Image by archetypefotografie via Flickr. Image altered.

Kitchen Gift Guide: A Few of My New Favorite Things

Food Huggers Reusable Silicone Food Savers

Disclosure: The links are affiliate links. The price will be the same for you and I’ll receive a small commission that helps support my blog. Don’t worry though, I’d never promote something I wouldn’t purchase myself. 

These things are awesome! I liked them so much, I went back a few months later to buy another pack. Nothing says satisfied customer like a repeat buyer! Food huggers take the place of a ziplock or saran wrap. Love them to cover partially used citrus, apples onions…the list goes on.

Why do I like these?

1. Keeps refrigerator cleaner because it’s easy to see food in fridge (food isn’t hiding in a big bag bulking up the refrigerator.)
2.  Saves a ton of plastic ziolock bags from being used
3. Easy to put on and take off
4. One way to reduce plastic’s chemicals from touching your food
5. They’re cute and easy to clean

 
Abeego Natural Self-Adhesive Wraps

The print on these natural wraps made of beeswax, hemp, organic cotton, and tree resin jojoba oil is adorable. I don’t use them on a daily basis, but I do when I need to cover a dish or bowl in place of plastic wrap. I love to keep one folded in the fridge to quickly cover open yogurts that will be eaten later that day.

Why Do I like These?

1. 1. Replaces the use of those awful domed plastic covers that melted and likely leeched awful chemicals when heated.
   2. Covers splatters wonderfully
   3. Assists in cooking/reheating food because it creates a seal with steam
   4. Multi-purposed

Silicone Microwave Food Covers

This is my #1 favorite purchase this year. I loved them so much, I purchased a set for my mom. I love they have many more uses than just using in the microwave. I use them to cover bowls or plates to keep warm and for a quick cover in the fridge. They are made of safe silicone and beautifully hang on the inside of one of my cupboards on a 3m Wire Hook. 

Why do I like these?

1. 1. Replaces the use of plastic wrap and ziolock bags 
   2. One way to reduce

Mini Silicone Utensil Set

Mini Serving Spatula

I am obsessed with little kitchen utensils! Mini utensils are a must in my kitchen. From scooping out brownies to making tzatziki, these little guys make everything easier.

Why do I like these?

1. The mini spatula makes scooping out bars from a 13×9 so easy and clean. 
2. The mini spatula spoon in the set is great for making sauces and such when you’d normally grab a regular spoon. It’s my new favorite utensil!

Le Creuset 12 Ounce Mugs

I have replaced quite a few things in my kitchen this year and these mugs are a favorite. My morning coffee ritual is verrrrry important to me. I actually like to wake up early to sit alone and enjoy my coffee; it’s my favorite part of the day. Since this time is so special, I like to really like my mug too. And this one fits the bill perfectly. I love to sit quietly and pray to start my mornings. Here are some of my favorite prayers. 

Why do I like these?

1. They just feel good in my hands – not too big or small, not to wide or narrow.
2. They’re thick and keep my coffee warmer than other mugs
3. I’m just obsessed with Le Creuset, so I’m partial to them just cause of that!

Jura IMPRESSA C65 Automatic Coffee Machine

And speaking of coffee… this machine is a jewel on our counter. This year, after struggling with my postpartum joint pain, I decided to get rid of our Keurig for three main reasons.

1. Plastic pods. First, they are in contact with the coffee from the time of manufacturing, but then worse, hot liquid comes into contact with it, brewing chemicals from the plastic right into your morning coffee. Remember the advice to not let your water bottles sit in the hot sun in your car because the chemicals leech into the water? Heat is bad when it comes to plastics and food, so what could be worse than brewing hot water right through a plastic cup. TOXIC coffee anyone? No thanks.
2. I was sick of sacrificing a good cup of coffee for convenience sake.
3. There is a water reservoir in the back of the machine that you can never clean…eew. 

Why am I in love?

1. This machine grinds whole (organic) coffee beans for each individual cup. Therefore each cup is the freshest and most flavorful it can be. It also gives a lovely foam on top. Hands down it’s the best cup of coffee I’ve ever had. Starbucks? No thanks, I’ll stay home.
2. Because of the organic coffee I buy, I’m having the healthiest cup of coffee I can.
3. It has the convenience of a Keruig, brewing individual cups that range from an easy dial turn of espresso to regular coffee. All you do is push one button for a cup of coffee once the machine is loaded. (There is a water tank and a tank for beans). 

Fagor LUX Multi-Cooker, 8 quart, Electric Pressure Cooker

Fagor Stainless Steel Removable Inner Cooking Pot, 8 quart

Thanks to the book, The Plant Paradox: The Hidden Dangers in “Healthy” Foods That Cause Disease and Weight Gain, I caved and bought a Instant Pot. Boy, am I glad I did. I actually use it so often, it’s home is on my kitchen counter!

The challenge when shopping for one was looking for a stainless steel pot, as I’m a stickler for not cooking with Teflon or other non-stick surfaces. Nearly ALL brands only came with what I didn’t want. So I ultimately chose this brand because they offer a stainless steel insert to use as opposed to the toxic coated pans. 

Why I love my pot

1. 1. Has a stainless steel insert while still being electric
   2. Has worked perfectly each use
   3. Has lots of options like yogurt making, sauteeing, simmering….
   4. Easy to clean
   5. Cooks grains quickly 
   6. Makes excellent, tender meats
   7. Destroys lectins

I hope I’ve given you some shopping inspiration! For more ideas, check out some of my favorite things here. Happy shopping!