There was a (long) time that I was not known for my gift-giving talents. I famously brought daughter Kate, then maybe thirteen or fourteen, a set of leather button covers back from Montana. She was, at that point, wearing Columbia puffer jackets in men’s XL, and tee shirts that practically went down to her knees. She was not pleased; I still don’t get it. Now, I’m better — a vintage blazer or, honestly, a check. Simple.
Kathleen, my partner, is one of the most generous people you’ll ever meet and is also an extremely talented gift giver. (Actually, I don’t know that anyone’s ever been disappointed in a gift that she’s given.) We’ve been together for almost a decade, and I like to think that the joy she experiences in gift giving, and how good she is at it, has rubbed off on me a bit.
One thing I’ve learned over the years on my own, though, is that cookware is, in my circles at least, a pretty foolproof gift, especially when it’s good quality and looks nice. I like to gift pots and pans and things, too, and they’re always well-received, at least evidently.
You all know how much I love Made In — it’s almost all I use at this point. So I want to share a few of my Made In staples, in hopes of making your gift giving a little easier this year — or if you want to get something nice for yourself, something that calls to you, makes your cooking life that much more pleasurable.
Stainless Clad Saucier
This is the piece I use the most. I love the rounded, cornerless shape. A great piece for finishing up pastas, making sauce — just about anything. Super durable and super easy to clean, which are two musts in my kitchen, ‘cause I go kinda hard.
Blue Carbon Steel Wok
This wok. Best wok ever. This could actually replace 90% of the cookware in my house, except the saucier. It stays on my stove.
ProCoat Non Stick Set
The saute pan is one of Kate’s favorites, so I got myself one (I already had the rest of the stuff in this awesome set). It’s got great depth and nice heft, and is just big enough; nothing unwieldy about it. I do like non stick for almost everything now.
Stainless Clad Stock Pot
If you don’t have a stock pot, I’m not quite sure what you’re waiting for. (Chicken Stock. Vegetable Stock. Parmesan Stock. Mushroom Stock.) There’s also one with a pasta insert, which Kate loves, but I prefer to make a huge mess, and a pasta insert is a bit too tidy for me.
Entrée Bowls
I got these and used them so much that I promptly bought a set for each of my daughters. A very satisfying size — perfect for pasta or a big salad. The red rim is my personal favorite.
I am so thrilled to be sharing my thoughts and experiences with you for Made In, one of my favorite brands. I’ll be back next month!
