Christmas wishlist

This is what you really need.

A large, solid wooden cutting board. If you cant imagine a Thanksgiving turkey fitting on it comfortably, it is too small.

A very good chef's knife. You dont need a set. 8-10 inches will do (thats what she said). Pay once, cry once. I like my MAC Professional series knife. A paring knife is a good idea as well. And a serrated knife is a bonus for tomatoes, bread, etc... A sharpening stick would be a good idea as well.

You need a good set of quality pans. I'd get one 10 inch or less, non-stick pan for eggs. And use it only for eggs. I'd get one large saute pan. I'd get one cast iron pan and a dutch oven (Le Creuset is my brand of choice for Dutch, Lodge for Cast iron). You need a sauce pan with lid (about 2 quarts), a roasting pan, and a pasta/stock pot. Your best bet is to go to a restaurant supply store to buy all of the above.

That is literally all you need. If you can cook well with those tools, you can cook. Everything else is just a sub for those tool. Not that you shouldn't get them, but learn first than take shortcuts.

ETA: After that, I like an immersion blender, Kitchen Aid Mixer, food processor, and ice cream machine.

Wireless digital thermometer

Once you get one, and I love this unit, you'll wonder what took you so long in the first place. Imagine a roast or bird telling you when it's done, rather than relying on weight and time. This particular unit also monitors the pit temp (or oven) as well.

Crock Pot



Grill Griddle for Veggies



Cuisinart Food Processor