If someone in your life is addicted to Great British Bake Off and Masterchef, at least they’re easy to buy for! The latest kitchen gadget or cook book, heritage or artisan food products or some lovely traditional kitchenware will all be welcome. We’ve picked out our top ten gift ideas for the cook in your life.
1. Nalbari chopping board, National Trust
Nalbari chopping board, National Trust
A good chopping board is a must for any cook, and this one also looks good when not in use. Skilfully pieced together from segments of sustainable mango wood, the natural colour variations create an interesting texture and rich patchwork. Use as a chopping board or sharing platter for informal delights from antipasto to artisan breads. £25, available from the National Trust.
2. Mini tea caddy gift set, The East India Company
Mini tea caddy gift set, The East India Company
Tea isn’t just for drinking – use it for flavouring fruit cakes and biscuits or adding a delicate flavour to rice. This tea caddy gift set contains five loose leaf teas and infusions, equally perfect for cooking and making a relaxing cuppa. £20, available from The East India Company.
3. Five piece copper-effect knife block, Wilko
Five piece copper-effect knife block, Wilko
Perfect for the on-trend kitchen, this copper-effect knife block includes 1 x 8 inch chef knife, 1 x 8 inch bread knife, 1 x 7.5 inch slicing knife, 1 x 3.5 inch paring knife and 1 x 4.5 inch utility knife. £30 for the set, available from Wilko.
4. Brompton cook book holder, Garden Trading
Brompton cook book holder, Garden Trading
Staying with the metallic trend, how about this cook book holder which has a brass finish? It folds flat for easy storage, and is also suitable for use with an iPad or tablet. £22, available from Hurn & Hurn.
5. Iced dessert maker, Cuisinart
Iced dessert maker, Cuisinart
Make your own ice cream, sorbet or frozen yoghurt in as little as 25 minutes. When you make your own puddings, you can experiment with different flavours, add your favourite toppings and have total control over the ingredients. Whether you want to try out vegan or dairy free ice cream or simply just reduce the sugar content in your recipe, it couldn’t be easier. £120, available from Cuisinart.
6. Double oven glove in peony, Sophie Allport
Double oven glove in peony, Sophie Allport
Brand new from Sophie Allport is this double oven glove, £20, with a peony print. The peony brings good fortune in the late spring with magnificent swirls of white, pink and scarlet petals, and the bright pattern will add a splash of colour to any kitchen.
7. Penguin apron, Sara Miller London
Penguin apron, Sara Miller London
8. Muffin tray, Silverwood
Muffin tray, Silverwood
Muffins, tarts and cupcakes – even mince pies and Yorkshire puddings. This extra-deep baking tray covers it all. Handcrafted in Birmingham, it’s made from exceptionally strong, professional grade materials and costs £17.75 from Silverwood.
9. Gold egg timer, Cult Furniture
Gold egg timer, Cult Furniture
Make sure every meal is cooked to perfection thanks to this small egg-shaped kitchen timer, which is adjustable for up to 60 minutes. This would make a lovely stocking filler for any cook. £9, available from Cult Furniture.
10. Purple pansy serving plate, Emma Bridgewater
Purple pansy serving plate, Emma Bridgewater
I think that’s a great idea for gifting these things to cooks