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Gift Ideas

2021 Holiday Gift Guide for Foodies

by Jessica Vogl December 10, 2021

It’s that time of year when we’re all searching for the best gifts to give all of our foodie friends and family members! Whether you’re shopping for someone who loves to cook, loves to eat, loves to check out the latest restaurants, or all of the above, this 2021 holiday gift guide for foodies has you covered!

As always, I do include a few affiliate links in this post for products I truly use and love. This just means that if you make a purchase after clicking one of those links, I’ll earn a little money (at no cost to you) to keep the kitchen up and running, which I promise to use to create more fun content like this! One of those affiliates is with Amazon, which requires a very clear disclosure: as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you have any questions about affiliates, please reach out!

For the foodie who loves a good book (not a cookbook)

Now, these are not cookbooks, but more of an actual read for someone who just loves to consume everything on the topic of food (and the famous foodies we know and love!). There are two books that have come out this year that are a must-read on any foodie’s list!

Taste: My Life Through Food by Stanley Tucci is a memoir of Tucci’s life through food. Growing up in an Italian American family, food played a major role in his upbringing. He previously published The Tucci Cookbook and The Tucci Table, and Taste: My Life Through Food is his latest release sharing a peek into the food-centric stories that shaped him into the person we know and love!

World Travel: An Irreverent Guide by Anthony Bourdain and Laurie Woolever came onto the scene with a bang. Written post-mortem, the book is a guide to some of the world’s most fascinating places, according to Bourdain. His words are supplemented by essays by some of his friends, family and colleagues. To be fair, the book has received some criticism – travel recommendations may be “outdated” and some don’t appreciate how much content was contributed by people other than Bourdain. But for anyone that is a Bourdain fan, I think they’ll appreciate this book as a compilation from one of the world’s most well-respected travelers and foodies who left us far too soon.

For the foodie all about function

Hear me out on this one. These might not be the sexiest gift you might give or receive, but they are genuinely life-changing kitchen tools and two of my very favorite things in my kitchen. I would be thrilled to receive these (honestly, there is a GIR spatula in my own stocking…). If you have a foodie that is all about the best and most functional kitchen tools, these are the perfect gift.

GIR spatulas are truly my favorite kitchen utensil, and these are really worth it! GIR (Get It Right) makes all kinds of kitchen utensils — spatulas, flips, spoons, whisks, spoonulas, you name it — but for me, the spatulas are really where they shine. They come in a variety of different sizes (I like the Ultimate and the Skinny the best) and a huge range of colors to suit any kitchen. They’re the perfect combination of sturdy and flexible, dishwasher safe, stain-resistant, and heat resistant up to 550F (since they always somehow end up in the pan, amiright??).

MENU salt and pepper grinders are primarily, beautiful, but also the most functional salt and pepper grinders I’ve ever used. Their inverted design means that the salt and pepper comes out of the top (and doesn’t leave a dusting all over your countertops…). They also hold a lot of peppercorns and coarse salt, so you’re not constantly refilling them. They’re a bit $$ but I promise they are worth every penny and you will never look back.

For the foodie all about presentation

Marbe and Wood Cake Stand from Crate & Barrel

The Wood Marble Pedestal Cake Stand from Crate & Barrel is a timeless classic and looks great in any setting. The marble top is stunning paired with the acacia wood base and is perfect for displaying a cake, donuts, meringue, or cookies. Full transparency, it looks like this is no longer in stock to ship in time for the holidays, but may be available for in-store pick up, so be sure to check!

The Eve Coupe Cocktail Glass from CB2 is one of my favorite purchases from this year. It’s such a showstopper. The modern design with the classic coupe shape makes this perfect for holiday entertaining. It looks like this is currently on backorder online, so be sure to check availability at your local store.

For foodie who needs the latest equipment

If you’re looking to give a more substantial gift, you can’t go wrong with adding to someone’s collection of favorite cookware. But if you’re open to trying something new, there are two recommendations that I think are always a winner.

The Small Fry from Great Jones is one of the most functional pans in our kitchen. You can’t go wrong with a small skillet. This pan is incredibly non-stick, gorgeously designed, and has NO RIVETS on the inside of the skillet itself. For anyone that has scrubbed a skillet after a particularly gritty meal, you’ll know what a big deal this is!

The Anova Precision Cooker sous vide is such an excellent addition to any kitchen. Do you like the convenience of a slow cooker, but don’t want to store something that large? Do you like meat that is perfectly cooked every time no matter what? Sous vide is the answer for you. It’s as easy as setting the temperature, putting your food into a plastic bag, and dropping it in the hot water for a few hours. Perfect every time!

