Starting university is an exciting time, but living independently means you’ll need to be prepared—especially in the kitchen. Whether you're cooking on a budget or just trying to survive on something other than instant noodles, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here are the top 10 kitchen essentials every student should have.
1. A Good Non-Stick Frying Pan
A non-stick frying pan is a must-have for any student. It’s perfect for whipping up quick meals like scrambled eggs, stir-fries, or pancakes, and it makes cleaning up a breeze—ideal when you're short on time between lectures.
2. A Sturdy Saucepan
From boiling pasta to making soups and curries, a good saucepan is a lifesaver. Opt for a medium-sized one that’s versatile enough for different types of meals but not too big to store in a small student kitchen.
3. A Sharp Knife & Chopping Board
Trying to chop vegetables with a blunt knife is frustrating and potentially dangerous. Invest in a decent sharp knife and a chopping board to make meal prep easier and safer.
4. A Baking Tray
Even if you don’t bake, a baking tray is essential. Use it for roasting vegetables, making chips, or even reheating frozen pizza. It’s a simple but essential piece of kitchen kit.
Baking tray with chips
5. A Microwave-Safe Bowl & Mug
Microwaves are a student’s best friend. A microwave-safe bowl is great for heating leftovers, making porridge, or even cooking quick meals. A sturdy mug is also essential for coffee, tea, or those last-minute mug cakes when you need a sweet treat.
6. A Can Opener
Tinned food is a student staple, whether it’s baked beans, soup, or tuna. Make sure you have a reliable can opener to avoid the frustration of struggling to open a can when you're hungry.
7. A Grater
Cheese, carrots, potatoes—a grater comes in handy more often than you’d think. It’s an inexpensive tool that can be a real game-changer for making simple meals more exciting.
8. Measuring Jug & Wooden Spoon
A measuring jug is essential for portioning ingredients, especially when cooking rice, pasta, or making sauces. Pair it with a wooden spoon for stirring, mixing, and serving food without damaging your non-stick cookware.
9. Reusable Food Containers
Meal prep is key to saving money and eating well at uni. Reusable food containers allow you to store leftovers, take lunch to campus, or even freeze meals for busier days.
Meal Prep Containers
10. A Basic Set of Cutlery & Crockery
A few basic plates, bowls, cups, and a simple set of cutlery will be more than sufficient for everyday meals. There's no need to buy expensive ones, as these essentials will serve their purpose without taking up much space and can easily be replaced if they get broken.
Final Tips
- Keep it simple: Start with the basics and add more as you go.
- Opt for quality over quantity: A few good-quality essentials are better than a cluttered kitchen full of items you rarely use.
- Don’t forget cleaning supplies: Washing up liquid, sponges, and tea towels are just as important!
Having these essentials in your student kitchen will make cooking easier, cheaper, and more enjoyable. Whether you’re a total beginner or an aspiring chef, being prepared will help you avoid the temptation of constant takeaways and unhealthy snacks.
Happy cooking!