The Supermarket Gourmet

What to Get Your Favorite Cook for Christmas

by Buck Reed

It is a fairly common understanding that it is better to give than to receive. Given that knowledge, I shall dedicate this article to the presents my family of readers can give to me and make their hearts filled with the joy of giving. And, of course, if you are buying me one, you might as well buy two and give one to the cook in your life. Twice the giving is certainly going to double your joy.

First, when choosing a gift, it is best to know the person for whom you are buying. Are they an accomplished cook, or do they just show an interest in the culinary arts but are a bit overwhelmed with what they would like to learn? A cookbook is always a nice way to go but try pairing it with a cooking class. Perhaps, the two of you would like to take a class together. Bringing together gift-giver and receiver is a great idea for the holiday spirit.

If they are a bit more advanced, a DIY (do it yourself) kit might be the ticket. A quick search online can find a variety of kits available. Usually, they are geared toward a specific subject of culinary activities and usually include ingredients, instructions, and recipes, as well as any specialty equipment needed to master this undertaking. Some that I found included sushi making, churros, making raviolis, specialty pasta shapes, and even a Create a Dessert of the Month Club. With any luck, they might even include you in the testing of their delightful efforts.

Then, there are the gadgets. Personally, I am not a fan of filling one’s kitchen with an array of culinary devices, but there are exceptions. It may sound silly to most, but I am a big fan of having a single pan that is dedicated to cooking just eggs and nothing else. Giving them a pan with an explanation that this pan is to only be used in egg cookery will take them one step closer to the madness found in great cooks.

Then, there are the whimsical gear. Usually, this is something that is useful but silly and must be tailored to the receiver’s personality. I saw the coolest set of dinosaur taco holders that were not only practical for creating tacos but also serving them. Also, they would look great arranged in your China cabinet or on a shelf in your kitchen or dining room. Your taco lover will cherish them always.

Then, there is the specialty ingredients you can procure for your target. If they like spicy foods, a few bottles of hot sauce might be the ticket. Or, you can make it a special gift by creating some special spice blends for them. These are fairly easy and can help them with conquering the elusive flair needed to become a great cook. 

Cooking is a personal venture, and the better you know the cook in your life, the better your success will be when choosing a gift for them.