gifts for foodies | 2016
I am a big fan of food (duh). At least three items on any of my wish lists contain a food- or cooking-related gift. I just can't help it. So spread the gift of gastronomy to your favorite connoisseurs with these perfect gifts for foodies.
le creuset cookware - prices vary
As you already know, I'm a HUGE fan of Le Creuset. I own almost a dozen pieces and can't wait to add more to my collection. While pricy, this cookware really is worth the cost. It's heavy duty and, if cared for properly, can last 3 lifetimes. I recommend starting out with their 4 1/2 quart round Dutch oven and/or the deep sauté pan. I'm partial to the cerise color, but the amethyst and Caribbean are also gorgeous.
bodum french press coffee maker - $20 to $40
French press is the only way to go when it comes to rich, deeply flavored coffee. Granted, it takes more time than a traditional coffee maker (and much more time than a Keurig). However, the flavor is spectacular. It's so much better than regularly brewed coffee, I actually get up 15 minutes earlier to make it in the press each morning. Bodum is king of the coffee presses. I actually have two, the Kenya 4-cup and the Chambord 12-cup. Both are worth the splurge, especially if you love coffee.
cooking classes - prices vary
My very favorite cooking school is Onion Creek Kitchens at Juniper Hills Farm, located in the (semi) remote and beautiful Texas Hill Country. Find a place to try out something completely new and different for a fun date night or girls' trip. My friends and I are headed back there in January for a soup and bread making class...and we can't wait!
gourmet spices - prices vary
If you haven't already gone to Penzey's Spices, stop what you are doing and check them out. From their amazing cinnamon blend to their savory and surprisingly versatile pasta sprinkle, you get affordable, high-quality whole spices and blends. The best part is that if you're not near a store, their entire store is also online. Also, it's important to invest in gourmet olive oils and vinegars, like the ones sold at Vom Fass. A small amount packs a punch of flavor and ups any dish.
kitchenaid professional 600 series bowl lift mixer - $569.99
This bad mamma jamma makes holiday cooking an absolute breeze. Though mine is a few years old, I can't imagine life without it. It makes easy work of double and triple batches of cookie dough, bread, and cakes. I also recommend investing in a good scrape-action beater blade to keep you from having to use a spatula too often.
corksicle tumbler - $24.95 to $29.95
These are even better than Tervis tumblers. No joke. And I LOVE me some Tervis. However, the metal keeps things super hot if you choose a warm beverage. As in, taking a sip of your dad's old Thermos kind of hot. Choose from 16 ounces or 24 ounces for on-the-go deliciousness.
wine opener set - $65
Though it's a little cliche to purchase engraved items now (especially at Things Remembered), this wine opener is my absolute favorite. It was given to me by my good friend, Heather. The wine opener is so easy you could (though I wouldn't recommend) open bottles one-handed. The case is beautiful and simple, and it goes well with any wet bar collection. Be sure to check out coupon places like Retail Me Not for coupons and other discounts.
