The Skinny Chef Ultimate Foodie Gift Guide

Hey Skinny readers, how are you all doing? Let me tell you, I am absolutely exhausted! My body feels like it’s been hit by a freight train since yesterday. For the past few weeks, I’ve been cruising through December, full of energy and getting things done. But today, on my official last day in the kitchen before some much-needed rest, my brain decided to send my body a shutdown notice. The past two days have been a struggle to accomplish even the simplest tasks!

But you know what? I’m still here, writing this weekly blog for all you Skinny readers because the show must go on. Plus, I’ve been getting a ton of private chef requests lately. A little extra income during the festive season? Yes, please! While I’ve taken on these gigs, I’ve also been working smarter, not harder. My chef outsourcing game has hit new heights—I’ve been placing chefs I know for the jobs and earning a sweet commission from the placements. The Skinny Chef is embracing efficiency for a change!

Readable Foodie Gifts

Cookbooks are always a winner for foodies. They’re thoughtful, practical, and create lasting memories. Here are my top three picks:

Simply Seven Colors

 Zola Nene Zola’s third book celebrates South Africa’s diverse cultural heritage through the concept of "seven colors" meals. It’s a beautiful collection of recipes that tap into nostalgia and bring us back to basics. This gem is available on Takealot.

Ottolenghi’s Comfort 

Co-written by Yotam Ottolenghi, Helen Goh, Verena Lochmuller, and Tara Wigley, this cookbook delivers unexpected flavor and texture combinations that intrigue and delight. It’s available on Amazon and Takealot.

Skinny Chef Diaries 

by Roderick Zache Chikapa Phiri (Yes, that’s me!) Without tooting my own horn too much, this book is a labor of love—a journey of growth, simple yet delicious recipes, and a focus on healthy, sustainable cooking. Perfect for chronic health management and weight loss goals. You can grab it on Amazon or Takealot.

Drinkable Foodie Gifts

A bottle of locally crafted South African gin makes a fantastic gift. My top pick? RAF’s Craft Gin by Lilula Beverages. This limited-edition gin is a masterpiece from Roger Thando, a gin maker I met a few years ago. His passion and craftsmanship are unmatched. Find it on their social media handles and snag a bottle before it’s gone!

Practical Foodie Gifts

When it comes to practical gifts, Woolworths is my go-to. Whether you’re a last-minute shopper or super organized, they’ve got you covered. My pick? The Botanical Spherical Ice Kit—perfect for any foodie who loves hosting and creating fabulous cocktails or mocktails.

Edible Foodie Gifts

Nothing says “I care” like a thoughtful edible gift. Here are two standout ideas:

Truffle Oil 

Truffle oil is a premium ingredient that transforms any dish into a gourmet masterpiece. Just a few drops can elevate a mushroom or chicken sauce, pasta carbonara, beef ragu, or potato gnocchi. I get mine from Lamarina Foods, but Woolworths also offers a fantastic option.

Homemade Chili Sauce 

For a personal touch, whip up a batch of my Skinny Chef Homemade Chili Sauce. This fiery gift will keep your loved ones thinking of you long after the holidays. Here’s the recipe:

The Skinny Chef Homemade Chili Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

• 250g fresh mixed chilies

• 2 cups quality oil (olive or sunflower)

• 2 garlic cloves

• 10g salt

• 100g white sugar

• Juice of 2 lemons

• 5g ground pepper

• 1 cup water

Method:

1. Trim the chili stems and rinse under cold water.

2. Place the chilies and garlic in a medium pot, cover with oil, and bring to a boil over medium heat.

3. Once the mixture reaches boiling point, remove it from the heat.

4. Blend the chilies, garlic, and oil while still warm. Add salt, pepper, lemon juice, and sugar. Slowly incorporate the water to achieve your desired consistency.

5. Pour the sauce into sterilized jars, label them, and wrap them with love.

Wrapping Up

Thank you for tuning into this week’s Skinny Chef blog! I hope this gift guide inspires you to find (or create) the perfect present for the foodies in your life. As we wind down the year, remember to stay safe, stay healthy, and—most importantly—stay skinny! Love you all, and see you same time, same place next week!

Special Thanks to our Creative Director : Shadre Leonard