[English 101] KITCHEN UTENSILS - Words for pots, pans, knives, and cookware

Teaching Material

1. She heated the skillet for a quick stir-fry dinner.
• skillet (noun) - A shallow pan with slanted sides, ideal for frying or searing foods
• Use ‘skillet’ for frying or browning items that need even heat distribution. Often made of cast iron or nonstick material.
• “Grab the skillet, I’m about to sauté these vegetables.”
2. He poured the tomato sauce into the saucepan to gently warm it.
• saucepan (noun) - A deep pan with tall sides and a handle, used for simmering sauces or boiling small portions
• Use ‘saucepan’ for tasks like boiling eggs, warming soup, or preparing sauces. Choose the right size to prevent spills and ensure proper heat distribution.
• “Could you pass me the saucepan? I’m making pasta sauce.”
3. She placed chicken bones and veggies in the stockpot to make homemade broth.
• stockpot (noun) - A large pot with tall sides, typically used for making stocks, soups, or boiling pasta
• Use ‘stockpot’ for large-volume cooking like chili or pasta. The taller sides help keep liquids contained and promote even simmering for long cook times.
• “If we’re cooking for a crowd, the stockpot can handle all our soup needs.”
4. He tossed veggies and noodles in the wok for a fast, flavorful stir-fry.
• wok (noun) - A round-bottomed cooking vessel, common in Asian cuisine, excellent for stir-frying
• Use ‘wok’ when stir-frying, deep-frying, or steaming. High, sloping sides let you move food around quickly. Preheat it properly and use oil with a high smoke point.
• “I love using a wok—it heats up fast and cooks everything evenly.”
5. She placed the beef stew in her Dutch oven for slow, tender cooking.
• Dutch oven (noun) - A heavy, thick-walled pot with a tight lid, suitable for braising, stews, or baking bread
• Use ‘Dutch oven’ for recipes needing even heat retention, like soups or roasts. Enameled versions are versatile for both stovetop and oven use.
• “A Dutch oven is perfect for one-pot meals and slow-simmering comfort food.”
6. He dropped butter into the frying pan to cook pancakes.
• frying pan (noun) - A shallow pan with a flat base for frying or browning food
• Use ‘frying pan’ for simple sears or shallow-frying tasks. Nonstick surfaces require less oil; stainless steel or cast iron can handle higher heat but may need seasoning.
• “Heat the frying pan—let’s do bacon and eggs for breakfast.”
7. She sautéed onions and bell peppers in the sauté pan for fajitas.
• sauté pan (noun) - A pan with straight sides and a larger surface area, ideal for sautéing or shallow braising
• Use ‘sauté pan’ when you need a roomy base for cooking ingredients in a single layer. Straight sides help contain liquids if adding sauce or broth later.
• “Grab the sauté pan—these mushrooms need a bit of space to brown evenly.”
8. He used the roasting pan to cook a holiday turkey with crispy skin.
• roasting pan (noun) - A large rectangular pan with low sides, perfect for roasting meats or vegetables in the oven
• Use ‘roasting pan’ when cooking bigger cuts of meat. The sturdy construction holds heavy roasts; often used with a rack to let fat drip off and ensure even browning.
• “Where’s the roasting pan? I need it for these potatoes and chicken.”
9. She poured batter onto the griddle for fluffy pancakes Sunday morning.
• griddle (noun) - A flat surface pan or plate, commonly used for pancakes, grilled sandwiches, or tortillas
• Use ‘griddle’ for dishes that need a flat surface, like pancakes or quesadillas. Preheat thoroughly. Nonstick versions are easier to maintain, while cast iron griddles hold heat well.
• “Fire up the griddle—pancakes and bacon are on the menu!”
10. He lined the baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup after roasting veggies.
• baking sheet (noun) - A flat metal tray used for oven-baking cookies, pastries, or roasting vegetables
• Use ‘baking sheet’ for many oven tasks. A rimmed version helps contain liquids. Check material thickness; heavier sheets minimize warping under high heat.
• “Hand me that baking sheet. I’m putting these cookies in the oven now.”
11. She filled each muffin tin compartment with chocolate batter for a sweet treat.
• muffin tin (noun) - A pan with cup-shaped molds for baking muffins, cupcakes, or mini quiches
• Use ‘muffin tin’ for individual servings. Always grease or line cups to prevent sticking. Great for bite-sized meals like egg muffins or mini cheesecakes, not just muffins!
• “Grab the muffin tin—I’m whipping up blueberry muffins this morning.”
12. He layered potatoes and cheese in the casserole dish for a hearty gratin.
• casserole dish (noun) - A deep baking dish, often ceramic or glass, used for baked or stewed one-dish meals
• Use ‘casserole dish’ for layered or baked recipes. Ceramics hold heat well; glass helps you see cooking progress. They often come with lids or pair with foil for moisture control.
• “Where’s the casserole dish? I want to pop this lasagna in the oven.”
13. She poured banana bread batter into the loaf pan for a sweet brunch treat.
• loaf pan (noun) - A deep rectangular pan for baking bread loaves, meatloaf, or pound cake
• Use ‘loaf pan’ for bread or cake shaped into slices. Grease or line it well for easy release. Pay attention to filling level—many recipes need leaving space for rising.
