Holiday Gifts for Cooks

It’s hard to think about the holidays without acknowledging the COVID-19 pandemic. In times like these, a holiday gift guide might not seem like the most useful thing, but I figure that even if family dinners and festive celebrations don’t happen, you can still spread a little cheer with a carefully chosen gift. 

In the before times, I would have considered it a little early for this kind of thing, but with COVID on the upswing in most of the world, online shopping will be the way to go. And the earlier you shop, the better, given all the problems COVID has already caused with supply and delivery. 

I created this list realizing fully that kitchen gifts can be a challenge. Some people think they are too utilitarian to be special enough for holiday giving, while others love the idea of getting something practical as a gift. The key is to know the recipient, what they already have, and what they might need. I have kept this list to small items, so you can buy one or two or a whole bunch, depending on your budget. If you celebrate Christmas, you can use some of the items here as stocking stuffers. Or, if you buy a few, you can create a little bundle of gifts. Wrap them in some kitchen linens and ribbon, put them in a mixing bowl and wrap everything in cellophane, or box them up and include a few of your favourite recipes on old-fashioned recipe cards. 

And, strictly speaking, this isn’t just a holiday gift list; it’s a selection of really good ideas for any kitchen. If you love to cook, why not treat yourself to something on this list? My holiday gifts for cooks are intended for everyone from the novice to the expert, for those who love to cook and others who do it mainly because they have to. I have chosen retailers based in Canada since that’s where I’m from, but if you live elsewhere, you can likely find the same or similar items at your own local shops and department stores. 

So, as the song goes, here are a few of my favourite things. Click the picture to get to the retailer. Photo credits in parentheses. (Note that I receive no remuneration or special consideration from any of the sellers on this list. The items here are genuine favourites and I am providing links for convenience, not income. I’m not dragging anyone who does earn money from lists like this, as I very well intend to do the same in the future. I’m just not doing it yet.)

Spice Jar Measuring Spoons

I have had a set of these spoons for years and they are the best! They include less common measurements, like ⅛ and ¾ of a teaspoon, along with metric equivalents on each spoon. And the shape is genius. They fit into most spice jars and can also sit flat on the counter, holding an ingredient until you need it. (Lee Valley)

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Image of gift by Tatyana Petrova | Dreamstime