Happy 2011!

Well, Monkey Nation, I have not been the most disciplined monkey this past year. My goal was to consistently post in 2010 and I managed a grand total of 12. That's right 1-2, or only 1 per month! Bah! That's horrible! Well, this year my goal is 4 each month. Aim for the sun, I say.

So here's post #1 of 48.

In order for a good cooking experience, anymonkey needs quality tools. Here are some basic thoughts on that:

Item 1: You need a quality 6-8 in Chef's knife. This does not mean dropping 3 hun on 1 knife, however this could easily be done. In fact, "Cook's Illustrated" recommends the Victorinox Fibrox 8 inch Chef's knife currently listed on Amazon.com at $26.99 with free shipping. A quality knife that you keep sharp will go along way to kitchen happiness. Just remember hand washing is often recommended. Also, go to a Williams-Sonoma or Sur La Table to see how a knife feels in your hand. Take it for a spin. Then go home and see if you can find an internet deal!

Item 2: What does a good Chef's knife need? That's right, 1 (maybe 2) sturdy cutting boards that are roughly 11" by 17" and made of wood. I'd steer clear of glass, plastic etc. Make sure it has rubber feet to keep it steady while you are using your quality knife. If yours does not, then make a trip to the Home Depot and buy some. It also may be a good idea to have 2 boards. One for raw meat/chicken and 1 for non-meat use. Better safe than sorry when it comes to that stuff!

Item 3: A quality skillet (8" or thereabouts.) Just like in #1, you can drop some serious bananas on a set of All-Clad pots and pans, but this is not necessary especially if you are just getting into cooking. I have a Calphalon Stainless Steel tri ply set with which I am happy. I like the Stainless Steel vs non stick because I don't have to worry about someone accidentally using a metal fork and ruining the non stick finish.

Item 4: A quality sauce pan (2.5 quart or thereabouts.) Same rules as #3. It's nice buying a set of pots and pans, but there is nothing wrong with only buying 1-2 pieces at a time. That way you can spend a little more buying quality vs. buying a big set that's cheaper. You want to start thinking of buying pots, pans, and knives that will last beyond your lifetime.

Items 5, 6, 7: Metal measuring cups, metal measuring spoons, glass liquid measuring cup. You need accurate amounts of ingredients

Items 8, 9: A quality spatula (small turner) and whisk. Look for something that has a bigger, comfortable handle especially for the whisk.

Item 10: A quality vegetable peeler. Just like for the whisk, a comfortable handle along with a good blade are very important. A cheap peeler with a harsh, metal handle will be no fun!

So, in 2011 (or MMXI for the educated monkeys...) anymonkeycan cook!!