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The 34 Best Gifts for the Gourmet Cook of 2024

Here's what to get for the chef who already has everything

Best gifts for the gourmet cook collaged against peach striped background

The Spruce Eats / Lecia Landis

If you have a friend with a deep love of cooking, they've probably already got a great collection of kitchen must-haves. What do you get for the cook who already has everything? Surprise them with more advanced tools to help them tackle cake decorating or learning to create their own spice blends. This list includes even more esoteric endeavors like molecular gastronomy and cheesemaking, so they can venture into new culinary territory. From anti-microbial dish towels to an heirloom-quality pepper mill, this list will help you find the best gift for even the most gourmet chef in your life.

Lodge Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven

Lodge 6-Quart Essential Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven

Amazon

As one of the most useful pans or pots one can own, a cast iron Dutch oven can be used in a multitude of ways, from baking to deep-frying. This 6-quart Dutch oven by Lodge features a durable porcelain enamel that provides a smooth surface resistant to stains and scratches, and it comes in a variety of colors to complement any kitchen decor.

Use this beauty to make generous batches of chile con carne or bake beautiful boules of artisanal bread. You can also take advantage of cast iron's heat retention properties to deep fry Southern hush puppies. Suitable for use on any cooktop as well as in the oven, gourmet cooks in your life will appreciate the versatility of this long-lasting piece of cookware—we've tested it for ourselves and found it cooks as well as the Le Creuset Dutch oven, but at a fraction of the cost. With it we made an easy and delicious Moroccan chicken tagine, cooked to perfection.

If you value functionality over aesthetics (Le Creuset is kitchen eye candy, but Lodge has equally amazing heat retention and distribution) and would rather wow your guests with delicious dishes, Lodge's Dutch oven is for you.

Lodge 6-Quart Essential Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven with instruction manual on wooden surface

The Spruce Eats / Tierney McAfee

Capacity: 6 quarts | Material: Enameled cast iron | Dimensions: 13.25 x 11.6 x 6 inches | Weight: 14.88 pounds

Never underestimate the value of a good baking sheet-and Caraway's jelly roll pan is better than just "good." The 15 x 10 pan is non-stick so you don't have to worry about cookies or fries sticking to the tray. It's also oven-safe up to a blistering 550 degrees Fahrenheit. There are a number of eye-catching colors to choose from that add a pop of vibrancy to kitchen gear and it comes in a larger size (18 x 13) or a bundle of both.

"The Caraway medium baking sheet is perfect for smaller baking jobs—like a dozen cookies instead of two," says Spruce Eats editor Amanda McDonald. "My favorite thing about it, though, is Caraway's signature non-stick coating makes it very easy for anything from roasted vegetables to holiday cookies to slide right off with ease. And you can customize the color, which makes it a perfect gift for any chef or baker in your life!"

Material: Aluminized steel | Dimensions: 15 x 10 inches | Oven Safe: Up to 550 degrees Fahrenheit


A quick blast of cold smoke can add a subtle layer of extra flavors that make your culinary creation that much better. The Smoking Gun Pro makes it easy to infuse different aromas into a food or beverage, so this makes a great gift for chefs who like to experiment, home bartenders, and gadget lovers looking for that “wow” factor in the kitchen. You can use it with everything from meats and cheeses to butter and ice cream. While it’s a bit pricey, this is a top-of-the-line tool by a trusted brand. It also comes with wood chip samples to help get the user started.

Our senior editor, Kristin Stangl, fell in love with the Breville smoking gun while making some top-notch cocktails. “Smoked bourbon old-fashioneds are what got me hooked, but now I use this tool to smoke butter, deviled egg filling, and whipped cream for a hint of earthiness that only this smoke show can impart,” Stangl says.

Dimensions: 5.75 x 3.25 x 6.75 inches | Size: 0.5 ounces | Included: Food smoker, 2 sample wood chips

ChefSofi Mortar and Pestle Set

ChefSofi Mortar and Pestle Set

Amazon

Freshly ground spices have a more full-bodied aromatic and flavor profile than their pre-ground counterparts, so it makes sense to invest in a tool that allows you to grind ingredients right before you have to use them. This set is made from unpolished granite, giving you natural friction for effortless grinding and crushing. Its heavy weight ensures it won't slip around on the counter during use, and its generous 2-cup capacity gives you room to prep more ingredients without having to refill it. When we tested, we really appreciated the high walls of the mortar-nothing spilled out while grinding.

