For millennia, the kitchen has always been considered the heart of the house. Nowadays if you live in a apartment in Dakar, your kitchen could use a little more attention. Typically, apartment kitchens offer less space, and the layout of the kitchen can also impact how much you can store. If you are shopping for your first apartment, you may have a hard time deciding which kitchen accessories are worth it.
Should you invest in a coffee maker or an air fryer?
Maybe you are prone to burning food, so you have no idea which appliances to buy. This list of kitchen essentials includes must-haves and tips to help you love your apartment kitchen, whether you're an aspiring chef or trying to craft more storage space.
ARTICLES OF KITCHEN EVERY TENANT SHOULD HAVE
These kitchen essentials are perfect for your first apartment, but every tenant should have these items in their kitchen.
- A good set of knives
Invest in a set of sharp knives. Not only will quality knives make cutting vegetables and meat easier, they will also save you money in the long run because you won't have to constantly replace them. Cheap and poor quality knives become dull faster which could lead to injury (dull knives are more prone to cut people than sharp knives). You might save a few extra bucks, but it's a great idea to avoid buying cheaper knives.
- Basic principles of cooking
You should have these basic kitchen utensils, especially if you are moving into your first apartment. These basic foods will allow you to prepare Thiébou Dieun, Mafé, snacks and desserts.
A large saucepan
stock jar
Small and large skillet (if you want all your bases covered, get an 8-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch skillet)
Metal and wooden spoons and serving utensils like a ladle
Vegetable grater or peeler
tweezers
Hand blender
Rolling pin
Silicon and metal spatulas
whips
Cutting board
A complete set of measuring cups and measuring spoons
Sheet metal
Casserole
mixing bowls
Strainer
Mortar and pestle
Calabash
oven mitts
Can opener
Blender
Toaster
Trash can
Cleaning supplies and materials (bucket, mop, broom, dustpan, vacuum cleaner, etc.)
Functional decor
You can combine practicality and style with functional decorative items such as coasters, placemats and a kitchen rug.
- Silverware, plates, bowls, cups and assorted glasses
Presentation is also a big part of preparing a great Thieb meal. Silverware, dinnerware and matching mugs will complement your homemade crusted Thiof Filet while keeping your kitchen clean and organized.
- Silverware organizer and kitchen utensil holder
Many people overlook these two underrated kitchen accessories, but they are essential. Both will help keep your items uncluttered so they're easy to grab.
- Versatile glass dishes
Although you can start with plastic storage containers, glass dishes that are dishwasher-, freezer-, microwave- and oven-safe are a great choice. In addition to cooking with these dishes, you can also use glass containers to store leftovers.
KITCHEN ESSENTIALS FOR EVERYONE WHO LOVE TO COOK
If you're an avid home chef, these essentials will make cooking and baking your favorite meals much easier.
- Spoon rest
A spoon rest is another underrated kitchen item, but many seasoned chefs use them. A spoon rest prevents the spoon from touching any contaminants that may be on your counter. A spoon rest will also prevent your counter from being damaged by food stains so that you ensure that money is not deducted from your security deposit. Of course, you can just place your spoon on a tea towel or small dish, but the spoon rest is a more elegant option.
- Kitchen scale
Experienced home chefs are eyeballs, but if you make baked goods, consider a kitchen scale, which can help you achieve accuracy in seconds. You will also save on cleaning time! Kitchen scales are also ideal for portioning meat and vegetables.
- Spice rack
A spice rack that hangs or rotates makes it easy to grab ingredients, while providing decoration.
- Food Processor
Chopping, grating, slicing, shredding – food processors can do it all in seconds. The handy machines will save you time and you can even use them to make sauces, pie crust and filling.
- Cast iron skillet and/or pot
A cast iron skillet and stock pot will have your guests thinking your grandma cooked their meal. Both items are extremely versatile and can take flavors and texture to the next level. Roast a whole chicken in your cast iron skillet or whip up a hearty batch of stew in your stock pot. Both are also great for embers!
KITCHEN ESSENTIALS FOR TENANTS WITH A SMALL KITCHEN
Rent a apartment avec une petite cuisine signifie que vous devez faire preuve de créativité. Ces éléments et astuces vous aideront à comprendre comment tirer le meilleur parti de votre espace.
- Functional dish rack
Instead of buying a dryer that sits on the counter, opt for one that fits in the sink so you don't use counter space.
- Hanging time
Use as much space as possible to hang your pots, pans and other items. Use racks, pegboards and magnetic strips on your walls and backsplash. Remember that you can also use the sides of cabinets and the inside of cabinet doors. Of course, before installing anything, be sure to get permission from your landlord.
- Storage baskets or boxes
As for organizing a small closet, try buying chic storage boxes or baskets to store items on your cabinets or refrigerator. Use smaller boxes to organize inside cabinets or under your sink. For a clean, chic look, try storing spices and dry foods like pasta in acrylic or glass containers.
- Shelves and/or shelf risers
Installing shelves on even the smallest part of a wall can make all the difference. Shelf risers will add even more storage space to your counter or inside your refrigerator. If you need more space, consider buying a bookcase or etagere, which can serve as decor.
- Mirrors
Many tenants with small apartments add mirrors to make spaces appear larger, and you can do the same in your kitchen. Try hanging mirrors in areas that tend to be darker like above your sink or oven. The light will reflect off the mirrors, creating the illusion of a brighter, larger space.
- utility cart
If you still need more space, buy a utility cart. As the cart has wheels, it can easily be pushed into a corner, closet or other nearby room.
KITCHEN ESSENTIALS FOR EVERYONE WHO DON'T LIKE TO COOK
These practical, time-saving items are perfect if you don't like to cook or need an easy way to prepare meals when you're not far from the kitchen.
- panini press
Depending on the model, a panini press can do a lot more than sandwiches. There are excellent multifunctional presses that can grill meat, fish and vegetables.
- Pressure cooker or slow cooker
Instead of standing in the kitchen by the stove, with pressure cookers or slow cookers, you can just dump your ingredients into the pot and go. Both devices can prepare a plethora of meals, including soups, meats, rice, and chili. With a slow cooker, you can simply turn it on low in the morning before work and cook dinner when you get home. A pressure cooker gets rich flavors like slow cookers, but much faster.
- air fryer
Like pressure cookers and slow cookers, air fryers are extremely versatile. Although they can make crispy fries, air fryers can also be used to reheat pizza and make homemade fries! Air fryers are a healthier alternative to frying and great for meal prep. They are extremely easy to use and clean as well.
- Coffee maker or electric kettle
A coffee maker will shave a few minutes off your morning routine. Coffee makers come in a variety of styles and sizes so you can buy the right one according to your preference. Instead of listening to the old-fashioned whistle, consider buying an electric kettle that will have hot water for your tea in seconds.
Your apartment kitchen may be smaller than a house or villa kitchen, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your style or preferences. Hope this list can help you fall in love with your kitchen so you can turn your apartment into a house.
