By Jennie
What a great gift guide giveaway! It was fun to see all the comments (and what you might pick) trickle into my inbox. Our winner is:
Congrats April! I'll be in touch.
December 10, 2012
November 21, 2012
Official 2012 Food Lush Gift Guide
by Caitlin
The 2012 Official Food Lush Gift Guide is here!
Just like I said in last year's guide: gift giving can be tough, but it doesn’t have to be. I think the best gifts are the ones that are thoughtful, useful, fun, and/or are not necessarily something someone would buy for themselves (but can't live without, once they get it!). With that in mind, what better way to achieve those goals than a food-centered gift? Everyone's gotta eat!
I've hunted down the best bargains I can find for items that are classic, endurable, well-reviewed, and/or favorites in my kitchen. This year we have 75 things under $25 and 25 things over $25.
Ready? Go!
1. The Cook's Illustrated Cookbook: 2,000 Recipes from 20 Years of America's Most Trusted Cooking Magazine. I started last year's guide with a subscription to my favorite magazine, Cook's Illustrated. It was one of the items I heard the most feedback about, and this year I'm kicking things off with the ultimate cookbook by my favorite food people. Buy one for yourself, then one for everyone else on your list. Currently only $23, that's a steal.
(Photo from cooksillustrated.com)
2. Pantone mugs, $15. For the designer in your life, a Pantone mug. Pick their favorite color and pair it with your favorite hot chocolate, tea, coffee....or wine.
(Photo from aplusrstore.com)
3. Marble mortar and pestle, $13.95-24.95.
(Photo from surlatable.com)
4. OXO Good Grips locking tongs, $11.99. Versatile, different sizes, available with silicone or metal tips. There are at least three pairs in my kitchen.
(Photo from amazon.com)
5. Red rooster twine holder with built-in cutter, $14.99.
(Photo from kaboodle.com)
6. Ice princess straws, $6.99.
(Photo from thinkgeek.com)
7. Wine stopper, $6.99. Attach this to a good bottle of bubbly (try a Food Lush rec!) and you're still under $25!
(Photo from bedbathandbeyond.com)
8. Real maple syrup. The best. Truly, the best. There's no substitute, and I'm looking you in the eye, Aunt Jemima, when I say that. Check out the Vermont Maple Syrup official website for a list of various sugar makers selling online.The Burgess Sugarhouse has beautiful glass liters of real Vermont maple syrup for only $18.
(Photo from burgesssugarhouse.com)
Also check out their gift packs, with pairs of maple syrup and maple cream. The maple cream is described as "100% Pure Vermont Maple Syrup boiled, cooled and stirred resulting in a creamy product which spreads easily on toast." I'll take three, please.
(Photo from americastestkitchenfeed.com)
9. Vintage mod champagne coupes, $12.
(Photo from Etsy seller Vint. etsy.com/shop/vint )
10. Julienne peeler, $9.99. For easy, matchstick vegetables.
(Photo from bedbathandbeyond.com)
11. Cheese slate. Dishwasher safe, non-porous, non-skid feet attached. Soapstone pencil for labelling cheeses is included; various sizes, starting at $25.
(Photo from brooklynslate.com)
12. Finger sporks, $4.99. Maybe these will get your kids to eat their veggies. (Perfect stocking stuffers!)
(Photo from thinkgeek.com)
13. Luscious dried pears, $10. Perfect alongside cheese, nuts, and a bottle of wine; or to fill a stocking.
(Photo from https://katzfarm.katzandco.com)
14. Classic wine coaster. Only $11, so you can still throw in a bottle of your favorite under-$15 wine and be at about $25.
(Photo from crateandbarrel.com)
15. Platter, $17.
(Photo from allmodern.com)
16. Ninjabread men cookie cutters, $10!
(Photo from landofnod.com)
17. Angled measuring cup, $8.95. For easing reading with getting a crick in your neck. I can't live without mine. Include a box of your favorite cookies or cupcakes, for baking inspiration.
(Photo from http://www.coffeekrave.com)
18. Orange or grapefruit handcrafted bitters, $4.
(Photo from eatboutique.com)
19. Mini salt and pepper shakers. My husband would argue that no food should be served needing salt or pepper, but I'm enamoured with the idea of everyone at the table having their own little shakers. Set is 12 bottles (6 pairs, comes with tray), and at just $12.95 you could get two sets and pair them with your favorite fine sea salt and fancy ground pepper for a still-reasonably-priced gift.