Use this to grind seeds, spices, herbs, and more for your own blends, or as a vessel to make homemade guacamole, sauces, and mustard. Before its first use, you'll want to rinse it to remove any granite particles, then season it (grinding white rice, cumin, salt, and pepper), give it another rinse, and let air dry.

Dimensions: 6 x 4 inches | Capacity: 2 cups | Weight: 7 pounds

Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker

Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker

Amazon

Sous vide (French for "under vacuum") is a trending cooking technique embraced by chefs and food tech lovers around the world. Foods are placed into an airtight container and immersed in a temperature-controlled water bath, gently cooking meats, seafood, and vegetables to perfection. Chefs use this method in restaurants to ensure consistent cooking for proteins, and home cooks find it useful for batch-prepping for parties or weekly meals. This circulator by Anova has both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, so you can control and monitor it from your phone. Use it to cook anything from soft-yolked eggs to a juicy steak or to aid in curing homemade pastrami and pickles.

"I chose this particular (model) based on good reviews and the clear display," says Dr. Julia Skinner, food historian and founder of Atlanta-based Root Kitchens. "It's very easy to use. I primarily use it as part of a setup to cure higher-temperature ferments, and it maintains temperature well even over long periods."

During our testing, it took about 20 minutes to heat a partially filled 8.5-quart stockpot to 130 degrees. Once successfully connected to Bluetooth (we had to play around with this a little to get it to connect properly) and the water was hot, the Anova did well, maintaining the temperature and cooking a steak to a perfect medium-rare. We had similar success cooking pork chops due to the 360-degree directional pump, which circulates 8 liters per minute, guaranteeing that consistent temperature is maintained.

Dimensions: 14.8 x 2.8 x 2.8 inches | Power: 900 watts | Weight: 2.5 pounds

John Boos Chop-N-Slice Maple Cutting Board

Amazon John Boos Block Chop-N-Slice Maple Wood Cutting Board

Amazon

A dependable cutting board should never be underestimated. If the gourmet cook in your life is in need of a gift, strongly consider this thick cutting board from John Boos. The beautiful maple wood block is reversible and heavy enough to keep from sliding around. It’s able to withstand anything from rapid slicing to hearty chops. In testing, we even hacked up a full chicken and it didn't budge.

We loved the block’s large surface capacity and how the wood was hard enough to withstand daily use, but soft enough that it didn’t damage any knives. It does require a bit of special care, however, as it needs to be seasoned before use and carefully hand washed. 

Material: Maple Wood | Dimensions: 20 x 15 x 1.25 Inches | Weight: 9 pounds

Kootek 42-Piece Cake Decorating Kit

Kootek 42PCs Piping Bags and Tips Set, Cupcake Piping Tips Cake Decorating Kit with 36 Numbered Cake Frosting Icing Tips, 2 Silicone Pastry Bags, 2 Flower...

Amazon

Those who love to bake can explore their artistic side with this cake decorating kit. This set includes 36 stainless steel icing tips, including a variety of petal and leaf tips to perfect making edible floral motifs. The two 12-inch reusable pastry bags are made from food-grade silicone, a great alternative to single-use plastic pastry bags. This set also includes two reusable plastic couplers, which will let you easily switch between icing tips, and two flower nails to create icing flowers. All supplies are corrosion-resistant, easy to clean, and dishwasher-friendly—it's everything you need to turn a plain cake or cupcake into a true work of art.

We managed to make pretty flower-frosted cupcakes using the many long-lasting tips included, although we wished there were larger tips involved, as it would have made the decorating process much quicker. These are best suited for smaller designs. The silicone bags were the real star of the show: They're sturdy, soft, and cushy, and twisted easily.

Included: 36 pastry tips, 2 couplers, 2 flower nails, 2 pastry bags, storage case | Care: Dishwasher safe | Tip Material: Stainless steel

Zeroll Original Ice Cream Scoop

Zeroll Original Ice Cream Scoop

Amazon

Not all ice cream scoops are created equal—this classic design has been patented since 1935 and is favored by American ice cream parlors for good reason. The heat-conductive liquid in the handle transfers the warmth from your hand to the bowl of the scoop, allowing for smooth scooping and easy release. The design of the bowl also eliminates compression, creating bigger looking portions that aren't also super dense.

When we tested this scoop out, we were amazed at how smoothly it worked. It's sleek and easy to hold. We also liked that it's all one piece, so we don't have to worry about the handle snapping off.

