Cooking on board: The best gadgets for the galley

On board, everything is somewhat reduced: less work space, smaller storage compartments, fewer hotplates and often no oven. In addition, resources are limited, be it electricity, gas or water - if you save, you'll be moored for longer before you get back to the jetty and the power socket. There are many practical galley utensils that help to conjure up delicious dishes on the cockpit table with little effort. We took a look at the helpers we use on board. The twelve best gadgets for the galley.

Maritime tea towels

The tea towels from Nautic Home are made of 100 per cent cotton and are therefore very absorbent and easy to clean. The "Sealife" cloth (photo) is printed with drawings of fish, starfish and messages in bottles. The shop also offers many other motifs: anchors, lighthouses, boats. The cloth shown is 50 x 70 centimetres, washable at 40 degrees and costs 9.95 euros.

Favourable cans

Perfect for the boat: Lidl's silicone tins ("Livarno") in a set of 4 have a volume of 0.3 to 1.0 litres, are ideal for freezing, storing and heating (heat-resistant up to 100 degrees), microwave-safe, airtight (with click-on lid and air release valve) and can be folded to save space. There is also a picnic tin with three inner compartments and cutlery that can be stored in the lid. The price is easy on the wallet: you pay just 11.99 euros for the four bowls >> available here.

Stacking pot set

There's more inside - cooking pots that can be easily stacked inside each other and thus save a lot of space on board. The Marine Business set is available in two versions: seven-piece and eleven-piece. The pots and pans are made of all-round encapsulated stainless steel, which stands for good and healthy cooking and frying, and they are suitable for all types of cookers. The sets consist of different pieces in sizes from 14 to 24 centimetres. The prices: Seven-piece set: 204 euros, eleven-piece set: 313 euros. Incidentally, it is also worth taking a look at the other articles on the site, where you will find lots of nice things for boaters.

Beautiful kitchen knife

Sure, there are many knives out there, so it's hard to choose. But this one has that certain something extra. The "Grand Wood" chef's knife from WMF is as appealing as it is technically good. The handle is made of Italian olive wood. The knife lies very well and balanced in the hand. The blade is optimised by precisely controlled heat treatment, then the ideal sharpening angle is determined and sharpened by robot at an unrivalled acute angle, according to the manufacturer. The knife is forged from stainless steel, which promises a long service life. The blade is 20 centimetres long, the handle 13 centimetres. The knife costs 180 euros >> available here.

Ingenious coaster

This helper, which is also useful on board, is a pan splash guard, baking mat and trivet in one. The slotted centre opening allows you to blend or puree cleanly. The part can be folded in the centre and can therefore be stored in a space-saving manner. Fits pans and pots with a diameter of up to 28 centimetres and has two handles. The steam can escape through the holes and the food becomes crispy. Also ideal as a baking tray for a pizza, for example. Diameter approx. 33 centimetres, width incl. handles approx. 42 centimetres, temperature-resistant up to 230 degrees Celsius plus. 10.00 euros >> available here.

Cook pasta faster

Who actually decided that pasta always has to be cooked in boiling water? There is another way - with the same result. Regardless of the type of pasta, it works just as well if it is placed directly in cold water and the water is brought to the boil. Then simply determine the cooking time by trial and error. There's no difference in flavour, you save gas, electricity - and time - and the food is ready faster.

Secure crockery and glasses magnetically

Now well established and constantly being improved: the magnet system from manufacturer Silwy offers various clever solutions for skippers. Plates and pots can be fixed in place with the new magnetic adapters. Silicone strips ensure that the adapters adapt to any surface. For a secure hold, a metal nano-gel mat is required to keep everything in place. 59,95 Euro >> available here.

The stainless steel thermo mug offers a secure hold, with a magnet integrated into the base. The self-adhesive nano-gel pad is included in the set. The cup is held securely in place, but can also be easily removed. The pad can be removed without leaving any residue. The cup is 100 per cent leak-proof and the drink stays hot or cold for up to three hours. Various colours, engraving is possible. Holds 0.35 litres, weighs 250 grams, 49.95 euros >> available here.

