2024 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

Woolly Rhino Smoked Pepper

From Thorsby in Central Alberta, Woolly Rhino sources high quality peppercorns and using special techniques to regulate humidity and temperature, they cold smoke them in small batches. They select premium hardwoods such as Canadian Sugar Maple, Applewood, and Oak from bourbon barrels to give different flavours, and are offered as black peppercorns or a blend of black, white, green, and red, in reusable spice grinders or resealable bags. woollyrhinopepper.com

Ninja Luxe Caf Premier Series

Are you an espresso lover? Drip coffee or cold brew? Then put it out to the universe (or Santa!) that you deserve one of these rather premium intelligent Café Premier machines from Ninja. Technology rules here – there are 25 grind settings, and the built-in scales take all the guesswork out of how much you need. Then there are four programs for steaming and whisking for the perfect froth and foam. And when you thought it couldn’t get any better? Wait until you try the cold press for your espresso martini! Around $700, ninjakitchen.ca

T-FAL INFRARED AIR FRYER

We’ve trialled lots of air fryers over the years but not one yet that doesn’t need preheating or warming up, and along comes this gem from T-fal that heats up to 750º F in 45 seconds! With a deceptively small countertop footprint, it has a large 6 litre capacity and a specially designed basket that means there’s no need to shake. It broils, toasts, roasts, bakes, and reheats, and we love the extra crispy results from the direct heat infrared element. It’s a winner. $170-190

Haruyuki Goma Santoku Knife 180 Mm

Does the cook in your life use a Japanese knife? If not, the Santoku is where to start the love affair! The name translates to ‘three virtues’, chosen advisedly, as it’s ideal for slicing, dicing and mincing. With a hammered VG10 stainless steel blade and durable, western Pakkawood handle, the Santoku is nicely balanced and feels comfortable in your hand. An impressive knife and at an impressive price! $185, knifewear.com

Chiba Quirelois Japanese Mandoline Slicer

We really enjoyed trialling this mandoline from Knifewear. We wanted to see if it lived up to its name – Quirelois in Japanese means ‘OMG it is shaaarrp’ and yep, we can vouch for that (fortunately Knifewear sell cut-resistant safety gloves too!). It’s really versatile: the blade is adjustable up to 3 mm, and it comes with 1 mm and 2.5 mm spacing serrated blades too. To keep your kitchen colour-coordinated, choose Sand Beige, Magenta, or All Black. $68 knifewear.com