Carve out perfectly round scoops from your favorite gelato, sorbet, or ice creams without worrying about any mechanism failure—its single-piece aluminum construction makes it extra durable. This style is also great for right- or left-handed users and features a color-coded end cap to indicate size (this model portions out 2-ounce scoops).

Material: Aluminum alloy | Size: 7 inches | Yield: 40 scoops per gallon of ice cream

Standing Stone Farms Basic Cheese Making Kit

Standing Stone Farms Basic Beginner Cheese Making Kit

Amazon

Making cheese is a time-honored and respected craft that can be intimidating to those who have never done it. This kit from Standing Stone Farms is a great introduction to the process and will help you tackle some basic cheesemaking projects right in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Make your own mozzarella, cream cheese, ricotta, chèvre (and more) with the included components: liquid rennet, soft curd drain bag, cheese salt, calcium chloride, citric acid, and disposable gloves. You'll need to supply your own fresh milk and a few other key pieces of equipment (a thermometer, slotted spoon, and stainless steel pot), but you'll be able to create delicious fresh cheese in as little as 20 minutes.

Included: Liquid microbial rennet, calcium chloride, cheese salt, citric acid, soft curd drain bag, disposable gloves | Cheeses to Make: Mozzarella, goat, queso blanco, mascarpone, ricotta

Henckels Zwilling Signature Hollow Edge Santoku Knife

Henckels Zwilling Twin Signature Hollow Edge Santoku Knife

Amazon

In the right hands, a knife is an invaluable tool. A high quality santoku knife is made for dicing, slicing, and mincing, all necessary for gourmet cooking. Zwilling's twin signature hollow edge santoku knife is our favorite thanks to its extreme sharpness, light-weight design, and full tang stability.

During tests, it effortlessly sliced through tomatoes, cucumbers, toast, and plenty more. The hollow divots in the blade prevent food from sticking to it. It does require hand washing, but with care the knife will last you a long time.

Blade Material: Zwilling special formula stainless steel | Blade Length: 7 inches | Handle Material: POM | Weight: 8.8 ounces

Ohio Stoneware Fermentation Crock

Ohio Stoneware Fermentation Crock

Courtesy of Amazon

For advanced cooks, experimenting with fermentation can be a fun project, turning produce into pickles, kimchi, sauerkraut, and other preserved goods. Skinner, who is an expert in fermentation, relies on Ohio stoneware crocks for her own ferments. "They're sturdy and well-made, and you can buy fermentation weights to go with them that are just the right size for your crock," she notes.

Made of a clay mixture fired at 2,200 degrees and finished with a proprietary glaze, these heirloom-quality crocks are built to last for generations. They are available in various sizes, but the 3-gallon size is perfect for small to medium batches and also attractive enough to sit on the counter.

Dimensions: 7.75 x 7.75 x 8 inches | Material: Stoneware | Capacity: 1 gallon

Jacobsen Salt Co. Infused Salt Set With Stand

Jacobsen Salt Co. 6 Vial Infused Salt Set

Williams Sonoma

"I love salt blends," says Pace Webb, Executive Chef and Owner of L.A.-based Taste of Pace, who named this as one of her favorite items to gift and receive. "I have one of the small pocket-sized plain Jacobsen Salt Co containers in my purse for any unsalty moments!"

This set of Oregon sea salt blends from Jacobsen Salt Co. is a perfect gift for cooks who like to experiment with flavor. The salt is made from hand-gathered water from Netarts Bay, gently evaporated to form delicate crystals, and blended with an array of herbs and spices. The six flavors (rosemary, habanero, pinot noir, black garlic, black pepper, and pure flake finishing salt) are artfully displayed in a branded wooden rack that will look beautiful on the counter.

Included: 6 vials | Holder dimensions: 7 x 7 inches

Iwatani PRO2 Culinary Butane Torch

Iwatani PRO2 Culinary Professional Butane Torch

Amazon

Create Instagram-worthy crème brûlée with this handheld kitchen torch from Iwatani, a favorite of professional and home cooks. While some chefs turn to full-size blowtorches to add that flame-touched quality to their dishes, this torch's smaller size makes it easier to handle and less tiring to hold if you're working with larger batches.

This butane-powered torch lets you adjust flame size and shape to concentrate heat where you need it. Use it to quickly roast and char vegetables, glaze a ham, melt cheese on top of lasagna or other casseroles, and of course, to caramelize the top of a crème brûlée or meringue.