Wine glasses can now be easily retrofitted with magnets: thanks to the elastic silicone, the required adapter fits on glasses with stems of all brands. Here too: a nano-gel pad is included. Easy to put on and take off again. Various colours. 14.95 euros or as a set of 4 54.95 euros. The same applies to normal glasses. Set of two crystal glasses with nano gel pads for 44.95 euros >> available here.

Mobile induction hob

The hob heats the pot quickly, works at different power levels from 200 to 2,000 watts (depending on the model), can also be adjusted via the temperature and usually has a timer. The hob only needs a small amount of electricity, and for a short time, so it can also be operated independently of shore power using an inverter. And it saves gas. The appliances are small and light, making them easy to stow away. Available from as little as 50 euros >> available here.

Foldable chopping board

Chop, dispose of the leftovers and then wash them: The plastic chopping board with sieve from Joseph Joseph is a welcome all-rounder on board. The 33 x 21 centimetre piece is currently not available, but is still listed on Amazon. Joseph Joseph chopping board with sieve, foldable and non-slip, plastic, white, 33 x 21 x 12 cm.

Mechanical milk frother

Simple and effective, typically Tupper. With the small, lightweight plastic milk frother called Crema Momenti, cold or warm milk can be transformed with just a few quick strokes, a fully-fledged replacement for large, expensive and energy-consuming electrical appliances. 28,90 Euro >> available here.

French press thermos jug

A hot cup of coffee can work wonders. But whenever it is needed most, it is almost impossible to brew it properly. This jug solves the problem reliably. The hot water from the kettle is poured into the sink, wedged in if necessary, while you hold on to it with your other hand. Now put the kettle back on the hob, screw on the lid and you're done. No danger of scalding yourself and definitely a very enjoyable coffee >> available here.

Camp-a-Toaster

The attachment turns any gas, paraffin or spirit cooker into a toaster. As good as simple. However, a little dexterity and attention are required to prevent the toast from turning black >> available here.

Hand mixer

Making egg whites and the like without electricity is not easy. Grandma's kitchen already had tools for this 100 years ago, and they are still in use today.

Foldable bowl

The absolute winner on small boats when it comes to washing up, but also ideal for transporting barbecue utensils to the barbecue area. The bowl made of robust lorry tarpaulin is larger than many washing-up bowls on small boats and is ideal for transporting dishes if there are washing-up areas with hot water and a sink. When folded up, the bowl disappears flat like a magazine in the locker and takes up very little space. Prices around 12 to 20 euros, depending on the supplier.

Kettle

As many smaller yachts do not have a hot water boiler on board, a kettle is ideal for heating water for washing up, making tea, preparing pasta water, etc. This can otherwise take longer on smaller spirit stoves. This can otherwise take longer on smaller spirit cookers. Of course, this only works with a shore power connection on board or an inverter >> available here.

Foldable sieve

There is often little space for bulky kitchen utensils on small yachts. A fixed colander for rinsing fruit or vegetables or draining pasta is often in the way and you don't need it that often. A welcome invention here is a colander with a sturdy metal frame but flexible rubber slats that can be folded away and therefore only takes up as much space as a thicker plate >> available here.

Omnia - the oven for gas cookers

A classic of Scandinavian camping culture, which also successfully replaces the missing oven on small boats: The Swedish Omnia oven. It is simply placed on the flame of the gas, spirit or paraffin cooker like a pot. In a circular mould with a hole in the middle, it generates a great deal of heat, which makes it possible to prepare dishes that you make in the oven at home: casseroles, bread baking, oven vegetables, cakes. The Omnia has a huge fan community, and there are loads of great recipes and instructions on YouTube or online. The appliance is available from boat accessories or camping equipment suppliers, so it's worth looking for offers.

