Kitchen utensils vary depending on the country being considered. The traditional kitchen utensil set consisting of a pot with a lid, frying pan, knife, fork and spoon is standard across most countries, even though each has specific designs for certain types of kitchenware. This article aims to guide modern cooking utensils that fit both traditional and contemporary cooking processes.
Traditional vs Modern Cooking Utensils
Traditionally cooking utensils are made from wood, bamboo or stainless steel. Of course, there are many other materials used, but these three are the most common types. Wood is commonly used because of its durability, availability and ease of use. It allows chefs more control over their kitchenware as it is easily manoeuvrable, making it the best choice for the young or inexperienced cook who does not yet have good knife skills. Bamboo also boasts similar properties, though it is usually dearer. Stainless steel is cheap and easy to clean, making it the most common choice for commercial kitchens. This metal alloy does not rust and can resist high cooking temperatures (which often exceeds 1000 degrees Celsius).
Use of Traditional Utensils in Modern Kitchen
As we approach modern times, traditional cooking utensils remain relevant as they are used by many chefs today – although chefs use them more conveniently during the preparation process. With proper training, one can conveniently use any kitchen utensil. The only difference between using a conventional wooden spoon and a stainless steel one is that you need less energy to move or hold onto the former. A chef will typically choose a specific cooking utensil because it feels natural and easiest to use.
Using Traditional Utensils in Modern Cooking
In general, traditional kitchenware is typically more challenging to work with when making modern dishes. Although they are generally not used in contemporary cooking, their main advantage over other types of kitchenware is that they allow one’s senses (sight, sound, smell and touch) to be utilized during cooking, which enhances our experience as cooks. For deep frying, traditional utensils can be used as it allows you to see the food being cooked from the side while you continue stirring or flipping food items at another part of your stovetop. Thus you can ensure that every aspect of the food is cooked simultaneously and gain more control over your cooking. The use of wooden spoons in modern times is very uncommon. However, they are generally preferred for traditional cooking because they do not rust even when used with acidic ingredients such as tomato sauce.
Choosing Kitchen Utensils according to Décor Theme
Modern gourmet kitchens commonly feature contemporary kitchenware that matches, complements or contrasts with other modern decorations to create an aesthetically pleasing look. The best way to achieve this effect is by checking stainless steel utensils with other stainless steel appliances while using wooden cutlery against wooden cabinets and marble countertops. Colored utils (by adding colourful silicone grips) are also an excellent way to enhance this effect.
Choosing Kitchen Utensils according to Chef’s Parts of the Kitchen
Kitchen utensils are divided into ‘cold’ and ‘hot’ spoons depending on which part of the cooking process they are used in. Cold knives are generally used to cut before food is cooked, while hot utensils are used to stir or mix during parts of the cooking process that involve heat. This distinction is vital because different tools are required for other processes. Hot kitchenware needs less precise movements as nobody wants to risk getting burnt by coming too close to an open flame!
