Apps can be invaluable in the kitchen, whether you’re in search of cooking inspiration, you want to lead a healthier life or you’re trying to convert complicated measurements from the imperial to the metric system. Here’s list of some of the best ones for iPhone and iPad.

1. How to Cook Everything

This app is based on a book with the same name by the acclaimed American food writer Mark Bittman. Aimed at home cooks, it’s a comprehensive guide to almost any category of cooking: simple, beautifully-photographed recipes, setting up your pantry and kitchen skills like preparing chillies or grinding meat. There are even short audio commentaries by Mark, and perhaps the best feature of all – a constant on-button to prevent the screen from dimming when you cook.

2. Substitutions

You know that moment when you’re in the middle of cooking a wonderful meal, you have it all planned to perfection – and then you realize you’re missing an ingredient. Next time, you can turn to this app which tells you how to substitute ingredients with other ones.

3. Escoffier Cook’s Companion

If you’re wondering what chevril or chat potatoes are, look no further than this handy app. Besides a compendium of ingredients, it has several other features that will help you in the kitchen: a measurement converter, a timer, a glossary and an equipment list with tips for usage, cleaning and storage.

4. Green smoothies

This one is pretty much self-explanatory: it helps you create delicious and healthy smoothies using fruit and vegetables. There are recipes for beginners, adventurous souls, kids, and even pets. Perfect when you’re trying to kick-start 2014.

5. Toca Tea Party

Let your small children play with this wonderful app while you’re busy in the kitchen. It lets them set the table for a tea party with different table cloths and cups, choose cookies and cakes, pour coffee and tea, clean up after careless guests – all to a pleasant jazz tune in the background.