Is one of your New Year’s resolution to spruce up your kitchen?  It could cost less than you think.  In celebration of our upcoming Kitchen Basics class and well-stocked kitchens everywhere, here’s a quick round of Save or Splurge in the kitchen.

• Cookware:  SAVE Sure, a Le Creuset dutch oven or a shopping spree at Williams-Sonoma will increase your superficial kitchen cred, but it could empty out your wallet, as well.  Try restaurant supplies, thrift stores, or large Asian markets like Pacific Ocean for inexpensive pots and pans that will allow you to experiment.
• Knives:  SPLURGE, maybe.  When it comes to knives, it’s all about fit and feel…something that’s unique to every chef.  If at all possible, try before you buy.  It’s worth splurging on great construction and a wonderful warrantee, but beware of sticker shock on these must-have items.  You can probably afford to save when it comes to utility knives such as paring knives or knives for bread and spreads.
• APPLIANCES:  SAVE when you buy used or refurbished.  Even companies like Kitchenaid sell refurbs online and in stores like the kitchen supply store at Colorado mills.  Look in thrift stores and in places like Freecycle for great deals on well-constructed, brand-name appliances.  And remember, no appliance can make up for great in-kitchen technique!
• Spices:  SPLURGE on fresh herbs and spices and small quantities of expensive blends.  They’ll take your cooking to the next level and won’t go bad!
• Staples:  SAVE on the basics.  Try buying in bulk at your local grocer for good quality at low prices.
• Wine:  SAVE…with your head on straight.  You don’t necessarily want to use a $50 bottle in that coq au vin, but that doesn’t mean you want low quality, either.  Make friends with the sommeliers at your local wine shop and ask them for advice on the best deals and pairings.  You’ll taste a big difference!

Want to SAVE hundreds of hours of time in 2010 while SPLURGING on your well-being?  Try our Kitchen Basics class or any of our classics and essentials classes (Classic Techniques: Essentials I, Classic Techniques: Artisan Bread,  Classic Techniques: Italian, and Classic Techniques: French) offered in January 2010!

Image courtesy of gojeffrey