Do you think you need a bunch of fancy gadgets to take up all counter space to cook excellent plant-based meals? Well, think again! I believe you only need a few of the best plant-based cooking equipment tools to make simple, delicious, and easy-to-make plant-based dishes.
I have a smaller kitchen and do not like cluttered countertops. You’ll do great with my plant-based recipes if you own a food processor, air fryer, toaster oven, or rice cooker. You get a bonus of desserts if you own a hand mixer!
Cooking begins with the basics: a good set of pots and pans, a non-stick pan, a wok, a baking dish, and a casserole or stoneware dish. These basics make cooking easier, and know the quality will be amazing.
In this guide, I will show you how to make the most of these versatile tools to create simple, fast, and healthy meals. Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
Why the Right Tools Make Plant-Based Cooking Easier
Cooking plant-based meals doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. I use the right tools to streamline my meal prep, keep my kitchen organized, and make delicious meals quickly.
The good news is you may already own some or all of the items on the list. Learn to use your existing equipment to make your cooking experience more fun:
Simplify Meal Prep with the Best Plant-based cooking equipment Tools
- Save Time on Chopping and Prepping:
My food processor speeds this up for me. It chops and grates everything easily. It reduces the cutting and chopping time. Sometimes, my biggest challenge is remembering I even have it!
- Sometimes, I prefer to use my own set of knives and chop the vegetables myself. It brings me a deep sense of satisfaction, and I can cut or try to cut the veggies exactly how I want.
- Batch Cooking Made Easy:
The rice cooker perfectly cooks grains like rice, quinoa, or barley. I usually always have a batch of rice in the fridge, ready to speed up quick meals throughout the week.
- Effortless Cleanup:
Using my air fryer or toaster oven makes it so much faster for cleanup. The one or two removable trays make cleaning up much faster.
The Benefits of Multi-Functional Tools
- Versatility in Cooking:
Most of us know that air fryers can make roasted veggies, crispy tofu, and even heat leftovers to bring the crispiness back. Did you know you can make a one-pot meal with your rice cooker?
- Space-Saving Solutions:
Owning fewer single-use gadgets and tools saves your countertop from clutter and keeps you more organized. Let’s be honest—we all own or have owned a single-use gadget that we used once or twice and then it just took up space in the cupboards.
- I owned a popcorn maker, which I used twice before I donated it. What a waste! Invest instead in multi-functional tools like your toaster oven (which can toast, bake, and roast) or your rice cooker (steams and cooks grains). These save you money and space.
- Faster Cooking Times:
The air fryer can roast veggies and bake tofu in less than half the time than a conventional oven. It also helps reduce electricity costs.
Tips for Organizing Your Kitchen to Save Time
Did you know that keeping your kitchen well-organized makes you more efficient at plant-based cooking? This means logically grouping tools together, having the right storage solutions nearby, and having dedicated space for quick meals.
This will save you time and, more importantly, reduce your stress levels. Here’s how to set up your kitchen for success:
Group Tools by Function
- Baking and Prep Station:
Organize your kitchen to keep your food processor, hand mixer, and measuring tools in one area. This keeps everything within easy reach for cooking and meal prep. The last thing you want to do is start wasting time looking for misplaced tools in the kitchen.
- I store frequently used measuring cups, spoons, and mixing bowls in a nearby drawer or cabinet. Your everyday spices and other frequently used ingredients should be within arm’s reach.
- Cooking Zone:
Keep your pots, pans, and wok stored near the stove for easy reach during cooking. I keep my pots and pans in a larger cupboard near the stove. Try keeping utensils like spatulas, tongs, and ladles in a holder or drawer beside the stove.
- Small Appliance Hub:
Designate the same countertop space while cooking every time. I only keep my toaster oven on the counter. I store my air fryer and rice cooker in a cupboard nearby between uses.
- Try keeping appliance accessories (like air fryer sheets or rice cooker spoon/cup) in the same cupboard or nearby drawer.
