A staple for basically anything you do in the kitchen. Experiment with the handles to find one most comfortable for you; I prefer Japanese knives personally.
Must have
$59.95
http://amzn.to/2tFaEna
Knife
A smaller, sharp knife is useful to cut small quantities and sizes of foods, like smaller fruits and vegetables.
Must have
$15.95
http://amzn.to/2tFkaH0
Tool
To measure small quantities of anything you need in pastry, and spices for savory cooking.
Must have
$22.99
http://amzn.to/2tyMBWE
Pot/Pan
Tool
Having a set of bowls ensures you can do multiple steps of prep simultaneously while having a clean workspace.
Must have
$22.95
http://amzn.to/2tzh0UJ
Tool
Have multiple of these so you don't mix flavors when cutting different things, especially for pastry versus savory cooking.
Must have
$12.99
http://amzn.to/2tyyMr8
Utensil
Heatproof spatulas make them good to use for stovetop cooking and for getting all the batter out of bowls so you make sure you are using the right amount each time.
Must have
$8.39
http://amzn.to/2ue4Rln
Utensil
For taste testing :) Don't forget to wash them before each use!
Must have
You probably already have these at home :)
Tool
Proper storage is key to maintaining freshness, especially in recipes that take multiple days of preparation. Don't be afraid to use as much plastic as possible to seal things properly.
Must have
$2.94
http://amzn.to/2tzwYxY
Appliance
Whipping, stirring, juicing, grinding, literally anything you want depending on the attachments you get
Should have for pastry
$279.00
http://amzn.to/2svkbwS
Utensil
Mixing eggs and small amounts of liquid (a fork won't do it evenly)
Should have for pastry
$10.00
http://amzn.to/2tF9mID
Tool
French-style rolling pins are thin and long, so you can roll out bigger sheets of dough at a time.
Should have for pastry
$13.56
http://amzn.to/2tEWp1y
Appliance
For consistent goods, everything should be done in weight, not volume. It's much more accurate.
Should have for pastry
$10.99
http://amzn.to/2uyKDm0
Tool
The official holder of all things pastry. These silicone mats make sure everything is nonstick all the time, and mean less waste since you just wash them, versus throwing away parchment paper every time.
Should have for pastry
$15.25
http://amzn.to/2tyNX3G
Tool
These will hold pretty much everything you bake. You can also use them to store things in your fridge so you can easily take food out.
Should have for pastry
$12.99
http://amzn.to/2sg37qC
Tool
Some recipes call for sifting flour or straining sauces, so a large strainer allows for that to be done effectively.
Should have for pastry
$7.76
http://amzn.to/2sw7Bxj
Tool
Use for baking, rolling out doughs, and for spreading over your workspace for easy cleanup afterwards.
Should have for pastry
$5.99
http://amzn.to/2sBPUYh
Tool
Utensil
It's an easy way to even out batters on cakes and make things look nicer.