In any kitchen, the quality of the utensils makes a big difference. Having the right tools not only makes meal preparation easier, but also improves the flavor and presentation of dishes. Here is a list of essential utensils for successful gluten-free recipes.
1. Wooden or plastic cutting board
A good set of cutting boards is essential for preparing your ingredients. Choose boards made of wood or, failing that, high-quality plastic. If you are cooking gluten-free, it is recommended to have a board dedicated exclusively to preparing your gluten-free foods to avoid cross-contamination.
2. Sharp kitchen knives
Having a sharp knife set , including a chef's knife, paring knife, and bread knife, is crucial for cutting and preparing your vegetables, fruits, meats, and breads effortlessly. The peeler knife too. Well-maintained knives reduce preparation time and ensure clean cuts, essential for julienned vegetables or finely chopped herbs. My favorites are Japanese and German knives, in stainless steel (brands like Wüsthof or Global , are certainly a little expensive but perfect).
3. Stainless steel frying pan and enameled cast iron casserole dishes
A stainless steel pan or non-stick pan is ideal for evenly cooking your meats, vegetables or even making gluten-free pancakes. Stainless steel is certainly a little heavy and requires a little oil so that food doesn't stick, but it lasts a very long time and is super easy to clean. For my part I use a Beka pan
4. Wok for Asian cuisine
The wok is an essential utensil for cooking stir-fried dishes, noodles and vegetables in Asian style. Its shape allows for rapid cooking with very little oil, which preserves flavors and nutrients while providing crispy and delicious results.
5. Spice grinder or mortar and pestle
Spices play a central role in world cuisine, and nothing beats freshly ground spices for authentic taste . An spice grinder or mortar and pestle allows you to grind your own spice blends to add a unique flavor to your gluten-free dishes, whether for curries, tagines or marinades.
6. Cast iron casserole or stewpot
A cast iron casserole dish or Dutch oven is perfect for slow-cooked dishes, soups and stews. Whether you are preparing a gluten-free chili, a Moroccan soup or a curry, this utensil allows you to concentrate the flavors while cooking your ingredients to perfection. Enameled cast iron casserole dishes, such as those from the Le Creuset or Staub , are perfect for simmered dishes.
7. Hand blender or blender
To make sauces , velvety soups or smoothies , a hand blender or blender is an essential tool. This utensil allows you to mix directly in the pan or bowl and is perfect for making gluten-free preparations such as hummus or guacamole.
8. Bamboo steamer or steamer basket
The steam cooker or bamboo steam basket is essential for cooking vegetables, fish and even Asian dishes like sticky rice. Steaming is also ideal for preserving the texture of foods and maintaining their nutrients. I use this cooking method a lot with the expert cook's large steam basket for fish and the stewpot accompanied by its steam baskets from IKEA.
9. Silicone baking molds
Gluten-free baking can sometimes be tricky due to the difference in texture of gluten-free flours. Silicone molds offer perfect flexibility for unmolding your gluten-free cakes, muffins or bread without the risk of them sticking or breaking. They are also easy to clean and reusable. I have, among other things, this silicone baking mold from Lacor . It is perfect for removing cakes from the mold.
10. The soft bread mold with lid
Bought on Amazon, this mold is great: it doesn't stick and allows you to hold and rise gluten-free bread dough which often doesn't hold well before baking. I bought the one below but there are probably others.
These essential utensils will help you prepare and cook gluten-free dishes inspired by the four corners of the world. By equipping yourself with these quality tools, you will maximize your chances of succeeding in each recipe, whether you are cooking pad thai or tagine. Experiment with these utensils and unleash your culinary creativity with GlutenEvasion .