A tip: As the mould is made of aluminium and the prepared food therefore sticks strongly, silicone inlays are often recommended. The problem with this: Not everyone wants food from plastic moulds, and they take on flavours easily depending on what is being cooked. First garlic vegetables, then cake - not a good idea. Some people even buy two of the relatively expensive silicone moulds. You can save yourself the trouble by buying the new ceramic-coated mould. Unfortunately, they are not available as a set when you first buy them. Tip: The Omina is often much cheaper in camping accessories shops than from equipment suppliers >> available here.

5-litre water canister with tap

Some boats have water tanks whose contents you don't necessarily want to drink, be it because of the tank material, the age of your own pipes or the sometimes questionable drinking water quality of some hose connections on the jetties in the harbours. Mineral water bottles can be a substitute, but these are often made of thin-walled plastic and taste just as awful as tank water. Glass is not an alternative, but 5-litre canisters made of hard, food-safe plastic with a tap are worth considering. They are so light that you can carry them into the harbour kitchen or sanitary facilities to fill them, where the water is often safe. If you are looking for a good storage location on board, fresh drinking water is always to hand at a low price without the constant plastic waste or deposit bottle problem. Available in various sizes in camping or boat accessories.

More on the topic:

• Galley: Provisions plan and stowage tips for your holiday cruise
• Guide: Cooling food in the heat without on-board power - 12 tips
• Kochen on board: 15 recipes that taste good and fill you up

The ideal pantry

Optimum use of space thanks to clever design

The basis of every good pantry is well thought-out space utilisation. L-shaped or U-shaped arrangements offer a lot of work surface in a small space. Working heights of 85-90 cm are recommended for ergonomic working. Wall cabinets should be a maximum of 30 cm deep to ensure headroom. Drawers instead of cupboard doors make it easier to access utensils. Pull-out baskets are suitable for pots and pans.

Storage space can be optimally utilised with shelves, hanging racks and niches. Magnetic strips on the wall keep knives and cooking utensils within easy reach. Folding or retractable worktops create additional space if required.

Seaworthy cooking appliances and sink

The central elements are the cooker, fridge and sink. Gas hobs with gimbals remain usable even when the boat is heeled. Two burners are sufficient for most applications. Electric cookers require a lot of electricity, but are safer. Compact fridges with a capacity of 40-60 litres keep food fresh even in tropical temperatures. Top-loaders save space, front-loaders offer more convenience.

Seawater-resistant stainless steel sinks are robust and easy to clean. A diameter of 30-35 cm is sufficient for most pots. Hinged covers create additional work space. Foot pumps save water, electric pumps offer more convenience. A hot water supply significantly increases convenience.

Secure storage space for provisions

Well-stocked supplies are the basis for successful on-board cooking. Store dry food in airtight plastic or stainless steel containers. Nets and hanging baskets utilise the space under the ceiling. Ventilated crates are suitable for fruit and vegetables. Drinks can be stored securely in special bottle holders.

Lockable drawers and lockers are important so that nothing falls out in rough seas. Non-slip inserts prevent crockery and utensils from slipping. Regularly checking and rotating supplies prevents spoilage. With well thought-out storage, food can easily be stored for trips lasting several weeks. You can find more here Tips for stowing food.

Occupational safety and comfort

Safe holders for pots and pans are essential. Cooker fuses and gas cookers with ignition protection increase safety. Non-slip floor coverings and handholds enable safe working even in rough seas. Good lighting also makes work easier at dusk or at night.

Hot water boilers, microwaves and coffee machines provide more convenience. However, these appliances require sufficient on-board power. A seawater foot pump for pre-rinsing saves fresh water.

Maintenance and care

Regular cleaning and inspection of all appliances and pipes prevents problems. Gas systems must be checked annually. Water pipes and filters should be flushed regularly and disinfected if necessary. Refrigerators require regular defrosting. With the right care, the pantry will remain functional for years.

A well-planned and well-equipped galley makes life on board much easier. It enables convenient cooking even in the smallest of spaces and in rough seas. With well thought-out solutions, an efficient galley can be created even in cramped conditions.