Gaucho: Savings Inside

You can almost bet on having a friend or family member that would relish receiving a cool or useful new kitchen something-or-other.

There are two reasons for this: 1) Cooking can be repetitive. Anything that makes it easier can be a plus. 2) Cooking can be repetitive (most people eat several times a day), so anything that can inspire new flavors or approaches can be a delight.

So, here are 8 great kitchen gifts to make cooking easier and tastier. We think giving someone 8 maids a-milking would be a horrible gift on many levels. Take Erin’s plea from The Office as an example:

1. A Slab of Pink Himalayan Salt

First of all, it sounds cool. Second of all, it looks cool.

These 8×11 inch salt plates are used for cooking. Put them directly on a stove, on the grill, or in the oven. Great for meats and more, they flavor the food and make for a pretty presentation plate, too.

They can be found at Sur la table for $40.00. I know its just a slab of salt, but that seems like a decent deal for such a unique and useful gift.

2. Microplane Grater/Zester

I scored major points several years ago when I bought my little chef one of these. It’s a great way to zest lemons and limes to get that citrus twang in key lime pies and other such desserts and dishes. But it can also be used for shaving chocolate, grating cheese, etc. A handy tool.
Of course, I think I paid $25 for this at Whole Foods. Now, they’re selling for $11.95 at Amazon, making them a great gift or stocking stuffer for the foodie in your life.

3. CorningWare Dishes, Baking, and Serving Sets

Another great gift for the chef. CorningWare is super versatile, since it can be used for cooking and serving, and then even for storing those leftovers.

Amazon has some killer prices on CorningWare. You can find single dishes or full sets at a range of prices, so you can be sure you’ll find something that fits your budget. You can also be sure that even the chef who has everything can always use another CorningWare casserole dish, roaster, or ramekin set.

Check out the CorningWare French White 6-Piece Cooking and Baking Set for $22.00 or the CorningWare French White 17-Piece Bake and Serve Set for $64.96. I bought the latter 4 years ago, and trust me, it was well worth it.

4. The Oxo Good Grips Chopper

No food processor? This makes chopping onions, celery, nuts and other such items much easier. Load it up and chop away. The knob rotates the blades as you press it down for even chopping. Use it on its base, or right on a cutting board.

Selling for $19.99 at Amazon. Or get the Mini Chopper for $11.99.

5. Stainless Steel Grill Grids

Love to grill? I do. These Grill Grids from Sur la table will keep those veggies, shrimp, and cubed meats from falling through the grates — without having to mess around with aluminum foil.

$15.00 – $44.95 at Sur la table. (exlusive)

6. KitchenAid Standup Mixer

There comes a time in every heavily used kitchen’s life, when a KitchenAid mixer becomes passionately desired — especially if someone does a lot of baking.

These mixers aren’t cheap, but this is the best time of the year to find them on sale as they are a hot Christmas gift.

With prices ranging from $179.99 to $299.99, Target seems to be the best place to find a deal on this iconic kitchen appliance this year. Prices vary by size and power.

7. Knife Sets

A good knife set is something every well-used kitchen needs to be complete.

Overstock.com has the most unique knife set with holder for $69.99 — this porcupine-ed little fella on the right.

For more standard sets, I suggest checking out Bed Bath & Beyond. They have a huge range of sets and prices, from $57.99 to $1899.99 (I know! For knives!). Use one of their ubiquitous 20% off coupons or cards to make your purchase a worthwhile deal.

8. Rice Cooker

For some reason, some people have major issues with trying to cook rice. A rice cooker makes it super simple.

A rice cooker is also a great gift for people who want to eat healthier, but don’t know how or lack the time to cook. Just throw some rice in, turn it on, steam some veggies, and in about a half hour you can have a healthy family meal that’s inexpensive, tasty, and doesn’t require too much effort or clean-up.

Rice cookers vary dramatically in price. As with many things, you get what you pay for. You can rice cookers selling from $19.99 to over $200. Amazon seems to have the best prices, but if you want to buy local, again, Bed Bath & Beyond might be the best bet if you use their 20% off coupon. Some slow cookers are also labeled as ‘rice cookers’ but they really don’t do the job quite as well. They are better used for stews and such, so be selective when purchasing.

I’ve used this Breville model for several years with no complaints.

Whatever you decide to buy for the kitchen concerto in your life, choose wisely. It might sound a little bit like Homer buying a bowling ball with his name on it for Marge Simpson, but just remember, if plan properly, you might reap some tasty benefits from buying the right gift.