Holiday Gift Guide 2017: Kitchen Essentials

1. Lodge Cast Iron Skillet: Sara Ann says: “Having a seasoned Lodge Cast Iron in your kitchen is almost a right of passage for anyone who claims to be serious about flavor. The best part is the older they get the better they are!”

2. KitchenAid Immersion Blender: Ellen says “A Kitchen Aid Immersion Blender is small enough to fit in a kitchen drawer but so versatile! I use mine all the time to make easy and beautiful soups, sauces, smoothies and milkshakes! Unlike other appliances, it’s super easy to clean too! Game changer.”

3. KitchenAid Hand Mixer : Leigh says “My Kitchen Aid Hand Mixer is great for those with less counter space — I keep mine tucked away in a drawer in my D.C. apartment. This is a kitchen tool you really can’t do without. It’s a necessity for all your baking needs this Holiday Season.”

4. Nested Glass Mixing Bowls: Leigh says, “These Classic Glass Bowls stack inside each other, which is a great space saver for tight kitchens (#cityliving). The various sizes suit all your prep needs. Make a little dipping sauce in the smallest, and make a triple batch of cookies in the largest!”

5. Light Gold Baking Sheet: Ellen says “I first discovered these commercial weight David Burke baking sheets at Tuesday Morning, where they were conveniently on sale. I had to have them! I just love the light gold color, and so will any chic chef on your list. Oh, and of course I wouldn’t recommend them if they didn’t bake like a charm.They’re thick and sturdy, and I feel confident they will last me a long time. Now about that gold cupcake pan I’m eyeing..”

6. Silpat Baking Mat: Ellen says, “Need a gift for the cook who seems to have it all? A Silpat mat is a great option! This silicone mat made in France takes the mess out of baking! My mom, grandmother, and I all have one or two and swear by them. Guaranteed to produce a perfectly non-stuck cookie every time! Pair this with some gold baking sheets (see above) for a super nice baking gift!”

7. Misto Olive Oil Sprayer: Mary Parker says, “I love using my Misto for a few reasons: 1) I can fill it up with my preferred olive oil. 2) It’s reusable so I don’t feel bad about aerosol can waste 3) I use less oil when I spritz it rather than pouring a tablespoon into the skillet! Also, this guy fits in a stocking!”

8. Le Creuset Signature Dutch Oven: Ellen says, “This 5.5 qt dutch oven is a kitchen must-have. These quality pots help conduct heat evenly to make the best broths and soups, and they can transfer to the oven for tasty roasts and other warm dishes. My mom has had a set in the classic blue color Marseille since her wedding, and the pots still look like new. I have one in Caribbean, and love bringing it from oven to table with a whole roasted chicken inside. Show stopper!”

9. Wusthof Cook’s Knife: Mary Parker says, “The 8” Wusthof Cook’s Knife is for the budget friendly. Like it’s nicer versions, it has a quality blade and cuts and slices very well. The plastic handle makes it easy to hold onto, but about $100 less than it’s competitors.”

10. Shun Chef’s Knife: Ellen says, “This Shun Classic 8″ chef’s knife is the only knife you need. My brother gave me one for Christmas last year (Thanks Willie!) and it is truly the one gift that I use every day in the kitchen. The Damascus steel blade cuts and chops to perfection and the black Pakkawood handle feels great in your hand. It’s sharp and shiny, and kitchen geeks will love this impressive piece.”

11. Silicone Poppy Lid Covers: Mary Parker says, “These Poppy Leaf Pot Covers can be used on all those random pots that somehow have lost their lids, and can also be used to cover any bowl. Just place the lid on and store in the fridge. These poppy lids are cute, fun, and a unique stocking stuffer!”

12. Beechwood Utensil Set: Sara Ann says, “This cute utensil set is a perfect stocking stuffer, and will look great in the kitchen. I really love my silicone pastry brush. It washes so easily!”

13. Cuisinart 8 Cup Food Processor: Julienne, Slice, chop, and purée, all with this one countertop appliance. Ellen says “I love that my food processor doubles as a mandoline. I have it in brushed nickel and dig the sleek look on my counter. Pro tip for the serious cook: buy a second bowl so you can use one when another’s in the dishwasher. I learned this trick from my grandmother, and don’t they always know best?”

14. Le Creuset Whistling Teakettle: Your tea buff friend will want to keep this cute Le Creuset Tea Kettle out on the stove! Ellen says: “ I use mine every morning to make French press coffee or hot tea. I love leaving it out on the stove at all times. The bright color adds a pop to my kitchen!”

15. Instant Pot: Sara Ann Says, “This is THE gift of the year! The Instant Pot replaces your rice cooker, crock pot, and pressure cooker! It comes in multiple sizes for your small, large, or extra large family and will cook chicken from frozen to fully cooked in less than 20 minutes! This is the perfect gift for the busy mom on your list.”

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