Choosing the Ideal Christmas Gift for the Home Cooks in Your Life

Christmas is the perfect time to show appreciation for the home cooks in your life. The ones who whip up delicious meals, bake comforting treats, and turn ordinary evenings into memorable feasts. 

Whether they're seasoned chefs or enthusiastic beginners, finding the right gift can make their culinary adventures even more enjoyable. 

Here's a guide to help you choose the ideal Christmas gift for the food lover in your life.

1. Assess Their Skill Level

Before you actually get into doing any shopping, consider their cooking experience. A beginner may appreciate essentials like a quality knife set or a beginner-friendly cookbook, while a seasoned cook might treasure a more specialised tool, such as a sous-vide machine or an artisanal set of spice blends.

2. Personalise to Their Preferences

Every cook has a unique style. Think about their go-to cuisines or favourite dishes. Are they a passionate baker? Opt for a beautiful rolling pin or a set of silicone baking mats. Love experimenting with global flavours? A spice subscription box or a wok could be a winner. Tailoring your gift to their tastes shows thoughtfulness and care.

3. Invest in Quality Tools

Well-made kitchen tools are always appreciated. Look for durable, high-quality items that will stand the test of time. Ideas include:

Chef’s knife: A versatile, razor-sharp knife is a must-have.

Cast iron skillet: Perfect for everything from searing steaks to baking cornbread.

Stand mixer: A luxury item for bakers that can handle heavy-duty tasks.

4. Enhance Their Pantry

Consumables make fantastic gifts. Gourmet oils, rare spices, or artisanal vinegars can inspire creativity in the kitchen. For a festive touch, consider gift hampers with a mix of ingredients, like truffle products, premium pasta, or decadent chocolate.

5. Bring in Some Fun Gadgets

For those who enjoy experimenting, quirky gadgets can be delightful. Think:

Immersion blenders for soups and smoothies.

Herb keepers to keep greens fresh longer.

Food dehydrators for making dried fruits, jerky, or even decorations.

6. Elevate Their Dining Experience

Cooking isn’t just about food; it’s about the joy of sharing it. Gifts that enhance the dining experience, like elegant serving platters, wine decanters, or handmade napkins, can add a touch of luxury to their table.

7. Don’t Forget Education

For the curious cook, consider gifting experiences or knowledge:

Cooking classes: In-person or online sessions in a cuisine they love.

Cookbooks: Look for books with inspiring recipes and beautiful photography.

Magazines: A subscription to a foodie magazine keeps the inspiration flowing year-round.

8. Think About Storage Solutions

Practicality goes a long way. A sleek spice rack, airtight containers for pantry items, or a knife block can help them stay organised while adding charm to their kitchen.

9. Sustainable Options

For eco-conscious cooks, look for gifts that align with their values, like beeswax wraps, reusable produce bags, or a compost bin for kitchen scraps.

10. Add a Personal Touch

Finally, consider something unique. Personalised aprons, engraved cutting boards, or monogrammed utensils make wonderful keepsakes that add sentimental value to their kitchen.

Wrapping It Up

Home cooks pour their heart into every dish, so gifting them something thoughtful and useful can bring them as much joy as they bring to your table. With a little consideration of their preferences and needs, you’re sure to find a present that will light up their Christmas—and their kitchen.

Happy gifting, and may your Christmas season be as delightful as a perfectly roasted Christmas turkey!

Choosing the Perfect Cookery Book for Christmas Gifting: A Guide for All Levels of Culinary Enthusiasts

Christmas is an ideal time for gifting a well-chosen cookery book, offering culinary inspiration that lasts long after the festive season has ended. 

Whether you're shopping for a keen home cook or a seasoned professional, the right book can provide fresh ideas, valuable techniques, and a bit of culinary escapism. 

However, with the abundance of titles available, selecting a cookery book can feel overwhelming. Here’s a guide to help you choose the most suitable book for the food lover in your life.

1. Consider Their Culinary Level

Before browsing the cookery section, it’s important to understand the recipient’s experience and interest level:

For Beginners: Opt for books with clear, simple instructions and photos for every recipe. A book like Mary Berry’s Simple Comforts provides classic British recipes with straightforward steps, making it a great fit for beginners.

For Intermediate Cooks: Look for books that expand their repertoire and technique. Titles like Ottolenghi SIMPLE or Jamie Oliver’s 5 Ingredients bring creative twists to everyday ingredients, ideal for those seeking new ideas without overly complex methods.

For Professional Chefs or Enthusiasts: Professionals often appreciate books that delve into complex techniques or offer unique insights. The Noma Guide to Fermentation or The French Laundry Cookbook can provide professionals with both inspiration and depth, elevating their culinary skills and pushing boundaries.

