1. My favorite knife is a Japanese Shun Chef's knife. They are incredibly sharp and beautifully hand-crafted. Trust me, it will be your workhorse and friend for life.
2. I've been using a KitchenAid Stand Mixer all my life, from my mother’s 1950's mixer to my 6-quart professional model. I've found this brand to be the most reliable and wouldn't trade mine for the world.
3. Every modern kitchen should have an immersion blender. It is versatile and easier to clean. Works amazingly well for soups, pancake batter, and whipping cream… the uses are endless.
4. I have a de Buyer Mandoline that has been my go-to piece of equipment for perfect paper-thin veggies for ratatouille, scalloped potatoes, and the perfect French fries. Mandolines come with several cutting plates of various sizes, so you're not limited to only one or two cutting sizes.
5. Finally, my hands-down most used kitchen tool is my Le Creuset Dutch oven. I use it for everything from roasted chicken to delicious stews or a crusty peasant loaf. You will pass your Le Creuset down for generations!