• “Could you butter the loaf pan? I’m about to bake some zucchini bread.”
14. He pressed crust into the springform pan, ready to bake the classic cheesecake.
• springform pan (noun) - A cake pan with removable sides secured by a latch, common for cheesecakes
• Use ‘springform pan’ for delicate bakes that need easy unmolding. Wrap bottom with foil if you’re using a water bath or if you worry about leaks, especially with thin batters.
• “Get out the springform pan, or else removing our cheesecake will be tricky.”
15. She assembled a strawberry tart in the tart pan, which popped the crust out easily.
• tart pan (noun) - A round pan with fluted edges and a removable bottom, ideal for fruit tarts or quiches
• Use ‘tart pan’ for pastries where presentation matters. The removable bottom helps serve without damaging the crust. Press dough firmly into fluted edges for a neat shape.
• “We’ll need the tart pan for that quiche so the sides look crisp and decorative.”
16. He used a sheet pan to roast chicken and vegetables together in one go.
• sheet pan (noun) - A large, flat metal tray with raised edges, used for baking or roasting multiple items
• Use ‘sheet pan’ for bigger batches of roasted veggies or sheet-pan meals. The raised edge traps juices or oil. Great for meal prepping multiple ingredients at once.
• “Sheet pan dinners simplify cleanup—just line it with foil or parchment.”
17. She slid the homemade dough onto the hot pizza stone for that restaurant-quality finish.
• pizza stone (noun) - A thick, usually ceramic or stone plate heated in the oven to bake crisp pizza crust
• Use ‘pizza stone’ if you want a crisp base. Preheat it 30 minutes or more. Dust with cornmeal or use parchment for easy transfer. Retains high heat to cook dough evenly.
• “Preheat the pizza stone thoroughly; it mimics a brick oven effect.”
18. He buttered the crepe pan lightly before pouring the thin batter.
• crepe pan (noun) - A shallow, flat pan designed with low edges for easy flipping of thin crepes
• Use ‘crepe pan’ for delicate, thin pancakes. Its low sides allow quick flipping. Maintain even heat and swirl batter right away for uniform thickness.
• “Use the crepe pan so it’s easy to swirl and flip the batter.”
19. She placed the marinated steak in the grill pan for those nice char lines.
• grill pan (noun) - A ridged pan that mimics outdoor grilling, leaving sear marks on food
• Use ‘grill pan’ to replicate grilling indoors. The ridges let fat drain away and impart grill marks. Preheat well to sear the exterior quickly for a smoky flavor.
• “A grill pan is handy if we crave grilled veggies but can’t start the barbecue.”
20. He poured lemon cake batter into the bundt pan for a pretty ring shape.
• bundt pan (noun) - A ring-shaped baking pan with decorative sides and tube in the middle for even baking
• Use ‘bundt pan’ for pound cakes or coffee cakes that release in a visually appealing shape. Grease nooks thoroughly to avoid breakage upon unmolding.
• “A bundt pan makes cakes look fancy without extra decoration needed.”
21. She seared steaks in her cast iron pan for a deliciously crispy crust.
• cast iron pan (noun phrase) - A heavy iron skillet or pan known for excellent heat retention and durability
• Use ‘cast iron pan’ if you want even cooking and the ability to go from stovetop to oven. Clean gently, avoid soap or soak, and re-season occasionally for longevity.
• “A cast iron pan is nearly indestructible—just keep it seasoned for a natural nonstick surface.”
22. He relied on his chef’s knife for almost every cutting task in the kitchen.
• chef’s knife (noun) - A multipurpose kitchen knife with a broad blade, used for chopping, slicing, dicing
• Use ‘chef’s knife’ for everyday chopping. Grip near the bolster for control and slice in a rocking motion. Invest in a good brand and sharpen regularly for safe, precise cuts.
• “A quality chef’s knife makes prep work so much faster—just keep it sharp.”
23. She used a paring knife to hull strawberries and remove tomato cores.
• paring knife (noun) - A small knife used for peeling or intricate cutting tasks
• Use ‘paring knife’ for delicate tasks requiring precision. The short blade grants control. Keep it sharp for easier peeling and minimal waste when trimming fruits or veggies.
• “A paring knife handles tiny details—like peeling an apple or deveining shrimp.”
24. He sliced the loaf with a serrated knife to avoid squishing it.
• serrated knife (adjective + noun) - A blade with saw-like teeth, ideal for slicing soft foods like bread or tomatoes
• Use ‘serrated knife’ when you need a gentle sawing motion. Great for bread, tomatoes, or cakes. Don’t force it—smoothly let the teeth grip. Sharpening serrated edges needs specialized tools or professional service.
• “A serrated knife helps cut crusty bread without crushing the inside.”
25. She neatly cut the fresh baguette with her bread knife, leaving minimal crumbs.
• bread knife (noun) - A long, serrated blade designed specifically to slice bread
• Use ‘bread knife’ for bakery items. The serrations handle tough crust yet keep slices intact. Also works well for layered cakes or fibrous produce like pineapples.
• “Use the bread knife—those serrations are perfect for crusty loaves.”
26. He grabbed the cleaver to split the chicken carcass for stock.
• cleaver (noun) - A heavy, rectangular-bladed knife commonly used to chop through bones or tough cuts
• Use ‘cleaver’ when dealing with dense materials like bones. Aim carefully and apply firm pressure. Keep your other hand clear to avoid accidents—store the cleaver safely after use.