2. Match the Book to Their Culinary Interests

Choosing a book tailored to their specific interests can make the gift feel even more thoughtful:

Baking Aficionados: For those passionate about baking, consider a title like Bread Ahead’s Baking School or The New Way to Cake by Benjamina Ebuehi, which offer diverse baking projects from traditional to modern.

Health-Conscious Cooks: Books like The Green Roasting Tin by Rukmini Iyer provide healthy, plant-focused recipes that are quick to prepare. They’re ideal for anyone who loves wholesome, easy-to-follow recipes with minimal ingredients.

International Cuisine Enthusiasts: If your recipient enjoys exploring world flavours, a regional cookbook like Falastin by Sami Tamimi and Tara Wigley or Mexico: The Cookbook by Margarita Carrillo Arronte offers an immersive experience into specific culinary traditions.

3. Select Books with Practical Layouts and Beautiful Imagery

The most enjoyable cookery books combine functionality with aesthetic appeal. Look for features like:

Clear Ingredient Lists and Instructions: Recipes that are easy to follow make any cook’s life easier, especially during busy periods.

Photography and Layout: High-quality images are motivating and can be as inspiring as the recipes themselves. Books like Nigella’s Cook, Eat, Repeat or Plenty by Yotam Ottolenghi are known for their visually appealing layouts and mouth-watering photography.

4. Consider the Author’s Personality and Approach

Often, a cookery book with a strong authorial voice becomes a cherished addition to the kitchen. Some suggestions:

Friendly and Relatable: Authors like Jamie Oliver and Nigella Lawson write with warmth and relatability, making them suitable for anyone who enjoys a personal, down-to-earth style.

Technical and Precision-Oriented: If your gift recipient thrives on accuracy and technique, authors like Thomas Keller (The French Laundry) or Dominique Ansel (The Secret Recipes) offer deep dives into culinary finesse.

5. Focus on Seasonal and Festive Cooking

Since it’s a Christmas gift, a festive-themed cookery book can be particularly fitting. Titles like Nigel Slater’s The Christmas Chronicles and Jamie Oliver’s Christmas Cookbook focus on cosy, celebratory recipes. These books are perfect for anyone who loves the ritual of holiday cooking and entertaining.

6. Choose a Book That Encourages Culinary Exploration

If you want your gift to spark a bit of adventure, opt for books that inspire experimentation:

Ingredient-Led Books: Titles like Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat by Samin Nosrat encourage cooks to understand the building blocks of flavour, giving them the confidence to create their own recipes.

Themed Cookbooks: Books dedicated to a single technique, like Mastering the Art of Fermentation, or to a specific ingredient, such as The Flavour Thesaurus, provide deep insights and encourage creative experimentation.

Wrapping Up: Making the Gift Special

Once you’ve selected the perfect cookery book, consider adding a personal touch:

Inscription: Add a message in the book’s cover with a festive greeting or personal note.

Accompanying Ingredients or Tools: If you’re gifting a book on bread-making, include a high-quality sourdough starter or baking tools.

Seasonal Wrapping: Wrap the book in festive paper with a decorative ribbon or tie it with a wooden spoon for a special touch.

Selecting a cookery book as a Christmas gift is a thoughtful way to inspire, educate, and bring a bit of joy to the kitchen. With the right choice, you’re not only gifting a book but an experience—one that they’ll cherish long after the holidays have passed.

Expert Chef's Hacks: Transform Your Christmas Cooking from a Nightmare to a Dream

These hacks are like having a chef in your own home

Christmas is a time of joy, family gatherings, and indulgent feasts. But for those tasked with preparing the big meal, it can quickly feel more like a nightmare than a dream. 

Fear not! With a few simple expert chef’s hacks, you can take the stress out of your Christmas cooking and deliver a festive spread worthy of applause.

Here’s how to make your Christmas meal preparation a breeze:

1. Prep Ahead and Batch Cook

One of the most common causes of Christmas Day stress is trying to do everything at once. Professional chefs swear by prepping ingredients ahead of time. You can chop vegetables, parboil potatoes, and even prepare sauces and gravy days in advance. Batch cooking is your friend too—make large portions of side dishes like stuffing or mashed potatoes ahead, then reheat when needed.

Top Tip: Freeze your gravy a week before Christmas. It saves time on the day, and freezing enhances the flavours as they mature.

2. Plan Your Menu with Simplicity in Mind

Chefs understand that less is often more. Instead of creating a dozen intricate dishes, choose a few standout ones that can be prepared quickly or require minimal hands-on time. Think roasted vegetables, simple salads, and a no-fuss dessert like a fruit trifle or chocolate mousse.

Pro Chef Insight: Focus on flavour combinations rather than complexity. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme can elevate the simplest of dishes.

3. Utilise Your Freezer Like a Pro

Don’t underestimate the power of your freezer in the lead-up to Christmas. Make use of it by freezing items such as stuffing balls, cranberry sauce, or even Yorkshire puddings ahead of time. These can be cooked from frozen on the day without losing their flavour or texture.