(Photo from chefscatalog.com)
20. Charles Chips, $19.95. Remember these? Give the gift of nostalgia! Delicious, crunchy, salty nostalgia.
(Photo from charleschips.com)
21. Drizzle stick, $6.
(Photo from fusionbrands.com)
22. Leopard oven mitt, $8.96. Oh, yes, my friends.
(Photo from surlatable.com)
23. Spider skimmer, $9. An indispensable kitchen tool in my kitchen, with endless uses.
(Photo from amazon.com)
24. Unfiltered organic olive oil, $21.99 "...very unique green color, spicy taste and herbaceous flavor...a great finishing oil for salad dressings and to drizzle on soups or pastas."
(Photo from ditalia.com)
25. Salsabol, $16+. Sweep it up the sides: form and function so you can get the salsa on the chip and keep the salsa on the chip.
(Photo from uncommongods.com)
26. Smitten Kitchen Cookbook, $19.75. Deb's gorgeous photography and impressive recipes have finally come together on paper. Check out the Smitten Kitchen blog for a primer!
(Photo from amazon.com)
27. Stainless steel mixing bowls. A classic that can be hard to find these days. Three sizes, from $5.95 to $13.95.
(Photo from kingarthurflour.com)
28. A fun tea ball and a bag of your favorite looseleaf. I can't get enough of this Tea Diver for $12!
And this rubber ducky ($9.99) is completely ridiculous and totally fun, especially for the little tea drinker in your life.
(Photo from thinkgeek.com)
29. Wall mounted bottle opener, $8.54. I have one on my deck and it has a way of making even the smallest gathering feel like a party. Under ten bucks, so throw in your favorite six pack, too.
(Photo from amazon.com)
30. Milk Chocolate Baumkuchen, $9.99. A German Christmas tradition. 15 layers, baked one at a time!
(Photo from germandeli.com)
31. Butter bell, $24.95. Keep your butter soft and spreadable at all times.
(Photo from cooking.com)
32. Pickle ornament, $4.95.
(Photo from crateandbarrel.com)
Cocktail ornaments, $14.85.
(Photo from crateandbarrel.com)
Rolling pin ornament, $6.
(Photo from thestylecure.com)
33. Grill comb, $19.95. A different way to kebab. Set of four.
(Photo from launfd.com)
34. Ice cream ball, $17.93. Great for the backyard, camping, the beach, or just 20 minutes of keeping the kids busy.
(Photo from icecreamjournal.turkeyhill.com)
35. Hand carved salad tongs, $18.25. I received these as a gift, and they're simply lovely; beautifully carved from one piece of wood. I don't know why it hasn't ever occured to me to give a pair to someone else! As a bonus, these are available through Gifts With Humanity, a fair trade organization you can feel good about supporting.
(Photo from amazon.com)
36. Traditional steel paella pan, $23. 15 inches, serves 6. La Tienda has everything else you need for paella making, too. Check out their selection of rice, cookbooks, starter kits, accessories, and ingredients at tienda.com.
(Photo from tienda.com)
37. Knobby juice glasses, $4/each (on sale!). Pick one of each color, and they'll still be under $25.
(Photo from anthropologie.com)
38. Leopard print high-heel cake server, $13.07. Sturdy stainless steel that's not just for show, and mine gets a laugh every time I pull it out at a party. The leopard heel is removable.
(Photo from amazon.com)
39. Dried wild mushroom mix. For the risotto lover in your life. Throw in a box of arborio rice, and your favorite mushroom risotto recipe. You can't get much better than $17 for this mix, which includes chanterelles.
(Photo from williams-sonoma.com)
40. Speaking of mushrooms, how about a mushroom garden? ($19.99) Grow your own!
(Photo form thinkgeek.com)
41. My Life in France, $18.16. Julia Child's memoir of her entree to food. A must-read for any Julia fan.
(Photo from malisaprice.com)
42. Le Creuset spatula, $9.99. Because a kitchen can never have too many spatulas, and these are the best. Available from several places in many colors and sizes, so be sure to shop around.
(Photo from amazon.com)
43. Kid's chef's coat, $23.95. Pick a size, and get it embroidered for $7.95 more. Watch the tiny chef in your life keel over from excitement.
(Photo from http://www.growingcooks.com)
44. Pair the chef's coat with a Kid's oven mitt. Perfectly sized for little hands, in a variety of colors. At only $4.95, they'd make a great stocking stuffer! You can also get a monogrammed one for $9.95.
(Photo from growingcooks.com)
45. Silicone poach pod, $9.95.
(Photo from cheftools.com)
46. Two-tier wire basket, $19.99.
(Photo from worldmarket.com)
47. Dave's Bloody Mary mix, $7.99. My husband, the Bloody Mary connoiseur, has tried them all, and this is his favorite. Nothing fake, corn syrup free. Pair it with your favorite vodka for a hope-you-make-it-through-the-holidays gift for the Bloody Mary lover in your life.
Maybe throw in Dave's spicy nut trio, too, $19.99.
Or there's always the hot sauce gift pack, $24.99.