• “A cleaver can tackle tough bones or large veggies in one solid chop.”
27. She used a boning knife to carefully remove the ribs from the pork.
• boning knife (noun) - A thin, flexible blade designed for separating meat from bones or filleting fish
• Use ‘boning knife’ for tasks needing precision around bones and joints. The narrow, flexible blade maneuvers neatly. Keep it sharp to reduce the force required, preventing slip-ups.
• “A boning knife helps you follow the bone without wasting meat.”
28. He took out the carving knife to serve paper-thin roast beef slices.
• carving knife (noun) - A long, thin blade for slicing cooked meats into neat, uniform pieces
• Use ‘carving knife’ for roasts or poultry. Its shape maintains consistent thickness. Often used alongside a fork to steady the meat. Sharpen frequently for smooth, clean cuts.
• “The carving knife will give us those perfect turkey slices for dinner.”
29. She used a fillet knife to separate salmon from its skin with minimal waste.
• fillet knife (noun) - A flexible, slender blade used primarily to remove bones and skin from fish fillets
• Use ‘fillet knife’ for seafood tasks. Its thin blade glides along fish bones. Keep a gentle grip and move with the fish’s curve, ensuring you remove only skin or bones.
• “A fillet knife flexes nicely, so you can get under the fish skin without losing meat.”
30. He reached for his santoku knife to chop onions, noting its balanced design.
• santoku knife (noun) - A Japanese-style multipurpose knife with a shorter, broad blade and granton edges
• Use ‘santoku knife’ for swift chopping, dicing, and mincing. The dimpled granton edge helps release food. Its slightly shorter length can feel more maneuverable in tight kitchen spaces.
• “A santoku knife is like a chef’s knife but often lighter and good for quick slicing.”
31. She used a utility knife for cutting smaller peppers and cheese cubes.
• utility knife (noun) - A mid-sized kitchen knife for tasks too large for a paring knife but smaller than a chef’s knife
• Use ‘utility knife’ if you need moderate slicing, like slicing sandwiches or smaller produce. Keep it sharp for neat edges. Versatile but not specialized for large or very intricate tasks.
• “A utility knife fills the gap when the paring knife’s too small and the chef’s is overkill.”
32. He grabbed the cheese knife to portion soft Brie without it sticking.
• cheese knife (noun) - A blade with holes or a forked tip, specifically designed to cut and serve various cheeses
• Use ‘cheese knife’ for your cheese board. The holes in the blade reduce sticking for soft cheeses; a forked tip can pick up slices. Pick one if you’re a frequent cheese connoisseur.
• “A cheese knife helps you slice through cheddar or Brie easily and serve in style.”
33. She placed the cutting board on the counter before prepping the vegetables.
• cutting board (noun) - A flat board where you chop or slice ingredients to protect countertops and knives
• Use ‘cutting board’ to protect surfaces and maintain sharp blades. Plastic boards are dishwasher-safe; wood boards are gentler on knives but need occasional oiling to prevent dryness.
• “Grab the cutting board so we can dice these onions safely.”
34. He used the peeler to quickly strip carrots for the stew.
• peeler (noun) - A small handheld tool with a sharp edge to remove skin from fruits or vegetables
• Use ‘peeler’ for speedy, thin peeling. A swivel peeler adapts to uneven surfaces. Keep the blade clean to avoid clogging with peel bits. Mind your fingers to prevent accidental nicks.
• “Pass me the peeler; I need to remove these potato skins.”
35. She ran cheddar cheese over the grater to top her casserole.
• grater (noun) - A metal or plastic device with sharp holes or blades used to shred or grate food
• Use ‘grater’ for shredding cheese, veggies, or zesting citrus. Box graters have multiple sides with different hole sizes. Press gently to avoid scraping knuckles and rinse promptly after use.
• “Use the fine side of the grater for garlic and the coarse side for cheese.”
36. He beat the eggs into a frothy mix with a whisk.
• whisk (noun) - A balloon or spiral-shaped tool used to mix ingredients and incorporate air
• Use ‘whisk’ for blending liquids or whipping cream. Balloon whisks trap air effectively. For heavier batters or dough, switch to a spatula or mixer to prevent overexertion of your wrist.
• “Grab the whisk for that cake batter—let’s keep lumps away.”
37. She slid the pancake off the griddle with the spatula perfectly.
• spatula (noun) - A flat-edged tool used for flipping or spreading foods in pans or on griddles
• Use ‘spatula’ to turn or move foods. Metal spatulas handle higher heat but can scratch nonstick surfaces. Silicone or plastic spatulas protect delicate coatings and are good for mixing or scraping bowls.
• “Hand me the spatula so I can flip these burgers without tearing them.”
38. He fished out the noodles from boiling water using the slotted spoon.
• slotted spoon (noun phrase) - A large spoon with holes, used to lift solid food from liquids while draining excess fluid
• Use ‘slotted spoon’ if you need to separate solids from cooking liquid (like boiled veggies). The slots reduce spillage. Typically made from metal or nylon, so pick one that suits your cookware.
• “This soup is done, so use the slotted spoon to pick out the veggies.”
