1. Basic cooking equipment
If you used your cookware to prepare meat in the past doesn’t mean that you absolutely need to throw it out. It’s really up to you. You can keep it or you can replace it. If you can afford to replace it, be mindful with how you dispose of it. You don’t have to throw it out. You can sell it or give it to someone in need.
2. Pots and Pans
A good set of pots and pans will last you for a long time. Your best bet is to go with something like stainless steel or, even better, cast iron. They won’t react with most foods or cause uncomfortable flavors. Make sure you’ve got a good sized sauté pan and a sauce pan. You also should consider investing in a pan for steaming vegetables.
3. Bakeware
Simple things like cookie sheets for baking and roasting are easy to come by and so are baking pans for casseroles. When it comes to casseroles, your best bet is to get a glass pan because glass will not get into chemical reactions with foods. Aluminum is best for baking because of its heat adjusting properties.
4. Utensils
Utensils are everything from mixing bowls and measuring spoons to a colander and a bamboo spatula set. Make sure you get a vegetable peeler and a cutting board. A rolling pin and a rubber or silicone spatula are always good to have, too.
5. Knives
For your vegan kitchen, you can bypass the cleaver knife and the carving knife because they are designed for cutting meat. Make sure that you get quality chef, paring, and serrated knives.
6. Countertop appliances
If you want, you can also get appliances like a rice cooker and food processors. Quality rice cookers are much easier to clean than stainless steel pans and food processors can significantly reduce prep time.
7. Various other tools
When you’re building up your tool collection, you’d be well suited not to forget these things: scissors, a mortar and pestle, a pastry brush, and a funnel. Kitchen scissors are indispensable in any kitchen, especially for cutting up herbs and the like.
8. Microwave
In the past, the microwave was the pinnacle of kitchen necessities. As you head towards a healthier lifestyle, you’ll find yourself using your microwave less and less. Don’t get stuck clinging to the outdated idea that your microwave is a must have. It isn’t.
9. Storage containers
Not all packaging is created equal. Take time to consider what your pantry staples are going to be and what will be the best ways to store them. Then invest in the storage containers that are right for you.
10. A well-stocked pantry
A well-stocked and balanced pantry can help you in your vegan cooking adventures more than anything else. While fresh is best, it is a very hard standard to maintain 100% of the time. Stocking up your pantry with dry and canned goods will help you keep your diet balanced in winters and other times when fresh is impossible.