Use Glass Containers for Storage
- Benefits of Glass Containers:
I recently changed to glass containers, and what a difference. They are more durable (as long as you do not drop them!) and eco-friendly. I am a big fan of how they don’t absorb odors or stains, and they’re safe for both the fridge and freezer.
- I use them to store extra cut veggies and, more importantly, leftovers for the next day. You can quickly see what’s inside, so you’re not rummaging through your fridge.
- Organizing with Glass Containers:
I keep a variety of sizes to accommodate different ingredients. Bigger containers for lunches and smaller containers for extra veggies as well as sides. I find that rectangular containers (instead of round ones) maximize shelf space.
- Meal Prep Made Easy:
The glass containers keep extra prepped ingredients like diced onions or sliced peppers fresher longer than plastic containers. The smaller containers are great for snacks, like cucumber, carrots, and celery.
Additional Organization Tips
- Declutter Regularly:
Once or twice a year, go through your kitchen tools and gadgets to get rid of items you no longer use. I am always amazed at what I find and wonder where on earth did we get this from?
- Use Drawer Organizers:
One or two drawer dividers can make a huge difference and make it easier to find what you need.
By following these tips, you will feel more organized and less stressed. You will find making plant-based cooking more enjoyable. Plus, you’ll always know where everything is—so you can focus on creating delicious meals!
Making Cooking Faster and Recipes More Versatile
Cooking plant-based meals doesn’t need to take hours to be good. Speed up the process by using your kitchen efficiently and make an amazing variety of meals. Here’s how to make the most of your equipment:
One-Pot Wonders
- Why One-Pot Meals Are a Game-Changer:
One-pot meals are great for busy people like me with not a lot of time to cook. They minimize cleanup and maximize flavor. My rice cooker is a favorite gadget, capable of cooking more than just rice.
- Rice Cooker Risotto:
Did you know you can make creamy, delicious risotto in your rice cooker—no constant stirring required! Add Arborio rice, vegetable broth, lentils, spices, and your favorite veggies (like broccoli, peppers, or peas) to the rice cooker.
- Other One-Pot Ideas:
- Lentil Stew: Toss in lentils, diced tomatoes, carrots, and spices for a hearty meal.
- Steamed Veggies with Grains: Layer grains like quinoa with broccoli, carrots, or zucchini for a complete dish.
Experiment with Global Flavors
- Why Global Flavors Add Variety:
Plant-based cooking lets you explore different cuisines, keeps dinners exciting, and introduces you to new ingredients and techniques.
- Wok Wonders:
Your wok is perfect for more than just stir-fries. Here are a few ideas:
- Noodle Dishes: Toss cooked noodles with veggies, tofu, and a soy-based sauce.
- Fried Rice: Use leftover rice, veggies, and tofu for a quick and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Get the hard part done on a day off or a weekend. Organize your kitchen and get ready to start whipping up some great-tasting plant-based meals. A small investment in the right gadgets you may already have will save you time and effort.
Sign up and join the Chuswell plant-based community today. Let’s make easy and affordable recipes with ingredients you recognize! Question to ponder? Which is the best one plant-based cooking kitchen tool you could not live without and why?
What is the best plant-based cooking equipment for beginners?
Start first with a rice cooker, non-stick pan, and a toaster oven. These tools are easy to use, while versatile enough to make some simple, quick, and healthy plant-based meals.
Can I use regular kitchen tools for plant-based cooking?
Of Course! Your current pots, pans, and knives will work perfectly for plant-based meals. You may not even need anything new—just focus on quality and functionality.
What’s the most space-saving plant-based cooking tool?
A multi-functional appliance like an air fryer or toaster oven is ideal for my small kitchen. These appliances are faster, and can bake, roast, as well reheat. They most importantly save time and space.
How do I clean and maintain plant-based cooking equipment?
Use non-abrasive cleaners for non-stick pans.
Check your manufacturer’s instructions for appliances like rice cookers and air fryers. Most are dishwasher safe and can be washed by hand.
What’s the best plant-based tool for batch cooking plant-based meals?
A rice cooker or air fryer are perfect for batch cooking. You can make batches of roasted veggies or rice to use for cooking at any given time to save time.
