Kitchen Registry Guide

Everything you need to know about registering for cookware, appliances, gadgets and gizmos for a thoroughly efficient and enviably stylish kitchen.

In addition to china, crystal, fine linens and other traditional gift items, your bridal registry is the ideal time to fully stock your kitchen. Here are our recommendations for what to include on your list—the actual cooking is up to you.

• Cookware Materials
• Cookware Shapes
• Small Appliances
• Knife Know-How
• Storage Containers
• Kitchen Gadgets

Cookware Materials

Cookware (primarily used on top of the stove) and bakeware (usually for use in the oven) can be divided into categories according to the materials they’re made of. The choice of material is important, because each conducts heat differently.

Aluminum: Used in 52% of all cookware made, this is the second-best heat conductor. Make certain to choose cookware that is either coated on the inside with a nonstick surface or hard-anodized.

Stainless steel: Known for its shiny finish and durability, it can usually go into the dishwasher or be cleaned by hand without scratching. It’s not a fast heat conductor, but makers have compensated for this by layering the bottoms with heat-dispersing aluminum and copper.

Copper: While this is the best heat conductor for cookware, it’s also the most expensive and takes a lot of care to keep shiny and in tip-top shape. If you’re considering copper, make sure the pans are lined properly (usually with stainless steel) in order to protect the copper from reacting with the food.

Cast iron: Old-fashioned black cast-iron pans retain heat well, thereby ensuring evenly cooked foods. Newer lines, with nonstick enamel coating in a rainbow of colors, are quite easy to maintain.

Glass: Extremely versatile, you can use it in both conventional and microwave ovens and then put it in the dishwasher. Glass pots are also treasured for their see-through visibility, especially when cooking foods that burn easily or that need to be steamed without taking the lid off. The downside, however, is that food sticks to glass, making it tough to clean and prone to discolor.

Nonstick: This sleek material (Teflon was one of the first) is used to coat the inside of cookware and bakeware, keeping food from sticking and scorching. With it, you’ll use less butter and oil to cook your foods, and cleanup is virtually effortless.

Cookware Shapes

Purchase a starter set of cookware to begin with; buying pots and pans individually can cost a lot more. Then, over time, add specialty items that you feel you’ll use.

Butter warmer: A very small (usually 1/2-quart) saucepan, often with a pouring spout, that quickly melts butter and heats small amounts of sauces or other foods.

Casserole/Dutch oven: This large (usually 4-quart), heavy, practical pot can be used for cooking both on the stove top and in the oven. It usually has two handles, and when covered easily simmers, stews or bakes.

Skillet: A wide pan with sloped 2-inch sides, it fries and sautés rapidly. It’s helpful to have at least three different sizes of skillets or omelet pans (from 8 to 14 inches in diameter), some with nonstick coating.

Saucepan: These deep and wide pans heat liquids, such as sauces and stocks, and foods like hot cereal, rice and frozen veggies. Start your kitchen with 1-, 2- and 3-quart covered saucepans to cook up various dishes.

Sauté pan: Similar in function to the skillet, this nifty cooker has short sides and a high handle that’s easier to work with.

Stockpot: The largest pot (8- or 12-quart) in the kitchen, it’s ideal for cooking up big batches of chili, soups or stews and boiling the water for pasta—register for one with an insert for quick draining.

Wok or stir-fry pan: A deep, round pan that allows you to push quickly cooked ingredients, such as delicate vegetables, to its cooler sides, while cooking other foods, like meat, in its super-hot center.

Small Appliances

Small appliances are nifty devices guaranteed to save time and storage space and make your life a lot easier, whether you’re chopping up vegetables or making a batch of brownies.

Blender: Generally used for liquids, this is one device you won’t want to do without. Though the blender is best known for serving up frozen cocktails, you can also make homemade tomato sauce, purée a vegetable soup, or shake up a healthy fruit smoothie in this multiuse appliance.

Bread machine: Pour in the ingredients, push some buttons, wait a few hours for the "done" signal and you’ll have a fresh golden-brown loaf. Most bread machines also make pizza dough and sweet rolls as well.

Coffee/cappuccino maker: Today’s models allow you to serve up coffee, espresso and cappuccino with ease. High-tech features, such as a programmable timer, will allow you to wake up to the stimulating smell of fresh morning brew. There are even versions that grind fresh beans and brew the coffee all in one, and models that serve up your favorite iced java, for the true coffee connoisseur.

Electric mixer: This appliance comes in both upright (stand) and handheld versions and will have you making batches of cookies faster than the Keebler elves. It can also make quiche, whipped cream and mousse a snap to fix. If you cook and bake frequently and have enough counter space, register for a larger, more powerful stand mixer.