Dimensions: 17.78 x 7.62 x 3.81 inches | Heat Output: 2,700 degrees Fahrenheit | Material: Stainless steel

Swissmar Stelvio Stainless Steel Raclette Grill with Granite Top

Swissmar-stelvio-8-person-stainless-steel-raclette-grill-with-granite-top

Amazon

Colder evenings call for comfort food, and melted cheese ranks high on our list of favorites. While fondue is a popular choice for a crowd, you can also impress your guests with a raclette party with this grill from Swissmar. Raclette comes from the French word that means “to scrape” and refers to both the type of cheese and traditional meal hailing from the Swiss Alps and the French region of Savoie—an assortment of charcuterie, vegetables, pickles, and bread with melted cheese and served with plenty of wine and spirits.

This tabletop grill lets you melt eight servings of cheese in individual pans under a broiler while using the granite top to grill vegetables, warm bread, or cook up sausage. When the cheese is melted, pour it over the top of boiled potatoes or bread and eat with the accompanying sides. Cleanup is easy thanks to the individual nonstick pans and scrapers; the removable granite top just requires hand-washing to remove any bits of food and the broiler unit can be wiped down with a damp cloth.

Dimensions: 16.5 x 19.5 x 5 inches | Power: 1,200 watts | Material: Granite and stainless steel

Nawrap Binchotan Charcoal Dishcloth

Nawrap Binchotan Charcoal Dishcloth

Courtesy of Amazon

These dish towels by Japanese brand Nawrap are made from fibers infused with binchotan charcoal (made from charred Japanese oak), a substance that is resistant to bacterial growth—helpful for keeping towels from getting smelly. Each cotton towel is made with a multilayer weave to promote absorbency and a textured surface for superior cleaning power.

"The fabric is stiff until you wash it and it just gets softer every time," says Webb of Taste of Pace. "I have one that is for washing dishes and one that is for drying dishes and hands. I especially like it for getting water spots off of wine glasses since we don't use paper towels at home."

Included: 3 towels | Material: Cotton | Towel Dimensions: 13.5 x 13.5 inches

Cosori Stainless Steel Dehydrator

Cosori Premium Stainless Steel Dehydrator

Amazon

A food dehydrator is a wonderfully versatile appliance that can help cooks create memorable snacks, sides, garnishes, and more. Corsori’s Premium Food Dehydrator is electric, which allows for precise temperature control. The fans and rear-mounted heating elements are designed to dehydrate food evenly and consistently. Cosori also includes a 50-recipe booklet filled with tasty ideas. 

We loved the dehydrator’s intuitive controls and automatic shut-off feature, which is great for overnight dehydration. Another highlight is that the glass door that allows us to see how things were cooking inside. 

Temperature Range: 95 to 165 F | Timer: Up to 48 hours | Dimensions: 13.4 x 17.8 x 12.4 inches

Red Vanilla Extreme Bone China Dinnerware Set

Red Vanilla Extreme Bone China Dinnerware Set

Amazon

A gourmet meal is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds. If the cook in your life enjoys the art of plating, they’ll need an aesthetically pleasing dinnerware set. Red Vanilla has a beautiful bone china set of dinner plates, salad plates, mugs, and soup bowls. Each piece is eye-catching and angular, making for a beautifully modern set for special occasions. 

The dinnerware is safe for both the microwave and dishwasher. That said, the corners can chip if handled too roughly. The polished plates can also be a tad slippery, so food might move around if it’s jostled. It’s an elegant set that requires a bit of a delicate touch, but if treated well, it will look stunning for years to come.

Includes: (4) 10.25-inch dinner plates, (4) 8.25-inch salad plates, (4) 12-ounce mugs, (4) 20-ounce soup bowls

Cuisinart MultiClad Pro 12 Piece Stainless Cookware Set

Cuisinart MultiClad Pro 12 Piece Triple Ply Stainless Cookware Set

Amazon

A full gourmet meal has a lot of elements to it, from entrees to sauces to sides to desserts and everything between. To tackle such a task, a cook needs all the right tools. This comprehensive cookware set from Cuisinart is an ideal gift for the serious chefs in your life. Not only is it beautiful and uniform, but it’s also is incredibly durable thanks to its triple-ply stainless steel and aluminum construction. 

The set comes with two saucepans (and accompanying lids), two skillets, a sauté pan, a stockpot, and a steamer insert. There are also sets available with an added 4-quart sauce pan, a pan skillet, or an additional sauté pan

During testing, we really loved the high-sides of the sauté pans, the convenient size of the stock pot, and that the steamer insert could double as a colander. It also hides fingerprints really well.