Chef’s Tip: Freeze your bread sauce or white sauce in an ice cube tray—this way, you can heat as much as you need, and it melts faster in the pan.

4. Delegate Tasks

Chefs don’t work alone, and neither should you. Enlist the help of family members to assist with simple tasks such as peeling potatoes, setting the table, or pouring drinks. This reduces your workload and keeps things running smoothly.

Bonus Hack: Assign someone the role of ‘drinks manager’ to ensure everyone’s glasses stay topped up, leaving you to focus on the food.

5. Make the Most of Your Oven Space

Cooking multiple dishes with only one oven can feel like a nightmare. To combat this, work out a timeline based on oven temperatures and cooking times. Start with the dishes that need the highest temperature and work your way down. Most roasted veg can be cooked at a lower temperature if needed, while meat can rest covered in foil for up to an hour, staying warm.

Pro Trick: If you’re short on oven space, use a slow cooker for sides like braised red cabbage or mulled wine. They keep food warm and can sit out of the way.

6. Use Ready-Made Pastry and Sauces

Many expert chefs agree that when time is tight, there’s no harm in using shop-bought pastry or sauces. They are huge time-savers and taste nearly as good as homemade. You can still add a personal touch by brushing the pastry with egg wash or garnishing the sauce with fresh herbs.

Chef’s Confession: Most chefs use ready-made puff pastry for dishes like sausage rolls or beef Wellington—so why not do the same?

7. Keep it Simple with Turkey

A perfectly cooked turkey is often the centrepiece of Christmas dinner, but it doesn’t need to be overly complicated. Brining the bird overnight adds moisture and flavour, while roasting it breast-side down for the first half of cooking helps keep the meat juicy.

Expert Advice: Once your turkey is done, let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving. This locks in the juices and makes carving much easier.

8. Time Your Serving Carefully

A common mistake is rushing to serve everything at once. Instead, stagger the courses like a pro. Serve starters or appetisers before tackling the main course, giving yourself time to focus on plating. Let the main course be enjoyed before clearing for dessert.

Chef’s Tip: Pre-plate desserts like Christmas pudding or Yule log before the meal starts, keeping them ready to go when it’s time.

9. Don’t Forget the Leftovers Plan

Chefs love leftovers because they often taste better the next day. Plan ahead by having airtight containers ready to store your Christmas bounty. Leftover turkey can be transformed into soups, sandwiches, or curries, while roasted veg can be tossed into frittatas or salads.

Chef’s Favourite: Make a turkey and cranberry pie with your leftover meat and sauce—a hearty dish that’s perfect for Boxing Day.

10. Relax and Enjoy!

The most important chef’s hack is remembering that Christmas dinner is about enjoyment. Things might not go perfectly, but with good planning, the right hacks, and a glass of something festive, it will all come together in the end. The best meals are the ones enjoyed in great company.

Final Thought: Christmas dinner is not a competition—focus on making it a day to remember with love, laughter, and delicious food.

By using these expert hacks, you’ll turn your Christmas cooking from a stressful experience into a seamless, enjoyable one. Your guests will marvel at your kitchen wizardry, and you’ll get to enjoy the festivities without a frazzled face. Happy cooking!

Experience the changing seasons and celebrate the festive season at Auberge du Lac

With festive menus, and events that embrace the natural beauty of The Brocket Hall estate, it's a magical time to visit Auberge du Lac.  

The restaurant, housed within a former hunting lodge on the grounds of the picturesque estate proudly re-opened earlier this year under the guidance of new Head Chef, John Barber. Since then, this young, culinary talent has been delivering a more relaxed style of dining at the beautiful lakeside location.

Working closely with kitchen gardener, Lucy Hawkins, John is focusing on sustainability and seasonality to enhance his modern British style of cuisine.

In a little over a year, Lucy has transformed a one-acre site, employing the no-dig method, into a fertile garden which is supplying Auberge with fresh produce and supporting local biodiversity.

Dishes created by John make the best use of her seasonal crops which are growing within metres of the tables where they'll be served. Thus this is soil-to-plate dining at its best.  

John is also prioritising using the most local and sustainable suppliers across Hertfordshire and the surrounding areas, who can deliver the freshest and highest quality ingredients for his exquisite and flavoursome food.

Front of house, it is Scott Foster with a wealth of experience in luxury hospitality ensuring the ambience, drinks, and service match the incredibly high quality of John Barber's food. 

This winter the team is excitedly preparing to welcome guests for their first festive season, and have some wonderful events planned. From foraging to New Year's Eve feasts, see what's on at the new Auberge du Lac! 

Autumn Forage & Lunch with The Hitchin Forager 

On Thursday 30 November, join The Hitchin Forager, Jane Simmons, for a seasonal forage around the grounds of The Brocket Hall Estate followed by a three-course lunch at Auberge du Lac.

