Southsea Lifestyle – Free Magazine for Southsea, Old Portsmouth, Eastney & Gunwharf Quays

Edible Gift Ideas

Words: Daniel Nowland

I’ve had a little pause from writing for the magazine during 2024, but I was delighted to be asked to contribute to the festive edition! As much as I love Christmas, and the practice of giving and receiving gifts, I am also of the mindset that there’s no point in spending money on “stuff” that nobody actually wants. I’m a minimalist at home, and often dread being given gifts I know will be going straight to the charity shop!

As someone who loves their food and appreciates a thoughtful gift, I’ve put together some ideas for food-related gifts that hopefully will bring a yum factor to any recipient.

  • Restaurant vouchers: If you can surreptitiously find out your recipient’s favourite cuisine, why not source some vouchers to one of their favourite eateries? A meal out always tastes better when someone else is paying for it!
  • Christmas cake: Whether you make it yourself, or buy one from a shop, a Christmas cake will usually last a very long time. The high fruit content, density and alcohol will keep a Christmas cake tasting great well beyond December. If you’ve not yet done so, try a slice with a good strong cheddar. It’s a controversial but incredible combination.
  • Food hamper: For anyone you’re not sure what to buy, you can’t go wrong with a thoughtfully selected hamper. If possible, try to source one that contains quality local products, so you can support your local businesses and keep those food miles under control.

  • Meal kit: As a variant on a hamper, you can put together a kit for a special meal to be cooked at home. It’s best not to include perishable items, but items such as quality pasta, pesto, olive oil etc make for a thoughtful gift you know wouldn’t be wasted. Personally I’d be delighted to receive a year’s supply of quality spaghetti and truffle oil!
  • Cookery workshop: We are all aware that many traditional gifts are now being replaced with “experiences”. Why not treat your friend or relative to a chance to learn a new food skill? Cookery workshops can be fun and sociable experiences, and you don’t usually need any previous experience. There are lots of venues offering these experiences across Hampshire, including my very own South Coast Cookery on Elm Grove in Southsea.

Photo Credit: Urbansalt


Posted in: Articles, Food & Drink, Local & Community