(Photos from davesgourmet.com)
48. Polka dot offset spatula, $~3.
(Photo from thestylecure.com)
49. Gift certificate to a favorite place or a local hit on Yelp! We had this on our guide last year, but we'd be remiss not to mention it. Always a good idea.
(Photo from ignitewoo.com)
50. Herb keeper, $15.95.
(Photo from chefscatalogue.com)
51. Tender at the Bone: Growing Up At the Table, $10.88. For the bookworm foodie in your life. Memoir of Ruth Reichl, New York Times Food Critic and former Editor in Chief of Gourmet: the story of her childhood and eccentric mother through the lens of food.
(Photo from forthesomedaybook.wordpress.com)
Or Garlic and Sapphires: The Secret Life of a Critic in Disguise, $10.88. Also by Ruth Reichl. How she managed to stay anonymous as a well-known New York Times food critic.
(Photo from gourmetfood.about.com)
52. Glass cannisters, $15.99. Various sizes. Use to store flours, sugars, oats, and grains.
(Photo from crateandbarrel.com)
53. Corn zipper, $10.77. I'm generally not a fan of one-use items, but I make an exception for this. Makes quick, safe work of getting your kernels off the cob.
(Photo from amazon.com)
54. Pineapple corer & slicer, $8.99. Another one-use item I am making an exception for. Used just like a corkscrew, it magically cores and slices your pineapple into rings, leaving a perfectly intact shell. This would be perfect for someone who likes to make fun, fancy cocktails. Preferably in, you know, pineapple shells. Maybe pair it with some rum and a Mai Tai recipe.
(Photo from amazon.com)
55. Artichoke print, $10.
(Photo from Etsy seller BelleBotanica etsy.com/shop/BelleBotanica)
56. Dancing dreidel platter, $19.95.
(Photo from crateandbarrel.com)
57. Cook's stir stick, $7. Don't be fooled! It's made of sturdy silicone for spreading, flipping, mixing, turning, frosting, reaching deep into jars, or swatting hands away from the cookie jar. Go check out the video in the link. Fun!
(Photos from fusionbrands.com and thekitchenoutlet.com)
58. Squiggly ikat napkins, $16. Set of four.
(Photo from westelm.com)
59. Wooden napkin rings, $2.36/each.
(Photo from pier1.com)
60. Zeroll ice cream scoop, $15.35. The best.
(Photo from amazon.com)
61. Popcorn gift set, $12.99. A twist on the classic holiday popcorn tin. Urban Accent brand kernels are some of the best I've had, and I'm intrigued by their dill pickle seasoning. It also comes with classic kettle corn and white cheddar.
(Photo from urbanaccents.com)
62. Citrus Pod, $10. A three-in-one citrus station: cut, squeeze, and store your citrus here.
(Photos from fusionbrands.com)
63. Expandable cooling rack, $19.95. Because there never seem to be enough racks, even on the rare occasion they're all in the same place when you need them.
(Photo from surlatable.com)
64. Tipsy Olives ($13.95) or Tipsy Onions ($13.95).
(Photos from normthompson.com)
65. Blender Bottle, $7.58. For your favorite smoothie/shake drinker.
(Photo from betterfitnessproducts.com)
66. See's Custom Chocolate Box. I still love their peppermint patties, as featured in last year's Gift Guide but I also love that you can go to their website and mix your own custom box of favorites. 65% caramels and 25% peanut butter patties and 10% chocolate creams? It's all up to you.
(Photo from sees.com)
67. Mugtopper marshmallows, $6.99. Rounded and sized to float atop your favorite hot chocolate, I bet they'd be great for s'mores too. Gluten free and no corn syrup!
In vanilla bean or peppermint or mochaccino.
(Photo from plushpuffs.com)
68. Caffeine molecule t-shirt, $17.99.
(Photo from thinkgeek.com)
69. Oven thermometer, $10. Because sometimes the knobs on your stove lie.
(Photo from amazon.com)
70. Hartley's Ma Made marmalade starter, $15.55. To make marmalade a little easier for your favorite DIYer. They'll just add sugar and water. (I've made this myself before, and it was a huge hit.)
(Photo from .english-shop.de)
71. Homemade vanilla extract. There's nothing like real, from-scratch vanilla, and it's the gift that keeps on giving. There are recipes all over the web, but you just need vodka, vanilla beans, and a bottle. Make some fun labels or tie a ribbon around the neck. Here's a starter guide, but do some googling, too. Your giftee can keep adding vodka to the bottle as they use it, and they'll have an almost-endless supply of delicious vanilla.
(Photo from beanilla.com)
72. Iced beverage to-go cup, $8.
(Photo from amazon.com)
73. Peppermint pig, $14.95. A peppermint candy pig, a velvet pouch, and a little hammer: A fun, Victorian, good luck tradition for any holiday gathering, and a perfect hostess gift. Everyone takes turns breaking the pig while sharing tales of good fortune from the past year, and hopes for the new. Read more here.
