GIFT GUIDE

GIVING

IN THE KITCHEN

Over the past few years, a resurgence in home cooking has sparked renewed interest in tools and techniques to make time in the kitchen more fun and successful. Let this guide help make gift buying a little less stressful.

BY PAULA ROY

MIXING IN STYLE

Blurring the line between appliance and art through unique colour, finish, and materials, KitchenAid’s newest stand mixer — Blossom — taps into the latest trend in home interiors. Based on biophilic design, which strives to connect humans to the natural environment, this mixer will also spark inspiration and creative expression in the kitchen. It’s a highly functional and durable appliance sure to be cherished.

Available at kitchenaid.ca; $699.99.

HOW TO FEED THE TOUGHEST CRITICS

This new cookbook’s title says it all: Little Critics: What Canadian Chefs Cook for Kids (And Kids Actually Eat). In it, celebrated food writer and parent Joanna Fox reveals tried-and-true culinary secrets and foolproof recipes used by chefs to win over the toughest of critics — kids. The book shares family stories, food traditions, and delicious recipes from some of Canada’s top chefs, including Ottawa’s Joe Thottungal.

EFFERVESCENT ENTERTAINING

A global carbonation shortage is impacting availability of carbonated sodas and water, but a new product is ready to address the problem. The Drinkmate OmniFizz is the most versatile home beverage carbonator out there — able to add appealing effervescence to any beverage, including juice, coffee, cocktails, wine, iced tea, kombucha, and more.

Available at drinkmate-canada.com; $160.

EASY-PEASY CHEESE

Make thick, creamy yogurt cheese, calcium-rich dips like tzatziki, salad dressings, and more at home with this dishwasher-safe strainer. Just add yogurt, and the unique, patented design helps it drain and thicken to produce versatile, spreadable cheese in 2 to 24 hours. The smooth, tasty cheese can be used in baking and to thicken savoury sauces and sweet icings.

Find it at Kitchenalia; $27.95.

GOOD GRINDING

Combining German engineering and innovation with a fresh, sleek design, ZWILLING’S Enfinigy electric mills efficiently grind salt, pepper, and other spices at the touch of a button. The wrap-around window makes it easy to see when refilling is needed, and the grind size is adjustable The mill’s high-performance motor is powered by a convenient rechargeable Lithium-ion battery.

Purchase at thebay.com; $180 for a set of two or $100 each.

SERVE SUSHI IN STYLE

Reflective of Granby, Quebec artisan Ivan Brousseau’s passion for beautiful objects, this elegant UBU Design walnut sushi set is made entirely of solid wood and steals the show with its contemporary minimalist style. The two delicate, lightweight trays plus bowls include a space for chopsticks and are stackable for easy storage.

Available at simons.ca; $120.

A CARVER’S DELIGHT

This knife and fork pair features the same traditional shape, decoration, and materials that earned the original Laguiole knife its reputation for style and quality. Made in France, the carving tools are stainless steel with brass fittings, hardwood scales, and, of course, the distinctive decorated back and bee-shaped thumb rest.

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