2018 Holiday Gift Guide for Domestic Gods and Goddesses

The holidays are upon us, friends!!!

I’m currently staring at my to-be-decorated Christmas tree, listening to Mariah Carey Christmas in shorts (because the handle on my radiator fell off and is now perpetually set to “tropical”), and feeling very excited about the next few weeks. I fall distinctly into the Buddy the Elf category of holiday revelers, aka overly enthusiastic (smiling is my favorite!), so I like to think this is my best season. Not to toot my own horn, but I’m really good at drinking champagne, and I own a lot of plaid.

I’m also very good at Christmas shopping. The holidays aren’t about presents, obviously, but gifts are very fun to give (and receive), and nothing makes me happier than a.) finding just the right things for the people I love, and b.) helping you to do the same. So, this week is GIFT GUIDE WEEK here on Domesticate Me, aka my favorite blog week of the year!!

We’re kicking things off today with my best present ideas for the chefs and food lovers in your life. From custom spice kits to fun gadgets and cooking classes, I’m hoping you’ll find a little something special for the domestic gods and goddesses in your life. Or yourself. You can always email this guide to a loved one with the subject line: hint, hiiiint…

Happy shopping, my little elves!

Holiday Gifts for Domestic Gods and Goddesses:

1. Le Creuset 3.5-Quart Signature Cast-Iron Braiser. This versatile braiser is pricy, but it’s an investment piece that will serve your favorite chef well for many, many years to come. I use mine for everything from stir-fries to quinoa bakes, roast chicken, and braised short ribs and love it dearly.

2. Melamine Nested Storage Bowls. Sure, bowls may not be the most thrilling present of all time, but they’re a necessity, and these ones do double duty as mixing bowls and fancy Tupperware. Plus, they come in a variety of extremely chic colors from retro pink to “nordic green.”

3. Breville The Juice Fountain Cold. For those who love green juice…or freshly squeezed cocktails! This juicer is efficient, relatively easy to clean, and not too bulky.

4. RawSpiceBar Spice Sets. Custom spice sets are a deliciously thoughtful gift for the experimental chef. There are lots of curated sets to choose from (Asian! Mexican! Baking! BBQ!), but you can also build your own or gift a spice subscription, which includes 3 new spices shipped quarterly along with recipes.

5. Dash Everyday Egg Cooker. Cooking perfect eggs, especially poached and soft-boiled, requires a certain amount of finesse. For those looking to effortlessly nail their #yolkporn every sing time, this handy egg cooker is a dream come true.

6. Moisture Wicking Cheese Vault. For the cheese lover! This cute contraption keeps one’s favorite cheeses flavorful and mold-free (hallelujah). And you can write the cheeses’ names and dates in ballpoint pen directly on the vault, which can later be wiped clean. Genius.

7. What’s Gaby Cooking: Everyday California Food. Gaby’s is hands down one of my favorite cookbooks of all time. The recipes are approachable, and there’s a good mix of healthy and indulgent options. Plus, the photography is stunning. (And I’m not just saying that because it was shot by the same genius photographer who shot The Dude Diet…)

8. Press and Measure Herb Infuser. This handy gadget allows you to easily infuse olive oil with your favorite herbs and spices for punched up dressings, sauces, and drizzles. Perfect for the chef who has everything.

9. Premium Innovative Defrosting Tray. Ditch the microwave/”constant stream of water” method, and defrost food quickly and safely with this badass tray. The tray acts as a thermal conductor, transferring heat to your food in less time, while preserving the food’s flavor, texture and nutrients. Want.

1o. MasterClass Cooking Classes. These online classes are a game changer for newbie and experienced home cooks alike. Master cooking basics with Gordon Ramsay (people rave about his series), tackle pastry with Dominique Ansel, or love on vegetables with Alice Waters—there’s a class for everyone. If you’re not into the idea of an online class, check out cooking classes in your area and pick up a gift certificate. (NYC peeps, Haven’s Kitchen and the Institute of Culinary Education have some good options. Momofuku Milk Bar also has baking classes where you can make the infamous Birthday Cake.)

11. “Under The Influence” Glass Set. For the booze enthusiast in your life who enjoys a little kitsch.

12. Uashmama Wine Bag & Cooler. Perfect for picnic lovers, frequent party attendees, and on-the-go winos. Pop a good bottle of wine in the bag before wrapping if you’re feeling extra generous.

13. “Significant” Wine. Speaking of wine, consider gifting a wine lover in your life a bottle with a happy memory attached. Maybe it’s a wine from a region or vineyard you visited together, or a bottle you drank together on an anniversary or birthday.(Needless to say, it doesn’t have to be expensive!) Type A extra milers may want to include an applicable throwback photo with the card, or even a set of wine glasses.

If you need more ideas, check out the gift guides from 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, and 2013!! Ideas for Wellness and Beauty Junkies, Home and Style Fanatics, and Dudes coming at you later this week.