Househomekits

Last winter was long and cold, and one of the things I most looked forward to about spring was the release of the much anticipated cookbook, The Nourished Kitchen . As one of many avid followers of   Jennifer McGruther's   traditional foods website , I wasn't alone in my wintery anticipation. I already had a foodie web crush, but her book made me fall head over heels. Anyone who has section in their book entitled "In Defense of Lard" and a recipe for Bone Marrow Custard is a rockstar in my universe. So this was pretty much how I spent every waking moment after receiving my copy in the mail. Like her website, Jennifer's book celebrates whole food recipes focussing on bone broths, fermented foods, grass-fed meats, a wide range of vegetable dishes, traditionally prepared grains, and healthy desserts. What I love about the Nourished Kitchen philosophy is that instead of approaching healthy eating in a restrictive way that forbids a huge amount of food groups (gluten, ...

I realize the name of this recipe may be alarming to some. But have no fear, no salami was used in the making of this salami . Nope, this here salami log is pure chocolate goodness peppered with more goodness, such as candied ginger, pistachios, amaretti cookies, etc. If you're looking for a great DIY gift, this one is a charmer. Dust it in icing sugar, tie it up with twine like a proper salami roll and give it to your favorite chocolate lover. You can find my recipe over here at PBS Food . And if you are in need of another chocolatey DIY gift idea… here is my chocolate truffles recipe . Truffles are incredibly easy to make and a box of homemade ones makes a perfect present, especially for those people on your list who have you scratching your head for gift ideas. Here's wishing you a very chocolatey holiday season! (unless you don't like chocolate, of course)

These gifts stand out to me because they are at least one, if not all of the following: a) super useful to have in your kitchen b) exceedingly delicious c) made by artisans or small businesses, d) ecologically-minded to make your kitchen a greener place, or e) just very very nifty!  Of course,  the best gifts for the food lover are often homemade.  And there are many great sources of DIY edible gift inspirations out there, from this one to this one . I have a couple ideas coming your way soon too. But for now, this is my list of gifts that have been DIY-ed by someone else. Enjoy! $25 AND UNDER GIFTS 1. Hand-printed organic cloth napkins   I am totally in love with the gorgeous hand-printed organic cotton napkins made by the cool cats at Oh Little Rabbit. (Check out their adorable printed baby onesies too!) 2. Organic cotton hand-printed tea towels While we're on the topic of table linens, you have to check out Madder Root 's beautiful tea towels and re-usa...