Food cooking in Cuisinart MultiClad Pro 12 Piece Triple Ply Stainless Cookware Set on stovetop

The Spruce Eats / Donna Currie

Includes: 1.5-quart saucepan and lid, 3-quart saucepan and lid, 8-inch open skillet, 10-inch open skillet, 3.5-quart sauté pan and lid, 8-quart stockpot and lid, steamer insert and lid

Desserts are works of art that deserve to be put up on a pedestal—Mosser made some truly stunning glass cake stands for just that purpose. The opaque glass stand comes in six colors and three different sizes. Each piece has a small lip around the edge that shouldn’t get in the way of frosting down a cake. 

The gorgeous cake stands can showcase equally pretty desserts, like a key lime pound cake or a rhubarb custard pie. We love how elegant and classic this cake stand looks. The base is also heavy enough that it's sturdy and dependable.

Material: Glass | Size: 10 x 8 inches | Weight: 3.94 pounds

Crowd Cow Japanese A5 Wagyu Filet Mignon

Crowd Cow Japanese A5 Wagyu Filet Mignon

Crowd Cow 

Wagyu is world-renowned for its high quality, intense marbling, and rich, buttery flavor. Literally meaning “Japanese cow,” wagyu is highly sought-after. Crowd Cow has a number of premium wagyu beef cuts, including delectable New York strips, petite ribeyes, striploin ends, and filet mignon among others. 

The filet mignons are sourced from two award-winning Japanese farms. Each 5-ounce steak has luxurious marbling and a rich umami taste. The gift of wagyu beef would send any gourmet cook over the moon with delight. 

Size: 5 ounces | Flavor Profile: Buttery, umami, intense marbling | Country of Origin: Japan

KitchenAid 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer

KitchenAid Artisan Series 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer in black

Amazon

Serious cooks require serious tools. KitchenAid’s Artisan Series 5-Quart Stand Mixer is a powerful and versatile machine that’s up for just about any task. It can knead thick bread doughs, whip up delicate meringues, and mix cake batter with ease. 

There are 10 speed settings, easily adjusted with a slide knob. The head of the mixer can also tilt back to easily swap attachments or get at the bowl with a spatula. The set comes with three attachments: a dough hook, paddle, and wire whip. There are, of course, additional attachments sold separately like a pasta roller, a five-blade spiralizer, a grain mill, an ice cream churner, and plenty more. 

In tests, we praised the easy setup of the mixer and how useful the tilt-head feature was. Additionally, we love the iconic look that balances retro charm with modern sleekness. Though we are a little disappointed that the wire whip wasn’t dishwasher safe and that the coated-attachments could potentially chip, we know it's a an all-around great option. 

Number of Speeds: 10 | Power: 325 watts | Bowl Volume: 5 quarts | Attachments: Beater, dough hook, wire whip

Vitamix Professional Series 750 Blender

Vitamix Professional Series 750 Blender

Amazon

Blenders can do so much more than just make smoothies. Gourmet cooks could use blenders to create amazing salsas, vegetable soups, or rich emulsions like aioli. Vitamix blenders are well known for being powerful and the Professional Series 750 Blender is no exception. With a 2,400-watt motor and hardened stainless steel blades, the blender can handle just about anything.

The container holds up to 64 ounces (great for making big batches), and it’s designed to funnel ingredients back towards the blades for optimum blending. This Vitamix has 10 speed settings and five pre-programmed settings. There’s also a pulse feature for more precise control. 

In tests, we liked the fact that the container had measurements marked on the side. We tried a number of recipes with the blender, including oatmeal cookies, an iced latte, and celery juice, and loved each result. 

Capacity: 64 ounces | Power: 2,400 watts | Dimensions: 8.5 x 17.25 x 8.5 inches

Stargazer Cast Iron Skillet

Stargazer 10.5-Inch Cast Iron Skillet

Stargazer

Many cooks prefer cooking in cast iron skillets since they can get hot enough to sear a steak in seconds. Cast iron also becomes non-stick after it is seasoned and works with a number of cooking surfaces, from grills to open fires to stovetops. Stargazer has an incredible 10.5-inch cast iron skillet available that has a rustic bronze look to it. 

