My Favourite Things 2019

For all of those celebrating with turkey, football and wonderful Black Friday shopping- A Very Happy Thanksgiving! I will be enjoying all three in my favourite fashion: tailgating with turkey, watching the Lions win (ya right) and attempting to cross off my entire Christmas shopping list in 24 hours. Who ever said I was lacking in ambition??!

Every year I like to provide a list of my favourite kitchen items, those big and small gadgets that make life easier and cooking more enjoyable. Think of this as gift ideas for the cooks in your life, or things to add to your own Christmas wish list. All in time to load up your cart this Black Friday.

#1- Rubbermade Spoon Shaped Spatula

This spatula is great at scooping the last bit of yogurt from the container, it gets in the corners of any rounded dish, and it stands up to a bit of heat. While it is certainly an “optional” item, I find myself constantly reaching for it in the kitchen when prepping.

#2- Potholder from CalleyCo

Full disclosure: my girlfriend makes these adorable and functional pot holders. She also makes great hats, scarves, and basically all of your crochet needs. You can tell that mine has been loved!

#3- Le Cruiset Dutch Oven– Round French Oven 6.7L/28cm

My Le Cruiset dutch oven is by far the most well-used, well-loved pot in my kitchen. While it is far from inexpensive, the company provides a life-time warranty that they actually stand by. This year, my beloved (and well-used) pot started to form hairline cracks and a chip came off the bottom. Le Creuiset replaced the pot with a brand new one. I didn’t even have to pay shipping. These pots are beautiful, functional, and appreciated by all who receive them!

#4- Alison Roman, Nothing Fancy

This cookbook is actually on my Christmas wish list. I adore Roman’s first cookbook Dining In, and I cannot wait to open this on Christmas morning. [hint hint]. Roman’s recipes are simple enough for the beginner cook, but are always interesting, provide new ideas and use ingredients in an original way. Her philosophy is rediscovering the fun of having people over, without feeling that you need to “entertain”.