Five essentials every kitchen should have (Photo: iStock)

It goes without saying that most people aren't 5-star chefs in the kitchen. And to be honest, people who love to cook sometimes have a kitchen full of interesting gadgets and tools that most people don't even know exist, let alone know how to use.

So, whether you're a professional chef or not, there are certain kitchen essentials that will make all the difference. They will make your cooking experience easier and more enjoyable.

Although this list barely scratches the surface, here are a few items you can start with to up your kitchen game:

  • Chef's knife

Never underestimate the benefits of having good-quality knives. You should have different knives for different purposes, but at the top of your list should be at least one or two chef's knives.

This knife is unique because it's designed to handle both light tasks like dicing carrots and heavy tasks like separating meat from bones or cutting through watermelons.

It also makes chopping more efficient especially when using a board. Once you get this knife, you will never go back to the basic ones.

  • Can opener

Have you ever tried getting a can open without a can opener? Hectic right? If this is you right now, you desperately need a good quality can opener.

With this tool, you will never have to sweat trying to hammer a knife through metallic lids. It will be such a breeze because all you need to do is position it the right way and twist it until it opens.

You should know that it takes time to find a good can opener. Only go for those with the best reviews so you don't end up wasting your money on something that doesn't work right.

  • Measuring cups

If you're someone who loves trying out new recipes and you want to take your skills to the next level, you have to have a measuring cup.

It might be easier to eyeball when it comes to measuring ingredients like spices but with other larger quantity ingredients, it's more difficult. Having a measuring cup will help you feel more relaxed when mixing your ingredients because at least you won't have to guess whether you're getting the measurements right or not.

  • Matching tableware

Having a mix of tableware that doesn't match isn't necessarily a bad thing because they work anyway but, it doesn't always make you feel confident when you have guests over.

It's important to present yourself best by having a set of matching dinnerware, glassware and cutlery. They all don't even have to be from one company, just as long as each set matches.

  • Large pots and pans

Lastly, you should have a few large pots and pans for when you're making larger meals like during an occasion. You might have been okay with using smaller cookware because you live alone or have a small family but, a time might come when you need large ones.

To avoid getting caught off guard, have them in your kitchen even if you won't be using them too often.