Kitchenware
For foodies looking for all-purpose, multi-tasking kitchenware, these options are a great choice thanks to
their ease of use,
durability, and low
maintenance.
Wok: I didn’t know I
needed a wok until I had
one. I use it for all my
Chinese and Thai
recipes, since most of
them require quick
cooking on high heat.
The large size means you
can use it to cook
veggies, sauce, and
noodles all in one pot for
a complete meal.
Cast iron pot: The cast iron
pot is my most-used dish in the kitchen. I use it to make soups, curries, chicken, and even pasta. It can be placed on the stovetop or in the oven, so you can use it to braise, simmer, bake, and sauté. I’ve had mine for 7 years now and it’s only getting better with age.
Toaster oven: The toaster oven is versatile, portable, and
efficient. I use it for everything from toasting bread and roasting veggies to reheating pizza and warming frozen meals. It heats up quicker than your conventional oven and is easy to clean and store. It’s great for small apartments or if you are cooking for a small group.
Books
Whether your foodie dabbles in causal home cooking or intense culinary arts, these books are a fresh alternative to the traditional step-by-step cookbook.
Using input from world-renowned chefs, The Flavor Bible provides complimentary flavor combinations to rejuvenate your nightly meals. It highlights optimal ingredient pairings and encourages the reader to experiment with what they already have, but may not have thought to use together. This book is ideal for someone wanting to step out of their comfort zone and create unexpected, yet delicious meals.
If your foodie secretly enjoys their meals with a science lesson on the side, Modernist Cuisine at Home is for them. This book delves into modern cooking techniques, the chemical reactions behind cooking, and ways to make commonplace ingredients shine. MCAH is a feast for the eyes with large, stunning photographs on every page. It is perfect for someone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of how and why cooking works the way it does, or for someone looking to broaden their repertoire of recipes and techniques.
Does someone you know have a knack for transforming a dish with just the right amount of…something? If so, Salt Fat Acid Heat is for them. It explains why the balance of each of these namesake components is important to dishes, and how they interact to deliver the desired taste and texture. It’s written in an informal, humorous way with charts and recipes peppered throughout to illustrate the point. This book is a great addition to the home chef’s bookshelf.
Around the holidays, it’s easy to be tempted by flashy sales on dad sweaters and reindeer-themed onesies for your dog, but if you have a foodie on your list, these ideas will not disappoint. Let me know what you plan on gifting the foodie in your life here.