Holiday Gift Guide
Uncategorized
Nov 13, 2020
A few days ago I was taking a break from my computer and stepped outside on my patio for some fresh air. And because it's getting dark at like 430 these days I happened to notice some lights on in my neighbours apartments. And no I wasn't creeping on them, though it's always interesting to think about what other people are doing in their apartment at the same time, especially during the hibernation of 2020 (that's what I'm calling it anyways). ANYWAYS, the important part of the story was I notice not one, but two windows with the sparkly lights of Christmas trees. On November 10th. Like 6 weeks from Christmas.....
I'll be the first to put my hand to up to say that's way too early because I always have the strict rule that the tree doesn't go up until December 1st. Of course to each their own and especially this year I can understand it a little more to want to enjoy the small things about the holidays. And so thank you to my neighbours. Because now I can look out at the sparkly lights whenever I need it without having to break my own 'November's too early' rule.
Whether your tree's up or not, it's definitely the time to be thinking about gift giving so I thought it'd be fun to put together a little Foodie Favourites gift guide for you.
A my current favourite kitchen tools, new cookbooks, spices & other pantry items, tableware and things that will make the cooking and eating experience that much more fun!
Tools:
Pairing knife - everyone should have a small pairing knife in the kitchen. This makes easy work of small jobs; slicing fruit, prepping mushrooms, chopping herbs. I love the look of this white ceramic one.
Folding knife - this is great to have in the kitchen as a pairing knife or on the go for picnics, etc.
Fish Spatula - I love this spatula not only for flipping fish but for grilled cheese sandwiches, pancakes, anything where you need a bit more surface space to help with that all important flip.
Half Size Sheet Trays - these are one of the most used things in my kitchen. Not only for baking but I use them to gather all my ingredients before cooking, for flash freezing things because they fit easily, and so much more.
Mortar and Pestle - a small one of these works wonders fro crushing whole spices, making garlic paste or muddling fresh herbs. And how much do you love this pink marble one???!
Bread Cloche - for my sourdough bakers out there, the bread cloche is an investment but makes baking so much easier. It's lighter and more maneuverable than cast iron which is important when you're working with hot hot heat!
Pantry:
Burlap and Barrel - good spices make such a difference in your cooking. And even better to support a company that's working to create a more equitable food system. The cinnamon is seriously life changing!
Diaspora Co - another good one for expanding your spice rotation.
Scout & Co. - the most delicious canned seafood I've found this year.
Premium Soy Sauce - this is worth the investment. You haven't actually experienced real soy sauce until you've tried something like this. Made in traditional ways, no preservatives or other fillers, it's the real deal!
Cookbooks:
Instant Family Meals - for those busy families out there this one is all about using your slow cooker, instant pot, etc to it's advantage
The Flavour Equation - I'm all about teaching you to trust your intuition in the kitchen and books like these help to break down flavour concepts in the kitchen to help you build that and trust yourself more.
New World Sourdough - a favourite for my sourdough crew. The recipes for using the discard are so good!
On Spice - Building on the one above this is a beautiful book that talks about the history of spice (and you know I love any book that gives me all the stories) and how to use them better at home.
Old World Italian - Mimi is a favourite of mine. Her photos and writing usually take me away to France but this time it's Italy.
Mastering Pasta - For anyone wanting to learn everything there is to know about pasta at home, this is it. And I thought my pasta game was good before......
Every Night Is Pizza Night - this is not a cookbook but for anyone with kids that are picky eaters. I'm getting one for all the kids in my life this year!
Tableware and other Kitchen Decor
Fable - I upgraded my dishes this year and am so happy with these! Simple, beautifully made and super durable for everyday.
Green Boheme - this is the place for all things sustainable living. So many beautiful and function things for your whole home. I'm in love with pretty much everything! Oh and check out the
Christmas cards....you can plant them afterwards, the seeds are a herb bundle or wildflowers.
Misc:
I just wanted to pop in a couple unique food related experiences too:
Food & Foraging Tours - I love these types of things so much. Learning how to forage for mushrooms or a food tour of your favourite city. Most cities will have something like this so just do a quick google search where ever you are and see what you find.
Food Memberships - Another fun idea is to give the gift of a food membership.
Skipper Otto is a community supported fishery that I joined last year which is just an example. There's so many options out there now you can find one in your area whether it's for sustainably sourced seafood, meat or even a CSA box from your local farmers.
That's a long list I know but there's something for everyone here and I hope it helps you find something fun.
Happy giving!!!
oxo
