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Kitchen
Slowly build your dream kitchen by starting off with these must-haves Jean van der Meulen / Pexels

First times are exciting! First steps, first award, first relationship -- all are memorable and a part of who you are. But what if it’s something as big as your first house or apartment? This definitely is momentous!

Being a first time home or apartment owner can be overwhelming so let’s make it easier by suggesting some must-have kitchen tools and appliances for better meal preparations. This list will exclude the basics like plates, spoons, forks, glasses and the like (as we’re assuming you got this covered.)

1. Coffee Maker

coffee maker
Enjoy a cup of joe with the help of a trusty coffee maker Karine Monteiro / Pexels

If you’re a coffee-lover, this is a must! If you drink a cup in the morning for breakfast, in the afternoon for your break and in the evening to keep you going -- then this is a wise investment. There are different types of coffee machines out there so you must know which one would work best for you. If big servings is more your thing, then this 12-cup coffee maker from KitchenAid is worth a look!

2. Non-Stick Frying Pan

non-stick frying pan
Cook delicious breakfast meals with a non-stick frying pan Dana Tentis / Pexels

An essential. ‘Cause how else are you going to cook those delicious sunny-side-up eggs if not with this pan? With a non-stick pan, it will help you cook amazing morning meals. Not only will you be able to use it for breakfast but also to sear meat, sauté vegetables and many more! Here’s one you can check out -- a 10-inch non-stick frying pan from Blue Diamond.

3. Toaster

toaster
Enjoy a good toast with a trusty toaster Photography Maghradze PH / Pexels

The smell of nicely toasted bread is such a treat in the morning. Get one done right in the comfort of your home with the help of a toaster! Just like other appliances, there are multiple options to choose from -- you just have to figure out which one would work for your kitchen and needs. This 4-slice wide-slot toaster from Hamilton Beach is a good choice for bread lovers!

4. Microwave

microwave
Heat up leftover food with a microwave Lisa Fotios / Pexels

There are just those days that you don’t want to do anything or are too busy to do anything else -- so how do you plan to eat? You can get takeout or you can heat up some leftovers. And a trusty microwave is here to save the day! Just put your leftovers in a microwave-safe plate, turn up the dial and wait for that “ding!” This mid-size microwave from GE might be just what you’re looking for.

5. Blender

blender
Blend some goodies like fruits and get a smoothie in an instant Chait Goli / Pexels

If you’re a fan of smoothies then a blender is a must for your kitchen. Slice up some bananas and strawberries and you’ll have a refreshing drink in no time. You can also use this to make your protein shake -- your perfect companion during a workout. This blender from Oster Pro might have a perfect place in your kitchen.

6. Rice Cooker

rice
Get consistently tasty rice with a rice cooker Ponyo Sakana / Pexels

Make tasty rice meals or Asian dishes happen with the help of a rice cooker. Throw guesswork out the window and get consistently cooked rice with the right rice cooker. With just a press of a few buttons, you’ll be good to go. This 20-cup rice cooker from Instant is a great one to check out.

7. Refrigerator

refrigerator
Stock up on good food and have longer shelf life with a refrigerator Alex Qian / Pexels

Prolong the shelf life of your food items with the help of a refrigerator. Stock up on condiments, cold water, ice, leftovers and more with this trusty kitchen appliance. There are lots of options available in the market -- best to figure out what features you’d like your refrigerator to have before buying. Let us help you with your search -- how about this 18.1 cubic feet refrigerator from Insignia?

8. Food Processor

food processor
Achieve this kind of meal with the help of a food processor Ella Olsson / Pexels

Make it easier for you to cook your favorite meals with the help of a food processor. Slice or shred to your heart’s content with this kitchen companion and you’ll be one step closer to a scrumptious meal. Here’s one worth looking at -- the Cuisinart 8-cup food processor.

9. Stock Pot

stock pot
Feel like a chef by learning different dishes that can be cooked with a stock pot Timur Saglambilek / Pexels

Prepare delicious soups, mouth-watering stews or Instagram-worthy pasta with the help of a stock pot. A good one is at least 8 quarts so you’ll have enough room to do what needs to be done! Tramontina has this non-stick stock pot that’s exactly 8 quarts.

10. Slow Cooker

chicken wings
Serve up some delicious chicken wings with a slow cooker Omar Mahmood / Pexels

A versatile kitchen appliance that can help you make hearty and fulfilling meals that you and your guests will be wanting more of. From pot roast to chicken wings, mix your ingredients together and you’ll have it ready in no time! This digital slow cooker from Crock-Pot is a great one to use and display on your kitchen tabletop.

Don’t worry! You don’t need to buy all of them in one go. You can take your time in building a kitchen that you’ll absolutely be proud of!