The Wise Men Brought SPICESNow Didn’t They? How old is that can of paprika—really? Everybody knows that it’s older
than it should be—and more often than not should have been replaced long ago in all of our kitchens. Why not help out your host or hostess to do so and give them a refreshed collection of spices in tidy decorative jars? You can do this locally buy hitting up many of your local farmer’s markets, or food co-ops successfully, but you will need to find containers for them. For me though, that is half the fun of it—stainless steel, glass, are just a few of the myriad of options. Let you imagination run away with itself! For pre- packaged options try San Francisco-based Le Sanctuaire, their selection is incredible and the vast website includes much more than just spices—olive oils, vinegars, truffles, rice and pastas—
le-sanctuaire.com. Another highly recommended site is in my home state of Wisconsin, it’s called Penzeys and they have gift sets, many individual spice options and seasoning blends that are
lovely.penzeys.com
SALTS—They ain’t like the brand in the umbrella canister anymore! Who knew? It was such a surprise to me when I first learned about the in-
numerable choices one has when it comes to salt . . . Flaked, crystal, mined, pearl, smoked, flavored, table, cooking and finishing. How is one to choose? Take flake salt for instance; it crumbles easily, dissolves quickly and is con-
sidered a finishing salt, best sprinkled on salads, vegetables and desserts just before serving. Then there is Bolivian Rose, Himalayan and Peruvian Pink, all of which are mined and have a healthy mineral content which some say is good for you! The smoked salts are great for vegetarian dishes be- cause they imbibe the dishes with a rich texture that is sure to please. There are two places that I suggest: The Salt Farm is a small San Diego-
CHEESY GOODNESS: Much of the same thing
can be said for cheeses— your gracious host doesn’t imbibe? Then try a cheese of the month club! Good for the palette, great for the soul and an education to boot! I found this fantastic website for you to shop:
vivantfinecheese.com
based seller with a nice selection of natural, infused, blended and smoked choices for you to choose from. I like the idea of supporting the smaller sellers in that they tend to be passionate about what they do, so you get great service and
support.etsy.com/shop/saltfarm For sheer quantities though check out Salt Traders, they have it all and
in nice packaging too! You can select Kona Deep Water, Danish Viking Smoked, Fleur de Sel de Gurerrande or Guavawood Smoked Sea—jarred, labeled and ready to gift to your lucky hosts.
salttraders.com
DECEMBER 2011 | RAGE monthly 51
gift GUIDE
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