Buy stainless spoons (both slotted and non-slotted) which are solid and won't bend no matter how tough the job. Also, buy several high quality wooden spoons for stirring delicate dishes like risotto (the sharp edge of a metal spoon would cut or bruise the rice).

The way you cook is also key to deciding which type of range cooker to choose. No-frills heat storage ranges such as Agas retain heat they have gradually built up and generally have two ovens without temperature controls - the hot oven is for roasting and baking, the cool one for slow cooking/keeping warm.

When you want to finely chop foods such as: onions, garlic, parsley, or other items, pivot your knife by keeping the tip of the knife on the cutting surface at all times and hold the knife at an angle, about 95' angle, towards the hand holding the tip. This way, you use the blade to push and keep the food particles down, thus making them easier to chop. If the knife should slip, then the sharp side of the blade will slide away from where you're working, and away from your other hand and fingers. In addition, you make less noise, as compared to when raising and lowering the knife of the cutting surface trying to mince foods.