Of all the hobbies you can try, baking is perhaps one of the most common yet useful. You can make basic treats to complex dishes, and you'll have an easier time doing so if you have the right equipment. Here are some items you need to start your baking journey.
1. Stand Mixer
Having an electric mixer removes the need to mix ingredients or even knead your dough manually. Most stand mixers come with all sorts of attachments for various uses like mixing, fluffing, kneading, and more. You'll be thankful for it, especially if the procedure requires a lot of hand work.
2. Food Processor
Some recipes include ingredients that need crushed nuts or other blended ingredients. While you can use a blender for that, a food processor will produce better outcomes as they are made specifically for solids. You can even use it for other needs like mincing garlic, blending basil, making peanut butter, and whatever else you can think of.
3. Smart Measuring Bowl
Instead of weighing or measuring your ingredients gradually, you can add in big batches at a time with a bowl with its own scale. Certain models have features like convertible units and removable scales, making it easier to wash after. It also works for wet and dry ingredients, but it would be good to have two in your kitchen.
4. Digital Timer
Some baked goods take a while to make, and you can't exactly just stand around and wait for it to be finished. Sometimes, as you wait, you might forget that you have something in the oven and end up overbaking it. A timer, especially one with a loud alarm volume, will help remind you that your goods are just about ready to be taken out.
5. Digital Food Scale
To ensure that your baked goods come out in their best form, you need to be precise with the indicated measurements of the ingredients. While a smart measuring bowl is used for larger quantities like flour, a small food scale works best for smaller portions like spices and other ingredients you need by the gram.
6. Infrared Thermometer
It's useful to have a thermometer around for both baking and cooking since the temperature you place your uncooked food plays a huge part in how it turns out. For instance, skipping the preheating process or not getting it to the right temperature first could make your baked goods hard, rubbery, or even undercooked. It's best to check the temperature first.
7. Electric Warming Tray
Most baked goods taste better when they are still warm. However, you might not be able to eat them right away. If you want to keep them at the optimal temperature, you can get yourself a warming tray. It'll keep them nice and warm without further cooking the food. Of course, this is optional, but it's a small price to pay to get the best out of your efforts, even after some time.