For the foodie who needs a tasty bite (all of us, right?)

Since we all need a little something tasty under the tree or in the stocking, these are a few of my favorite food items to give as gifts.

Hot Honey from Savannah Bee Company is perfect for anyone who loves a spicy and sweet combo! Put this on waffles, cornbread, pizza or add to a cocktail.

The Infused Salt Set from Jacobsen Salt Co. is beautiful and delicious, and a great way to taste a variety of different sea salts. Six small vials of different flavors will let you get a taste for what you like best. Flavors include Rosemary Salt, Habanero Salt, Pinot Noir Salt and Black Truffle Salt.

Homemade vanilla extract is an easy gift to make, looks beautiful, and tastes absolutely incredible. The best thing? You don’t even have to plan ahead. Just create a bottle (or 2 or 3) and mark them with a “ready on” date. The gift receiver can then let it sit for a few weeks (at least 8 weeks) while it matures.

For the foodie who likes to take pictures

Do you know a foodie who loves to take pictures of what they’re eating or cooking? If they want to boost their photography skills – either just as a fun hobby or as something more serious – an educational course could be the way to go!

iFoodtography School is a go-at-your-own-pace online course taught by Sarah Crawford of Broma Bakery. The course teaches you how to take stunning pictures just with your phone! Whether you’re someone who takes pictures of your food in restaurants or snaps a pic of the dish you just made at home, this can help make your photos even more drool-worthy!

Foodtography School is another online course offering from Sarah Crawford of Broma Bakery. Foodtography School is specifically targeted to treat their photography as an art form, create a standout online presence, and turn your photography into a business. A perfect gift for the budding food photographer!

If you’re interested in any of the Foodtography School offerings (they also sell presets, guides and templates), you can sign up here. Use code JESS at checkout for 15% off everything on the site!

For the foodie’s stocking

If you need a little something to pop into a stocking, these two items are colorful, festive, and just perfect.

Granf Lantz Wool Wine-O’s are a design-forward way to mark which glass is yours. Lantz is known for his stunning Merino wool creations (he also makes coasters, pan handles, wine bottle carriers and more), but these wine markers are just asking to be added to a stocking! Plus, they’re stain-resistant, which we can all certainly use.

These Beaded Wreath Napkin Rings from World Market are SO CUTE! Personally, I cut off the bow and the bauble, but the beaded wreath portion is stunning. The perfect color pop and amount of sparkle for a holiday table (or could be a really cute ornament…

One thing you don’t see on this holiday gift guide for foodies: food ornaments. Yes, there are tons of them and they are ADORABLE, but if you can hold off until just after the holiday, they will be on steep discount, and I guarantee you they will be selling the exact same ornaments again next year. I always try to get out in the week after Christmas to see what I can pick up from stores like Sur la Table, Food52, Crate & Barrel, West Elm, and I just recently spotted some from NordicWare (a mini bundt pan ornament).

Hopefully you’ve enjoyed this holiday gift guide for foodies and it has given you some good inspiration! Happy gifting and happy holidays!

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This Week’s Garden Overflow: Fresh Jalapeños

by Jessica Vogl October 23, 2021

Chicago is hanging on to warm weather by a thread, but fall is fast approaching! With the warm weather, we’ve had a wonderful crop of fresh jalapeños from the plant on our porch, and of course they’re all ripe around the same time! This week, I’m digging into a few ideas to use the abundance of fresh jalapeños before they’re gone!

Of course there is the obvious: you can put them into almost anything you cook. Making turkey burgers? Add a jalapeño. Baking cornbread? Add a jalapeño for a little kick. Soups and sauces can also be a great place to add a little spice. And you can always make a spicy margarita! But if you want to try something beyond those, and perhaps something that uses up quite a bit of jalapeños, I’m rounding up a few good options! These are also all dairy-free options, so you won’t see jalapeño poppers on this list!

What can I make with fresh jalapeños?

Whether you like to embrace the heat of jalapeños, or you want to mellow it out a bit, there are plenty of options! Also, it might make sense to do something fresh that you can eat right away, as well as something that keeps for a bit longer.

Cowboy Caviar: Love & Lemons shares a great recipe for Cowboy Caviar that combines fresh corn, black beans, tomatoes, jalapeños and avocado. Bring those delicious summer flavors into fall!
Fresh Salsa: You can never go wrong with fresh salsa, and Ambitious Kitchen shares a declicious recipe for Easy Homemade Salsa that will have you ready for taco night!
Salsa Verde: While we’re in the fresh salsa mood, check out this Salsa Verde recipe from Gimme Some Oven — delicious!

