A Student's Kitchen

It's that time of year again when many college kids are packing up and heading off to school. For many , it means living off campus or living in a dorm where there's a shared kitchen.  That means cooking  even though it's quick. It also means assessing what will be needed to survive,

Luckily all kitchens are more or less equipped. Every one should have a working oven/range and fridge. What may be needed is a microwave(should have) and possibly a toaster oven (ought to have but not necessary). The first is valuable in heating up everything from hot pockets to leftovers. However a microwave is also invaluable for heating up ingredients such as melted butter or warmed milk along with cooking such dishes as stuffing and even spaghetti, The last can be boiled in one however it doesn't taste as good as pasta boiled on the stove. A toaster oven may take up room yet it is handy.It does more than toasting. It's great for making English muffin pizza giving the muffin's edges a nice crispness. It's perfect for making grilled cheese and tuna melts along with reheating leftovers such as pizza and egg rolls.Another reason to have a toaster oven is that it's easier to use at times rather than the conventional one, especially if you come home tired after a full day of work and school.

What other kitchen items should head off to college?A good, all  purpose knife is a must. Farberware has some excellent ones and these can be used for slicing dicing and even cutting into pies and cakes. A small paring knife is another invaluable must have. It  not only skins fruits and veggies it can be used for cutting up butter and margarine sticks for baking.Good pots and pans are also high on the list. Remember, that with the proper care, they can last well into that first apartment and even into the first house. You could buy some fun but useful ones such as the omelet pan  for one or the grilled cheese griddle for one . A stock pot is another must. Use it to make large quantities of soups that can later be frozen for future eating. It's also good for pasta too. Many students are big fans of the Insta-Pot. They've seen the successes their parents have had with them. These can do everything from steam rice to braise beef.If you feel that it's too expensive (some can run close to $200 ) then just get the three quart one . Another option is the crock pot which can be had for only $9.00 at Target. It does the trick too, especially when making tomato sauce or chili,.

It's time to pack up the gear for dorm or apartment life. It's also time to pack up or buy the kitchen gear that will make cooking easier. Choose smartly.