Like many people these days, I have been staying at home. I have always been the cook in my family, but now it has been 3 meals a day for 3 people, for over 9 weeks.
We have only been going grocery-shopping bi weekly, so meal planning and utilizing everything I already have has been key for me. It’s kind of like some meals are “Chopped” and I have to see what I can come up with using ingredients I find in my pantry/fridge or subbing out when I cannot find the ingredients I normally use. There are some things in my kitchen that make cooking so much easier, or I just use all the time that I can never replace.
These are the 5 kitchen items I cannot live without:
- Nespresso Vertuo Coffee Maker
I used to buy coffee at my office every morning, or at Starbucks. When staying at home began, I needed a way to get good coffee at home. Luckily before everything began shutting down, I had ordered this coffee/espresso maker, and it was the best purchase I could have ever made. I love that I can make an iced coffee (just have ice in your cup and instant ice coffee!), or can make a latte with the same one machine. I was hesitant at first getting a coffee machine with pods, but I read about Nespresso’s recycling program and knew it was the right choice. I got the small version so it doesn’t take too much counter space, and was able to snag it while it was on sale! I had many friends recommend that I get the milk frother that goes along with it, but to be honest I’ve only used it a few times since the coffee is so good, I don’t feel a need for it (they also have cheaper ones on Amazon that will do the same job for way less $$)
- Breville Mini Smart Oven
This multi functional appliance is an absolute must have in our household. It can be used as a regular toaster, or as a convection oven so it can reheat or cook food without having to use the microwave, and heats up way faster than a traditional oven. My personal favorite feature is the “Bit more” button for when your bagel (or pizza, or whatever you choose to heat up) is allllmost there, but not quite and needs a little extra time.
- Panini Press
You can always make a Panini in a regular pan, but this takes them to a new level. It’s so easy to just throw whatever you have leftover in your fridge between two pieces of bread and making it into a delicious lunch or easy dinner. Our personal favorite is everything bagel seasoning grilled cheese (we literally eat this at least once a week).
- Zojirushi Rice Cooker
Growing up in an Asian household, a rice cooker was ALWAYS a must have. Once you have rice from this little machine, you’ll never go back to the rice that comes out of a bag or a white cardboard container.
- Dutch Oven
This isn’t really an appliance but still one of the most used items in my kitchen. Since it insulates heat so well, it’s great for making pastas, sauces, soups, and even making popcorn.
While being at home for months isn’t the most ideal situation, it does make me appreciate spending quality time with my family, and the little things like cooking dinner every night (and most importantly dessert).
Shades and Stripes 
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