Thanks to the flared rim, it’s easy to pour the contents out without fear of a big mess. This pan impressed us with its amazing browning and nonstick abilities, acing tests where many other pans failed. Plus, it has a great design and was easy for all of our lab testers to maneuver and lift. Stargazer skillets come backed with a lifetime warranty, as well. 

Available Sizes: 10.5 and 12 inches | Pre-Seasoned: Optional | Lid Included: No | Warranty: Lifetime

Hedley and Bennett Atlantic Apron

Hedley and Bennett Atlantic Apron

Hedley and Bennett

Even pro chefs can get messy in the kitchen. An apron is a fantastic gift that combines fashion with function. Hedley & Bennett’s Waxman Apron looks great and performs well. Made of 100 percent cotton, the heavy canvas fabric is coated with soy-wax. The apron has three deep pockets, perfect for holding tools or recipe cards while cooking. 

The leather straps are adjustable and the attached belt can tighten up the waist. Available in four colors–Atlantic blue, Napa Valley red, Montana brown, and woodland camo–the aprons are durable and long lasting. Just note that they cannot be machine washed, only spot cleaned. 

Material: Cotton, soy-wax coating, leather | Weight: 12.5 ounces

OXO Good Grips Chef's Mandoline Slicer 2.0

 OXO Good Grips Chef's Mandoline Slicer 2.0

Amazon

Mandolines make short work of slicing things like zucchini or sweet potatoes. Oxo is a titan of the kitchen, and its Good Grips Chef’s Mandoline Slicer is a beast. This tricked-out mandoline comes with an incredibly sharp blade, various thickness settings, a no-slip kickstand, and (perhaps best of all) a protection holder that keeps your fingers away from the blades. 

With Oxo’s mandoline, cooks can create anything from thin tomato slices to waffle-cut french fries. We found that there’s a bit of a learning curve when first using the mandoline, but the results were well worth the effort. It's easy to clean and Oxo’s protection holder was better than the other models tested.

Person slicing potatoes in OXO Good Grips Chef's Mandoline Slicer 2.0

The Spruce Eats / Rachel Ellison

Blade Style: Japanese | Thickness Settings: 17+ | Blades Included: Straight, julienne, fry, and crinkle cut

Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Bread Maker

Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Plus Bread Maker

Amazon

Breadmaking may be an ancient art, but now there’s technology to make it easier than ever. For gourmet cooks who enjoy making their own bread for sides and appetizers, check out the Zojirushi Home Bakery Virtuoso Breadmaker. It can make a 2-pound loaf of evenly browned bread.

We love how versatile the breadmaker is. In tests, it was able to handle wheat bread, pizza dough, pound cake, and even jam with ease. It’s ideal for ingredient experimentation thanks to its many pre-programed and customizable settings. The machine can produce a full loaf in just about two hours, though it can go up to 13 (which is best for richer breads like sourdough). Though a bit big and bulky, this Zojirushi breadmaker is well-rounded and wonderfully versatile. 

Loaf Size: 2 pounds | Dimensions: 18 x 10.5 x 12.875 inches | Timer: 13-hour delay | Fastest Bake: 2 hours, 25 minutes 

Calphalon Premier Hard-Anodized Nonstick Flat Wok

Calphalon Premier Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware 13-Inch Flat Bottom Wok

Amazon

A traditional wok is used to make incredible meals like chicken lo mein, vegetable stir fry, or sweet and sour pork. This wok from Calphalon is triple coated for a slick non-stick surface. At 13 inches wide, the wok has a nice capacity for big batches of fried rice.

It’s also oven safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s compatible with both gas and electric stoves, though doesn’t work with induction. Some users might find the wok a little heavy, weighing in over 5 pounds. While it is dishwasher safe, hand washing is recommended.

Material: Hard-anodized aluminum | Max Heat Capacity: 450 degrees | Dishwasher Safe: Yes

Marcato Atlas 150 Pasta Machine

Marcato Atlas 150 Pasta Machine

Amazon

There’s nothing quite like fresh homemade pasta, and Marcato’s pasta machine takes care of the heavy lifting. Nickel- and chrome-plated, the hand-crank pasta maker can smooth out sheets of pasta dough before cutting them into three different types of noodles–lasagna, fettucini, and tagliolini. Marcato also has additional pasta-cutting accessories for sale for other types of noodles. 

A clamp secures the pasta maker securely to the countertop so it does not wobble while in use. There are 10 thickness settings to choose from which allows cooks more control over the consistency and texture of their pasta. 

