November 29, 2013
Gift Guide 2013: The Gay Gourmand
Matthew Wexler READ TIME: 6 MIN.
We predict that the kitchen will soon trump the steam room for the most populated hook-up destination.
The Food Network celebrated its 20th anniversary this year, and after two decades of televised slicing, dicing and cocktail shaking, it's clear that some culinary-themed gifts are a great go-to for the LGBT'er who has everything-including the kitchen sink.
Pour Yourself a Stiff One
The Architecture of the Cocktail
by Amy Zavatto, illustrations by Melissa Wood
The perfect gift for anyone with a passion for cocktails and an extreme type A personality, this bar cart companion features 75 recipes and architectural illustrations for both modern cocktails and classic favorites.
$16
Available at amazon.com.
Urban Accents
No, this isn't the latest Martha Stewart collection, but a Chicago-based specialty food company founded by Tom Knibbs in 1996 after he lost his job in corporate America. Ingenuity never tasted so good. "The philosophy behind Urban Accents is simple: life should be a celebration of good food, good friends and good times."
Whole Mulling Spice
This aromatic blend of star anise, cinnamon sticks, lemon & orange peel, plus other whole spices makes a delicious warm winter drink. The glass jar is beautiful and festive; great for hostess gifts and stocking stuffers.
All natural, Gluten Free, no artificial flavors or colors
$12.50
Popcorn Collection Set
The perfect set for movie nights or a gift for popcorn lovers. This set includes a pound of premium White Gold Kernels and sampler-sized bottles of White Cheddar, Kettlecorn and Dill Pickle Popcorn Seasonings. Tame cravings for Cheesy, Tangy and Sweet.
All natural, non-GMO, no MSG, no artificial flavors or colors
$12.99
Flapjack Mixes
Beyond pancakes, these flapjack mixes offer unusual flavor combinations, are beautifully packaged and are creative additions to weekend brunch and everyday breakfast. Four flavors to choose from: Deep Chocolate, Blueberry Lemon Lavender, Ginger Carrot Cake and Potato Cheddar Chive.
All natural, Kosher, non-GMO, no artificial flavors or color
$8.99/each
Carb Crazy
Le Pain Quotidien Cookbook by Alain Coumont, photos by Jean-Pierre Gabriel
Who said carbs are out? Get your hands on this quintessential baker's guide by master baker Alain Coumont, who started Le Pain Quotidien as an artisan bakery in Belgium in 1990. In addition to classic bread making techniques, you'll discover innovative recipes like chia seed banana muffins and buckwheat pancakes-just remember to invite us for brunch.
$29.99
Available online at www.barnesandnoble.com.
SaltWorks
Your blood pressure may rise at the sheer enormity of SaltWorks' inventory: 110 varieties of gourmet salts from around the world and an inventory of more than 4 million pounds, ready to ship, in their 100,000-square-foot, climate-controlled warehouse. Take your pick and start seasoning.
Salts of the World Collection
From the beautiful, turquoise waters off the coast of Manzanilla, Mexico to picturesque rural France, these six delicious salts have been carefully sourced from the four corners of the Earth to bring gourmet flavor to your table.
Alaea� Red, Sel Gris, Himalayan Pink, Flor Blanca�, Murray River & Yakima� Applewood Smoked.
$29.95
Smokehouse� Collection
The Smokehouse Collection is a trio of the most distinctive SaltWorks smoked varieties. Created with Snowflake�, the only artisanal sea salt drawn from the waters of the Pacific Northwest, each Smokehouse variety is crafted using an authentic smoking process. From the bold, smoky flavor of Bonfire� and the earthy, down-home taste of Wildfire�, to the new twist on our signature heat, Hellfire�; these three varieties will transform any dish with just a sprinkle.
Set includes: 2.5 oz. jars of Bonfire, Wildfire & Hellfire, 1 glass serving tray, 3 salt spoons
$39.95
Bamboo Salt Sampler
The Bamboo Salt Sampler *by Artisan is the definitive gourmet salt collection. This complete sampler includes 24 mini glass jars, each with a hand-milled cork lid. The entire set is displayed in a gorgeous bamboo presentation box and makes the ideal gift for any salt lover.
*NOTE: The selection of salts included in the sampler set may vary based on availability.
$124.95
Available at www.saltworks.us.
Gourmet Rocks For Your Stocking
There's nothing more tragic than ruining a beautifully aged bourbon or other spirit by added ice cubes that will dilute all those years of hard work.
These ice alternatives chill cocktails while preserving their great flavor by ensuring that they do not become watered-down. The whiskey stones are made of natural material and come in a set of nine. Alternatively, the "Ice" Cubes are made of food safe freezer gel encased in stainless steel with softened edges.
Savor Stones, set of 4, $20
Stainless Steel "Ice" Cubes, set of 4, $23
Available at www.corkpops.com
Matthew Wexler is EDGE's Senior Editor, Features & Branded Content. More of his writing can be found at www.wexlerwrites.com. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram at @wexlerwrites.