(Photo from domesticallyseasoned.com)
74. Dishtowels, $19.95. Absorbent, resilient, a favorite in my kitchen. Various colors, set of 4.
(Photo from williams-sonoma.com)
75. Soup and cracker mugs, $11.99. Set of two.
(Photo from vat19.com)
OVER $25
1. Glass Dharma Reusable Drinking Straws. Last year I left these off the Gift Guide by mistake. I think they really did deserve their own post, but I'd be remiss not to highlight them this year as they're a favorite in my kitchen and they'd make a beautiful, useful, fun gift. They come in a variety of sizes and options, and custom work is offered. My favorite is the set of four Decorative Dots Sippers for $33. These are shorter straws with a narrower hole, which are perfect for cocktails and coffee. As an added bonus, each straw has different colored dots which both helps keeps drinks straight and keeps them from rolling off the counter.
(Photo from designmilk.com)
2. Classic linen apron, $34.95.
(Photo from eatboutique.com)
3. Odd-size measuring cups and spoons set, $40. Odd-measure cups come in 2/3-, 3/4- and 1 1/2-cup sizes. Odd-measure spoons are 2-tsp., 1 1/2-Tbs. and 2-Tbs.
(Photo from williams-sonoma.com)
4. Dropp! bowl, $50. This is kind of ridiculously priced, but the image made me laugh out loud when I first saw it. Apparently you can't put a price on whimsy.
(Image from aplusrstore.com)
5. Support small business with a Yellow wavy mug, $28.
Or red swirly mug, $28.
Or patterned blue mug, $28.
(All photos from Etsy seller Mad Hatter Ceramics. etsy.com/shop/madhatterceramics)
6. Rosle cheese knives, set of 3, $49.95.
(Photo from cutleryandmore.com)
7. Emile Henry ramekins, $35.95. Set of four. A little pricey, but about as good as it gets. Pair with your favorite creme brulee recipe.
(Photo from surlatable.com)
8. Set of three cookie scoops, $49.95 (set of three). For the baker in your life, though they're for more than just cookies. Scoop dough, batter for cupcakes, or make melon balls. These are a must-have in any kitchen.
(Photo from chefscatalogue.com)
9. Yogurt maker, $49.99. Works overnight: Wake up to fresh yogurt with no weird ingredients. (You may want to include the yogurt starter.)
(Photo from chefscatalog.com)
10. Pint sized chef's set, $59.95 (+ free shipping of $25+ orders). All the tools and equipment your little helper needs, sized for small hands, with a chef's hat and apron to complete the look. 27 pieces, dishwasher safe. I would have loved this as a kid.
(Photo from chefscatalog.com)
11. Spongester, $28. Never confuse your counter sponge with your dish sponge again.
(Photo from uncommongoods.com)
12. Fleur de Sel kitchen hand lotion and soap, $29.95-39.95. Made with essential oils, comes with the caddy so it will stay together next to your sink.
(Photo from williams-sonoma.com)
13. Mason jar cocktail shaker, $29. In case you're not over the mason jar craze just yet.
(Photo from westelm.com)
14. Lighted rosemary tree. The gift that keeps on giving. Makes a fragrant decoration during the holiday season, and can easily be repotted for use the rest of the year. Rosemary is quite hardy and holds up well outdoors year-round, in many areas. I currently have a large rosemary shrub on my deck from a small plant purchased several years ago, and winters here are below freezing. You can also find them for very reasonable prices (think under $10, undecorated) at your grocery store.
(Photo from normthompson.com)
15. This pitcher, $48.
Or this pitcher, $29.95.
(Photos from anthropologie.com)
Or this pitcher. (A classic. I have one, it's my favorite, and $29.95 is a steal.)
(Photo from amazon.com)
16. The Bouchon Bakery Cookbook, $27.98. I was fortunate enough to sample several goodies from Bouchon earlier this year. This will be a must-have for the baker in your life.
(Photo from amazon.com)
17. Electric kettle, $49.99. So fast, so easy. Your giftee will wonder how they lived without it.
(Photo from target.com)
18. Coffee Joulies, $49.99. Keep your inner nerd caffeineted with these awesome "beans" that somehow capture the heat of your coffee and redistribute it evenly, keeping your coffee at the perfect drinking temperature. Magic!
(Photo from thinkgeek.com)
19. Chemex coffee maker ($38.85) & filters ($9.10). Another one for the coffee purist in your life. Clean, modern design, low-acid and slow drip, it makes the cleanest, most delicious coffee I've ever tasted. Can also be used with the cold brew method. You do need the filters for it to work properly.