39. She dipped the ladle into the stew pot, filling bowls without spilling.
• ladle (noun) - A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl at the end, ideal for scooping soups or sauces
• Use ‘ladle’ for liquids or stews. The deep bowl portion holds more volume, reducing trips to the pot. If sauce is thick, tilt gently for precise pouring.
• “Grab the ladle so we can serve this soup neatly.”
40. He used tongs to flip the chicken on the grill safely.
• tongs (noun (plural)) - A scissor-like tool with pincers to grip and turn food without touching it directly
• Use ‘tongs’ for flipping, grabbing, or serving hot foods. Lockable versions can save drawer space. They’re a go-to for grilling, pan-searing, or even tossing salads.
• “Pass me the tongs—I don’t want to burn my fingers moving these sausages.”
41. She poured milk into the measuring cups to get the exact amount for the batter.
• measuring cups (noun (plural)) - Containers marked with volume units to portion liquid or dry ingredients accurately
• Use ‘measuring cups’ for precise recipe execution. Dry cups come in stackable sets; liquid cups often have spouts. Level off dry ingredients or check liquid measures at eye level for accuracy.
• “Can you measure two cups of flour using the measuring cups?”
42. He added half a teaspoon of salt using the measuring spoons.
• measuring spoons (noun (plural)) - Small spoons marked with volume units (teaspoon, tablespoon) for small ingredient amounts
• Use ‘measuring spoons’ for spices or extracts where a little difference can alter taste drastically. Typically come in sets from 1/4 teaspoon up to 1 tablespoon.
• “Grab the measuring spoons—this recipe calls for two tablespoons of sugar.”
43. She whisked the cake batter in a large mixing bowl.
• mixing bowl (noun) - A bowl for combining ingredients or preparing batters and dough
• Use ‘mixing bowl’ for blending or marinating. Stainless steel, glass, or plastic are common. Nested sets save kitchen space. Look for ones with non-slip bottoms if you do vigorous stirring or whisking.
• “We need a bigger mixing bowl so ingredients don’t spill everywhere.”
44. He poured pasta into the colander to strain out all the boiling water.
• colander (noun) - A perforated bowl used to rinse foods or drain water from cooked items
• Use ‘colander’ to rinse produce or drain pasta. The holes allow quick draining, so do it over a sink. A sturdy base or handles help you shake out excess water easily.
• “Where’s the colander? I need to drain these noodles before they get mushy.”
45. She used a strainer to remove lumps from the gravy before serving.
• strainer (noun) - A fine mesh sieve for filtering liquids or sifting out small particles from sauces or teas
• Use ‘strainer’ for finer separation tasks than a colander can handle (e.g., sifting flour or dusting powdered sugar). Tap or swirl lightly to help pass liquids through quickly.
• “Grab the strainer if you want a smooth broth—no onion bits.”
46. He rolled out the pizza dough with the rolling pin to an even thickness.
• rolling pin (noun) - A cylindrical tool for flattening dough evenly, like for pie crust or cookies
• Use ‘rolling pin’ for pastry or dough shaping. Flour it lightly to avoid sticking. Wooden pins are common; silicone or marble versions can reduce dough clinging.
• “Could you pass the rolling pin so I can prep this pie dough?”
47. She grabbed the potato masher to make fluffy mashed potatoes.
• potato masher (noun) - A utensil with a mashing plate or wire, used to crush cooked potatoes or other soft foods
• Use ‘potato masher’ for quick, rustic mashing. Perfect for guacamole or root vegetables. A wire or plate design helps break lumps. Don’t overmash if you want some texture left.
• “This potato masher beats lumps better than a fork—much faster, too.”
48. He snipped fresh chives with the kitchen shears over his omelet.
• kitchen shears (noun (plural)) - Scissor-like tools for cutting food items, poultry, or herbs
• Use ‘kitchen shears’ instead of standard scissors for food safety. Some have detachable blades for cleaning. Keep them sharp to prevent jagged cuts, and wash thoroughly after handling raw meat.
• “Kitchen shears are great for trimming chicken fat or slicing pizza slices easily.”
49. She used a kitchen scale to weigh out exactly 200 grams of flour.
• kitchen scale (noun) - A device to weigh ingredients for precise measurement, especially in baking
• Use ‘kitchen scale’ for accurate recipes, especially pastries. Tare (zero out) before adding each ingredient. Digital scales are easier to read and often switch between grams and ounces.
• “A kitchen scale removes guesswork—exact weights ensure baking success.”
50. He lightly brushed egg wash on the pie crust with a pastry brush for a golden finish.
• pastry brush (noun) - A small brush for applying butter, egg wash, or glaze onto dough or pastries
• Use ‘pastry brush’ for coating baked goods or oiling pans. Silicone bristles are easier to clean, while traditional bristles hold liquid well but can shed if not good quality.
• “Use the pastry brush so your rolls get that shiny top with melted butter.”
51. She ran a lemon over the zester for a burst of fresh flavor in the cake batter.
• zester (noun) - A small tool with sharp holes or edges for grating citrus peel into fine shreds
• Use ‘zester’ to extract the outer peel of citrus (avoid the bitter white pith). Adds aroma to desserts, sauces, or cocktails. Gentle pressure is enough for bright, flavorful shavings.
• “Grab the zester—I want some lemon zest in this dressing.”
