These kitchen essentials simplified my cooking and elevated my skills
We all know what it’s like to have an overflowing drawer of various knives we’ve collected over the years and shelves sagging under the weight of a dozen different pots and pans we’ve barely touched since buying them. As someone who once believed that becoming a better cook required an arsenal of specialized tools, I can confidently tell you that that isn’t the case. Truthfully, with the right essentials, you can do more with less. The Made In 3-Piece Japanese Knife Set and the Copper Saucier didn’t just streamline my kitchen, they transformed my approach to cooking altogether.
In this article: Made In 3-Piece Japanese Knife Set, Made In Copper Saucier and Made In 12″ Nonstick Fry Pan
A cut above: Made In Japanese Knife Set
Made In 3-Piece Japanese Knife Set
Let’s start with the Damascus knives. I used to think I needed a knife for every task: one for bread, one for slicing, one for chopping and so on. I’ve had a few 8- or 12-piece knife sets that came with a huge block and tons of accessories that I never used. Then, I discovered the Made In knife set, and everything was simplified. This trio, which includes Gyuto, Nakiri and Santoku knives, covers every cutting task you could imagine.
The Gyuto is my go-to for most cutting tasks. It has the most traditional look and feel of what we expect from a knife with its long and thin blade. Whether I’m slicing through steak or cutting up fruits and veggies, its balance and sharpness make prep work feel effortless.
The Nakiri features a different look with its square design. It makes chopping super easy, allowing me to mince chives or garlic. It also can be used for your more heavy-duty chops, like some firmer fruits or even bones.
Lastly, the Santoku knife is perfect for finer tasks like removing the skin from chicken or hulling strawberries. It looks somewhat similar to the Gyuto but features a rounded tip that allows for precise cutting without the danger of a sharp tip where you could poke yourself.
What I love most is that these knives are incredibly comfortable to hold. The round handle and Damascus finish make for a luxurious feel, while the lightweight design makes them easy to use. I used to dread chopping onions, but now, it’s oddly satisfying. Plus, because I’m using fewer knives overall, cleanup is quicker, too.
The Copper Saucier replaced half my pots and pans
Next, let’s talk cookware. I’ll admit I was the cliche. After college, I went to a department store and purchased a 12-piece cookware set. Skillets, saucepans and pots of every size filled up my cabinets incredibly quickly … it was a lot. But the Made In Copper Saucier made me realize I didn’t need half of what I owned.
This saucier is a workhorse. It’s super wide, which makes it perfect for everything from braising meats to simmering sauces. Where it really shines, though, is the copper ensures superior heat conductivity, meaning you get faster, more even cooking. I use this pot for virtually everything now, as it heats up so quickly and retains heat better than any pan I have, even better than cast iron.
Cleanup is another area where the saucier excels. Despite its premium look and feel, it’s surprisingly low-maintenance. A quick soak and a gentle scrub are usually all it takes to get it clean. One thing I did notice is after the first use, it develops a patina. I didn’t mind as it looks broken in and gives it some character, but don’t expect a like-new look after a few uses.
Less can actually be more
By paring down my kitchen tools to just the essentials, I’ve not only regained valuable counter and storage space but also become a more consistent and confident cook. I’m no longer clanging pans together and rummaging through a dozen different knives. Instead, I focus on what matters — ensuring the food is prepared well.
Since streamlining my kitchen essentials, cooking has become more enjoyable. I spend less time digging through drawers and cabinets and more time doing what I’m there to do: cook. The reduced clutter has even inspired me to be more organized, making my kitchen a space I genuinely enjoy working in.
Other great options
Made In 5-Qt Stainless Steel Saucier
The Made In 5-Quart Saucier Pan features a premium 5-ply stainless steel construction, which ensures rapid and even heat distribution, making cooking your dinner more efficient. This versatile pan is a valuable addition to any kitchen, as it offers exceptional performance for both novice level and experienced cooks.
The Made In 6″ Nakiri Knife is a Japanese-inspired knife designed for precision in slicing, dicing and chopping vegetables. It’s very similar in style and design to the Nakiri Damascus knife mentioned above with a lower price tag. This knife is an excellent addition to any kitchen, offering both speed and accuracy to any home chef.
Need something nonstick for everyday cooking? Look no further than Made In’s ProCoat Nonstick Fry Pan. With a stainless steel base and a nonstick finish, this pan marries quality and ease-of-use flawlessly. Whether you want to fry an egg or you just want cleanup to be a bit more seamless, this pan is a great option for any cook.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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