Along with their own kitchen gardener, Lucy Hawkins, wild food expert Jane will share her local knowledge helping you identify wild ingredients you can forage and cook at home.

After the guided forage, enjoy a glass of our finest Fili Extra Dry Prosecco and a beautiful lunch at Auberge du Lac prepared by John Barber, using some of the ingredients growing naturally on the estate. £85 pp 

Christmas Wreath Making Workshop with Lucy Hawkins 

On Thursday 7 December, create you can create your very own Christmas wreath over minced pies and mulled wine with the help of our kitchen gardener and trained florist, Lucy Hawkins. 

To create your beautifully natural door display, you'll be working with fresh mixed textures, varied evergreen foliage, berries, and cones all sourced directly from the estate grounds. There's no glitter or plastic here! 

After you have created your dream wreath, it's time to relax over lunch, John Barber's festive menu with a choice of dishes, accompanied by a glass of our finest Fili Extra Dry Prosecco. £120 pp

John Barber's Festive Menus 

Head chef, John Barber, has created two exquisite menus, Set Lunch and Tasting, which will be available alongside his a la carte offering between November 30 & December 29. 

Whether you are celebrating with friends, family or colleagues, dining at the atmospheric lakeside restaurant is guaranteed to get you into the Christmas spirit. £65 pp & £95 pp.

Auberge du Lac New Year's Eve at Brocket Hall 

This New Year's Eve, Auberge du Lac will be hosting guests in the Splendour of The Ballroom at Brocket Hall. 

John Barber has created a celebratory menu which includes Lobster Canapés,  Game, Halibut and Beef Wellington -  a truly special feast which will be paired with fine wines. 

The party will go on till late as we countdown to 2024 with a live pianist, DJ, and Laurent-Perrier champagne served as the clock strikes Midnight! £320 pp

Where is Auberge du Lac? It's at Brocket Hall, Welwyn, Hertfordshire, AL8 7XG.

You can call them on 01707 368700

www.aubergedulac.co.uk

Opening Times

Open Thursday to Sunday for Lunch from noon to 2.30 pm and Dinner from 6 pm – 9 pm with a choice of menus; 7- 7-course tasting menu £85 + wine flight £45, A la carte, Set £39 and Specials. Open Sunday lunch for a 3-course Roast from noon to 3 pm £65

For up-to-date information on all events follow Auberge on Instagram and Facebook.

 At just 33 years old, John Barber has already had an incredible career. Following an intensive apprenticeship at The Mandarin Hotel Group in London and Thailand,  a stint in Paris with famed chef Charcutier Giles Verot, John joined Bar Bouloud (part of the Mandarin in London) and within three years became Executive Sous Chef and Executive Head Chef. 

A period at the D&D Group followed, where John opened 14 Hills at 120 Fenchurch Street, London.  The opportunity to put Auberge back on the map as a foodie destination has seen John relocate to Hertfordshire with his young family to start an exciting new chapter. 

Buy the cook in your life a set of Salter Colourweigh Scales this Christmas!

It seems that cookery programmes are becoming still more popular, so what better present for the dedicated amateur chef in your life than a set of Salter Colourweigh Scales this Chirstmas?

Colourweigh Kitchen Scale (£20)

In funky Lime and striking Raspberry, these ultra-slim and easy to store Salter Colourweigh Kitchen Scales pack a lot of efficient features into its slinky frame.

Key features include:

Ultra slim design for easy storage.

Easy-clean stainless steel platform – you can weigh directly on the platform and clean afterwards or with your own bowl. Suitable for use with most bowls or containers.

Add and weigh ‘zero’ function – for measuring multiple ingredients in the same bowl. You can just re-set the scale to zero whenever you add a new ingredient.

Easy to read LCD display.

Aquatronic™ function for measuring liquids.

Choice of metric or imperial measures – switch easily between ounces and grams, millilitres and fluid ounces.

A weight maximum of 5kg/11lbs/5l/175 fl oz.

Available in Lime and Raspberry.

The Colour Weigh Kitchen Scale RRP: £20 and available at Independent Cookshops, Steamer Trading, Department Stores and www.salterhousewares.com.

And do not forget the NEW Salter Induction Hob RRP £69.99

 The new Salter Induction Hob gives you precise control making it perfect for all types of cooking.  It gives you six pre-programmed settings which range from simmer through to boil reaching a maximum of 280° and a clear, easy to read digital display with touch controls. 

The Microcrystal glass top gives a premium high quality finish that is very easy to clean and the smooth edge design means no dirt traps. As heat is only generated in the base of the pan itself, the cooking surface remains cool in operation making this a very safe appliance to use. As soon as the pan is removed, the flow of heat stops immediately.  A child proof lock is also added for peace of mind.