Vegan cooking can be a bit intimidating when you’re just getting started. But, it gets really crazy when you remove the oil. Good news. It’s actually pretty easy when you have the right tools. So, I thought I’d share my favorite 20 Kitchen Must-Haves For Healthy Vegan Oil-Free Cooking.
I’ll go on record and admit that I’m a kitchen appliance junkie. I could spend all day just browsing and dreaming about them. Yes, World Market and Sur la Table are my happy places. (No. I’m not ashamed)
But, regardless of who you are, healthy oil-free plant-based cooking requires some appliances you shouldn’t be without.
These 20 kitchen must haves will make healthy vegan oil-free cooking much easier for you. And, they will give you a properly equipped kitchen. Let me be clear – I am not saying you need to buy ALL these things. Just what works for you.
Once you get your new toys appliances, be sure and try these healthy, oil-free vegan recipes.
Plant-based cooking doesn’t have to be overwhelming, complicated, scary, or time-consuming. It should be fun, creative, exciting, and delicious.
Also, be sure and check out my article on Healthy Oil-Free Plant-Based Baking where I show you healthy oil replacements.
Cook simply & live well everyone.
Disclaimer: Please note the links below are affiliate links. But, I only promote and endorse products I own and use in my own kitchen.
Ballarini
A good non-stick frying pan is essential for oil-free cooking. And, you can always just add a little water or vegetable broth if you need it. These Ballarini Pans are by far my absolute favorite. They're durable, affordable, and perfect for oil-free pancakes!
EZ Tofu Press
Removes Water from Tofu for Better Flavor and Texture. It just makes life easier.
IF YOU CARE Parchment Baking Paper
This is my absolute favorite parchment paper and a "must-have" for oil-free cooking and baking. If You Care Parchment Paper is also totally chlorine-free.
Use for baking, roasting, reheating and wrapping.
Silicone Baking Mat Set
I LOVE THESE silicone baking mats! They eliminate the need for oils, grease, sprays, aluminum foil, butter, and parchment paper. Game changer!
Instant Pot DUO80
Yes, I know they're all the rage, but I LOVE my Instant Pot! Trust me, it's worth every penny.
Cuisinart 5-in-1 Griddler
If you like grilling, but live in an area where it’s not convenient to cook outside an electric grill can be a great solution. It also doubles as panini press for making delicious sandwiches.
Electric Griddle
A nice griddle is essential for oil-free cooking. It's great for pancakes, vegan french toast, and many other foods.
Non-Stick Silicone Muffin / Cupcake Baking Pan
Perfect for oil-free baking. And, they are dishwasher - microwave safe!
12X17 Nonstick Baking Sheet
Good baking pans are essential for healthy, plant-based cooking. You’re going to be roasting and baking a lot. And, you want/need a pan that will hold up and get the job done. These are my personal favorites.
Manual Citrus Press Juicer
I LOVE this citrus squeezer! And, it keeps the seeds out.
3 Piece Plastic Mixing Bowl Set
A good set of mixing bowls is not only handy but necessary. You’ll find yourself in need of a small or large mixing bowl more often than not – and this set covers both. I prefer plastic, especially if you have kids:)
Silicone Spatula Set
These are great for cooking, baking, and mixing. They’re also non-stick, heat resistant and won’t damage your nice non-stick cookware.
Extra Large Bamboo Cutting Board
A MUST-HAVE for cutting fruits and veggies. And, it saves your countertops.
Ceramic Knives
Quality ceramic knives give you a light-weight, balanced feel, and cut very precisely. They maintain their sharp edge longer and don’t rust. Ceramic knives are also not affected by acids, so they’re great for cutting citrus. And they clean up super easy!
Mandoline Slicer
A good mandoline slicer is great for cutting apple slices and making perfect oil-free, crispy potato chips. easy to use and easy to clean.
Use the mandolin slicer for potato chips, scalloped potatoes, or even zucchini. Slicing your veggies is more efficient and safer with this awesome kitchen addition.
Spiralizer
You can make zucchini noodles or spiralize fruit and vegetables to add to your salad. The spiralizer will keep your raw fruit and vegetable meals interesting. You can also even use it to make delicious oil-free hashbrowns.
Nonstick Silicone Bakeware Baking Molds
This is a must-have for any home chef. Create an assortment of perfect desserts and start impressing guests during birthday celebrations, Christmas parties, baby showers, and other events.
These pans are flexible enough to fold for easy storage yet retain their shape over time. The non-stick surface, simply lets you pop-out your baked goods with a push at the bottom. Rinse with hot water or use the dishwasher. Safe for use in the microwave, oven, freezer, and refrigerator.
Cuisinart 14-Cup Food Processor
A good food processor is essential for your kitchen. You can chop, blend, and shred. Incredibly versatile for making things like hummus and even salad.
Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender
I realize this is a little on the "high" side. But, my family and scraped up enough money to buy one and it has MORE than paid for itself.
I am thinking about buying an air fryera but see that you do not use one. Any reason why not?
Hi, Diane! I do use one I just didn’t include one in this post as I was trying to present things I consider a “necessity.” I LOVE my airfryer but feel it is more of a convenience than a need.
This is my fave: https://amzn.to/3OOHYPb
The griddle/panini appliance is a great idea! I haven’t replaced my broken propane outside grill since going vegan a year ago; I like this idea.
I use my mandoline almost daily..makes perfect diced red onion with no eye watering. I always have a container in the fridge. It’s also must for potato chips..your microwave recipe is AWESOME! Thank you for that!
Things I would add to the vegan “things I use daily” list:
Toaster oven/air fryer (I have the Hamilton Beach version)
plastic containers in several sizes (Rubbermaid 4 cup and 1 cup) – lots of these! No excuses not have prepped red onions, homemade hummus, sliced cucumbers, leftovers..etc.. always at hand
I must be set! I have all these items. Maybe not same brand but have them all. Plus I have that same LaCreuset dutch oven in the picture (but different color:))
Do you really use the mandolin when you have a spiralizer and cutting board/knives?
Aboslutely! I used it to cut potatoes when making potato chips, thin radish slices, etc.
Shane, love your blog. Do you know if silicone bake ware can be used in a toaster oven?
That’s a good question and I can honestly say I’ve never thought about it. I’m assume you could but I would research first.
Very good info, thank you for the post. I mostly lurk but now after 6 month wfpbno I am so glad you’ve become a terrific resource, your recipes are wonderful. Keep up the good work. And Happy Healthy New Year to you! 😉
thank you so much, Cheryl! And, congrats on your 6-month anniversary:) Happy New Year to you as well!
Great suggestions. Thank you
You’re welcome, Bridgette! Thanks for reaching out. Blessings.
Shane, I do not trust silicone or non-stick baking sheets or frying pans. How do you know these are safe?
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I try to research as much as possible, read reviews, looks at the materials used, and then make the best decision I feel works for me and is safe. I realize people have different points of view of these things and ultimately they have to do whatever they feel is good, safe, and right as their conscience dictates. But, I only recommend things I and my family use. Hope this helps. Blessings.