I was on Masterchef and there’s an IKEA buy that’s JUST as good as any Le Creuset – and here’s what else you need to bag

A MASTERCHEF finalist has revealed her go-to Ikea buys for the kitchen. Hope Batchelor, 31, appeared on last year's season of MasterChef UK and made it all the way to the final three before being voted out. Now, Hope shares her favourite recipes and foodie buys on social media to help teach others how to cook. In a recent video, the chef shared her top buys from Ikea, adding: "I'm a firm believer that for the very basics in your kitchen, you don't need to spend lots of money.".

Hope recommended the sieve and colanders from the Ikea marketplace to kick things off. She also recommended the Ikea cast iron pot which costs £59 - a massive saving compared to Le Creuset. "The cast irons here are a very good alternative, plus £59 versus about £400, you're quids in," she added. Hope was also a huge fan of the chopping boards at Ikea, which are made of solid wood, and can also be used as serving boards for guests.

In terms of baking essentials, the foodie recommended cooling racks and dough cutters. She also swore by the sandwich bags for storing leftover foods adding: "I don't think it's any secret that the sandwich bags here are just perfect.". Collapsible food storage boxes are also essential for Hope to use as a lunchbox, as well as Ikea's glass jugs, which are perfect for serving fresh juice or pre-made cocktails. They are just £9 each.

Last but not least, Hope recommended grabbing a pair of Ikea's small wooden tongs for the toaster. This will mean you won't have to burn your fingers every time you try to prise your toast out of there. The clip was posted to Hope's TikTok account @toastwithhope and went viral with over 66k views and 3,900 likes. People were quick to take to the comments of the clip, thanking Hope for sharing her top buys.

One person wrote: "Saw this pop up and thought ‘Yay Hope’s doing an IKEA top buys!’ Brilliant and so helpful! Love this thank you so much!". Josie Medved, Design Manager for Symphony Group, has shared her insights on what she predicts will be big news for 2025. Matt finishes. In 2025, the focus shifts to more matt textures, which offer a sleek, sophisticated look that complements modern kitchen designs. A matt finish is low-maintenance, perfect for families and busy lifestyles.

Textured cabinets. Surfaces with a textured finish have become increasingly popular this year and 2025 will see them adding visual interest, feature focal points and even sound absorption in the kitchen. Ribbed effects will be particularly on trend. Pocket doors. When entertaining in an open-plan space, it’s nice to hide away all the cooking clutter and washing-up without having to leave the kitchen. Pocket doors are space-saving and flexible for different needs.

Caramel colours. After the recent surge of interest in yellow kitchens, Caramel cabinetry is the next colour trend that is set to be a huge hit in 2025. Adding warmth and lightness to a space with limited natural light, this tone is uplifting and inviting, and it looks super-glam when teamed with contrasting Black. Mix and match. Whether it’s to create a statement look in an otherwise neutral scheme or simply to introduce two favourite colours to the kitchen, taking a mix and match approach is set to be the look in 2025. For an eye-catching design, grey or white cabinets around the room are the perfect complement to a standout island in a more daring shade such as Dusky Pink or Hunter Green.

Another commented: “Ikea stainless steel pans are elite. I'm a professional chef & I always use them myself & always recommend them.". "Loveeee this Hope! Off I go," penned a third. Meanwhile a fourth said: "Well, that’s my plans for the weekend sorted.". "Now I need an Ikea trip," claimed a fifth. Someone else added: “Ooh I’m getting that chopping board.". Fabulous will pay for your exclusive stories. Just email: fabulousdigital@the-sun.co.uk and pop EXCLUSIVE in the subject line.