylish and durable pot holders that can handle higher temperatures without sacrificing comfort.
