Every wonder what tools help me get the job done in the kitchen. It's not tons of equipment and strange infomercial gadgets, just basic tools that cooks have been using for many years. Here is a list of my top ten items that make my life in the kitchen much easier!

#10 Chef's Knife

A sharp chefs knife is key in the kitchen. Always keep in mind when buying a knife, make sure it is one that you find comfortable. No need to buy the most expensive, but the one that fits your hand properly, is the right weight and length (I now use a Nova Scotia made 8 inch Grohmann knife that is on the heavier side).

#9 Peeler

I use my peeler for many jobs; shaving hard cheese, shaving chocolate, making vegetable ribbons, etc. I buy the speed peelers that are a little cheaper, so that once they get dull, I don't feel guilty getting rid of them!

#8 Fish Spatula

This tool is good for lifting up delicate things from fish and desserts, to taking poached eggs out of liquid.

#7 Benriner

This Japanese mandolin is made of plastic and is extremely sharp. A lot cheaper than it's big brother (those monstrous metal mandolins that are very expensive), these bad boys come with three different blades that are useful when needing to julienne tons of vegetables, or for thinly slicing anything. If you want people to think that you've spent hours perfectly slicing potatoes for a Pomme Anna, but really spent five minutes on your Benriner, do so!

#6 Wooden Skewers

I not only use these for skewering meat and vegetables, but for checking doneness of cakes and breads and for taking lobster meat out of those pesky shells.

#5 Scissors

I like to use scissors to snip delicate herbs into finished soups or sauces.

#4 Tongs

Yes, I know, many chefs don't like to use tongs as they aren't very good for delicate plating (often chopsticks or tweezers are used), but mine are an extension of my body, I can't live without them! I am also anal about finding the perfect tong...good resistance, good grip and perfect length.

#3 Paring Knife

Mine gets used for cutting cheese, vegetables, fruits and even some butchery. I always have two or three floating around at my house in case of emergency.

#2 Tablespoon

That's right! A good 'ol tablespoon. I keep it in my pocket for tasting, plating, flipping and beating the staff when they're bad.

#1 Rasp

My rasp...how do I describe thee? This little beauty grates my cheese, garlic, ginger and zests my lemons, limes and oranges. I like to buy mine in bulk at Lee Valley Tools.