We found that the rollers produced even results that made the dough a little shaggy, ideal for absorbing sauces. We love the sleek and modern look of the pasta machine and the fact that the rollers are removable for easier cleaning. 

Person pulling pasta dough through Marcato Design Atlas 150 Pasta Machine

The Spruce Eats / Tierney McAfee

Material: Stainless steel | Dimensions: 8 x 8 x 7 inches | Thickness Settings: 10 | Weight: 5.5 pounds

“The Flavor Bible” is a must-have for any gourmet cook–either seasoned or novice. The book is designed to teach readers how to coax the most flavor out of a dish. It’s a deep dive into the nuances of flavors and ingredients of all kinds. Filled with tips, photographs, anecdotes, and fun facts, the book is a creative tour for taste buds. 

"An encyclopedia of sorts that just lays out a single ingredient (say, mint) and a laundry list of other ingredients that pair well with it. It is a compilation of opinions from I believe over 1000 different chefs from various cuisines and specialties, and allows for someone who already has skill in the kitchen to riff and play with new flavor pairings," says Stangl. "It’s a fantastic resource for people who like to develop their own recipes or who can cook without a recipe."

Pages: 392 | Published: 2008 | Formats: Hardcover, paperback, spiral-bound, e-book

For real precision cooking and baking, a kitchen scale is incredibly helpful. This food scale from Escali is simple, sleek, and compact-ideal for a busy kitchen. The LED screen ensures you can easily read the measurement, down to 0.05-ounce increments.

When we tested the Escali, we found it to be incredibly user-friendly. We also liked that every button is sealed so you don't need to worry about spills ruining the scale. Everything we measured, from sugar to pumpkin seeds, had an accurate reading. It comes in a suite of colors, so you can find a favorite shade.

Size: 8 x 6 x 1.25 inches | Capacity: 11 pounds | Measurement Increments: 1 gram/0.05 ounces | Power: AA batteries

SUGUS HOUSE 9-Inch Round Banneton

SUGUS HOUSE 9-Inch Round Banneton

Amazon

A good, gourmet gift doesn't necessarily have to be pricey. This round banneton is ideal for making homemade bread. The basket is made of rattan and includes a cloth liner to keep bread from sticking to the sides, that said we do still recommend dusting the cloth with flour before putting dough inside. When we tested the banneton, that trick worked wonders.

Dimensions: 9.06 x 9.06 x 3.15 inches | Dough Capacity: Up to 1.5 pounds | Additional Items: Cloth liner

Meg Quinn The Cheese Board Deck

The Cheese Board Deck

Williams Sonoma

Charcuterie boards have exploded in popularity over the past few years, but it's always been a delightful treat. If you know someone who loves a good tray of meats, cheeses, crackers, and more, consider this unique gift: the Cheese Board Deck. It features 50 cards, each detailing a fun spread with stunning photography to match. The cards are broken up into various sections for a wide variety of occasions.

One of our staff writers, Allison Wignall, got to try out the cards first hand. "My mother received these as a birthday present and she adores them. For a girl's night, we combed through the cards and picked one that had our favorites. I loved the sheer variety and all the pictures. It definitely encouraged me to step up my arrangement. Mom's bought these cards for several friends, and I can see why. I want a set of my own."

Number of Recipes: 50 | Published: 2021

Bread Bosses Banneton Proofing Basket

(9 Inch) Banneton Proofing Basket + Bowl Scraper & Cloth Liner -Perfect Bread Loaf Shape Flour Round Rising Rattan Wicker Wood Handmade Large Oval Prooving Brotform Set Dough Box

Amazon

Avid bakers with a penchant for bread making will love this classic proofing basket by Bread Bosses. Commonly used in traditional bakeries, these rattan forms (called "banneton)" allow air to pass through and create a skin on the surface of the dough, yielding beautiful crusts that artisan breads are known for.

This style is made from durable natural rattan cane that resists splintering and molding. The basket measures 9 inches in diameter (large enough to hold 1.5 pounds of dough) and features ridges that create a spiral ring pattern on the finished bread. This set also includes a bread lame to aid in slashing the dough before baking, a bench scraper, and a cloth liner—everything a bread baker needs to create a beautiful loaf.