52. He ran potatoes over the mandoline for thin chips.
• mandoline (noun) - A slicer with an adjustable blade and platform, used for uniform slices or julienne cuts
• Use ‘mandoline’ for even slicing of fruits or veggies. The adjustable thickness ensures consistent cooking times. Always use the included guard or protective gloves to avoid injuries.
• “Watch your fingers on the mandoline—use the hand guard for safety.”
53. She crushed garlic and spices in the mortar and pestle for a fresh paste.
• mortar and pestle (noun phrase) - A bowl (mortar) and a club-shaped tool (pestle) for crushing and grinding ingredients
• Use ‘mortar and pestle’ if you want coarse textures or to release fresh aromatics from spices. Clean promptly to avoid leftover flavors. Choose a sturdy, heavier mortar for stability.
• “A mortar and pestle brings out oils in herbs better than a blender.”
54. He grabbed the pastry cutter to form a crumbly dough for biscuits.
• pastry cutter (noun) - A handheld tool with several metal blades or wires for cutting butter into flour
• Use ‘pastry cutter’ for making pastry doughs like pie crust, scones, or biscuits. It keeps butter cold and in small chunks for flaky layers. Don’t overwork the dough.
• “Use the pastry cutter—those wires blend the butter quickly into the flour.”
55. She used the bench scraper to portion bread dough and keep her surface clean.
• bench scraper (noun) - A flat, rectangular blade with a handle, used to cut dough or scrape counters
• Use ‘bench scraper’ for dividing dough or transferring chopped ingredients. Stainless steel is durable. Keep it near your cutting board for quick cleanup of scraps.
• “A bench scraper helps gather chopped veggies too—super versatile!”
56. He laid a silicone baking mat on the tray to keep cookies from sticking.
• silicone baking mat (noun phrase) - A reusable nonstick surface placed on a baking sheet instead of parchment paper
• Use ‘silicone baking mat’ for roasting or baking. They create a stable, nonstick layer and are dishwasher-safe. Avoid using sharp tools on them to prevent cuts.
• “Silicone baking mats save money and reduce waste—no need for parchment anymore.”
57. She used an offset spatula to spread buttercream smoothly on the cake.
• offset spatula (noun phrase) - A spatula with a small bend near the blade, ideal for frosting cakes or lifting delicate items
• Use ‘offset spatula’ for tasks needing a flat spread. The bend keeps your knuckles out of icing or sauce. Also helpful in transferring fragile pastries from trays.
• “The offset spatula is perfect for leveling icing or flipping cookies carefully.”
58. He used the immersion blender to turn the chunky tomato soup velvety smooth.
• immersion blender (noun phrase) - A handheld blender with a spinning blade, used to puree soups or sauces directly in the pot
• Use ‘immersion blender’ for quick blending. Submerge fully to avoid splatters. Watch the blade near pot bottoms to avoid scratching. Perfect for creamy sauces or small smoothie batches.
• “An immersion blender is easier than transferring hot soup to a countertop blender.”
59. She made tender pulled pork in just 45 minutes using the pressure cooker.
• pressure cooker (noun) - A sealed pot that cooks food faster under high-pressure steam
• Use ‘pressure cooker’ to speed up soups, stews, or tough cuts. Follow safety guidelines: ensure the lid is locked and pressure is released safely (quick or natural release).
• “Pressure cookers cut down braising time drastically—just be mindful of release methods.”
60. He tossed ingredients into the slow cooker for a hands-off chili dinner.
• slow cooker (noun) - An appliance that cooks food at a low temperature over several hours
• Use ‘slow cooker’ for long, gentle cooking of soups, stews, or roasts. Minimal supervision needed. Great for tenderizing cheaper cuts of meat and infusing flavors gradually.
• “A slow cooker is perfect for busy days—set it in the morning, dinner’s ready by evening.”
61. She set broccoli florets in the steamer basket to keep them crisp and bright green.
• steamer basket (noun phrase) - A perforated insert placed in a pot to cook foods with steam instead of direct water contact
• Use ‘steamer basket’ if you prefer gentle, waterless cooking. Bamboo or metal versions fit inside pots with water below. Check water level to prevent boiling dry.
• “A steamer basket is the healthiest way to cook vegetables—retains nutrients well.”
62. He spun the lettuce leaves in the salad spinner, removing excess moisture.
• salad spinner (noun) - A device with a rotating basket used to dry washed greens quickly
• Use ‘salad spinner’ for washing and drying lettuce or herbs. Spin in short bursts, empty water if needed, and store dried greens in the fridge. Crisp leaves result in better salads.
• “A salad spinner is invaluable—dressing sticks better to dry greens.”
63. She grabbed the can opener to get tomatoes out of the tin can quickly.
• can opener (noun) - A tool to remove metal lids from canned foods
• Use ‘can opener’ to safely open tin cans without sharp edges. Manual versions are compact, while electric ones can be easier for folks with grip issues.
• “Pass me the can opener—I need those chickpeas for the stew.”
64. He used the corkscrew to pop open a bottle of red for dinner.
• corkscrew (noun) - A tool with a spiral metal helix for removing corks from wine bottles
• Use ‘corkscrew’ for wine bottles sealed with natural or synthetic cork. Some versions include a lever or winged arms for ease. Always twist in fully, then gently pull to avoid breakage.
