How we put this together
This guide is based on NHS cooking guidance and product specifications. We have not tested these products ourselves, so we do not score or rank them. They are ordinary kitchen items, not medical products. Read how we research products.
The NHS recommends grilling, baking, poaching or steaming food instead of frying, trimming visible fat, and measuring oil with a teaspoon or using a spray. You can do all of that with basic equipment. These items just make it easier. Our comparison of lower-fat cooking methods explains when each is useful.
Helpful items
Useful for steaming
Steamer basket for pots
Lets you steam vegetables, fish and dumplings in a pot you already own.
- Expandable stainless steel design
- Check it fits your pots
- Dishwasher-safe
Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This is a general-purpose kitchen item, not a medical product.
Useful for low-oil cooking
Nonstick skillet
Food releases easily, so a teaspoon of oil or a spray goes a long way.
- Check the oven-safe temperature
- Choose a size for one or two portions
- Follow care instructions
Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This is a general-purpose kitchen item, not a medical product.
Useful for measuring oil
Oil spray bottle
A fine mist lets you use very little oil on pans and baking trays.
- Refillable
- Fine, even mist
- Easy to clean
Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This is a general-purpose kitchen item, not a medical product.
Useful for food safety
Instant-read food thermometer
Helps you check that chicken and leftovers reach a safe temperature without overcooking them. The USDA advises reheating leftovers to 165°F.
- Fast reading
- Easy-to-read display
- Folds or covers for safe storage
Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This is a general-purpose kitchen item, not a medical product.
Optional appliance
Slow cooker
Handy for soups, stews and shredded chicken with little added fat.
- Capacity to suit your household
- Removable, dishwasher-safe insert
- Timer or keep-warm setting
Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This is a general-purpose kitchen item, not a medical product.
Optional appliance
Air fryer
Can crisp potatoes and chicken with very little oil. Not essential.
- Capacity for your household
- Removable, dishwasher-safe basket
- Check counter space
Affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This is a general-purpose kitchen item, not a medical product.
You may not need to buy anything
A sheet pan with parchment, a pot with a lid and a nonstick pan cover most lower-fat cooking. Add tools only when something is annoying you. See easy dinner ideas for recipes that use these techniques.
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Sources
- NHS: Eat less saturated fat
- USDA FSIS: Leftovers and food safety