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Top 8 Gifts for the Cooking Enthusiast

By Saad Fayed, About.com

Everyone has that one person in the family who is just kitchem savvy; whether it be a novice or expert. Here are some great gifts for the chef in your life!

1. Sanyo 17x12 Smokeless Indoor Electric Grill

Grills are no longer for the outdoors! With an indoor grill you are able to make kebabs year 'round, along with your favorite steaks and chicken dishes! This Sanyo smokeless grill was voted "Best Value" by the Wall Street Journal in 2006. It's non stick and the drip pan is dishwasher safe - clean up doesn't get any easier than that!

2. Emile Henry 1.6-qt. Flame Top Tagine

Whether you are new to tagine cooking or have been doing it for years, this tagine is the perfect gift. It is priced reasonable, cooks beaatifully, and comes in two sizes - 1.2 qt and 1.6 qt. I recommend the smaller for a couple or someone who cooks for one. Extremely strong and durable, it can go directly from a freezer or refrigerator, to a hot oven to the table, where it will retain the cooking heat for a very long time.

3. KitchenAid 5-qt. Artisan Stand Mixer

I don't know any cooking enthusiast who does have a KitchenAid stand mixer, or who does not have one on a wish list. The KitchenAid mixer is an essential tool for kneading dough and mixing thick ingredients without burning out the motor, like with a hand mixer. Although a little pricey, this mixer is worth every penny.

4. Persimmon Mixing Bowl Set (8-pc.) by Mario Batali

These mixing bowls are so beautiful, you could use them to serve in also. Durable, affordable, and perfect for everyday use. They are also dishwasher safe.

5. Le Creuset 2-qt. Round Dutch Oven

I am a huge fan of Le Creuset products - they have never failed me. This dutch oven is perfect for simmering, reheating, and so much more. It is stylish enhough to bring straight to the table for serving. It is made of cast iron, which makes it something that will last for the next generation.

6. Rachael Ray 10-pc. Nonstick Porcelain Enamel Cookware Set

This set is perfect for the beginner! It contains all the basic pieces you need to cook several dishes. You will honestly use every piece in this set, it's that practical. Non-stick and oven safe, this set provides great value for your dollar.

7. Food Processor (7-c.) by Cuisinart

I could not live without my food processor. This is the processor I personally use and highly recommend it! From shupping veggies to makes great dips like hummus, this food processor won't let you down.

8. Calphalon 18x36-in. Oval Pot Rack, Stainless Steel

There is something about a pot rack that hangs from the ceiling of the kitchen that adds a certain "something" to a kitchen. It certainly makes sense for stroage and looks beautiful. When I walk into a kitchen and see a pot racj haning, I know the cook in the family means business!

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