DSS12 wants to be a chef: Christmas gift idea help, please?

[ladybee28]

DSS12 has (shyly) mentioned a few times this year that he wants to be a chef when he grows up.

DP and I have got him helping out in the kitchen wherever possible, and I'd love to get him something for Christmas that supports his interest...

Trouble is, I don't really know what!

I don't just want tat that will ultimately go unused (i.e, not a chef's hat or a corny apron); I'd love to find something that will feel special and useful and very much for HIM.

I've booked us in for a Japanese cookery workshop in the New Year (he thinks sushi is utterly beautiful and I'm not sure he knows that you can make it at home), but beyond that I'm a bit stumped on this theme!

Anyone else got a budding kitchen genius at home? Any ideas?

Lol, well if it is where you are. I visit a couple of times a year and would be happy to bring a parcel out to you if needed. PM me if you are and need anything 😁

@CrispbuttyNo1 Just had my first proper Mumsnet swoon! Thanks so much!

I love the pasta machine idea. Or an ice cream maker?

I have found the Christmas present I want thanks to this thread. I’m going to get a sous vide bath. It could revolutionise my evenings at work too!

If you like the idea of the Food Lab cookbook, then check out his website: www.seriouseats.com/

OP

I have a cunning plan.

We all buy one of the suggested items and then we deliver them to you. We can then incorporate a meet up with delivering presents.

Back to suggestions

A book I had for years, lent to a friend and then had to rebuy

Reader's digest complete guide to cookery.

It was written by someone who when learning to cook didn't know the difference between boiling and rolling boil, or where cuts of meat come from on an animal. So they wrote a boo that told you these things.

It has very few recipes in it but has loads of techniques.

It even tells you how to keep garden snails to 'clean' them before cooking.

@sashh – Yes! sings "We're all going on a... Mumsnet holiday..."

Erk. That was one of those moments when I let the world on the inside of my head come outside... hides head in shame