• “Grab the corkscrew, let’s open that Merlot.”
65. She used the melon baller to create pretty spheres of watermelon for a fruit salad.
• melon baller (noun) - A small scoop with a spherical bowl, used to carve fruit into round balls
• Use ‘melon baller’ for uniform fruit or scooping seeds from veggies. Handy for decorative presentations. Choose one with a sharp rim to carve neat rounds.
• “A melon baller makes your fruit salads look restaurant-fancy!”
66. He pressed the cookie cutter onto the dough to form star-shaped biscuits.
• cookie cutter (noun) - A shaped mold used to cut dough into distinct outlines or figures
• Use ‘cookie cutter’ for shaped cookies or pastries. Dip edges in flour if dough sticks. Collect multiple shapes for festive or themed baking sessions.
• “I found a cute heart cookie cutter for Valentine’s treats!”
67. She covered the pan with a splatter screen to keep her stovetop clean.
• splatter screen (noun phrase) - A mesh cover placed over pans to prevent oil or sauce splatters while cooking
• Use ‘splatter screen’ to avoid grease splashes. The mesh allows steam to escape while blocking larger droplets. Keep a handle on it—clean in warm soapy water to remove oil residue.
• “Use the splatter screen when frying bacon—it cuts down on cleanup big time.”
68. He grabbed the silicone brush to coat the ribs with barbecue sauce.
• silicone brush (noun phrase) - A heat-resistant basting brush with silicone bristles, used for spreading sauce or oil
• Use ‘silicone brush’ for basting or glazing. It handles high temperatures without melting or absorbing flavors, so it’s a hygienic option for multiple types of cuisine.
• “A silicone brush is easy to wash and won’t shed bristles in the sauce.”
69. She used a marinade injector to infuse the turkey breast with her spiced concoction.
• marinade injector (noun phrase) - A syringe-like tool to inject sauces or brine deep into meat for flavor
• Use ‘marinade injector’ for thicker cuts or whole birds. Clean thoroughly after use to prevent bacterial growth. Great for barbecues or holiday roasts, adding moisture from inside out.
• “Grab the marinade injector if you want that roast bursting with flavor.”
70. She placed cookies on the wire rack to cool, ensuring crisp bottoms.
• wire rack (noun phrase) - A grid or mesh stand, usually metal, where hot items can cool or drippings can fall away
• Use ‘wire rack’ to cool cakes, cookies, or even to elevate meat when oven-roasting. The airflow prevents condensation. Also handy for glazing or letting excess oil drip off fried items.
• “A wire rack keeps baked treats from getting soggy—air circulates underneath.”
71. He used the measuring jug to measure two cups of broth accurately.
• measuring jug (noun phrase) - A pitcher-shaped container with volume markings for liquids
• Use ‘measuring jug’ for liquids, especially if you need more than a cup. Look at the markings at eye level. Some have metric and imperial units. Clear glass or plastic helps see the liquid level.
• “Use the measuring jug for that stock—then just pour it right into the pot.”
72. She set the kitchen timer for 12 minutes to bake the cookies perfectly.
• kitchen timer (noun phrase) - A device or function that counts down a set period to alert you when time is up
• Use ‘kitchen timer’ to track exact cooking durations. Digital or mechanical versions both work. Some ovens or phones have built-in timers. Always double-check you’ve started it to avoid burnt meals!
• “Let’s not overcook the cake—set the kitchen timer now!”
73. He placed a fridge thermometer inside to confirm the chill stayed under 40°F.
• fridge thermometer (noun phrase) - A small gauge to monitor refrigerator or freezer temperature, ensuring food safety
• Use ‘fridge thermometer’ to maintain correct cooling levels. Ideally, fridge is ~37-40°F, freezer at 0°F or below. Adjust settings if the reading drifts. Ensures produce or meats remain fresh longer.
• “A fridge thermometer helps you avoid spoilage—just keep an eye on the reading.”
74. She placed the nuts in the food processor to make a creamy spread.
• food processor (noun phrase) - An electric appliance with rotating blades for chopping, grinding, or pureeing larger batches of food
• Use ‘food processor’ for tasks like shredding cheese, grinding nuts, or blending dough. Watch the pulse function to avoid overprocessing. Clean the blades cautiously—they’re sharp!
• “A food processor saves time—mincing onions or making pesto becomes effortless.”
75. He used the stand mixer to whip egg whites until stiff peaks formed.
• stand mixer (noun phrase) - A stationary electric mixer with a bowl, used for dough kneading or whipping large batches
• Use ‘stand mixer’ for time-consuming mixing tasks. Different attachments handle dough, whisking, or general mixing. Keep speeds in check—too high can fling batter everywhere.
• “A stand mixer is perfect for bread dough or big batches of frosting.”
76. She plugged in the hand mixer to cream butter and sugar for cookies.
• hand mixer (noun phrase) - A handheld electric beater with two removable whisk-like attachments
• Use ‘hand mixer’ for moderate mixing tasks like cake batter or mashed potatoes. Lighter to store and cheaper than a stand mixer, but not as powerful for heavy doughs.
• “A hand mixer is simpler than a stand mixer—just hold it steady.”
