With the holidays in full swing, you may be the shopper who loves searching out that perfect gift for everyone on your list. Or, you may feel like you’re wandering for something to wrap that’s not just a gift card.
In whatever way you approach your gift list, holiday shopping often takes some thought and planning. Being intentional about the gift you give shows the person that you took the time to think about them, their interests, what they might need and what delights them.
When it comes to checking off the cook or foodie on your holiday shopping list, there are many options you can explore. Whether they are a young, aspiring culinary artist or a season family meal prepper, there are always fun gadgets and tools to equip them in the kitchen. You can find something for any budget, too.
Of course, we believe you can’t go wrong with a great EVOO and balsamic pairing as a gift for your foodie friend. Especially when you pick flavors that match their preferred method of cooking or flavoring, your gift is a sure winner. Pantry items can also be great additions to keep them cooking. If you’re looking for something other than ingredients to give as a gift, there are always other things you can add on.
To help get you started, here we share 7 great gift ideas that are perfect for your foodie friend.
1. Wooden Charcuterie Board
In setting out appetizers for a party, presentation is everything. Help the foodie in your life create a beautiful display with a customized wooden charcuterie board. You can find varieties to personalize yourself or just find a cool design they’ll love. These elegant surfaces are great for displaying all your cheese, meats, nuts, fruits and more for your appetizer.
Check these boards out at your local Fustini’s store! They’re even made locally right in Petoskey, Mich.
2. Paring Knife
Depending on the type and size of the food you’re preparing, a chef could use a variety of types of knives. Perhaps one of the most versatile and useful knives is the paring knife. From slicing cucumbers to peeling potatoes to removing seeds from fruits and so much more, this small but steady knife is a standard in the kitchen.
3. Oven Mitt
Like dishtowels or napkins, oven mitts can bring a pop of fun color and brightness into the kitchen. Not only is it practical in taking things in and out of the oven, but it can also demonstrate a part of their personality as they craft their creations in the kitchen. Find one that matches the colors of the kitchen. Or, search for one with a funny or cute saying that’ll sure to bring delight each time they use it.
4. Herb Growing Kit
Give the gift of picking fresh herbs right as they’re cooking from their very own herb garden. These growing kits can be used inside or outside, depending on the time of year. From basil to parsley, thyme, rosemary and more, herbs can make the perfect addition to preparing a delicious dish.
5. Spatula
Perhaps considered one of the most used and versatile kitchen tools, the spatula is a gift you can’t go wrong with. Spatulas come in a variety of materials, sizes and use. Rubber spatulas are perfect for stirring sauteed veggies or scooping out that last bit of batter for a cake. Silicone turner spatulas are great for flipping sauteed meats or pulling off that last batch of pancakes. Help them decorate their cakes with perfection with a new frosting spatula built for spreading into those small cracks. A slotted spatula is great for pulling off those cookies just pulled out of the oven or flipping your salmon, keeping the juices intact.
Fustini’s also carries wooden spatulas made from olive wood. These not only work great for a variety of cooking tasks but also add style and beauty to their kitchen. Whatever spatula path you travel down, you can’t go wrong with this practical and versatile tool.
6. Cast Iron Skillet
Unlike a standard saute pan, the cast iron skillet is known for its durability and tolerance for high heat. Whether you’re cooking a roast low and slow or need something that can go from the oven to the campfire, the cast iron skillet can do it all. They come in a variety of sizes, as well, so you can be sure to find one in your price range. With so many uses, it can make a great gift for the experienced or novice chef.
7. Apron
It’s an unfortunate moment when you’re cooking something up before a party of dinner only to have some sauce, juice or other ingredient splash up on your nice clothes. Help them protect their clothes from their creativity in the kitchen with a fun, personalized apron. Have it custom-made with their initials or find a clever saying or joke that will bring delight each time they put it on.
Get to Shopping
Have some ideas stirring in your mind? With the plethora of kitchen gadgets, tools and other fun accessories, finding that perfect something for the foodie in your life doesn’t have to be stressful.
You can also shop small by visiting great cooking and kitchen specialty shops in your nearby downtown location. In Holland, swing by Teermans or Seasoned Home. In Traverse City, stop by Peppercorn’s. Fustini’s Petoskey is close to Cutler’s Gifts and Kitchen Accessories, and if you’re shopping in Kerrytown Shops in Ann Arbor, you can browse through as you pick up your favorite oils and vinegars at nearby Fustini’s.