Those slow foodies, what do you get them? They are often environmentally conscious and shun materialism. While the other people on your list might appreciate some sort of useless gift set from Wal-Mart, wrapped in oodles and oodles of tree-killing wrapping paper, there is a better way to your local cook’s heart.
Below are some ideas to get you started in the right direction. And if you are a cook, feel free to add your ideas in the comments section and send this to your significant other!
1. Anything handmade by you.
Do you sew? Make jewelry? Make soap? Jam? Mixes in jars? Flavored liquors/vinegars/oils? Environmentally-friendly cleaning products? There are oodles of homemade gift ideas on the interweb, so I won’t relist them here, but this is the best gift of all, in my opinion. It’s economical, environmentally friendly, and means to much more than something from the store. However, I’m a realist and I know that December comes quickly and not everyone has the time or talent to make handmade gifts for everyone on their list. Etsy is a great substitute, as are local craft fairs. But if you’re looking for something less time consuming, read on.
2. Cookbooks.
OK, so the *true* locavore would insist on getting cookbooks from the library, or at the very least purchasing them from a locally owned bookstore. But who doesn’t love a cookbook? I’ve assembled some of my favorites here.
3. Aprons.
Preferably handmade by you, but if your time or talents don’t permit, here are some great online sources:
http://www.cupcakeprovocateur.com/ (retro/vintage feel)
http://www.etsy.com (lots of handmade options)
http://www.taygaaprons.com (made in Wisconsin)
4. Reusable Bags.
Your local cook will appreciate both larger market-day bags and the smaller produce bags for, well, produce. Again, these are easy to make with repurposed fabric. But you can also purchase them from some of these online retailers:
5. Oils and Vinegars.
Those of us who frequently saute’ or make our own dressings appreciate having a wide variety of oils and vinegars on hand. My own cupboard currently boasts extra virgin olive oil, sesame oil, coconut oil, grapeseed oil, aged balsamic vinegar, rice vinegar, white wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, a gift set of flavored vinegars and oils, and I’m sure I have others in there somewhere. I highly recommend getting these at your locally owned specialty grocery store.
6. Locally Produced Foods
I started to list these individually, but realized it would be easier to group them under one heading. Local wines, beers, artisanal cheeses, jams, etc. are a welcome addition to anyone’s kitchen. You can find these at your local farmer’s market or locally owned specialty stores. Not sure where they are? You can safely ask your foodie friend where to get some great local food products under the guise of wanting to buy something special for a dinner at home without raising too much suspicion.
7. Anything Le Creuset
Cast iron products that will make any cook squeal with delight. Yes, they are expensive. Yes, you are paying for the name. But they will also last forever. And every single cooking class I took at my local CSA used them. They are so versatile. You can drool over the products and find out where to buy them at their website.
8. Cooking Classes
This might take a little Googling on your part, but what foodie wouldn’t love to learn new skills? Check around at local colleges, the locally owned foodie stores I mentioned earlier, or your local city listings.
9. Imported Fair Trade Items
Many communities have stores like Ten Thousand Villages where you can get unique items made by people in developing countries. This is a great source for bowls, serving pieces, table linens, and more. Not only will you be giving an awesome gift, but product sales help pay for food, education, healthcare and housing for artisans who would otherwise be unemployed or underemployed.
So there you have it, a great starting point for making your local cook a happy gift recipient.
This post linked to Real Food Wednesdays and Top 10 Tuesdays
If you have other ideas or sources, please post them in the comments section. And if you are a local cook, what’s on your list?
Also consider local handmade items, such as ceramics and such from craft fairs, farmers markets, or artist co-ops.
Coupons for childcare, a loaf of homemade bread, a back rub, tickets to a play, etc…
CSA membership
Membership to the local grocery co-op
Ten Thousand Villages is one of my ALL TIME favorite stores! Here in Boston, we have one in the neighboring town of Brookline. I buy many of my holiday and wedding gifts there… great suggestion!
Just found your wonderful website. I know that you recently discovered our Locally Made Al Dente Pasta. Check out http://www.aldentepasta.com for our gift ideas. By signing up for our newsletter, you will always receive discounts and recipes. This month it is 10% off of gifts.
I really like what you wrote here – it’s well-written. Thanks for posting this. I’ve been experimenting with some recipes from this cookbook. Have you tried any seafood recipes like this lately? Click here if you’d like to check out my site. Have a fun week!
Such great ideas, what a neat post to encourage support of local businesses. 🙂
Thanks for joining in on Real Food Wednesday!
Kelly
I like your list. I think I’m going to have to keep it around for next year since I’ve finished up all my Christmas shopping already. 🙂