Tips from The Kitchn

8 Ridiculously Useful Tools Kitchn Editors Use Constantly

published Oct 3, 2021
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
utensil crock
Credit: Wes Frazer

Do you have a utensil crock? If so, you know it’s the ideal place for storing your most-used, most-helpful kitchen tools. It’s where you can keep your go-to pair of tongs or your favorite spatula within arm’s reach while you’re cooking. This is both handy and frees up valuable drawer space. You can grab what you need, without having to rummage through a drawer, while something sizzles away in a pan. And you can get it without even looking away for a single second!

As for what deserves to be in there, well, that depends! It’s very personal and varies from cook to cook. Endlessly nosey — er, curious — I wanted to know what tools my fellow Kitchn editors reach for the most. The ones that have earned permanent places in their utensil crocks. I asked, and they answered! Here’s what they had to say.

1. GIR Silicone Spatula

“My GIR spatulas! I use them for almost all my stirring and mixing needs — because they’re ridiculously effective and great at scraping down bowls and pots. And I love that I can just pop them in the dishwasher when I’m done, too (ahem, looking at you wooden spoons!).” Lisa Freedman, Lifestyle Director

2. Kunz Spoons

“I keep a few Kunz spoons on hand, both regular and perforated — regular spoons for basting and removing scum off the tops of stocks, and perforated to act as a mini colander anytime I need to pull something from the water and for frying.” — Amelia Rampe, Studio Food Editor

3. Earlywood Large Flat Sauté

“I bought one of these awesome tools for Matt (my husband) for his birthday in August and it’s been in heavy rotation ever since. It’s great for sautéing, stirring, scraping, etc. I’m going to have to buy a second one so we can use them for serving salad. They feel great in your hand, too.” Nina Elder, Executive Food Director

4. Microplane Premium Series Zester/Grater

“I keep my Microplane zester nearby for zesting lemons, grating garlic, and (especially) grating Parmesan cheese.” — Megan O. Steintrager, Senior Food Editor

5. Rösle Kitchen Skimmer

This skimmer or, as it’s commonly called, spider, is incredibly useful for fishing out blanched vegetables, hard-boiled eggs, fried foods, and pasta that’s ready to be transferred to tomato sauce. Once you have a spider, you’ll find yourself using it more and more. I love the round handle on this guy and its solid construction. I have had it for years and it still looks brand-new.” Riddley Gemperlein-Schirm, Tools Editor

6. MIU France Large Stainless Steel Slotted Turner

A good fish spatula is a must. Its nimble, thin head is perfect for flipping pancakes, roasted veggies, steak, and, yes, delicate fish fillets. I love this one because it works wonderfully and is dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.” — Riddley

7. All-Clad Precision Nonstick Flex Turner

“I just got back from a trip to New Orleans (first time on a plane since 2019!) and have been on a major fish kick and, like Riddley said, this is the key to flipping it perfectly. This one, though, is also safe to use with nonstick pans.” Mara Weinraub, Groceries Editor

8. Inomata Rice Paddle

My rice paddle, or shamoji, as it’s called in Japanese. It’s the perfect tool for mixing and serving hot, sticky rice. You don’t have to buy an expensive one — a simple, flat, nonstick paddle will do!” Michelle Lau, Kitchen Editor

What are your go-to utensils? Tell us about it in the comments!