Everyone and their neighbor are making gift guides to help shoppers shop. I thought I'd jump on that band wagon and share my SPD gift guide.
I'm going kitchen themed. Included are a variety of tools, appliances and random fun items, all of which are regularly used if you have a She Plans Dinner subscription. But these ideas are also perfect for the cook, or aspiring cook, in your life.
(All are linked to sites where products can be purchased. None are affiliate links.)
- Cuisinart Immersion Blender. At less than $35, this is a steal of a deal. I use my immersion blender mostly during soup season. (but it can also be used for smoothie season) It is a no fuss-no muss way to make cream soups. Be it Creamy Tomato, or Cream of Broccoli, or Cheesy Broccoli.
- 7 Quart Crockpot. This manual crockpot has 4 settings-off, low, high, and warm. I love that. It is simple, and quite fool proof. The current price for this is $19. Really, that is a worthy investment, that doesn't even hurt the wallet. Many SPD recipes use a crockpot. I use my crockpot weekly, for Black Beans, Chicken Mole, Latin Chicken, Pulled Pork, and many other recipes. I love the convenience of a crockpot. I do the preparations for dinner when it works for my schedule, and then all I have to do is pop it on the table at dinner time.
- Rice Cooker & Steamer. I always include the directions (on the SPD menus) for cooking rice on the stovetop, but personally, I never cook rice on the stove. Because I use my rice cooker. Perfect rice every time. And all I have to do is add the rice and water, and turn it on. Love it! This 6 cup cooker is $22.99.
- Hand Mixer. I own a Kitchen Aid stand mixer, but I've had to replace/repair it a couple times in the 15 years I've owned it. Not so this work horse of a hand mixer. 5 speeds, plenty of power. I use it far more than the stand mixer. It is handy for potatoes, and cookies, and cakes. It comes in an array of gorgeous colors, and is priced between $32 and $50. Not bad.
- Wustof Knives. These knives are an investment. And they are one of the most expensive items in this gift guide. But they are worth the money. Anyone who cooks at all needs decent knives. These are really good knives for a decent price. ($129.95, Amazon Prime)
- Le Creuset. No words. Every skillet is a dream. Every pot is a dream. I love their versatility that takes them from stove top to oven to tabletop. The colors insure each one is gorgeous. And they are guaranteed to last forever. (These skillets would also come in handy if you need to "off" someone, but don't own a gun.)
- Apothecary Matchstick Bottle. This is just fun. A whimsical gift that is very useful. Who doesn't need matches, or a cute bottle to contain them.
- Apron. I never cook without wearing an apron. It's tempting fate. I love World Market's entire apron line, but this is the one I'm wishing for. ($19.99)
- Mrs. Meyer's Dish Soap. Because every good cook cleans up her mess, or gets someone else to. I myself (and my 9 year old daughter who does most of our dishes) love how Mrs. Meyer's dish soap smells. And, I know it is a bit pricey (nearly $4 a bottle), but I love that it is an eco-friendly product. Consider this a stocking stuffer idea.
- She Plans Dinner Subscription. At just $5 per month, this is a great deal. Always 24 (Fit & Healthy) or 30 (Variety and Classic Comfort) recipes each month, divided into two 2-week menus and grocery lists. It is convenient, and time saving, and money saving.
Happy Shopping!