77. He used the blowtorch to achieve that crisp caramel top on his crème brûlée.
• blowtorch (kitchen torch) (noun phrase) - A small butane torch used to caramelize sugar on desserts or char skins on vegetables
• Use ‘blowtorch’ for quick browning. Keep safety in mind: short bursts of flame, away from flammable items. Refill with butane as needed, and always turn off the gas valve after use.
• “Watch your angles with the kitchen torch—avoid burning the sugar too dark.”
78. She placed a hard-boiled egg in the egg slicer, pressing down for perfect slices.
• egg slicer (noun) - A small device with a slotted top and wire frame to slice boiled eggs uniformly
• Use ‘egg slicer’ for neat, consistent slices. Usually best on fully chilled boiled eggs. Press gently so wires don’t bend. Good for garnishes or layered dishes needing uniform thickness.
• “An egg slicer works for mushrooms too—convenient for salads.”
79. He assembled a layered tartare inside the ring mold for an elegant presentation.
• ring mold (noun phrase) - A cylindrical metal ring used to shape foods like stacked salads or individual desserts
• Use ‘ring mold’ to shape foods neatly on a plate. Fill with your mixture, then carefully lift. Perfect for portioned desserts, timbales, or layered appetizers, giving a pro look.
• “Grab a ring mold if you want a restaurant-style plating.”
80. She tossed cumin seeds in the spice grinder for a fresh, fragrant powder.
• spice grinder (noun phrase) - A small grinder or electric mill for crushing whole spices into powder
• Use ‘spice grinder’ if you want maximum flavor from whole spices. Clean after each use to avoid flavor transfer. A dedicated coffee grinder can double as a spice mill, but strong flavors may linger.
• “A spice grinder can transform peppercorns and dried chili into bold seasoning.”
81. He used the burr grinder to achieve a consistent coarse grind for his French press.
• burr grinder (noun phrase) - A coffee grinder using burrs (abrasive surfaces) to evenly crush beans for uniform granules
• Use ‘burr grinder’ to control coffee texture precisely. Conical or flat burrs are standard. Great for various brew methods (espresso to French press), adjusting settings for the right fineness.
• “A burr grinder gives better-tasting coffee than a blade grinder—more uniform grounds.”
82. She used a coffee press in the morning for robust, sediment-free coffee.
• coffee press (French press) (noun phrase) - A simple brewer where coarse coffee grounds steep in hot water, then are pressed down by a plunger
• Use ‘coffee press’ for a rich, full-bodied cup. Use coarse grind to avoid sediment. Stir after adding water, wait 4 minutes, then push the plunger gently for minimal floating particles.
• “A French press extracts full flavor—just let the grounds steep a few minutes.”
83. He put leftover veggies in a reusable silicone bag to keep them fresh.
• reusable silicone bag (noun phrase) - A sealable, food-safe bag made of silicone for storing or sous vide cooking
• Use ‘reusable silicone bag’ for fridge or freezer storage. Some are heat-safe for sous vide or microwave. Wash after each use to maintain hygiene, ensuring no trapped moisture fosters mold.
• “Reusable silicone bags cut down on plastic waste—plus, they’re dishwasher-safe.”
84. She placed different colored cutting mats for veggies and raw meat.
• cutting mats (noun (plural)) - Flexible, thin plastic sheets used like cutting boards, often color-coded to prevent cross-contamination
• Use ‘cutting mats’ if you want light, portable surfaces. They’re thinner than boards, so be gentle with knife pressure. Color-coding helps keep raw meat separate from produce to avoid cross-contamination.
• “Cutting mats save space and are easy to clean—just swap them for each food type.”
85. He used the portion scoop to ensure equal-sized cookies on the tray.
• portion scoop (noun phrase) - A spring-loaded scoop that helps measure consistent servings of batter, dough, or ice cream
• Use ‘portion scoop’ for uniform shaping of dough or scooping ice cream. The numbered sizes relate to volume. Great for controlling portion sizes or neat plating.
• “A portion scoop is handy for muffin batter or meatballs—each one the same size.”
86. She used a microplane to grate Parmesan cheese finely over her pasta.
• microplane (noun) - A slender grater with very fine, sharp protrusions for zesting or grating hard cheeses
• Use ‘microplane’ for fine, airy shreds. Perfect for citrus zest, nutmeg, garlic, or Parmesan. Minimal pressure needed. Rinse immediately; small bits can stick in the fine blades.
• “The microplane is perfect for lemon zest or a dusting of chocolate.”
87. He tossed washed grains into the rice cooker, pressing start for fluffy results.
• rice cooker (noun phrase) - An electric pot designed to steam rice automatically, maintaining perfect moisture levels
• Use ‘rice cooker’ for consistent rice. Measure water carefully according to instructions. Some models have keep-warm and quick-cook functions. Clean the inner pot gently to maintain nonstick coating.
• “A rice cooker simplifies dinner—no stirring or guesswork needed.”
88. She loaded ingredients into the bread machine, returning later to a fresh loaf.
• bread machine (noun phrase) - An appliance that mixes, kneads, and bakes bread with minimal user effort
• Use ‘bread machine’ if you want fresh bread without manual kneading. Follow exact measurements in recipes. Experiment with add-ins like nuts or raisins after the beep prompt for best distribution.
• “A bread machine does all the dough work—just add ingredients and press go.”
