Food gifts for the holidays are easy to personalize

What exactly is a “foodie”? Someone addicted to everything Food Network, a restaurant critic or extreme recipe tester? All of the above, with a pinch of elitism thrown in? I’d like to define a foodie more simply: someone who appreciates good food –  creating it, eating it or (most likely) both. There are those who claim you can’t call yourself a foodie if you don’t regularly spend time cooking food, but that doesn’t account for the curiosity about new ingredients, flavors and the history of food.  

Having this in mind will make it easier for you to find the perfect holiday gift for your friends and family members who might be considered foodies. But, before you purchase a trendy appliance or gadget, consider whether they already have the device or implement, and whether or not they have room to store this newest one. I still remember the year we received three fondue sets from three different couples who thought we’d enjoy having one.

Another option, instead of a tool, is to give some sort of food itself. There are countless purveyors on the internet that will deliver your package before the holiday deadlines. You can send steaks, lobster, cookies and cakes. For the vegan or plant-based eater, there are plenty of varied food mixes and kits, including a novel spice mix called a “broth bomb.”

These are described as flavor catalysts for soups and stews. Each of the versions contains a unique flavor profile, ranging from chili seasonings to minestrone to anti-inflammatory. The spices are combined with baking soda, which causes the small ball to fizz when it’s added to the hot liquid. This surprising ingredient tenderizes the beans and veggies in the pot while adding layers of flavors.

Although not as unusual as a broth bomb, regional specialities are good gift ideas. Visit the Anson Mills website to discover a wide range of specialty heirloom grains, including stone-ground grits, Carolina Gold Rice, toasted stone-cut oats, flours, farro, benne seeds and peas. They are quite adamant about using their recipes for these ingredients, as they are not always suited to standard recipes.

I was the lucky recipient of the selection of miniature English muffins in the photo. The regular-size muffins are quite large, so the mini versions are perfect for me. The flavors include blueberry, citrus, cranberry, sourdough and (of course) original. These muffins are airy and fluffy, with a perfect crunch when toasted. I’m looking forward to spreading them with the peach jam that was part of the gift.

When you’re gifting food, consider avoiding confections that can derail a dieter or harm a heart. Gourmet smoked meats, artisanal cheeses and bakery specialities may sound delicious, but they’re loaded with fat and calories. Consider some free trade coffee, a pretty mug and hand-carved measuring scoop, or organic tea and an infuser nestled in a matching towel and oven mitt. Of course, you can’t go wrong with a bottle of Lewes Dairy eggnog wrapped with a nutmeg grater.

If you want to give a gift that lasts beyond the season, it’s easy to find a variety of food clubs online that offer subscription options, such as Fresh Pressed Olive Oil, Goldbelly and Bake Eat Love. When invited to a holiday gathering, it’s customary to bring a small gift for your host. Combine a jar of marinated olives with a two-section olive bowl, one for the olives and one to collect the pits. Make tomato tapenade and present it with a decorative spreader, a loaf of artisanal bread and a bottle of red wine. Happy Holidays!

Tomato Tapenade 

Thoroughly wash two 8-ounce glass jars and lids. Sterilize by placing in a pot of boiling water for 10 minutes. Set ona clean towel to drain. Combine ingredients in a food processor and pulse until smooth. Spoon mixture into hot, sterilized jars and seal. Keeps up to 6 weeks in the refrigerator. Yield 2 cups.

Marinated Olives

Rinse and drain the olives. Combine with remaining ingredients in a plastic zip-top bag and mix thoroughly. Refrigerate for 24 hours, then package in airtight containers. When ready to serve, place in a bowl and set aside for 30 minutes to reach room temperature for best flavor.