Food processor: Great for shredding and slicing meats and for chopping vegetables, a food processor allows you to whip up meals in a flash. Some of these time-savers also grate cheese, blend peanut butter and mix bread dough. If you’ll do a lot of entertaining, invest in a deluxe model with all the attachments. If you’ll host only modest parties or basic dinners for two, opt for a simpler, no-frills version (and a smaller mini chopper, which is great for puréeing ingredients for dips and sauces).

Hand blender: This compact appliance is the ultimate in convenience - you simply immerse it into a stock pot to purée ingredients for that tomato basil soup, or lower it into a glass filled with ice cream and milk for a mess-free milkshake.

Indoor barbecue: Long for the taste of grilled foods year-round? Try a smokeless indoor barbecue to sear meats and other foods quickly. Great for entertaining, you can set one up right on your countertop and wow your guests with yummy kebabs.

Juicer: Health-conscious couples love this appliance (the juice made from a juicer is packed with nutrients)—it separates liquids from solids (or pulp) and filters out seeds. A manual version is best for smooth, old-fashioned orange juice. If you want both vegetable (like a beet-carrot-celery combo) and fruit juices, register for an electric juice extractor with a citrus attachment.

Microwave: Extremely valuable for your fast-paced life, a good microwave allows you to cook meals quickly (not just reheat them), and defrost frozen foods. Look for features that simplify the process and make things even faster, like a rotating table for even heating. Programmable settings will allow you to touch a single preset control to cook specific foods, such as potatoes, bacon and popcorn.

Pasta maker: Just pull out this appliance and mix together the ingredients you’ll need for soft, fresh pasta. Most pasta makers include a number of attachments for a variety of noodle shapes.

Pressure cooker: Today’s versions are completely safe (no exploding tops like in the last generation) and great for whipping up one-pot meals in a matter of minutes. Some models even come equipped with a nonstick interior for easy cleanup when you attempt that gooey but delicious risotto.

Slow cooker: Prepare your ingredients in the morning, put them into this plug-in appliance and it will safely cook your meal at low heat for hours. Perfect for entertaining, some models even come with a sporty nylon carrying case for taking on the road.

Toaster/toaster oven: Used for making grilled-cheese sandwiches, broiled hors d’oeuvres and crispy bagels, the toaster oven (which allows you to lay your breads flat) is sure to become a well-used item in your kitchen. If you register for a conventional upright toaster, check out the latest models with extra-wide slots and micro-chip technology.

Knife Know-How

Having the right well-designed, sharp knife for the job at hand saves both time and effort—and makes chopping and slicing much safer!

The basic set usually comes with a wood or plastic storage block and consists of four or five different knives (larger sets are also available) and a sharpening steel. When selecting a set, pick up an individual knife: The handle and blade should not wiggle, and the knife should feel balanced and proportioned to your hand. Also note how the handle feels—you should be able to grip it easily and securely.

Look for high-carbon, stainless steel blades; these retain sharpness, resist rusting, and keep their satin finish longer than lesser-quality ones. Plain carbon-steel blades will stay sharp, but are prone to discolor and rust. Stainless steel, on the other hand, will not rust, but requires frequent resharpening—not a problem provided you have a good sharpening device.

Another key feature to examine is the thick part between the blade and the handle, called the bolster. This represents the distinctive identification of a forged knife. Basically, forging is the high-tech process in which an extremely strong knife with a very sharp edge is produced from one molten block of steel. The final step to this process involves grinding and tapering the edges with special machines and, of course, polishing to give the finished knife its shine.

Start off your cutlery collection with these basic knives and accessories:

Boning knife: The narrow, flexible curved blade on this implement is ideal for cutting around bones in meat, fish and poultry.

Bread knife: Used for cutting into foods with a tough or crusty surface and a soft center. It has a long serrated blade.

Carving fork: A two-pronged implement used for securely anchoring large pieces of meat or poultry while you slice and serve them. Roast beef, anyone?

Chef’s or cook’s knife: Usually 6 to 10 inches long, this is the knife for chopping a variety of foods. Having the right blade length is key; it should correspond to the height of the user (taller cooks may want a 10-inch blade). Another factor: The blade should be wide enough so that when its bottom edge is against the cutting board, the user’s knuckles don’t touch the counter.

Kitchen shears: Two pairs of scissors come in handy in the kitchen. Use one pair exclusively for snipping non-food items, such as string and plastic packaging. You’ll want the other pair (that you carefully wash and dry after every use) for food-related tasks, such as cutting apart pieces of chicken.

Paring knife: Used for peeling and cleaning vegetables and fruit, a paring knife usually has a short, 3- to 4-inch blade.

Sharpening steel: A couple of swipes along the surface of this long rod after each use will usually keep knives in top shape. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for sharpening your knives.

Slicing or carving knife: Most cooks opt for a 10-inch blade for easily carving meat and poultry into thin slices—or even for cutting into cakes and chunks of cheese.

Utility knife: Typically a 6-inch blade, this is one of the most versatile and frequently used knives in the kitchen.

