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RECIPES FOR GIFTS FROM THE KITCHEN
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Of all the gifts that we receive, perhaps none is more appreciated than those that are homemade. Those are the special gifts that come from the heart and take extra time and thought. I have compiled a list of recipes and ideas that you can make in your kitchen. All can be prepared well ahead of time. Some may be frozen or refrigerated, others stored in air-tight containers. A few require canning so consult an expert canning guide, such as the one that comes with the jars. Buy some clear plastic wrap, colored tissue paper, decorative tins, pretty ribbons and bows for festive presentations. Don't forget to print or write out the recipe and include it with the gift (unless, of course, it's an old family secret). And it's always a good idea to make a little extra for those unexpected guests.
This is a list of breakfast cakes, sweet breads and cookies that make delicious gifts. All of the recipes may be made several months ahead and frozen. Bake the breads in mini loaf pans. The cakes can be made in 6-inch round or square cake pans. We always make extras for our own use. Make certain they are completely cooled before wrapping and freezing.
I must admit that I do not make candies very often because I have a great source for delicious homemade-style chocolates. However, I do make Chocolate Truffles that are to die for, and I was the delighted recipient of the Candied Pecans several years in a row and finally got the recipe so I could make them myself. They are wonderful. The other recipes come from the Recipes from Visitors Page.
Up until a few years ago, my mother and I canned all sorts of foods every summer when the vegetables came out of the garden. The pickles and tomatoes kept us through the winter with plenty leftover for gifts. I believe people loved those homemade gifts more than any others. I am listing everyone's favorite, the Chow-Chow, several other pickles and some items you might not think to can. The Tomato Barbecue Sauce and Steak Sandwich Sauce may be canned or frozen. However, the Vinegar-Based Sauce may be stored in the refrigerator for several months. I made a big batch of that one year for gifts and everyone begged for the recipe. By the way, do not attempt canning without consulting the experts or reputable canning guides. For more information and recipes, visit the Preserving page.
Spice Blends make great homemade gifts. And they are so easy to make. Place the mixes in small jars. Attach labels with a list of the ingredients and include a favorite recipe in which to use the blends.
Take the dried ingredients from your favorite bean soup. Make a packet of the herbs and spices, place it in a jar or bag with the correct amount of dried beans and the soup recipe. All the recipient has to do is add liquid, vegetables or meat. The following soups can be used for soups mixes:
This is a great idea. Make up your own using your favorite herbs and/or spices. The possibilities are endless depending on the type of vinegar and flavorings desired. Place the herbs and vinegar in a covered jar or bottle and let it set in a cool place, out of direct sunlight, for 2 to 3 weeks. Shake the bottle occasionally.
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