John Kanell’s favorite things – Leites Culinaria

John Kanell on the left leaning against a counter on the left; right a dust dutch oven.

John Kanell, the inventor of the Preppy Kitchen phenomenon, lists his most popular and useful kitchen gadgets.

John Kanell leans against a white counter and holds a coffee cup.

In case you don’t know John Kanell yet: He is the passionate and creative culinary mastermind behind the Preppy Kitchen Website. John believes in helping people get “prepared” in the kitchen. A skill once mastered is sure to lead to a supremely confident and successful home cook. Be sure to order his fantastic new cookbook, Preppy Kitchen..—Anna Scott

And don’t forget to listen to John chat with David and Amy Episode 54 of Talking With My Mouth Full.

OXO Good Grips Food Scale

Weighing your ingredients is easier than using measuring cups with less cream and much more precise. A real win-win situation for the kitchen.

OXO Good Grips Grocery Scale, $33 on Amazon.com

Tovolo professional silicone baking mat

Pastry mats prevent anything from sticking to the counter and make transferring and rolling items a breeze.

Tovolo Pro-Grade Silicone Baking Mat, $25 at Amazon.com

Javelin Pro Duo Digital Instant Read Thermometer.

This thermometer is great for tempering. Temperature is displayed instantly and clearly, which I love for everything from meat to caramel to oil.

Lavatools Javelin Pro Professional Digital Instant Meat Thermometer, $55 at Amazon.com

Dust 5 1/2 qt. Round Dutch oven

This is great for making sourdough, soups, and everything in between. The dark iron surface inside is easy to maintain, especially when cooking at high temperatures.

Dust 5 1/2 qt. Round Dutch Oven, $223 on Amazon.com