Dimensions: 9 x 9 x 3.35 inches | Material: Rattan and wicker | Capacity: 1.5 pounds

Global 7-inch Hollow Ground Santoku Knife

Global 7-inch Hollow Ground Santoku Knife G 80

Courtesy of Crate&Barrel

An experienced cook will likely already have a trusty chef's knife, but the Global Santoku knife will add some versatility to any knife collection. A santoku knife can be used for chopping, slicing, and dicing meat and vegetables—virtually anything that a chef's knife can handle. The blade measures 7 inches long—shorter than most chef's knives—offering more maneuverability, especially in tighter spaces. The indentations on the blade reduce drag and help to minimize sticking.

This Japanese-made knife is forged from stainless steel from handle to tip, ensuring there are no separate pieces or corners where food particles can accumulate. It is also extremely lightweight with a slip-resistant, ergonomic handle, making it ideal for longer bouts of food preparation. Designed to maintain its sharpness longer than traditional European-style models, this knife will be in regular rotation in your kitchen for life.

Blade Length: 7 inches | Material: Cromova 18 (chromium, molybdenum and vanadium) | Stamped or Forged: Stamped

What to Look for in Gifts for a Gourmet Cook

Current Inventory

It may be difficult to take stock of another person’s kitchen, but if you can, it will make gift giving infinitely easier. They may have a tasty kimchi recipe, but need a fermentation crock to facilitate preparation. Also, if this is a special occasion gift, be sure to check for a registry. Foodies are usually open to trying something new, so don’t be afraid to get them something that entails experimentation. A browse through Instagram might help spark inspiration, as well.

Budget

Different occasions call for different budgets, but always keep in mind what is comfortable for you and makes sense for the gift recipient. Be mindful of spending an appropriate amount based on what place in life your recipient is at, as well. In the end, a gift, no matter how large or small, will be appreciated.

Type of Gourmet Cook

Buying a passionate cook a gift can be difficult, but if you know the cuisine they like to cook or are interested in trying, it makes the job of selecting something easier. Someone who leans toward slow-cooked French stews may need a Dutch oven. A cook that also loves science would enjoy dabbling in molecular gastronomy. Any cook that loves a good cheese plate would happily learn to make their own cheese. Trust your instincts and knowledge of the person and their cooking style.

FAQs

What does gourmet mean?

The Spruce Eats explored this concept in this article. Below are the basic principles:

  • Someone who is a connoisseur of good food and drink
  • Food of the highest quality and flavor, prepared with precision and presented in an artful manner
  • A restaurant where food is prepared and served with the highest quality standards
  • A store that stocks and sells high-quality, unique, or hard-to-find ingredients needed to prepare gourmet dishes
  • A kitchen that is well-appointed with professional-grade appliances and storage areas for specialty items and equipment

What are some ingredients to keep on hand for making gourmet meals?

This is highly subjective and would differ with the type of cuisine you tend to prepare, equipment on hand, and knowledge level, but there are some staples that create the backbone of most recipes:

  • Olive oil
  • Fresh black pepper (preferably in a mill)
  • Salt
  • Fresh garlic
  • Some sort of acid (lemon or lime)
  • Vinegar (red wine is widely called for, but rice is popular for Asian dishes)
  • Dijon mustard (a must for making simple vinaigrettes) 
  • Butter
  • Grains (such as rice or quinoa)
  • Onion
  • Fresh herbs (flat leaf parsley is king, but mint and cilantro add brightness)

Why Trust The Spruce Eats?

The author of this piece, Bernadette Machard de Gramont, is an L.A.-based writer who specializes in global food and wine content. After a two-year stint at Williams-Sonoma headquarters in San Francisco, she now researches and tests a variety of cookware, bakeware, and wine tools, and interviews field experts for their insight. She interviewed two experts for this piece: Pace Webb, executive chef and owner of L.A.-based Taste of Pace, and Dr. Julia Skinner, food historian and founder of Atlanta-based Root Kitchens.

Carrie Honaker, who updated this roundup, is a food writer who appreciates handcrafted, artisan products and tools. As a restaurateur and avid home cook, she loves to gift a beautiful knife or a selection of artisan salts to encourage exploration in the kitchen. Her work has appeared in many publications, including Bon Appetit, Allrecipes, and Wine Enthusiast.

Allison Wignall, who updated this article, is a writer who focuses on food and travel. She’s always in the kitchen trying to recreate recipes from around the world. Her work has been featured in publications such as Food & Wine, Travel + Leisure, and Southern Living.

Additional reporting by
Carrie Honaker
Carrie Honaker The Spruce Eats
Carrie Honaker is a freelance writer specializing in food, wine, travel, and culture. Her work has appeared in Bon Appetit, Wine Enthusiast, Allrecipes, and more.
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