Cooking vegan meals can be a delightful adventure, but having the right kitchen tools makes all the difference. Whether you’re whipping up creamy soups, prepping vibrant veggie bowls, or baking plant-based desserts, these eight vegan cooking tools are essential for making your time in the kitchen easier and more enjoyable.

1. High-Speed Blender

A high-speed blender is the superstar of any vegan kitchen. From silky smoothies to creamy nut butters, this tool can do it all.

Why You Need It

Vegan recipes often involve blending ingredients into smooth textures—think cashew cheese, hummus, or even plant-based milk. A high-speed blender ensures a creamy consistency that a regular blender might struggle with.

Tips for Choosing the Right Blender

• Look for models with multiple speed settings and a sturdy motor.
• Consider options with a tamper tool for blending thick mixtures like smoothie bowls.

Pro Tip

Invest in a blender with a warranty—it’s a long-term relationship worth protecting.

2. Food Processor

A food processor is your sous-chef, ready to chop, dice, and blend quickly and easily.

Why You Need It

This versatile tool is perfect for prepping ingredients quickly, making dough for vegan burgers, or creating delicious dips like baba ghanoush.

How to Use It

• Use the slicing attachment to prepare veggies for salads.
• Mix dates and nuts for energy balls with the pulse setting.

Pro Tip

Choose a model with different blade attachments for maximum versatility.

3. Good Knives

A high-quality set of knives is the backbone of any kitchen, especially for a vegan cook.

Why You Need It

With plant-based cooking, you’ll spend a lot of time slicing and dicing fruits, vegetables, and herbs. A sharp knife not only makes the job easier but also safer.

Knife Types to Keep in Your Kitchen

• Chef’s Knife: A multipurpose tool for chopping and mincing.
• Paring Knife: Great for peeling and precise cuts.  
• Serrated Knife: Perfect for slicing bread or tomatoes.  

Pro Tip

Keep your knives sharp and clean to make meal prep smoother.

4. Spiralizer

Get creative with your veggies by turning them into noodles with a spiralizer.  

Why You Need It

A spiralizer adds variety and fun to your meals. Zucchini noodles, carrot ribbons, and cucumber spirals can replace traditional pasta for a low-carb, nutrient-packed alternative.  

Types of Spiralizers

• Handheld Spiralizer: Compact and budget-friendly.  
• Countertop Spiralizer: Offers more features and is ideal for larger portions.  

Pro Tip

Use your spiralizer to create colorful salads that wow your guests.

5. Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker

Say goodbye to long cooking times and hello to an Instant Pot or pressure cooker.  

Why You Need It

This versatile tool is perfect for cooking beans, lentils, and whole grains in a fraction of the time. Plus, it doubles as a slow cooker, steamer, and yogurt maker.  

What You Can Make

• Hearty soups and stews.  
• Perfectly cooked quinoa and rice.  
• Batch-cooked chickpeas for the week.  

Pro Tip

Experiment with the sauté function for one-pot meals that minimize cleanup.

6. Cast Iron Skillet

A cast iron skillet is a timeless kitchen tool that’s ideal for vegan cooking.  

Why You Need It

Cast iron skillets are incredibly versatile—they can go from stovetop to oven with ease. They’re perfect for roasting veggies, making crispy tofu, or baking cornbread.  

How to Care for Your Cast Iron

• Always dry it thoroughly to prevent rust.  
• Use a small amount of oil to season the pan after cleaning.  

Pro Tip

A well-seasoned skillet becomes naturally non-stick over time, making it a joy to cook with.

7. High-Quality Cutting Board

A sturdy cutting board is essential for meal prep, especially when you’re working with lots of fresh produce.  

Why You Need It

Durability and safety are key when slicing fruits and vegetables. A good cutting board prevents knife slippage and protects your countertops.  

Types of Cutting Boards

• Bamboo: Eco-friendly and gentle on knives.  
• Wood: Durable and classic, but requires regular oiling.  
• Plastic: Easy to clean and dishwasher-safe.  

Pro Tip

Keep separate boards for produce and strong-smelling ingredients like garlic to avoid cross-contamination.

8. Air Fryer

The air fryer is a game-changer for quick, oil-free cooking.  

Why You Need It

This tool is perfect for making crispy tofu, roasted chickpeas, and even desserts without using a lot of oil.  

What You Can Make

• Sweet potato fries.  
• Veggie-packed spring rolls.  
• Crunchy kale chips.  

Pro Tip

Choose a model with a larger basket if you’re cooking for a family or meal prepping.

Bonus Tips for Using Your Vegan Kitchen Tools

Care and Maintenance

• Clean tools immediately after use to prolong their life.  
• Follow manufacturer guidelines for appliances like blenders and Instant Pots.  

Maximize Efficiency

• Use these tools to batch-cook meals for the week.  
• Experiment with new recipes to fully explore their potential.

Conclusion: Best Kitchen Gadgets for Vegans

Equipping your kitchen with these essential tools will make your vegan cooking journey more enjoyable and efficient. Whether you’re blending smoothies, spiralizing veggies, or air-frying crispy snacks, these tools help you create delicious and healthy meals with ease.

When you don’t have the time to break out the blender and knives, order delicious vegan food from The Vegan Joint in Woodland Hills, Culver City, or DTLA!