(Photo from williams-sonoma.com)
20. Pizza stone, $54.95. Make homemade pizza taste professional, with perfect crust every time. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but I find I like the rectangle best as it's most versatile.
(Photo from kingarthurflour.com)
21. Make your own bathtub gin, $39.95. This is a last minute addition to the guide, and probably my favorite. All you need is a bottle of vodka: My favorite is Svedka, which is both delicious and cheap. A hat tip to my friend Lexa for the heads up on this. She's also the one that turned me onto the Chemex (above) last year. Good work, friend.
(Photo from homemadegin.com)
22. Baker's Edge brownie pan, $34.95.
(Photo from amazon.com)
23. Wine aerator, $26.
(Photo from matchmywine.com)
24. Rustic olive wood cutting board, $38.50.
Or olive wood wine bottle holder, $46.50.
(Photos from tienda.com)
25. Stainless steel stockpot, $49.95. Cuisinart, 10 Quart.
(Photo from amazon.com)
26. (Sure, we said 25 items over $25, but rules are for the birds.) A CSA share. Know someone who's always wanted to try a produce share? Check out Local Harvest to find one in your giftee's area. Prices and commitment vary.
(Photo from onestrawfarm.com)
And finally, please consider The Real Gift of Food: A different kind of food-related giving, in the spirit of the season. UNICEF makes it easy to give the gift of food to someone in need, and it starts at just $18. The Child Survival Gift Pack is $85.20 and provides water purification tablets plus nutrient dense food and milk to those who need it most. Check out the rest of UNICEF's offerings here. Heifer International also has wonderful programs.
Photo from unicef.org.
Thanks, friends. We hope you have a wonderful, healthy, safe, and delicious holiday season!
***
So much awesome stuff, am I right? (Great, great job Caitlin!)
Be sure to check out the Style Lush Gift Guide for a few other kitchen- and food-related gift ideas (and a lot more awesome gift ideas, too).
We plan to host a similar giveaway as last year, a giveaway that gives one of you the chance to win your favorite item from this list, so check back on 12/3 for your chance to enter.
You can also share the Food Lush Gift Guide love with your very own sidebar badge. Pretty, right?
(Code for the badge: <a href="http://www.foodlushblog.com/2012/11/official-2012-food-lush-gift-guide.html"><img src="http://www.shelikespurple.com/FoodLushHG2012.gif"></a>)
***
Happy holidays and happy shopping!
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March 09, 2012
A Few Bargains from Our 2011 Gift Guide
We're taking a wee break from our "best of" posts to spotlight our recent holiday gift guide, so we can share a few items that can now be snatched up for a bargain price!
First, here's the full gift guide again. (Another big round of awesome applause for Caitlin!)
1. 10-Inch Bamboo Steamer Set; Now $14.99!
{Photo from amazon.com}
2. Global Rainbow Pitcher; Now $11.99!
{Photo from surlatable.com}
3. Le Creuset Utensil Crock; some colors now $19.95
{Photo from amazon.com}
4. Salt Cellar and Spoon; Now $8.99!
{Photo from amazon.com}
***
Happy shopping!
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November 14, 2011
Food Lush Gift Guide Giveaway!
By Jennie
Have you checked out our official gift guide this year? Oh, you should, and not just because we think it's fantastic, but because one of the items could be yours. That's right, we're hosting a giveaway today, to give one reader any item from our gift guide that they'd like (well, anything from the $25 or under section).
Here's a sampling of what you could choose!
Rainbow pitcher
Wallpaper butter dish
Salt + Magic shakers
Le Creuset Stoneware Utensil Crock
But, that's just a few of the dozens of items. So, what would you pick? We'll leave the giveaway up for a week and randomly select a winner (and we won't hold you to what your pick in your comment, of course) and announce on 11/22. We unfortunately can't ship to anywhere but the U.S., and just one comment per person, please!
Good luck!
***
We're also hosting a similar giveaway at Style Lush today; check that out too!
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November 01, 2011
The Official (and First!) 2011 Food Lush Gift Guide
by Caitlin
Gift giving can be tough, but it doesn’t have to be. I think the best gifts are the ones that are thoughtful, useful, fun, and/or are not necessarily something someone would buy for themselves (but can't live without, once they get it!). With that in mind, what better way to achieve those goals than a food-centered gift? Everyone's gotta eat!
So, for this year's first annual Food Lush Gift Guide, we have 50 things under $25 and 25 things over $25.
Ready? Go!
1. A Year's Subscription to Cook's Illustrated. Hands down my favorite cooking magazine. Recipes are tried and true, and the articles explain every variation they tried, what worked, what didn't work, and why. I've never made a bad recipe from Cook's Illustrated.
