In recent years, I’ve tried to keep my gifts small in size, every-day useable, or, at least, consumable. Being a food blogger, I can get away with giving kitchen and food related items that fit that criteria.
Here’s a few such things to consider, if you’re putting together a gift basket or stuffing a Christmas stocking for someone on your list. These small items would be welcomed by most anyone who enjoys cooking and eating—or, for that matter, anyone who lives under a roof.
Kuhn Rikon Polka Dot Paring Knife Set
What fun! Add some pizzaz to the task of chopping and slicing with these colorful paring knives. Available at Bed, Bath & Beyond and online at Swiss Knife Shop for about $24.
Gift Cards
If your foodie is hard to buy for, consider a gift card. Major stores, as well as specialty shops, such as Williams Sonoma, Sur La Table, and Kitchen Conservatory, have gift cards available all year round.
Mini Mustard Medley
This assortment from the National Mustard Museum in Wisconsin would be much enjoyed by the mustard-lovers on your list. The set above is about $25.
Kuhn Rikon Corn Zipper
Corn Zipper is a quick and easy way to slip those kernels from the cob. About $11 on Amazon or Bed, Bath & Beyond.
A Cooking Magazine Subscription
Cook’s Illustrated would delight any foodie and is about $25 a year. Consider Chris Kimball’s new Milk Street magazine for about about $20 annually, or the digital version for less.
KeySmart Organizer
This clever, streamline device holds 4 keys, but with the expansion packs ($7) you can add dozens more. Fits comfortably into pocket or purse. About $20 each on Amazon, or less when you buy three.
Ruffled-Edged Pie Plate
Any pie baker would enjoy this colorful, clay, 10.5″ French pie plate (Emile Henry) with a fluted edge. At Williams-Sonoma, for $20-$30, depending on size.
Swedish Dishcloths
The set of 5 wet-it dishcloths lasts 6 months, or longer, and are the perfect alternative to sponges and paper towels. Wash them in the dishwasher or washing machine. Made of 70% cotton and 30% cellulose. Featured in Paula Deen’s “Picks for Summer 2017.” Size 8 x 7 inches. Comes in a variety of designs and prices. Set of 5 shown above is $28.56 at Amazon. Imported from Sweden.
Fun Aprons
My “kitchen helpers” always reach for my aprons with the fun sentiments. One gift apron has the names of all my children and grandchildren. During the holidays, Williams-Sonoma is featuring themed aprons: Star Wars, Spiderman, and Harry Potter at $39.95.
Speciality Soaps
Soaps, such as these from the Herbaria located on The Hill, are fragrant as well as useful.
Cooking Classes
This photo was taken in one of several cooking classes, that I’ve attended at Schnucks, Kitchen Conservatory, Dierberg’s, St. Louis Homes, and in Paris. Topics have included Cuban, French, Israeli, Asian and seafood cooking and all were great fun.
Pot and Pan Scrapers
This set of three scrapers from Bogo Brands makes scrubbing a breeze. Cleans countertops as well as pots and pans. At Amazon for $7.99 a set. Dishwasher safe.
Restaurant Gift Card
This is one gift you don’t have to worry about. The recipient is sure to like having a night out at a new or favorite restaurant.
Immersion Stick Blender
This handy stick blender purees sauces and soups and smooths gravy. Handy to have around and easy to use and clean. About $35 for a Cuisinart brand on Amazon.
The Perfect Bag for Your St. Louis Gifts
St. Louis is known for the question emblazoned on this tote bag. It’s what people invariably ask each other when they first meet. I recently found myself asking The Question of a new acquaintance. I couldn’t believe what I had done! I’ve lived here for 15 years, so it’s taken me awhile to work the peculiar inquiry into a conversations. I ran on to the bag at Twigs & Moss on Clayton Road.
