If you’re shopping for a food lover, home cook or someone looking to add a little flair to their life, these are my top 5 picks for holiday gifts in 2019. I’m no Oprah, though I guess you could say these are technically some of my favorite things.
The items on this list are made in Seattle (or nearby), as I always try to shop local during the holidays. It’s a great way to support small business and provide your friends and family with gifts they likely haven’t seen before.
From juicers and spoon rests to the most beautiful serving pieces, I am absolutely obsessed with the speckled look of handmade pieces from this Olympia, Wash.-based artist. The price is unmatched when it comes to custom-made pottery, and the consistent designs elevate any kitchen or dining room table.
Available at mbuenopottery.com, starting at $15.
Earlier this year I partnered with Abbio to make a Green Shakshuka, but that’s not the reason I’m recommending this skillet. The 11-inch skillet is versatile for many dishes from eggs to salmon and the occasional shrimp curry. For those who are hard on their pots and pans, this is a great all-use skillet that also can go from stovetop to oven (up to 450 degrees) to finish off any dish. It’s easy to clean, and even comes with a hot pad in your choice of colors.
Available at abbiokitchen.com for $77.
A real taste of the Pacific Northwest, the Ultimate Charcuterie Collection was curated by the fine folks at the Made in Washington stores. It includes SeaBear Smokehouse salmon, lox from Gerard & Dominique, two types of salami from Coro by Salumi, Beecher’s famous Flagship Cheese, a jar of mustard from famed chef Tom Douglas, stone fruit preserves from Girl Meets Dirt and a bag of Truffle Infused Almonds from Recipe 33. This mondo pack is a perfect gift for parents, grandparents or the hard-to-shop-for-couple on your list.
Available at madeinwashington.com for $100.
While it’s only available for delivery in the Seattle area, the flowers designed by The Stemmery provide a seasonal peek inside what’s happening outside your door. Fresh bouquets you can arrange yourself or have delivered pre-arranged come in a variety of delivery options. These flowers make the perfect centerpiece for dinner parties or just to add some life to your dining table throughout the year.
Available at thestemmery.com, starting at $35.
I love a good finishing salt or seasoning blend, and the team behind Firefly Kitchens’ incredible line of krauts and fermented goodies has done it, again. The Firefly Salts, which I love to sprinkle on eggs and popcorn, now come in petite stocking-stuffer sized mini jars. A 3-pack will cost you just about $12 at a farmers market or local food show, but it’s available online as a package deal with Fresh & Fermented, the cookbook written by the company founders.
Available at fireflykitchens.com for $40 (includes cookbook and 3 mini salts).
