I'm P.C., and I have studied food and cooking around the world, mostly by eating, but also through serious study. Coursework at Le Cordon Bleu London and intensive courses in Morocco, Thailand and France have broadened my culinary skill and palate. But my kitchen of choice is at home, cooking like most people, experimenting with unique but practical ideas.
I live, mostly in my kitchen, in my hometown of Memphis, Tennessee.
Food gifts are the best – they just keep on giving! I’ve pulled together a list of some of my favorite treats that make amazing gifts, or a little something for yourself! As always, these are just some personal favorites – no one has asked me to promote any products or compensated me in any way. Photos are from the vendors.
And check out my Festive Finds 2019 list for more ideas!
I love country ham so these little ham filled angel biscuits from the Hamery are a favorite treat for myself, but they also make a fabulous quick party appetizer. A regular part of my Easter. And sometimes Christmas table is the Tale of Two Hams from Edward’s Virigina Smokehouse, perfectly sized petite country and city hams that are small in size but big on flavor. My favorite childhood food memory is country ham on beaten biscuits, which I can now buy from Critchfield’s Meat Market. But never forget that Memphis barbecue! Send a pack of Central Barbecue ribs, pulled pork and sauce anywhere
Sugaree’s Cakes are so amazing, it’s hard to choose between the decadent caramel and the perfect strawberry. Fortunately, you can choose to have half of each! For a real old-fashioned treat, send some Divinity from Savannah Candy Kitchen. Dale’s Fried Pies are delicious and make a food gift with a twist (or a treat for yourself). Sure, there is apple and chocolate, but give the chicken and waffles or Benton’s bacon fillings a try in a select your own 12 flavor pack. The Mississippi Cheese Straw Company makes darn good cheese straws, but their Sea Salt Caramel Cookie Straws are the star of the show.
Mint Julep Jelly from Bourbon Barrel Foods is perfect for biscuits or with a pork loin. The spiked set from Backhouse Foods features tipsy butterscotch and hot fudge sauces. Felicia Suzanne’s restaurant is a Memphis favorite and her Flo’s gift set of chow-chow, pepper jelly, tomato jam and bread and butter pickles makes the perfect Southern gift. I am still obsessed with Jacko’s Pepper Jelly and this seasonal pear, plum and honey version is a must.
Burlap and Barrel’s single origin spices are a gamechanger and for the true gastronome on your list will be thrilled with a gift set. Any baker or real food fanatic will love Bellegarde Bakery’s stone milled, heirloom grains. For the luxury lover, Cajun Caviar bowfin caviar harvested in Louisiana will make a unique gift. J.Q. Dickinson Salt Works has revised the tradition of salt producing in Appalachia. Their gift set includes finishing salt, smoked salt and ramp-infused salt for a taste of Appalachia. And while you’re there, pick up some Dr. Dickinson’s natural hangover remedy packets.
And check out my annual Festive Finds list for more delightful ideas!
Holiday shopping season is upon us once again, and I love to share gift ideas for the food lovers in your life. As always, these are just some personal favorites – no one has asked me to promote any products or compensated me in any way. Photos used are from the vendors.
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