by The Culinistas
We want everyone to be their own Food Network star.
The first step in your transformation starts with the pantry.
Having a set of staple ingredients and equipment on hand at all times is essential.
Spices
Have a set of spices on hand at all times that are versatile enough to work with a multitude of ingredients and recipes. Urfa, Cumin, Cayenne, and Za’atar are among our favorites. They’re great sprinkled on fresh veggies, hard-boiled eggs, and are perfect to doctor up your favorite store bought hummus. La Boîte is the spice king of New York.
Oil & Salt
Have a flavorful salt on hand that you know will elevate the flavors of any dish. Our standard is La Baleine Fine Sea Salt. We like it because it feels natural. And a drizzle of olive oil will bring together any great combination of ingredients. Our favorite Greek olive oil is Oilladi. It maintains a smooth olive flavor, while providing the perfect amount of bite.
Equip
The equipment you use is just as important as the ingredients you choose. Invest in a big, strong cutting board for all of your slicing and dicing needs. Our co-founder’s favorite tools are a fish spatula and tongs. You’ll use these more than you think; you’ll be amazed you survived in a world without them for so long. For a complete, but paired down kitchen collection, grab yourself a set of quality mixing bowls, 1 pot, 1 pan, a blender, and a baking sheet.
A special thanks to Sylvie Rosokoff for the beautiful photographs.