Next time a loved one's birthday rolls around, why not give them something you know they'll use, instead of buying the usual knick-knacks?There are a few things you should keep in mind if you are planning to give someone a gift of food.Start by considering your recipient's personal tastes, then decide if you want to make it yourself or buy it, and have a way of presenting it that will keep it fresh.
Step 1: You can send it with a tray.
You can check out the specialty snacks at your local deli or supermarket.You can find a lot of finger sandwiches, olives, breads, crackers and dips on a platter of aged meat and cheese.Next time new neighbors move down the street, there will be convenient, delicious displays.A little bit of everything is included in Charcuterie trays.Pick them up after you exchange gifts to make sure they are fresh.
Step 2: A gift basket is what you should order.
Sending gift baskets is a fun way to show your appreciation.Specialty meats, cheeses, crackers and sweets can be found in most of these, but they can also include fresh fruits and chocolates.They feature an array of bright colors and beautiful designs, but unlike a bouquet you can snack on them with your friends, family or coworkers throughout the day.Check out companies like iGourmet and Harry & David.You can give a gift basket as a housewarming gift or have it delivered straight to the recipient's home or workplace.Food baskets can cost as much as a few hundred dollars for more elaborate combinations.
Step 3: Keep it simple with candy.
The old heart-shaped box of truffles is a timeless gift.If you want to change the theme, you can choose candies like caramels, chocolate turtles, or Turkish delight.The work is done if you tie a bow around the package.You can find high-quality artisan sweets in candy shops.A variety of candy is an extra with a larger gift.
Step 4: Don't be sad with a drink.
Some food gifts don't have to be eaten.Striking spices, foreign sodas or alcohol can be enjoyed hot, cold or with other tasty fare.Place an assortment of coffees, teas or liquors in a basket with a few simple finger foods, or select a bottle of vintage wine and propose a toast to health, friendship and good cheer.For the chilly months around the holidays, hot cocoa and cider are great presents.Don't give alcohol if you think before you give it.If your intended recipient is pregnant or has a history of alcoholism, it may not be the best gift idea.
Step 5: There is fresh bread to bake.
The warmth and comfort of home is represented by a loaf of soft, fluffy bread.Use made-from-scratch dough and fresh ingredients to make a yeasty sourdough in the oven.It's a great gift to give bread in a lot of different varieties.If you want to prepare bread for a lot of people, you can bake it in large batches overnight.There are many dessert varieties, such as cinnamon-raisin, banana nut or pull-apart monkey bread.
Step 6: It is possible to make a cake or pie.
Though cakes and similar confections are usually served after the presents have been unwrapped, they also make great gifts in their right.It is amazing what a little flour, sugar and butter can create, whether it is a pound cake, strawberry cheesecake, or a key lime, pumpkin or peach and praline pie.Pull from your family's traditional recipes, or try something unique and daring to suit the person.It will be difficult to present cakes and pies.They should be packed and transported carefully.
Step 7: You can cook your own canned food.
Just like grandma used to do, show your love for artisan canned food items.In recent years, things like homemade preserves, butters, and cheese have grown in popularity.These items are easy to make and delicious.They will stay fresh for months or even years, so you don't have to worry about them going bad.It is straightforward, but requires some special equipment.If you want to make old-fashioned canned goods, make sure you have all the basics: mason jars, canning tools, cookware and natural ingredients.The recipient is free to use these types of condiments as they please.
Step 8: Something sweet is what you're supposed to whip up.
If you want to give someone a treat, give them their own.This could include candy apples, pretzels, yogurt, and nut brittle.These foods tend to last longer than others, but they won't last long anyway.During the holidays, crowd pleasers are candy and sweets.Send small bags of Chex mix or caramel corn straight through the mail.
Step 9: A special meal is being prepared.
It is possible to invite someone to your home and cook for them.They will relish the opportunity to spend time together talking, laughing and eating, because they will get to indulge in the foods they love.It's one of the most meaningful gifts you can give someone.A dinner party can be used as a token of appreciation.
Step 10: You should know your recipient.
Think about the person you are giving the gift to before you start shopping.What kind of food do they like?What do they like?Is there anything they can't eat?Surprising someone with food isn't as easy as putting a bow on a fruit basket.Pick something that they will enjoy.You can find out about any allergies or restrictions.It could be embarrassing to give a tray of cured meats to a vegan, and an innocent sugar cookie could make someone with a gluten sensitivity very sick.Talk to your friends and see if you can come up with a good gift.
Step 11: It's important to keep it fresh.
There is nothing worse than getting a tin of popcorn for Christmas.Whatever you decide to give, be sure that you have a way of guaranteeing its freshness so that it doesn't go bad or underwhelm once it's eaten.It is best to have an idea in mind, then buy or make it right before you give it to the recipient.You should wait until the last minute to get things ready.You should keep the items you make or buy refrigerated.Delivery goods will be shipped out express from the maker, so you won't have to worry about them going bad.
Step 12: You need to complete the presentation.
You are giving a gift.The visual details should not be skimped on.Wrap your item in a box, bag or container if possible.You can use bows, tags, and other decorations to complete the look.The anticipation of opening the item can be heightened by a covered tupperware container.
Step 13: Personalize your gift.
Tell the person you are giving the gift to what made them think of you, and why you chose the food.A handwritten card with some well-wishes or a list of serving suggestions is a good idea.It is a good idea to include instructions for putting the food together if it is not ready to eat.You can send a message like "here are some sweets for a sweet girl" or "we just go together" with wine and cheese.If a food is uncommon or not immediately recognizable, give a brief description.