I live in a rental and am still getting used the the kitchen.  But I love it and it’s partially what inspired me to start this blog.  Cooking in it is easy and I’ve got all the space I need.  Heck, I even keep it clean!  Something normally unheard of from me.

My kitchen has a fold down drawer with a pull out cutting board.  I recently took the cutting board out to give it a good cleaning in the sink and noticed the backside was untouched by a blade and has the gutter you see at left.  I know there is some specific use for this side but I’m still baffled as to what it might be. 

Please, oh please, Masters Of All Things Cutlery And Wood, please release your hidden secret so I may rest tonight!!  In other words; what the heck is that for?

As a recap, week #1′s challenge was to take halibut, broccoli, onions and shitake mushrooms, and up to two ingredients of your own choosing, and post a recipe that would work for an average cook and his daughter.  While I don’t have my daughter on camera, she loved this halibut (minus the onions and mushrooms, but I knew that going into it).  I still can’t believe how buttery it tastes!  Thanks again to Kay from Kayotic Kitchen for the recipe.  The recipe can be found under “Recipes” at the top of this website.

And now for the video of my attempt at this recipe!

Next up on things to get ready, is the kitchen itself.  I’ll be picking up a new knife today from Epicurean Edge and I’m seriously considering purchasing a food processor.  I just read what Kristen Dole, from Dine & Dish, suggested for a bare minimum kitchen and like what she posted.  The Kitchen Aid Mixer she noted has been on my “Yes or No” list for a bit and I’m still not sure.  If I do, I’ll probably go big, with a lifetime warranty.  Something like the Professional 600 Series 6-Quart .

What would you suggest I add as an essential in the kitchen?  Below is a list taken from my The Kitchen page of what I already have.  Your suggestions would be most welcome in the comments section below.  Thanks!

• Cook’s knife
• 4 Burner Stove
• Oven
• Microwave
• Microplane Grater
• Peeler
• Multipot with two colander inserts
• All-Clad 1-Qt Saucepan
• All-Clad 3.5-Qt Sauce Pan
• All-Clad 8″ Fry Pan
• All-Clad 10″ Fry Pan
• Cookie Sheets
• Potato Smashe
• Kitchen Shears
• 1 Set Measuring Cups
• 2 Cup Measuring Bowl
• Measuring Spoons
• More Coming Soon!