I have definitely been very envious of pinterest-perfect huge kitchens with an island and all the gadgets lined up and ready to go. A magic assistant who does all the washing up and cleaning as you go wouldn’t go amiss either! Let’s face it, we don’t all have these luxuries though. A small kitchen has its challenges but should never the only thing holding you back from preparing nutritious and delicious plant-based meals. I won’t complain about cooking in a tight space as long as I’m not chopping on a boat sailing at a big angle and waiting for the right time to drain the pasta into the sink rather than all over my feet. It’s all about a bit of planning and organisation to streamline your kitchen. I’ve come up with 5 of my favourite tools that make it easier for me without taking up too much space on-board or at home.

Air Fryer

My big discovery last year (definitely jumped on the bandwagon with this one and no regrets!). I think it makes more sense to describe it as an instant oven rather than an air fryer, I was actually put off by the fryer label as I didn’t think it would be so versatile. If you have a good oven at home and are cooking for a big family, an air fryer doesn’t necessarily fit the bill for you. But if you’re cooking for one or two people and want a speedy way to roast veggies, cook crispy tofu and even cakes, an air fryer could be really handy. It’s the biggest and most expensive gadget on this list but I tend to use it every day at work. It’s great to have a hands-free option with precise temperature and timings so you can get on with cooking the other elements to your meal without worrying about it. Mine came with a classic basket for extra crispiness and also a square tin for cakes.

Hand Blender

Although I love a nutribullet, jug blender or food processor, in terms of versatility and space saving a hand blender is your secret weapon. It’s compact, easy to clean, and perfect for blending ingredients directly in the pot or container- saving more washing up. It’s a cheap option and great for smoothies, soups, dips or sauces.

Flat Grater

This is a very low-tech tool and takes up no space at all. My favourite one has two sections for small and medium options. The fine grater is perfect for garlic, ginger and zesting citrus and the medium for fruits and vegetables. It’s a lot quicker than chopping and less fiddly than spiralisers or electric dicers. It’s also an efficient way to sneak extra nutrients into your meals, especially for those who may be hesitant about eating certain veggies- a handful of grated carrots or courgette can easily disappear into a pasta sauce.

Measuring Cups

I was a bit hesitant to use cups as measurement as in the UK we’re much more used to ounces or grams. On a boat electric weighing scales don’t tend to work very well and I was pushed into it! Measuring cups as also as low-tech as it gets and you won’t run out of battery just before you’re trying to bake. I think it actually makes cooking a lot quicker, especially when doubling the quantities.

Decent Knife

Top chefs need their full selection of knifes but I know I’d much rather have one decent, medium sized knife than a generous selection of rubbish ones that I never use. A good knife ensures safety, efficiency, and precision in your cooking, especially when working with plant-based ingredients that may require precise cutting. I’m really pleased with a ceramic knife I got for work that’s lightweight, stays sharp for a long time and doesn’t rust (the last point it a bit more niche for a boat maybe but still a plus point for anyone!)

It can be tempting to think we need endless tools and gadgets in the kitchen. It can get expensive and cluttered in no time even you have plenty of space. I hope I’ve given you a few ideas today!