Best Gifts For Beginner Cooks: Rachael's Top Picks For New Cooks Building Their Kitchen Collection

If anyone knows what cooks need in their kitchen, it's Rachael. And even though she believes "it really depends on the cook or the chef" when it comes to choosing the best gift, Rach of course has a few ideas to get a new cook started. 

Q: My son just graduated from SUNY Adirondack's culinary program. What are some good gift ideas for his kitchen?

1. Special Knives

"John has given me knives from Japan," Rach says. "So, [get] a really special, unusual knife." 

2. Cast Iron

12-Inch Cast Iron Frying Pan

12-Inch Cast Iron Frying Pan

Rachael Ray

$45

Buy Now

"Good cast iron lasts a lifetime," Rach says.

Shop Rachael's cast-iron cookware here.

3. Gift Cards To Specialty Small Business Cooking Sites

"There are so many great small businesses out there that also make specialty equipment for the kitchen," Rach says.

Plus, some of Rachael's go-to sites for food gift boxes are The Chef's Garden (for veggies and herbs delivered straight to your kitchen), Goldbelly, Ditalia.

If you're shopping on Goldbelly, we have great news for you! You can get $15 off your $50 purchase with code GetInMyBELLY.
(Offer is valid for new customers only and excludes shipping. Valid through 12/31/21.)