I know in college you have limited resources and emerging cooking skills. Having the right kitchen equipment can help you to make the most of both of these and will make cooking less frustrating and more rewarding.
Keeping in mind these tips when you’re shopping for pots and pans can take the overwhelm away and help you select affordable, quality cookware.
You’ll want to do a little homework before investing in your first set of cookware. You want pots and pans that perform well and give you predictably great results. Unpredictable is not fun in the kitchen. However, armed with a little knowledge you can confidently purchase pots and pans that will serve you well.
Here are 3 easy tips when you’re shopping for pots and pans.
- Buy what you need but don’t overbuy. Think about what you plan to cook. You likely don’t need a whole set of pots and pans complete with a double boiler and multiple sized saucepans. Pots and pans are large and take up valuable real estate in a small apartment kitchen. Think about the foods you will be making and eating most often. You’ll likely want at least a saucepan or two (for steaming rice or vegetables, etc.); an 8-10 inch skillet (for eggs, quesadillas, browning meat, pancakes, etc.); and a 6-quart 2-handled pan (great for pasta, stew, chili, soups, cooking for a crowd). Some also call this a stock pot or a stainless Dutch oven.
- You are looking for products that are sturdy and able to evenly distribute heat. This likely means a heavier weight product. Heft a few pans to feel the difference.
- Your cookware doesn’t have to be new. In fact, you can likely find some great pieces at thrift stores, estate sales, or hand-me-downs from family members. Discount stores and outlets (i.e. Marshalls, TJ Maxx, Home Goods) are also great places to shop for quality cookware.
Bonus tip: Consider the construction of your cookware – what is it made of and what are its strengths and weaknesses. Check out this review for more help on finding the cookware that will work best for you.
You’ll want to be sure to get good quality pots and pans for the stovetop or the results of your hard work in the kitchen could be disappointing. Who has time for that?? Great cookware can serve you well for years. It’s worth doing a bit of research to find out what really works for you.Learn more about stocking your college kitchen. I’ve put together an ultimate college kitchen checklist for you.
