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The Solo Kitchen, Fully Equipped
21
items Honest picks for everything in my kitchen, the appliances, tools, and essentials that make cooking for one feel less like a chore and more like a pleasure.
Sections
2
Solo Kitchen Appliances Worth the Counter Space
The Rest of the Kitchen
Solo Kitchen Appliances Worth the Counter Space
No wasted space, no impulse buys. These are the countertop appliances I've vetted, loved, and kept — the ones that genuinely make everyday kitchen life easier and more enjoyable.
If you've done the homework, you'll know this is the leader in entry level semi-automatic espresso machines. I got mine during Covid and have used it every day since. This thing is a workhorse. It's a great beginner espresso machine. And if you choos...
Gaggia Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine Stainless
Breville is a brand I trust. I use this every single day. Toasting, baking, broiling, re-heating and cooking frozen pizzas for the lazy nights. Comes with pizza holder and broiler. I love this thing. Works beautifully and very reliable. My cousin has...
Breville Smart Oven Pro, Brushed SS
So I just checked and I bought mine in 2019! I use it every summer when friends visit for the pool. Never had an issue so this is a good brand. Great for blender drinks. I fill it up and walk away, it will let you know when the tray is full and needs...
Igloo Portable Ice Cube Maker with Scoop & Basket
So I bought this 2nd hand and have been using it 3X per week for over a year! We have poor water in my area and I got tired of buying/carrying water from the market. Most tap water has fluoride (a neurotoxin) chlorine and other nasty things you don't...
VEVOR 4L Water Distiller with Glass Carafe
So you may be wondering why I have 2 espresso machines in my list. Well, a couple of times the Gaggia was not available because I took it apart for a modification and another time for a repair. I was without an espresso maker for several days [gasp!]... this to anyone.
Breville Bambino Espresso Machine BES450BSS
Another thing I've had for years. Bought one for my mom too. You will have boiling water in under 2 minutes! (I tested with a little over ½ liter). No plastic touches the water you drink. Auto shut-off so you can feel safe walking away. It rotates on...
Cosori Electric Kettle 1.7L Borosilicate Glass
If you never used a pressure cooker, then this is your sign to get one. This isn't the brand I own, because I was gifted it, but if I were to buy one, this would be it. Honestly, not sure how I lived without it.You can go from frozen chicken breast t...
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Cooker 6Qt
I invested in this set and have zero regrets. I didn't have a food processor and this blender came with the attachment - score. I also liked the smoothie cups. I don't use this often, but when I do it never disappoints. I make frozen drinks in the su...
NINJA Mega Kitchen System 5-Speed Blender and 8-Cup Food Processor with Travel Cups, 72 oz. Capacity, Black BL770
This is my coffee grinder. There's nothing like freshly ground coffee beans to put in my espresso machine. I did have to contact customer service for an issue I had, and they were wonderful. They emailed me a small part free of charge that I needed w...
Baratza Sette 270 Conical Burr Coffee Grinder
The Rest of the Kitchen
Solo cooking is easier with the right tools. These are the kitchen essentials I reach for every day, everything beyond the appliances that make cooking for one actually work.
Best knives I've ever owned. Bought in 2013. In 2020 I sent in the steak knives for sharpening for the first time. They sent me back a brand new set of knives! I honestly bought these from my cousin who was selling these at the time. I thought I had ...
CUTCO Model 2008 Galley +6 Knives & Forks Set
I know, a bit pricy, but read on. After the sales guy did the demo where he cut a penny in front of me, I was sold. The last pair of scissors you'll need. Did you know they have The Forever Guarantee? Look it up. Also high praises on Reddit, look it ...
CUTCO Super Shears #77 - Classic Black
I've had this thing for YEARS! I use it several times per month. It's great for when you don't want to get food all over your hands and reduces crying when chopping onions. I bought a product to sharpen the blades too, so unless you break it, there's...
Pampered Chef Manual Food Chopper - Handheld
I bought this scale to use with my Gaggia espresso machine. I love it. It's light, fits nicely in a drawer. I've used it for more than espresso, like when I make my sourdough bread. Nice little scale to have around.
Weightman Espresso Scale 1000g x 0.1g Mini
Not the exact charis I bought, but similar. Just checked my order history and I bought mine in 2015. They are just now starting to show some wear, that's 11 years. Not bad. Comfortable counter height swivel and adjustable chairs for your kitchen.
2 Brown Modern Adjustable Swivel Bar Stools
I'm picky about my water. Don't trust your tap water, I distill mine and see & smell what's left behind and it's disgusting. This Alexapure gravity system doesn't need electricity, it runs on gravity alone. Use 1 to 4 very long lasting filters to...
Alexapure Pro Stainless Steel Water Filter
These are the filters for the Alexapro gravity water filter system. These are long lasting and won't need to be replaced for likely years. You can even scrub them and get more life out of them.
2 Pack Replacement Water Filter for Alexapure Pro
The quickest and easiest way by far to make a dramatic change to your kitchen. These undercabinet lights are the bomb. First, I installed these all myself. No problem. No electricians needed since they plug in. They come in different sizes and you can connect and sync them, so they go on at the same time. They also come in different color shades..bright white to a warm yellow and several in between. They can be sup...
Enbrighten 24-in Hardwired LED Under Cabinet Light Bar
Sometimes you get what you pay for. I've included photos of my original Williams Sonoma digital thermometer from 2004! Obviously it's no longer being made. It's been very reliable. I can only imagine how much better it is today. If you cook expensive...
Williams Sonoma Dual-Probe Roasting Thermometer
Look at my gorgeous lettuce and basil. I love that I can have fresh herbs and vegetables without having to worry about bugs, pesticides or Cyclosporiasis! So easy to grow, it's mostly hands off. Add water and vitamins to start, and maintain with just...
Hydroponics Growing System, Adjustable Height
Full disclosure, I do not own this brand hand blender. But if I were to get one, this would be it. I have (prepare yourself) a circa 80's “vintage” Sunbeam Mixmaster hand blender. Hey, if it ain't broke…well you know. I've made so many things over th...
KitchenAid® 5 Speed Ultra Power Hand Mixer - KHM512
I bought this when I started baking sour dough bread last year. It works beautifully for this, but you can also use it for meats and cakes and other cooking and baking.
AWLKIM Digital Instant Read Meat Thermometer