The Heart of Your Home

Whether it’s a big brunch with friends or an intimate dinner with a loved one, it is often said that the kitchen is the “heart of any home.” A kitchen inspires creativity, cures boredom, and brings friends and family together from all over the world. As a child, it’s where you’re able to push new boundaries. As an adult, it’s a way to establish yourself and explore your possibilities and preferences. During parties, the kitchen often is the room that groups congregate to—quietly chatting while sipping wine or nibbling on homemade treats. With a few simple essentials, you can create a kitchen that will be the envy of all!

Cast Iron is King

Part of your essential kitchenwares collection that is a must-have for any shopper is cast iron. These heavy-duty, long-lasting cookware are the perfect addition to nearly any dish. They are extremely durable and reasonably priced. Skillets are great for any stir fry or breakfast dish, and the balanced heat provides a great surface for pancakes. Cast iron casserole pots are wonderful for soups, stews, or large roasts. The lid helps cook evenly and the thick bottom stops any burning that may take place.

The Spice of Life

Spices have long been coveted throughout history—indeed, saffron is more costly than gold!—so it stands to reason that no kitchen is complete without paying homage to a variety of spices. There are many ways to preserve your spices, but the most popular are:

• A spice rack or shelf
• Pepper and salt mills
• Small mason jars with labels
• A magnetized strip to “hang up” spices
• A pestle and mortar for freshly ground spice

In using one or combining a multitude of ways to store spice, you create an ambiance in the kitchen that is warm and inviting. Spice up your kitchen by simply…adding spice!

Slicing and Dicing

Of course, you won’t get very far in your kitchen without a nice set of knives. A chef’s knife, pairing knife, and serrated knives are the essentials for any kitchen. These are part of your basic building blocks in the kitchen, as you can make multiple meals with these knives. Some of the best quality knives come from Japan, Germany, or Switzerland. Victorinox is an excellent brand with a wide range of knives. Don’t forget a knife block to keep those sharp edges safe and be sure to get a sharpener to keep your blades fresh.

When creating your kitchen, put your heart into it in the same way that it will become the heart of your home. There are many additions to make your dream kitchen come to life.