When I was a kid, I remember my dad grilling up a storm. He loved to cook! My mom was lucky. Not every wife on the street had a husband who could cook a thousand times better. Whether it was a lavish Thanksgiving feast or a scrumptious chocolate birthday cake for the kids, my dad just loved cooking, AND he loved eating. And he still does. This year, I wanted to get him something at the AU Christmas Sales that I knew he would love. 

Finding the right gift for dads can be difficult. I always walk by aisles of cheesy gifts like monogrammed ties or warm slippers that I know would be nice but not say that I care. What could I possibly find that Dad would use? There are way too many gifts for the kitchen out there.  

Dads (and granddads) can be so hard to surprise. I mean, I guess I could opt for another watch or holiday coffee mug, but after Mum passed this year, I knew this Christmas would be different. This holiday he might not be as cheerful. And he definitely didn’t feel like doing Christmas cookies or make his famous apple cider. 

There're thousands of gadgets out there. There are thousands of cookbooks. How to make things easier? I narrowed down my list to these great Christmas ideas.

Molecular Gastronomy Kit

Like I said before, my dad takes cooking to the next level. He's not the kind of guy who only knows how to burn spaghetti or make toast. I found this incredible molecular gastronomy kit that was perfect for him. Think of it like the kitchen chemistry set for dads. The kit includes interesting ingredients like algae to help him create out of this world creams, sauces, and dressings. I figured experimenting in the kitchen might help him find a new way to express himself via food.

Hot Dog Toaster

The kids and I are over at Dad’s every other day sometimes. Although I have a great appreciation for his impeccable veal piccata or seared salmon, the kids are a little pickier. So I thought a hot dog toaster would be a great way to share his love of cooking with my little guys. Easy to use and pretty easy to clean up, the hot dog toaster will be a fun way for dad and the grandkids to enjoy cooking together.

Chocolate Covered Bacon

My dad has one major weakness. Bacon! This year instead of getting him the usual sausage and cheese holiday basket, I decided to get him chocolate-covered bacon. Okay, I admit I might've gotten the chocolate bacon because I wanted to try it, too. But combining these two incredibly delicious foods into one delicious Christmas treat? Pure genius!

I know my dad is going to love these crazy gifts. Not only do they show that I care, but they will bring fond memories for the whole family during this difficult Christmas season. Does your dad love to cook? Is he a wizard in the kitchen? Then I hope you find the perfect culinary Christmas gift for him this year. I know I did.

 Merry Christmas!

 Ana Marie Wilson

Mom, Special Education Teacher, and Loving Daughter