Alright, it’s time for holiday gift guide #2. This time around, it’s all about kitchen essentials. These are kitchen gifts that are perfect for a number of people/occasions. For instance, whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, these would be wonderful. They’re also perfect for someone who’s just moving into a new home. I should also note something else – these kitchen essentials are items that I absolutely love having on-hand while I’m in the kitchen.
These aren’t the *only* items I need while cooking stuff but they’re definitely my most used. Other items I love that aren’t on this gift guide include things like:
- kitchen shears (please get some if you don’t have any already – they’re the best)
- nesting bowls
- slow cooker
- citrus juicer (I love having this on-hand for cocktails and such)
Holiday gift guide: kitchen essentials
OK so get these items if you want to get a head start on setting up your (or someone you love) kitchen for culinary success.
[clockwise]
Dutch oven – I LOVE cooking in my Dutch oven. It’s so versatile because you can use it on the stove top or in the oven AND it holds heat so well. It’s a win-win.
Food processor – I’ve said this so many times before and I’ll say it again: I don’t know how I made it in the kitchen so long without having one. Food processors are the greatest for blending, slicing even rough chops. If the cook you’re buying for doesn’t have one: get it.
Digital scale – Talk about a kitchen necessity I didn’t know I wanted or needed. My kitchen scale gets a lot of use and I’d imagine, if you buy one for someone building their kitchen collection, they’ll highly appreciate a digital scale.
Metal mesh strainer/skimmer – Does this seem like a weird gift? Maybe but how many times have you been cooking something in oil or in a deep dish and had a bit of difficultly fishing it out – SAFELY? That’s where the strainer/skimmer comes into play.
Cooling rack – Cooling racks are a cook’s best friend!
Custom-made cutting board – Trust me on this: everyone needs a cutting board BUT what really makes the a difference is a good cutting board. John got me a custom-made cutting board from CW Woodworking and I treasure it. Not only can you use it for adventures in the kitchen but it looks really pretty on a shelf. Whoever you buy this for will love you forever.
