Five Star Gift Ideas

For a grandpa who enjoys learning to cook new recipes from different cuisines, there are several thoughtful and meaningful gift ideas that can enhance his cooking experience and provide him with endless inspiration. Here are a few suggestions to consider:

1. Cookbook: A well-curated cookbook featuring a wide range of international recipes can be a great gift. Look for cookbooks that focus on different cuisines, such as "The Food of Morocco" by Paula Wolfert or "Taste of Persia" by Naomi Duguid. Choose a book that aligns with his interests and includes step-by-step instructions, beautiful photography, and interesting anecdotes.

2. Cooking Class: Consider gifting your grandpa a cooking class or a series of classes focused on cuisines he’s interested in. Check local culinary schools, community centers, or chefs who offer virtual classes. This way, he can learn directly from professionals and interact with other food enthusiasts as he discovers new techniques and recipes.

3. Ingredients and Spices: Purchase a selection of high-quality ingredients and spices from different cuisines. For example, you could create a custom gift basket with unique spices like sumac, za'atar, or smoked paprika, as well as specialty condiments or oils. These additions to his pantry will allow him to experiment with various flavors and create authentic dishes from around the world.

4. Subscription to a Meal Kit Service: A subscription to a meal kit service can introduce your grandpa to new recipes and flavors regularly. Choose a service that specializes in international cuisine, so he can explore various dishes from different countries without the hassle of sourcing hard-to-find ingredients. This gift will provide him with the convenience of pre-measured ingredients and detailed instructions for trying new recipes at home.

5. Culinary Tools: A selection of high-quality culinary tools will always be appreciated. Consider gifting him a versatile chef's knife or a set of quality knives that will make his cooking experience easier and more enjoyable. Additionally, you might consider buying him a spice grinder or a mortar and pestle for grinding his own spices, allowing him to explore the fresh flavors they can bring to his dishes.

6. Food and Culture Travel Book: Help inspire your grandpa's culinary journey by gifting him a food and culture travel book. There are many books available that combine travel narratives with interesting recipes, such as "Salt Fat Acid Heat" by Samin Nosrat or "The Food Explorer" by Daniel Stone. These books will transport him to different countries and provide insights into their unique culinary traditions.

Remember to accompany your gift with a heartfelt note expressing your support for his culinary adventures and your excitement to taste the delicious meals he creates. This personal touch will make the gift even more meaningful and remind him of your thoughtfulness every time he uses it.

Or you can get him a star map with an important date you share.

Elaine Bornemeier says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“These are fabulous. They are gifts, so excited for my daughters to receive them for Christmas! Thank you!”