Photo source: Wikipedia.org
2. Joyce Chen Bamboo Steamer Baskets. You'll want to get the liners, too. Together they're still under $25! Steam dumplings, seafood, veggies, and more for quick, healthy, weeknight dinners.
Photo source: Amazon.com
3. Herbs de Provence. Nicely packaged, totally functional.
Photo source: williamssonoma.com
4. Fluted Square Cookie Cutters, set of 5. Round cutters are great, and square cutters are probably something most kitchens don't have. Use for biscuits, for cutting individual tops for chicken pot pie, or for homemade cookies and crackers.
Photo source: surlatable.com
5. Double Dish. Watch olive pits, cherry stems, edamame pods, and pistachio shells disappear back into the dish they're served in.
Photo source: aplusrstore.com
6. See's Milk & Dark Chocolate Peppermints. See's is always a hit, and these are a nice alternative to the (delicious) classic holiday peppermint bark.
Photo source: sees.com
7. Sur La Table Recycled Rainbow Glass Pitcher. The matching tumblers are great too, and at $5.95 each, a set of four is still under $25.
Photo source: surlatable.com
8. The Food Lover's Companion Book or App. Want to know what a Chinese Goosberry is, or the difference between blanching and parboiling? This is indespensible for the food lover in your life, and a whole lotta fun to look through.
Photo source: smokingmeatforums.com
9. Luxardo Cherries. These are the real deal. No fake colors or flavors, just intense, rich cherry color and flavor across the board. From, you know, actual cherries. A great addition to any bar or sundae.
Photo source: RealSimple.com
10. Anthropologie Wallpaper Butter Dish. Functional, whimsical, and probably not something I'd buy for myself. Perfect.
Photo source: anthropologie.com
11. Star Wars Lightsaber Chopsticks. Yes.
Photo sour: thinkgeek.com
12. Flour Sack Towels. Super absorbent, huge, bleachable: They're simply the best and I use them for everything.
Photo: kingarthurflour.com
13. Marcona Almonds. Marcona have a particular, unique crunchiness and something else in their texture that reminds me of macadamia nuts.
Photo source: tienda.com
14. Food Pod. A modern twist on the old metal steamer basket. Attach the clip to the side of the pot and drop in the pod. Will accomodate a dozen eggs, several heads of broccoli, shellfish, and more.
Photo source: aplusrstore.com
15. Illy Coffee
Photo: seattlecoffeegear.com
16. Restaurant gift card to a favorite place or a hit on Yelp.
Photo source: westsidecafe.net
17. Fish Spatula. This thin, hard spatula is great for any delicate food. I use mine for roasted veggies, burgers on the grill, getting cookies off the pan, etc.
Photo source: amazon.com
18. Homemade Fleur de Sel Caramels. Make a big batch, wrap them in wax paper, put them in a tin or festive bag, slap on a ribbon and voila. (Then make sure to mail me some.)
Photo source: thatdianne.wordpress.com
Or, find a nut recipe that you love, make a batch, stick them in cellophane bags and tie a ribbon on.
Photo source: me. All that's missing is a ribbon.
This spiced nut recipe looks good. So does this spiced herb nut recipe. As a bonus, these kinds of nuts can be frozen, so if your giftee is overloaded with holiday goodies they can put them in the freezer and pull them out again in February to enjoy. (Stick them in a freezer bag or other airtight container first.) They also keep for a while in the fridge.
19. Salt: A World History. For the foodie history buff in your life.
Photo source: bn.com
20. Cloth Napkins, set of 4
Cloth Napkins, set of 4
Cloth Napkins, set of 4
World Market also has 6 packs of solid color napkins for $10. Pick your favorite, throw in a coordinating print from above, and you'll still be under $25.
Photos source: worldmarket.com
21. Champagne Flutes
Photo source: crateandbarrel.com
22. Magic Wand Salt and Pepper Shakers. Perhaps not totally practical, but these tickle me to no end.
Photo source: perpetualkid.com
23. Prosciutto de Parma. Friend far away? Send him or her a pound of prosciutto with a note saying you wish you could share it over a bottle of wine.
Photo source: gourmetfoodstore.com
24. Le Creuset Enameled Stoneware Utensil Crock. Since it's Le Creuset, I'm always surprised how relatively inexpensive these are. This is just one example: you can find them in a variety of colors and sizes for under $25. Check Amazon, Sur La Table, or chefscatalog.com.
Photo source: amazon.com
25. Super Natural Every Day. Delicious, whole-food recipes and beautiful photography from Heidi Swanson at 101cookbooks.com.
26. Chef'n Freshforce Citrus Juicer. I've written about this before, and it's still a favorite in my kitchen. You may not want to shell out $20 for a citrus juicer, but it's worth every penny and would make a great gift. Throw in a bag of limes or lemons, or go for a little more and add a bottle of tequila or gin.