If you have A LOT of jalapeños you want to use up right away (we’re talking a pound of jalapeños at a time), try one of these:

Candied Jalapeños: I tried this for the first time this year and they’re delicious! An amazing combination of spicy and sweet. I followed this super simple recipe for Candied Jalapeños from Foodie with Family. They’re delicous on tacos, sandwiches, burgers — a great all-around condiment!
Pickled Jalapeños: if you’re a pickle fan, check out this recipe from Vanilla & Bean for Pickled Jalapeño peppers. Another great condiment to have on hand!

Keep in mind, candied and pickled jalapeños can also be great gift items, and they’re beautiful in the jar!

Fresh Jalapeño FAQ

What do the different pepper colors mean?

Red jalapeños are just a little older — they have been on the plant longer than the green peppers! They’re still the same pepper, and generally hold the same heat, but are just a different color!

How long do fresh jalapeños last?

Store fresh jalapenos in the fridge, ideally to use within one week. They may stay good longer, but they’ll eventually start to soften and go bad. If anything looks or smells off, that pepper should be thrown out.

Are jalapeños easy to grow?

Yes, they are! Ours is in a pot on the front porch and is a thoroughly happy plant! All you need is well-draining soil, full sun, and warm weather.

What are you making with all of your fresh jalapeños this year? I’d love to hear!

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Baking Gift Ideas Recipes

Homemade Vanilla Extract

by Jessica Vogl September 30, 2021

Jump to Recipe

Just your friendly neighborhood PSA: if you want to make homemade vanilla extract for the holidays (either to bake with or give as a gift), now is the time! Homemade vanilla extract is super simple to make, but it needs to sit for a while (8 weeks or more) so it’s time to get started!

This is the first year I’m making my own homemade vanilla extract, but I’ve only heard great things! And if this tastes better than store-bought, then I’m sure I’ll be hooked. We’ll be making this together!

If you’re giving vanilla extract as a gift, choose a nice bottle, tie with some ribbon, and add a note as to when it’ll be ready to consume (it doesn’t have to be ready when you give it, so you have some time!).

Ingredients for homemade vanilla extract

What you need to get started

Vodka – You don’t need to use anything special here. Choose a vodka that is fairly neutral (certainly not flavored) and 80 proof. I like to use Prairie Organic Spirits vodka beucase it’s a nice, smooth, organic vodka that doesn’t break the bank. You can also make vanilla extract with bourbon, brandy or rum, but note that you will taste a difference. But that could be a great thing!
Vanilla beans – You can use any kind of vanilla bean, but I used these Madagascar Vanilla beans that I ordered on Amazon.
Small bottles with lids – I used these small 4 oz. glass bottles from Amazon (knowing that I intend to give these away as gifts), but you could use any size / shape bottle, as long as it has a lid to close.

And seriously, that’s it! You may also want to label your bottles so you remember when you made them and when they’re ready to use. If you’re making just one batch it’s easy enough to remember, but if you have multiple going, you’ll want to keep track.

Small bottles with vanilla beans for homemade vanilla extract

Vodka poured over vanilla beans for homemade vanilla extract

How to make homemade vanilla extract

Wash and dry your bottles
Cut your vanilla beans in half, longways, to expose the vanilla bean paste inside. Make sure they’re also short enough to fit into your bottle, and place them inside
Fill with vodka and close with the lid
Give them a good shake and store them in a cool, dry place. You’ll want to shake them every week or so, but they’ll be ready to use in 8 weeks! The longer they sit, the more flavorful they will be, so feel free to let them sit longer!
Once you’re ready to use the vanilla, you can top it off with a little more vodka to keep the bottle full. Add a fresh vanilla bean whenever you have one on hand / think about it! This will keep your extract going indefinitely (seriously…. you can keep this going for years!). Alternatively, you can remove the vanilla beans, and use up the bottle until empty.

Homemade vanilla extract FAQs

How long do I have to store before using?

Let the vanilla extract sit for at least 8 weeks before using. The flavor will only get better the longer it sits, so feel free to give it more time!

What if I forget to shake the bottles?

Don’t sweat it! Shake them whenever you think about it. Once per week is a good goal, but sometimes that just isn’t realistic, so shake them whenever it comes to mind.

There are little floaters in my bottles – what should I do?

The floaters are the seeds from the vanilla bean — this is a good thing! This is the most authentic vanilla extract, so don’t worry about it. They’ll be delicious and you won’t even taste them.

Do I need to take the vanilla beans out?

