Create a Home Kitchen Fit for a Chef
From social media clips to cooking competition shows, there’s no limit to the inspiration you can find for your own culinary journey. You don’t have to be a Michelin-star chef to whip up some 5-star culinary creations in your own home. Use these tips to make your kitchen the envy of the pros get the most of your home cooking.
Counter Space
Whether in a commercial kitchen or at home, chefs need plenty of space to work. From peeling and chopping ingredients to running crucial appliances, the countertop is where much of the culinary action takes place. Set yourself up for success with lots of counter space and choose a durable surface such as granite or stainless steel for longevity and easy cleanup.
Large Sink
Crafting a culinary masterpiece can create lots of dirty dishes. If you want to work like the pros, be sure your sink is large enough to handle your various pots, pans, and service items. A large 2 compartment sink can stand ready with water for washing and rinsing, and a commercial-grade sprayer for your faucet goes the extra mile for eradicating stuck-on remnants from your cookware.
Proper Appliances
Choosing the right appliances is another crucial step in setting up your chef-ready kitchen. Gas stoves are the industry standard in professional kitchens, and while you probably won’t have room for a walk-in cooler, a double-door fridge offers plenty of room for all those key ingredients. Remember to also select a dishwasher that is up to the challenge of your greatest chef-sized messes. As for finish, stainless steel remains a popular choice at home and in restaurants for easy cleanup and microbial resistance.
Choosing the right way to arrange your appliances is another important consideration. Opt for a layout that encourages maximum efficiency and as little wasted movement as possible (i.e., a prep area near to the fridge or close proximity between the sink and dishwasher).
Organization
In fast-paced commercial kitchens, organization is key. The same is true in your home kitchen—you don’t want to be hunting for a utensil while your sauce is burning on the stove. Organize all utensils, cookware, flatware, and other kitchen paraphernalia in a logical and efficient manner. Be sure that items you will use frequently are close at hand and put things back in their proper place when you are finished with them.
Organization extends to the pantry space as well. Keep herbs, spices, and other basic ingredients sorted alphabetically so you can grab them on the go. Avoid piling items behind one another or risk losing valuable time searching for that missing ingredient. A tidy pantry is one of the hallmarks of any great chef.
If you’re ready to find a new home with the kitchen of your dreams, the mortgage experts at First Ohio are ready to assist. Our loan officers will help take advantage of any programs or discounts you may be eligible for to save money and keep your head in the culinary game. Contact us today to get started.