Photo source: kaboodle.com
27. Fancy Hot Chocolate. My favorites are Penzeys (in regular or Hint of Mint)
Photo source: penzeys.com
And Williams-Sonoma's:
Photo source: williamssonoma.com
I've had and enjoyed both their Classic and Peppermint, and I'm so happy to see that they're in on the salted caramel craze because, man. I love some salted caramel.
28. Whiskey Stones.
Photo source: thinkgeek.com
29. Your favorite recipe and a dish to make it in. You can easily spend a lot on a nice Emile Henry or Le Creuset dish, but there are also plenty of cheaper options, like this Pyrex pie plate. Hit your local Homegoods, Marshalls, or TJ Maxx for namebrands dishes on the cheap as well.
Photo source: cooking.com
30. Onion Goggles. They actually work. They're miraculous.
Photo source: thinkgeek.com
31. Introduce someone to your favorite wine: Wrap up a bottle with a note about why you like it. Mine is Marques de Caceres Rioja because it's delicious, reasonably priced, full-bodied, opens up beautifully, and reminds me of studying abroad in Spain.
Photo source: wine.com
32. A salt pig and a box of kosher salt. Form and function: It keeps salt readily available, keeps it from clumping, and keeps dust and debris out.
Photo source: amazon.com
33. Send a local product or two. I live in Virginia, and here are two of my favorites:
Hubs Peanuts Holiday Duo
Photo source: hubspeanuts.com
Pork Barrel BBQ Picnic Pack (choose any four sauces and rubs)
Photo source: PRweb.com
34. Cheesecake Knife. Don't let the name fool you. According to the website, "the unique design of this knife allows it to glide effortlessly through cheesecake, soft cheese, cake, and softened butter. It’s perfect for any sticky slicing jobs." Sounds good to me.
Photo source: kingarthurflour.com
35. Silicone Garlic Roller and a Rubaway Bar. (Together they're both still under $25.)
I'm generally not a fan of most single-use items, but this garlic roller is cheap and does a great job skinning your garlic.
36. Homemade Tomato Jam
Photo source: nytimes.com
Or Gingered Pear Preserves
Photo source: guidetohomecanning.com
37. Handheld Milk Frother
Photo source: williams-sonoma.com
38. Hearty soup and cornbread
(Photo: frontiersoups.com)
39. Bento Boxes. They come in different shapes, sizes, and colors.
Photo source: aplusrstore.com
40. Mustache Chip Clips
Photo source: perpetualkid.com
41. Small white pitcher. Use as a creamer, or for syrup, salad dressings, even flowers.
Photo source: stonewallkitchen.com
42. Did your giftee just get back from somewhere and can't stop raving about something they ate on the trip? Do they have a trip coming up, or just a soft spot for a faraway place? Get them goodies from their destination.
Headed to Jamaica? How about some Ting (Whole Foods also sells it), Jerk seasoning (make your own and put it in a mason jar), and a recipe for Jamaican Beef Patties?
Photo source: tingsoda.com
Had a good time in Britain last year? How about a selection of Cadbury and PG Tips.
Photos source: worldmarket.com
43. Garlic cellar.
Photo source: Raedunn Etsy shop
44. Pop-up sponges. This seems like one pricey, sponge, I know, but it's one of the best sponges there is. Your gift recipient's kitchen will thank you!
Photo source: williams-sonoma.com
45. Personalized champagne bottles. This is a DIY gift, but it's super easy and relatively cheap. Pick up your favorite bottle of bubbly (easy to find a good one under $15), scrub off the label, use puff paint to personalize your bottle, and then use chalkboard paint over the top. Voila! A gift that looks very expensive and fancy for under $25.
Photo source: thenextbird.com
46. Your favorite salsa and serving spoons. Pick one or two of your favorite salsas (I'm a big fan of Mrs. Renfros), tie them together with a ribbon and add a few of these adorable condiment spoons.
Photo sources: renfrofoods.com & crateandbarrel.com
47. Microplane. Handy, useful, a must-have in any kitchen. Give this with a bag of lemons or whole nutmeg.
Photo source: amazon.com
48. Kid's apron. For the little foodie in your life, how adorable is this tea-and-crumpets apron?
Photo source: anthropologie.com
49. Coffee and coffee mugs. I love these mugs, and they're so reasonably priced. You can buy two, pair it with a pound of your favorite local coffee, and you're set.
Photo source: anthropologie.com
50. Recipe and recipe cards. One of my favorite foodie gifts, is to make your favorite recipe and pair it with a set of awesome recipe cards (using one of the cards to write out the recipe). I love these Rifle cards, but you can choose your favorites, too, of course.
Photo source: riflepaperco.com
OVER $25
1. The Joy of Cooking. Whenever I need a basic recipe -- pie crust, cobbler, beef stew -- this is my go-to book. It has great recipes but great reference info too. A must-have.
