Five Star Gift Ideas

For someone who enjoys learning to cook international cuisines, there are several meaningful and personal gift ideas that you can consider for your son this Christmas. These gifts will not only cater to his culinary interests but also assist him in exploring and mastering different international cooking styles. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Cookbooks: Invest in high-quality cookbooks that focus specifically on different international cuisines. Look for ones that offer detailed instructions and recipes, along with cultural insights and backgrounds. Some popular choices include "The Food of Morocco" by Paula Wolfert, "Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking" by Marcella Hazan, or "Plenty" by Yotam Ottolenghi. These resources will inspire your son to experiment with diverse flavors and enhance his cooking skills.

2. Cooking Class: Enroll your son in a cooking class that specializes in international cuisines. This hands-on experience will provide him with the opportunity to learn from professional chefs and gain practical knowledge about specific cooking techniques. Research local culinary schools or community centers that offer classes focused on different international dishes, such as sushi making, Thai curry, or French pastry. This gift will not only teach him new skills but also encourage him to expand his culinary horizons.

3. Gourmet Ingredients: Help your son elevate his cooking with high-quality, authentic ingredients from different cultures. Consider creating a customized international spice or sauce set, including items like za'atar from the Middle East, harissa from North Africa, or gochujang from Korea. Alternatively, you can curate a selection of specialty oils, vinegar, or unique seasonings from different countries. These ingredients will allow him to experiment with flavors and recreate authentic international dishes in his kitchen.

4. Subscription Box: Consider gifting your son a subscription to a monthly international food box. These curated boxes typically include a variety of ingredients, snacks, and recipes from different regions around the world. For example, a subscription to a Japanese snack box will introduce him to new flavors and popular snacks from Japan, providing both a culinary adventure and a cultural experience. This gift will enable him to explore and learn about different world cuisines from the comfort of his home.

5. Kitchen Gadgets: Equip your son's kitchen with specialty tools that are specific to different international cuisines. For instance, if he loves making pasta, gift him a pasta machine. If he enjoys Asian cuisine, consider a sushi-making kit or a rice cooker. These gadgets will make his cooking experience more efficient and enjoyable, while also demonstrating your support for his culinary endeavors.

Remember to personalize the gift based on your son's preferences and favorite cooking styles. By choosing a gift that aligns with his passion for learning to cook international cuisines, you will not only show your thoughtfulness but also encourage his culinary growth and exploration.

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

Madeline Moran Weiler says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“The map was absolutely beautiful! My grandson was thrilled with it (it was a Christmas gift) and has already asked me if I would consider getting another one for him as a graduation gift in a couple of years.”