A well-equipped kitchen is a game-changer for making your daily cooking experience a breeze.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting to explore the world of culinary delights, having the right small kitchen appliances can significantly simplify your life and elevate your cooking game.

Discover seven of the most essential appliances to invest in today – and the key features you should look out for.

Small kitchen appliances to elevate your home cooking

To help decide which appliances are best for you, take a moment to assess your cooking habits and needs to see which should be at the top of your shopping list:

1. Multi-functional blender

A high-quality blender is a versatile appliance that can handle a multitude of tasks in the kitchen.

From creating creamy smoothies and delicious soups to crushing ice and making homemade sauces, a multi-functional blender is a must-have for any home.

What to look for:

• Motor Power: Look for a blender with a powerful motor to handle a wide range of tasks, such as blending, chopping, pureeing, and crushing ice.
• Versatility: Having options for smoothies, soups, sauces, and even food processing tasks like chopping vegetables or grinding nuts enhances its versatility.
• Jar Material: Opt for a blender with a durable jar made of high-quality materials like BPA-free plastic, glass, or stainless steel.

2. Coffee maker

For all coffee enthusiasts, a coffee maker is an essential kitchen appliance. Say goodbye to long coffee shop lines and hello to your favourite brew in the comfort of your home.

Whether you prefer a traditional drip coffee maker or a more advanced espresso machine, having a coffee maker will undoubtedly enhance your mornings and fuel your productivity throughout the day.

What to look for:

• Manual vs. Automatic: Choose a manual coffee machine if you enjoy the hands-on experience and want precise control over the brewing process. An automatic coffee machine is great for convenience and consistent results with minimal effort. 
• Brewing Options: Some models offer options for single-serve brewing, drip brewing, espresso, or even cold brew.
• Programmability and Convenience: Programmable features, such as a timer and auto-shutoff, means you can wake up to a freshly brewed cup. Features like a built-in grinder or reusable filter can save you time and money in the long run.
• Size and Design: If you have limited counter space, look for a compact, space-saving design. User-friendly controls and easy-to-read displays make the brewing process easier and more enjoyable.

3. Slow cooker

A slow cooker is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, especially for those with busy schedules.

With this appliance, you can throw in your ingredients in the morning, and by dinnertime, you’ll have a delicious and tender meal ready to be enjoyed. It’s perfect for soups, stews, roasts, and even desserts, making it a reliable companion for hands-free cooking.

What to look for:

• Capacity: Sizes approximately range from 1.8 – 7.6 Litre, and choosing the suitable capacity ensures you can cook the right amount of food without overfilling or wasting space.
• Programmable Settings: Programmable settings, including different cooking times and temperature options, allows you to set the cooking duration and switch to a warm setting automatically once the cooking is complete.
• Removable Insert and Easy Cleaning: A slow cooker with a removable insert (often made of ceramic or stoneware) is much easier to clean and maintain.

4. Air fryer

Air fryers have taken the kitchen appliance by storm – and it’s easy to see why!

These compact and energy-efficient appliances can handle various tasks, from toasting bread and bagels to baking small batches of cookies, roasting veggies and delivering perfect crispy hot chips.

It’s a space-saving alternative to a traditional oven and ideal for quick meals or snacks, especially for individuals or small families.

What to look for:

• Rapid and Even Cooking: Look for an air fryer with robust and even heat distribution to achieve crispy and golden results quickly.
• Capacity and Size: Consider the fryer’s capacity to accommodate your typical food portions and the unit’s size to fit your kitchen space.
• User-Friendly Controls: Opt for an air fryer with intuitive controls, pre-set cooking functions, and an easy-to-read display for convenient cooking experiences.

5. Food processor

Chopping, dicing, and shredding ingredients can be time-consuming and tedious. Enter; the food processor! A magical appliance that can handle these tasks in seconds.

From preparing homemade pesto to slicing vegetables for salads, a food processor is a versatile tool that streamlines your meal preparations.

What to look for:

• Motor Power: Seek a food processor with a strong motor to handle various food processing tasks effectively.
• Versatility: Look for multiple blade attachments and slicing/shredding discs to accommodate diverse food preparations.
• Safety Features: Ensure the processor has safety interlocks and sturdy construction for safe and stable operation.

6. Grills

A grill is an exceptional small appliance that can elevate any kitchen, offering a versatile and flavourful cooking method perfect for indoor and outdoor use.

Grilling imparts a delightful smoky flavour to various foods, from succulent meats and vegetables to sandwiches and fruits. It’s a healthier cooking option as excess fats drip away and quick, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

With a grill in your kitchen arsenal, you can expand your culinary horizons, experiment with different recipes, and enjoy fantastic results.

What to look for:

• Size: Consider the available space in your kitchen and whether you need a compact countertop grill or a larger standalone model.
• Adjustable Temperature: Look for a grill with adjustable temperature controls to accommodate various cooking needs.
• Grill Surface: Opt for a non-stick surface that’s easy to clean and has enough space for the quantity of food you’ll be grilling.

7. Handheld immersion blender

When it comes to blending soups or sauces directly in the pot, a handheld immersion blender is a game-changer.

This compact and easy-to-use tool eliminates the need to transfer hot liquids to a traditional blender, reducing the risk of mess and accidents. It’s also perfect for making smoothies and pureeing baby food.

What to look for:

• Motor Power: Look for a handheld blender with sufficient wattage for smooth blending and efficient performance.
• Attachments: Opt for a blender with various attachments, such as a whisk or chopper, to enhance its versatility and tackle different tasks.
• Ergonomic Design: A blender with a comfortable grip and lightweight design will offer ease of use and manoeuvrability.

Create the Best Kitchen Set-Up For You

Having the right small kitchen appliances can significantly simplify your life and make cooking an enjoyable experience. Be sure to invest in quality appliances that will ensure they serve you well for years to come.

With these essential tools at your disposal, get ready to embark on a delightful culinary journey in the comfort of your kitchen – happy cooking!