Sometimes there’s nothing like a well-thought-out gift to show a loved one you care for and appreciate them, whether it’s for Christmas, a birthday, anniversary or any other occasion worthy of celebrating. I’m all for practical presents (hello, cookware!) and I can’t get enough of pretty ones either (looking at you, homewares), but sometimes, SOMETIMES, homemade food gifts bring that added ‘you’ve been considered’ factor. Stepping into the kitchen to make personalised presents from scratch not only means more to the recipient, but it’s actually a great option if you’re looking to have a more sustainable celebration. Without further ado, here are my favourite homemade food gifts that will put a smile on any foodie’s face.
#1: Homemade Thai Sriracha Sauce
Anyone who follows my channel will know I’m a bit of a spice fiend… and sriracha seems to go with pretty much everything (even ice cream – TRUST). Save yourself a trip to the shops and try making your own from scratch. This Thai Sriracha Sauce can be made as hot or as mild as you (or your homemade gift recipient) likes it, earning you bonus brownie points for personalisation.
#2: Sweet Tangy Chilli Jam
This jam is the sole reason why condiments maketh the dish. A true pantry hero, and one I definitely can’t live without! For a milder alternative, try Mum’s Chilli Ginger Jam.
#3: Homemade Thai Sweet Chilli Sauce
Making your own sweet chilli sauce means you can tailor the heat to your own preferences. Does your gift recipient like things hot? Use more birdseye chillies and leave the seeds in. Otherwise, for a milder affair, remove the seeds or use less chillies altogether. This one keeps in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to three weeks.
#4: Easy Homemade Kimchi
Kimchi has to be one of my favourite condiments – I love how it’s full of flavour and funk. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll be finding reasons to add it to everything you eat, which is why my Easy Korean Kimchi recipe should be next on your list. Make it as your homemade food gift, then share all the amazing recipes they can make with it, such as Cheesy Kimchi Pancakes, Kimchi Mac ‘n’ Cheese and a pimped-up Cacio e Pepe.
#5: Bounty Bar Brownies
Savoury is all well and good, but sometimes sweet is the way to go. If that’s the case, these rich, velvety chocolate brownies are made all the better with the addition of coconut. Get your bake on and prepare for non-stop smiles. Psst: if your loved one would prefer a gooey brownie, keep a close eye on your cook time as all ovens vary – you want them slightly under for that fudgey interior.
#6: Easy Homemade Chilli Oil
A totally addictive addition to dumplings, noodles and stir-fries, this homemade chilli oil carries aromas and flavours of Asian chilli powder, plus star anise, cardamom, Sichuan peppercorns and other toasted spices. And, since it stores in an airtight jar for up to a year, it’s the food gift that keeps on giving!
#7: Homemade Chinese Plum Sauce
Nothing quite beats the taste of homemade food gifts, and this Chinese plum sauce is no exception. It’s the perfect companion to spring rolls, fried chicken, wontons… just about anything really! The best part? It only takes 15 minutes to rustle up a batch.
#8: Chocolate, Peanut Butter & Miso Crack Cookies
Absolutely chock-a-block with peanut butter and dark chocolate, these seriously addictive chunky cookies also feature a little hit of miso paste for added salty goodness. So chewy. So oozy. And so. Darn. Good.