89. He used the vacuum sealer on chicken breasts to freeze them without freezer burn.
• vacuum sealer (noun phrase) - A device removing air from bags before sealing, extending food’s shelf life or prepping sous vide
• Use ‘vacuum sealer’ to store meats, produce, or leftovers. Label each sealed pouch with date and contents. Perfect for sous vide cooking, ensuring minimal flavor loss or contamination.
• “A vacuum sealer keeps food fresher longer—no oxygen means less spoilage.”
90. She placed the steaks in the marinade tray, flipping them halfway for even flavor.
• marinade tray (noun phrase) - A shallow container specifically designed for marinating food, often with a lid
• Use ‘marinade tray’ for soaking meats or veggies in sauces. Look for a nonreactive material (glass or plastic). Rotate or turn items periodically for even absorption. Refrigerate to keep food safe.
• “Using a marinade tray keeps spills contained—plus the lid helps lock in aromas.”
91. He scooped neat slices with the avocado slicer, avoiding messy hands.
• avocado slicer (noun phrase) - A utensil that splits, pits, and slices avocados in a single tool
• Use ‘avocado slicer’ if you frequently handle avocados. Typically includes a pitter and slicing blades. Press gently into the flesh for even slices. Still watch fingers—some models have sharp edges.
• “An avocado slicer streamlines cutting—less fuss removing the pit.”
92. She squeezed lemons with the juice squeezer for fresh lemonade.
• juice squeezer (noun phrase) - A handheld device, often for citrus, pressing juice out of halves without seeds or pulp escaping
• Use ‘juice squeezer’ for lemons, limes, or small oranges. Cut fruit in half, place cut side down. Press handles firmly to extract. Strain if you want pulp-free juice.
• “Use the juice squeezer—much simpler than fishing seeds out by hand.”
93. He passed boiled tomatoes through the food mill for a smooth sauce without seeds.
• food mill (noun phrase) - A hand-cranked device pushing cooked foods through a perforated disk, removing skins or seeds
• Use ‘food mill’ for velvety sauces or baby food. Typically has interchangeable discs for different textures. Ideal for removing peels from applesauce or seeds from tomatoes without manual straining.
• “A food mill is handy for mashed potatoes or purees—no lumps remain.”
94. She rocked the mezzaluna over basil leaves, mincing them swiftly.
• mezzaluna (noun) - A curved, half-moon blade with handles at both ends, used for chopping herbs
• Use ‘mezzaluna’ for repeated chopping motions, particularly with fresh herbs or garlic. The curved blade ensures consistent cuts. Keep fingers on the handle, never near the rocking zone.
• “A mezzaluna is perfect for herbs—just rock back and forth for a fine chop.”
95. He used a funnel to transfer homemade sauce into a small bottle spill-free.
• funnel (noun) - A cone-shaped tube for pouring liquids or fine-grained substances into containers with narrow openings
• Use ‘funnel’ for neat transfers of liquids or powders. Different sizes suit various bottle openings. Hold steady and pour slowly to avoid overflows. Silicone or metal funnels are easy to clean.
• “Grab the funnel so we can pour this oil without making a mess.”
96. She cut perfect Swiss slices with the wire cheese slicer for sandwiches.
• wire cheese slicer (noun phrase) - A tool with a thin wire stretched between two supports, used to slice cheese into uniform thickness
• Use ‘wire cheese slicer’ for semisoft to moderately firm cheeses. Press downward steadily. Wires can snap if bent too far, so handle gently and store safely.
• “A wire cheese slicer helps keep each slice even—less friction than a blade.”
97. He pressed two cloves in the garlic press for quick garlic paste.
• garlic press (noun) - A small device that crushes garlic cloves through tiny holes, producing a fine mince or paste
• Use ‘garlic press’ to avoid manual mincing. Remove papery skins first for best results. Rinse immediately after use to prevent dried garlic residue from jamming holes.
• “A garlic press saves time—no sticky chopping board!”
98. She used a silicone spatula to scrape every bit of frosting from the bowl.
• silicone spatula (noun phrase) - A flexible, heat-resistant scraper used to fold or scrape batter and sauces
• Use ‘silicone spatula’ for thorough mixing or scraping bowls clean. Heat-resistant up to certain temps, so it’s good for stirring sauces on the stovetop. Gentle on nonstick pans.
• “A silicone spatula won’t melt, so it’s safe for hot pans and baking tasks.”
99. He ran a zucchini through the spiralizer for healthier, low-carb ‘zoodles.’
• spiralizer (noun) - A gadget turning fruits or vegetables into noodle-like spirals or ribbons
• Use ‘spiralizer’ for creative veggie recipes. Firm produce like zucchinis or carrots works best. Clean blades immediately to avoid clogging. Adds fun textures to salads or stir-fries.
• “Use the spiralizer if you want veggie pasta or curly fries.”
100. She used cooking chopsticks to stir-fry noodles, avoiding steam burns.
• cooking chopsticks (noun (plural)) - Long chopsticks used for stirring, flipping, or picking up hot items while cooking
• Use ‘cooking chopsticks’ for tasks requiring reach in hot pans or deep pots. Their length protects hands from heat. Mastering them can reduce the need for tongs or spatulas in some dishes.
• “Cooking chopsticks are great for precise tossing—just keep them away from open flames.”