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What we cook with

The short list of tools behind the recipes on Comfort Sides. Nothing here is sponsored; each one is on the list because it gets used.

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Essentials

Cast iron skillet, 10 inch

Cornbread, skillet mac and cheese, crispy potatoes. Nothing else gives the same crust.

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Enameled dutch oven, 5.5 quart

Braises, beans, and gratins that go from stove to oven to table.

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Potato ricer

The difference between fluffy mash and glue. Worth the drawer space.

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9 by 13 baking dish

The workhorse for casseroles, scalloped potatoes, and stuffing.

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Nice to have

Not needed for any recipe here, but each one makes a job easier.

Box grater

Fresh grated cheese melts smoother than bagged, which is pre-coated to stop clumping.

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Instant-read thermometer

Tells you when the middle of a casserole is hot through, not just the edges.

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