You can either add a little more vodka to the bottle each time you use it, and make this a continuous bottle of extract, or you can remove the beans and use the bottle until empty. As long as the beans are covered in vodka, they’ll remain preserved and continue adding flavor!

How many beans do I need to put in each bottle?

I’d recommend at least 3 vanilla beans in a 4 oz. bottle, but you can always add more or less — it’ll just change how strong the flavor of the extract will be.

I’ve written up a quick set of directions below, but let me know what you think! Have you made any fun vanilla extract variations that we just need to try?

Homemade Vanilla Extract

An easy recipe to make your own vanilla extract! Don't forget these need to sit for at least 8 weeks, so get started now!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 mins

Total Time 10 mins

Course Dessert, Ingredient

Servings 4 bottles

Ingredients

12 vanilla bean pods
16 ounces vodka
4 glass bottles with lids 4 oz. each

Instructions

Clean and dry your glass bottles.
Cut your vanilla bean pods in half to expose the vanilla bean seeds. Make sure the vanilla beans are short enough to fit into your bottle (cut if needed!)
Add the beans to the bottles (3 beans for each 4 oz. bottle) and pour in vodka to cover and fill.
Close each bottle and give a good shake! Store in a cool, dry place, shaking once per week. They're ready to enjoy after 8 weeks, but you can always let sit longer!

Keyword vanilla, vanilla extract

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Gift Ideas Holidays

Stocking Stuffer Gifts for the Foodie

by thisjess.cooks December 10, 2020

From one foodie to another, there is nothing I would love more than to spend all day making stockings full of amazing foodie gifts! Small cooking and baking items are often overlooked. They’re not necessarily the most glamorous and they don’t have hefty price tags – but they literally can change your cooking / baking / kitchen experience. Plus they’re typically fun and cute! I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite small items that would make great stocking stuffer gifts for the foodie this holiday. Happy shopping!

Stocking Stuffer Gifts for the Foodie

GIR Spatulas

My love for spatulas runs deep, and once I started using GIR, there was no going back! They come in a huge range of fun colors, and different sizes. So mix it up and grab just one or a few! For me, the Ultimate and the Skinny are my favorites!

Foodie ornaments

Food ornaments seem to be having a moment, but they are JUST SO CUTE! You can get just one — maybe they’re really into bacon, or avocados, or my favorite…. butter — or a few and they look incredible on the three. Check out this great selection of foodie ornaments from Food52.

Chef’n Garlic Zoom

In Anthony Bourdain’s book Kitchen Confidential (another good gift idea!) he talks about his love for garlic. He says: “Too lazy to peel fresh? You don’t deserve to eat garlic” and it has really stuck with me. I know chopping garlic is a pain, but one way to make it better is with the Chef’n Garlic Zoom. Peel and pop a garlic clove right in, and then “zoom” it along the counter like a toy car. Voila, perfectly chopped fresh garlic!

Hand lotion

Hear me out. I know lotion can be boring, but we foodies wash a lot of dishes. And I don’t care where you live, that means your hands are dry. If you’re going to give hand lotion as a gift, go for something nice like Kiehl’s Ultimate Strength Hand Salve. Since it’s a stocking stuffer, you can also look at more sample-size options and try a few!

Measuring Cups & Spoons

Measuring cups and spoons are such an essential item in any chef or baker’s kitchen. Since they are such utility items, they often don’t look great (and we don’t ever think to replace them!). Surprise your foodie friends with custom measuring cups like this copper and wood set from Etsy or these beautiful copper measuring spoons from Williams Sonoma.

Mini Alphabet Cookie Cutters

For the baker, there are so many fun things you can do with miniature alphabet cookie cutters. Pies at Thanksgiving that say “thankful” or birthday cake that says “happy birthday” — the world is your oyster!

Small garden scissors

Whether you have an herb garden and are snipping fresh herbs for your latest dish, or just need a pair of smaller (pretty) scissors for small things in the kitchen, these small scissors from Barebones Living are so wonderful! Plus, they also photograph beautifully…

Pinch Bowls

Pinch bowls are amazing for small ingredients as you’re pulling together a recipe, but can be expensive and hard to find. These small concrete pinch bowls from Etsy are designed for jewelry, but would also be perfect for ingredients in the kitchen!

Bonus:

For the foodie friends with kids, this crochet play food set from Etsy is so adorable for any play (or real) kitchen!

While there are a million more things I could recommend, I hope this helps! Happy holidays and happy gifting (and if you maybe snag a few of these things for yourself, I won’t tell). Hopefully this roundup of stocking stuffer gifts for the foodie has been helpful, but if there’s anything I really missed, let me know in the comments!

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