Photo source: amazon.com
2. Bennington Trigger Mugs. Strudy, pretty, ergonomic, made in the USA, lead-free: This is not your average mug. Comes in a variety of finishes, this set of two also comes with two small spoons. Throw in your favorite hot chocolate, tea, or coffee to round it out.
Photo source: benningtonpotters.com
3. Himalayan Salt Slab. Can be used hot or cold. Grill on it, use it in the oven, use it to serve a cheese platter. Pretty presentation and adds a hint of flavor to the food without overseasoning. Naturally antimicrobial.
Photo source: oowha.com
4. Fiestaware Platter. You can never have enough platters. Fiestaware has lots colors to choose from, so you'll find one to go with any kitchen. Not sure? White is classic.
Photo soruce: thisnext.com
5. Know someone who didn't know what to do with their CSA share this summer? Help them out. Sur La Table's Eating Local has info and recipes on seasonal produce.
Photo source: surlatable.com
6. Samuel Adams Lager Glasses, set of 4. Specifically designed for lager, these glasses will be a hit wth your favorite beer drinker.
Photo source: estore.samueladams.com
7. Rosle Garlic Press. The Cadillac of all garlic presses, this thing is a beast, and worth every penny.
Photo source: chefscatalog.com
8. Momofuku Milk Bar. Satisfy a sweet tooth with this highly anticipated cookbook from the minds behind Momofuku's Milk Bar restaurants. Highlights include cereal milk ice cream, compost cookies ("a chunky chocolate-chip cookie studded with crunchy salty pretzels and coffee grounds"), crack pie, and much more.
Photo source: amazon.com
9. Glass Cake Stand AND Punch Bowl. A classic, pretty domed cake stand that can also be turned into a punch bowl, and it's only $30.
Picture source: williams-sonoma.com
10. Basic Cheese Making Kit. All you need is the right kind of milk, and you can make Farmhouse Cheddar, Gouda, Monterey Jack, Feta, Cottage Cheese, Colby, Parmesan, and Ricotta all in your kitchen.
Photo source: cheesemaking.com
11. 10 Piece Glass Bowl Set. Perfect for getting your mise en place ready.
Photo source: kaboodle.com
12. Little Birdie Garlic Keeper. There are cheaper, mass market versions out there, but I love that this is handmade and a fun to look at.
Picture source: etsy.com/shop/AbbyTPottery
13. Penzeys Indian Curry Set. Heard one of your giftees say they always wanted to learn how to bake, cook Indian, or improve another special skill set in the kitchen? Help get them started with some basics. For example:
Photo source: penzeys.com
Penzeys offers a ton of great spice sets including extracts, peppercorns, taco seasonings, Asian basics, American basics, and more.
14. How about a Madhur Jaffrey cookbook?
Photo source: amazon.com
Or get the spice set and the book and package them up together.
15. Thirstystone Monogram Coasters with Walnut Holder. They look nice and they're functional.
Photo source: macys.com
16. Silpat Silicone Cookie Sheet Liners. Nor more burnt or uneven cookies. They won't know how they lived without it.
Photo source: williams-sonoma.com
17. Bodum Tea Press. A french press for tea!
Photo source: amazon.com
Photo source: amazon.com
19. The French Chef with Julia Child. Who doesn't love Julia?
Photo source: cgi.ebay.com
20. Grapefruits & Oranges. Nothing like some fresh winter citrus.
Photo source: davidsonbros.com
21. Cow Cutting Board. (You can even get it monogrammed.)
Photo source: williamssonoma.com
22. Chip in on a big gift. Coveted items like Le Creuset dutch ovens, Staub cocottes, and Kitchenaid mixers are pricey, but if you're able to go in with family and friends, it's much more affordable -- and it's exciting to be able to finally get your Mom/uncle/sister/husband that mixer/pot s/he's always wanted!
Photo source: staubusa.com
Photo source: amazon.com
24. Bodum Pavina Double Walled Insulated Cups. By some kind of sorcery, these glasses are designed to not sweat. I don't know if I'd believe it if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes, but they work and they're fantastic. These come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Photo source: amazon.com
25. Sur La Table Cooking or Baking Class. There's a wide selection to choose from, and it varies by store. Some highlights include Tuscan Holiday, Pasta Workshop, and Steakhouse Favorites. I took a cupcake class a few years ago and thought it was very well done. I rarely make cupcakes but I still use some of the tips I learned in my general baking. Check this page to look near you.
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That's a lot of great stuff for the food lover in your life, don't you think?
Be sure to check out the Style Lush Gift Guide for a few other kitchen- and food-related gift ideas (and a lot more awesome gift ideas, too).
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Happy shopping!
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