Must-have holiday kitchen aids for aspiring cooks & bakers
The long months of being cooped up indoors have rekindled the dormant passion of many of us toward cooking and baking. Over the past months, social media was awash with photos and videos of at-home bakers and aspiring cooks sharing their latest quarantine creations. From IG-worthy dalgona coffee to ube pandesal and baked sushi, wave after wave of food trends came and went, each more irresistible and mouthwatering than the last.
This holiday season, our kitchens will be busier than ever, with more people churning out the latest food trends. If you still haven’t decided what to gift for someone who feels most at home in the kitchen, consider giving them some must-have holiday kitchen aids. Whether it’s for mom/dad, significant other, friend or yourself, take a close look at these items that can make the job in the kitchen a lot easier and more fun.
Heavy-duty cast-iron cookware
Cast-iron cookware may be bulky and heavy, but you can’t deny that some food just tastes better when cooked in cast iron. Its durability and trustworthy quality makes it a piece of cookware that will never let a baker/cook down. From cornbread and casseroles, to mac and cheese, cast-iron cookware is sturdy, locks in flavor, and cooks evenly to create mouthwatering dishes.
Stylish salt and pepper shakers
Salt and pepper shakers have been kitchen staples since time immemorial. But have you ever considered spicing things up with an elegant set that amplifies the recipient’s style or brings out their whimsical side? There are many custom shaker shapes for everyone—from beloved cartoon characters, classic glass jars, or canisters with minimalist designs. Any kitchen connoisseur will appreciate something that’s sure to stand out from the usual.
A sharp knife
If current kitchen knives just aren’t cutting it, then look for a carbon steel knife. This is one of the best small kitchen gifts that will never lose its edge. A sharp knife is a chef’s best friend, so don’t ever think about getting anything that can barely cut. Grab a quality kitchen blade that will stay reliably sharp and get the job done perfectly the first time, every time.
A fine set of cutlery
Choose a cutlery set that’s not only practical, but also complements your style, your household and how you like to eat. Get your fundamental flatware sorted first and then select the specialty cutlery and accessories that suit your style and the food you enjoy.
Mixing bowls
Whether they’re used for cooking, baking, or eating cereal, nesting bowls are an essential part of every kitchen. If you want the best, choose a set of nesting bowls with a wide assortment of sizes that allow the chef (or yourself) to mix anything from scrambled eggs to a large three-layer cake. Choose bowls in a chic metallic shade of copper or silver for a style that will last for years to come.
Organizing rack
Because of its many nooks and crannies, the kitchen is one of the most challenging places to organize. The insane amount of cooking and baking utensils, food ingredients, kitchen gadgets and gizmos cluttering about is bound to be a mess into time. Put everything in order with an organized rack that will creatively add storage and shelving. Sort the chaos and you can easily find anything you need within an arm’s length away.
Editor’s Note: PhilSTAR L!fe is here to help you choose items you may love, want or need. Each product we feature has been independently selected by our team. If you click and buy the products featured, we may earn a commission.