The past year has been a wild ride for all small business owners. The term "pivot" has become emblazoned into our collective psyches. But few have made limonchello out of lemons quite the same way as Melissa Miranda, founder and head chef of Musang. After opening their doors in Seattle's Beacon Hill in January 2020, the pandemic came a-swinging that spring and, like everyone in the industry, the restaurant had to find a way to sidestep for survival. No stranger to not-for-profit food service, Melissa was able to stay open and true to her roots by leaning into her business' focus on community, and provided meals to those in need. Over the year, more community and education-based programming has emerged from the Musang kitchen, including the "Little Wildcats" kits for kids and a content partnership with Bon Appetit. Melissa is passionate about sharing her love of food with others, and today she's sharing her essential tools for working in the kitchen with our community in this guide.
... moreNacionale Chef's Knives
Nacionale Bladeworks is a Philippine owned company. The quality of their products is always high. They're beautiful knives made from repurposed materials. We're so excited to be collaborating with them on a custom Musang knife soon!
Well Seasoned Wok
You can cook so many things in a wok! Think big: pasta, deep fried goodies, the list goes on. It heats up super fast and because of this you can cook things quickly with a nice sear. It allows for a really great char flavor. Find a wok that feels comfortable when you hold it—not too heavy, since you want control over it—and over time, a beautiful layer of seasoning will develop on its surface.
Johnny's Seasoning Salt
I have so much nostalgia attached to this kitchen staple because my Lola always cooked with it. My whole family learned to cook with Johnny's Seasoning Salt. It is a flavor bomb in your mouth!
JB Prince Kunz Sauce Spoon
It's the perfect size for doing anything: serving, plating, drizzling. Most of us at Musang have our own, cherished spoon.
Kari Kari Chili Crisp
I love the amount of crunchy garlic in this chili crisp! The heat is tasty but not overwhelmingly spicy. It tastes great over everything, especially over a bowl of rice.
Boos Block Cutting Boards
These boards are as beautiful as they are high quality. They are sturdy and don't crack over long term use. I use mine at home and at our studio space and I love it.
Lexa Luna Studio Ceramics
Lexa Luna is a Filipina ceramicist whose work I just love. Her pieces have connections to home, to our stories, to our ancestry. Hand formed and intentional pieces, they are sturdy and gorgeous.
Crocs, but polka dot only!
They are the most non-slip shoes I have ever worn in the kitchen. They're comfortable and cute! Don't sleep!
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