3 chefs on the kitchen gadgets they can’t live without

Kitchen appliances and gadgets can be a controversial Christmas gift idea, but for keen chefs and home-fanatics, there’s nothing that sparks joy more.

Whether you’re shopping for a budding pastry chef or a home cook who loves to try new things, you’ll want to hear from the pros when it comes to choosing the kitchen items that would be top of their wishlist. From small stocking-stuffer level budgets to bigger ticket items, I’ve spoken to three chefs to understand exactly what they use on a weekly basis, and what they would buy for their loved ones.

I’ve been inspired for my own Christmas list, but there’s plenty on here I’m adding to my basket for family and friends too, especially over Black Friday weekend. Here’s what the chefs had to say.

1. Thomas Frake – Publican & Chef at The Silks

Even chefs take shortcuts sometimes, and recommend that you do too. ‘A mini food processor is a kitchen essential for me, I use it for everyday cooking at home – probably more than I should. It makes prep jobs much quicker and easier,’ explains chef and publican Thomas Strake.

There are a few more rogue kitchen tools that you might not already have in your collection, but that are worth investing in for yourself or as gifts to end off 2025. ‘A mandolin gives professional results on so many dishes such as potato dauphinoise, homemade slaw, dill pickles, celeriac remoulade, piccalilli, game chips, crisps, pickled ginger, and even just basic veg and salad prep,’ Thomas adds. ‘Try to buy one that is not only adjustable, but also includes julienne and crinkle cut blades.’

A knife sharpener might get a few raised eyebrows when gifted, but will garner some much needed appreciation when faced with blunt, unusable knives.

‘Blunt knives bashed up in the kitchen drawer are dangerous and give poor results. There’s an old adage that “food tastes better with a sharp knife” and it’s true! Get a decent chef knife, protect it and keep it sharp to level up your cooking prep,’ says Thomas.

2. Alix Caiger – Bespoke Caterer, Caiger & Co.

I haven’t heard from a single chef who doesn’t love the Meater Thermometer. If the pros are using it, then it’s a sign that you should too. ‘I always give this as gifts, I think the whole family has one now!’ gushes Alix Caiger, Bespoke Caterer at Caiger & Co.

Good quality kitchen essentials, like stainless steel mixing bowls, will also make daily tasks so much easier. ‘I love that these bowls are sturdy, and non-slip (great for mixing), which makes prepping pastry, batters or layered salads so much easier and cleaner, ideal for someone who loves cooking and values efficiency in the kitchen!’ Alix adds.

Kitchenware can be fun and colourful, too. We’ve waxed lyrical about Allday Goods knives in the past, and Alix is also a fan. ‘I adore this Allday Goods butter knife because something as simple as a beautiful butter knife elevates everyday meals; spreading butter, soft cheeses or pâté becomes a small moment of luxury.’

3. Dhruv Baker – Chef, Charcutier & MasterChef Winner

Sometimes, simple is best. A kitchen doesn’t necessarily need the fanciest gadgets, particularly if you don’t have an abundance of kitchen storage, so it’s best to focus on the foundations. Dhruv Baker, Chef and MasterChef Winner, agrees.

‘My go-to tools in the kitchen are very simple. Good knives (Kin Knives have been my favourites for years), a Microplane for garlic, nutmeg and zesting lemons, limes, and oranges, a good temperature probe so not to ruin a valuable cut of beef or your Christmas turkey – a Thermapen is a fantastic investment,’ Dhruv explains.

The best part about these simple, yet life-changing, kitchen tools is that they also make perfect gifts. Whether it’s for Christmas, birthday or a housewarming you can’t go wrong with one of these gifts for the foodies in your life.