Foodie Goodies
It’s fall and that means the holidays will soon be upon us! Since I’m always seeking out new kitchen gadgets and gourmet products, foodie gifts are a breeze. I’ve found amazing items at Zingerman’s, Dean and DeLuca, D’Artagnan, and ChefShop. And I bookmark them as I go; Amazon recently added a nice browser feature called the Universal Wish List Button, which you can use to compile potential gifts in one location for future viewing. They don’t have to be from Amazon, which is a plus… However, I will say that Amazon has done a great job of getting many online gourmet shops into one location for easy browsing.
I’ve compiled a list of assorted gift items, ranging from the low to high end. Something for everyone!
Gifts in the $10-20 Dollar Range:
Heat by Bill Buford $10.50
I found this to be an incredibly interesting and inspiring book. Bill Buford makes a bold move from editor at the New York Times to inexperienced intern at Mario Batali’s famed Babbo Restaurant in NYC. If you want to learn about life as a line cook, this is a great read. Buford also explores his own passion for Italian cooking by taking several trips to Italy, following in Batali’s path to gain his own insights.
Oxo Good Grips i-Series Y Peeler $11
Not all peelers are created equal and this one has made such a difference. The handle is easy to grasp (helping to prevent accidents) and the blade contours well to make potatoes a breeze. It also does a good job with delicate peeling work such as asparagus. Don’t let that special someone slice themselves with a bad peeler!
I’m addicted to risotto. Most people use arborio, which is what you’re typically going to find at the grocery store. However, carnaroli is developing a reputation as the “caviar of rice.” It has a high amylose starch content, which improves consistency and resists over-cooking. The Vercellone family has been cultivating grains for over 100 years in the heart of the Po Delta near Vercelli, Italy. This will take your risotto to the next level.
Gifts in the $20-50 Range:
The Flavor Bible by Karen Page and Andrew Dornenburg $23
I was killing time in Barnes and Noble a few months ago and came across this book. After sitting with it for 5 minutes, I was hooked and had to take it home. It’s one of the best food books I’ve read in ages! It’s not a cookbook, but rather tips from chefs across the world on how to get that perfect flavor balance in every dish. Sweet, salty, bitter, sour, umami… learn how to incorporate these elements into every dish. The first half is quotes and interviews from chefs and the second half is literally a bible of flavors and complementary ingredients. It’s the only book I keep handy in the kitchen.
Gourmet Finishing Salt from Das Salt $22
In a previous post I mentioned my love for truffle salt. Truthfully, I just love salt. And here are 3 of my favorite finishing salts sold in one package (though I can’t lie… truffle salt really is my favorite). The Alaea Salt with its earthy flavor is perfect for pork dishes and grilled vegetables. The Black Lava Salt is slightly smoky and goes great with fish (especially Salmon). Fleur de Sel is very versatile and can be used to season meats, sprinkled on salads and is amazing on desserts (cakes, chocolates, truffles).
Veal Demi-Glace from Williams-Sonoma $29
Williams-Sonoma’s Veal Demi-Glace makes a great addition to savory sauces, especially gravies. For example, I’ll saute some garlic and mushrooms, deglaze the pan with red wine and then mix in some veal demi. Add some velvety mashed potatoes to the mix and you have an instant man pleaser.
Ever wanted to make your own cheese at home? This kit has everything you need to get started, including enough rennet and citric acid for 48 batches. The kit also has recipes for homemade mozzarella and ricotta. A great holiday gift for the aspiring cheesemaker.
Gifts in the $100-150 Range
Want to get your foodie a really amazing olive oil but aren’t sure where to start? Or maybe you can’t pick just one? Zingerman’s has a great Tour de Oil that offers a lot of bang for your buck. You get four half sized bottles with flavors ranging from light and elegant to rustic and fruity: feathery light Roi from the Italian Riviera, buttery and silky Casados from Chile, Marta’s assertive but smooth olive oil from Puglia, rustic and fruity Pasolivo from California and a loaf of Paesano Bread for ripping and dipping. If you really want to get a full sized bottle, check my post from a few days ago; I mention 2 great selections.
Cavalli Silver Label Traditional Balsamic Vinegar $114.50
This small bottle of elixir is the ultimate gift for a gourmet foodie. You only need a small drizzle to greatly enhance foods. It’s a hefty price tag, but one that’s well worth it. Cavalli Silver Seal Balsamic has a strong, sweet fragrance with thick, rich acidity. Bottles are numbered and come boxed with an informative booklet containing history and recipes.
The Best Salts in The World – Collection of 24 Mini-Jars With Cork Tops in Bamboo Presentation Box. $139
If 3 finishing salts doesn’t have the “wow” factor you’re seeking, check out this impressive set of salts on Amazon. I’ve often drooled, never actually purchased. But reviewers all give the salts 5 Stars. Must be good!
Gifts Beyond $200
Vita-Mix 1300 TurboBlend 4500 $379
This is an industrial strength, professional blender. My blender recently melted when I attempted to blend soup. I’m pretty sure this one can take the heat.
Happy Shopping!
