Foodie for Thought

The world of food can be overwhelming, which makes purchasing gifts for foodies especially difficult. We’ve helped narrow it down to some of our top picks from 2022. From the cookbook we’ve revisited the most this past season to the latest kitchen gadgets and more, take a look at what we think would make the perfect gift for food lovers this new year.

Via Carota Cookbook

One of our favorite restaurants in Manhattan that we visit time and time again is Via Carota, a West Village institution by veteran chefs Rita Sodi and Jody Williams. Their cookbook, which was just published last October, features more than 140 recipes for impossibly flavorful, vegetable-centric Italian dishes, like their Fresh Pasta Squares with Fava Pesto and Meyer Lemon Risotto, along with beloved Via Carota dishes like the Insalata Verde. In the words of fellow American chef and restaurateur Alice Waters, “These are recipes that I want to eat all the time.”

Capabunga Cheese Vault

Most home cooks will store their leftover block of cheese by wrapping it in plastic, sealing it in a Ziploc or throwing it into a tupperware — in other words, whatever they have lying around their kitchen. And while most of the time, those methods are OK, the cheese vault is a game changer, especially when it comes to storing prized artisan cheese. The vault allows the cheese to “breathe” and eliminates excess moisture as it ages. It’s a simple and practical reusable storage that your friend will love you for.

Dwëllza Oil Dispenser & Sprayer Set

This oil dispenser set went viral for getting rid of all the annoyances that come with a typical bottle of EVOO: no over-pouring, kitchen mess or greasy grip. The zero-drip sprayer has a delicate mist that helps even out coverage and gives you more control without any risky propellants that you might find in other store-bought cooking sprays. Meanwhile, the oil dispenser has a graduated oil reservoir for precise measurement. Simply press the button to squeeze the oil into the reservoir where the teaspoon and tablespoon measurements are clearly labeled on the bottle. Once you have your desired amount, pour the olive oil. It’s that easy and now you can follow your recipe to a tee.

Gimber

In our last issue, we wrote about the popular trend of alcohol alternative beverages around the world. Gimber happens to be one of the most unique non-alcoholic beverages we’ve tried to date. It’s all natural and organic, with no ingredients “your grandmother has never heard about.” A tasty blend of ginger, lemon, herbs and spices, the golden elixir is both delicious and nutritious. Have it solo or mix it to create your own mocktail, cocktail or hot drink.

Folia Wine Glass

Fancy food lovers — those who get excited about fine dining — will appreciate the quality and impeccable craftsmanship of Saint-Louis’s Folia wine glass. Inspired by the forest surrounding the French crystal brand’s factory, the collection is characterized by a cut that begins at the very top of the foot and blooms at the stem. It’s the perfect sparkle to add to the table to elevate the dining experience at home.

Dansk Casserole

Since the 1950s, Dansk’s cookware has been lighting up kitchens with its retro-inspired shapes, bright colors and minimal Scandinavian style. While every product in their line is nice to have, their casseroles are essential for every home cook. Why? It performs and delivers: The pot’s triple-enameled carbon steel can evenly cook any soup, stew or ragu. It’s oven, stovetop and even freezer safe. What’s more, it’s also a beauty. With its sleek, vintage design, it’s as pretty on the stove as it is on the dinner table, where the ingenious lid also doubles as a trivet. Choose from a myriad of colors to gift your loved ones.