Steak knives: Consider a set of at least six knives—these are a must-have accessory especially if you’re true carnivores—for individual place settings.

Storage Containers

Storage items are convenient and essential—yet are often overlooked on a registry. These functional gadgets will help you keep your kitchen clutter-free and are delightfully easy to use. We picked out a few popular storage solutions you’ll definitely want to have around.

Behind-the-door organizer: Stores cleaning supplies, canned goods and spices.

Canisters: Hold sugar, flour, tea, coffee, pasta and grains in separate, sealed containers on the counter or in the cupboard.

Dry-food dispensers: Store loose, dry food, such as breakfast cereal or rice. Containers keep foods fresh, prevent bugs from breaking in and allow easy access.

Flatware tray: Stores and organizes your everyday utensils in a drawer—no more jumbled mess!

Non-skid cabinet organizer: Fits inside cabinets like mini stair steps so you can easily see jars and bottles stacked there.

Plastic containers: Store leftovers in the refrigerator or transport your lunch to work. The latest versions allow you to let in a small amount of air so certain foods can breathe without spoiling. Get an assortment in all shapes and sizes (shown above).

Plastic storage bin: Consolidates cleaning products under the sink or in a pantry. Keeps your shelves tidy and chemical-free.

Spice rack: Keeps spices alphabetized and at hand—just make sure you store them away from heat so that spices stay fresh. There’s even a model that rotates and dispenses exact measurements with the click of a dial.

Stackable baskets or bins: Made of plastic or wire, these fit under a counter and store heavy staples like potatoes and onions.

Stacking canisters: Fit neatly on top of one another in the pantry, cupboard or on the counter, and keep loose items, such as rice, pasta, cornmeal and beans, organized and airtight.

Stainless steel rack system: Mounts to wall and includes hooks for hanging all of your utensils; attachments include cookbook, paper towel and spice holders.

Three-tier hanging baskets: Keep fruits and vegetables that need to ripen within reach without taking up precious counter or table space.

Gadgets Galore

Before you get cooking, outfit your kitchen with the following basics that are sure to make your life easier.

Bagel grip: This plastic device holds your bagel securely and keeps the knife blade from coming into contact with your fingers.

Bottle opener: It doesn’t get more essential than this—stainless steel models will crack open a Corona every time.

Can opener: Whether manual or electric (it’s all a matter of preference), make sure you have one on hand.

Cheese grater: Look for the kind that fits like a lid on top of a bowl or container, so cheese can be caught neatly.

Colander: Get the largest size you can find for draining pasta and salad greens—and a smaller one for rinsing veggies.

Corn holders: Keep fingers clean and burn-free with these little lifesavers that pierce each end of the cob.

Corkscrew: The best kind preserves the cork for re-stopping by prying it up from its sides instead of twisting it out.

Cutting board: Whether wood or plastic, you should have two: one for meat, and one for everything else (because bacteria spreads, it’s not safe to cut meats and poultry on the same surface as items that won’t be cooked).

Garlic press: It’s easy to use and will keep your hands from smelling like garlic. The newest versions allow you to pop in a whole, unpeeled clove—the press does all the work!

Ice-cream scoop: Dig into that sorbet with a sturdy, easy-release metal scooper.

Kitchen scale: Measure ingredients precisely for recipes, or to keep track of portions if you’re watching your weight (shown, below).

Kitchen tongs: A must for turning chicken and hamburgers on the grill or for picking up hot potatoes.

Measuring cups and spoons: Get a set of spoons on a ring, dry measuring cups that nest, and liquid measuring pitchers made of Pyrex that can go from fridge to microwave.

Multi-purpose scraper: A metal tool perfect for scooping up bits of dough or chopped herbs from your work surface.

Pepper/spice mill: Add fresh ground pepper and other spices to recipes with a twist of your own mill. See-through models make it simple to know when to refill.

Pizza cutter: A sharp, stainless steel cutting wheel will have you slicing through your favorite pie in no time.

Rubber lid opener: This handy device helps twist open stubborn jars and bottles without straining your wrists.

Salad spinner: Chefs recommend drying salad greens thoroughly to keep them crisp. A colander rotates inside a large bowl to dry your greens quickly and efficiently.

Seafood crackers: Make certain the ones you choose have sturdy steel construction and non-slip handles. Some even come with different shelling surfaces for opening smaller items, such as nuts.

Spaghetti server: Perfect for pasta lovers: The prongs on this utensil catch those stringy noodles and make it a cinch to serve.

Tea kettle: Worldwide, consumption of tea is outranked only by water. If you like your cup of herbal mint—or hot cocoa—look for a kettle with a heat-resistant handle, durable construction and a spout that opens easily (or even automatically).

Vegetable peeler: This device makes peeling carrots and potatoes safe and strain-free.

Whisks: To whip up eggs for fluffy omelets, check out ones made of steel wire or nylon.