We have chosen a few of our favorite gifts and resources that make our low FODMAP lifestyle much easier and far more enjoyable and want to share them with you here!
Let’s Start With Some Essential Kitchen Tools
Rachael Ray Nonstick Pan
I was hunting for a nonstick pan that had a large, flat, bottom surface area. You might not know this, but not all 12-inch or 14-inch pans offer the same size flat cooking area. I was sick and tired of cooking eggs or pancakes and only being able to get 3 in a pan at once.
I could squeeze 4 or 5 in, but then the edges would be touching, and food wouldn’t cook evenly. If you are nodding your head in agreement right now, we can empathize with one another. And then, I found this pan; it offers everything I was looking for. And don’t just listen to me; it has a 4 ½ star rating from almost 2000 happy cooks on Amazon.
- Hard-anodized aluminum construction
- Dishwasher safe
- Nonstick interior
- Dual-riveted handles
- Silicone handle grips
- Oven safe to 400°F (200°C)
Rachael Ray Hard Anodized Nonstick 8-Quart Oval Pasta Pot with Glass Lid
While I was shopping for the nonstick pan, I spied this weird looking pot. Now, the equipment in our Test Kitchen gets a workout and is packed with very high-end equipment – Le Creuset, All-Clad, Staub and the like. Not everyone can afford those brands but what drew me in here was this shape. Did I need this pan? No, but I got a good deal and purchased it. And then…it was like, wow, this shape has its purpose!
It is the perfect pan for corn on the cob and its preeminent use in the kitchen is for spaghetti and other long dry pasta. Why? Because I can slide those pastas into the boiling water without breaking them. Sure, I have huge stock pots and could use those, but they are unwieldy and heavy to drain and need more water to get the same result. This could be a gift for the cook who has “everything”.
- Hard-anodized aluminum construction
- Dishwasher safe
- Nonstick interior
- Dual-riveted handles
- Silicone handle grips
- Oven safe to 400°F (200°C)
Rachael Ray Hard Anodized Nonstick 8-Quart Oval Pasta Pot with Glass Lid
We think every kitchen should have some cast-iron and these days pre-seasoned versions are easy to find and provide ease-of-use. They are ready to go out of the box. I love Lodge and have several of their products in our Test Kitchen. This 12-inch size is perfect for recipes such as our Whole Roast Chicken with Vegetables, but we also use it for eggs, home-fries, skillet cakes and more. This one comes with an insulating silicone hot handle cover. Great for anyone setting up a kitchen – or just because you need a large cast-iron skillet.
Lodge Pre-Seasoned 12-inch Cast Iron Pan
Instant Pot Duo Evo PlusAre you an Instant Pot fan? Or maybe thinking about buying one? This is the one we use in the FODMAP Everyday® Test Kitchen. The Instant Pot Duo Evo Plus is a best-seller and great for the beginner Instant Pot user. Intuitive controls and easy to follow directions will get you up and running in no time. Perfect for stews, braises, soups – and even desserts!
And, if you have an Instant Pot, you do need these books. They are not low FODMAP books per se, but they work as the best guides for creating low FODMAP Instant Pot meals. The authors, Bruce Weinstein and Mark Scarbrough are old friends and you can trust their recipe testing and development. These recipes work! And these books are authorized by Instant Pot.
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The Instant Pot Bible
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From Freezer to Instant Pot: The Cookbook: How to Cook No-Prep Meals in Your Instant Pot Straight from Your Freezer
Airtight Silicone Lid
If you don’t have these yet, what are you waiting for? You will be reaching for these reusable lids for storing food, as a substitute for the pot lid you can’t find, keeping food warm – and basically anytime you would reach for plastic wrap. This is the eco-solution you have been looking for. The set includes 5 size options – from coffee cup to large salad bowl size.
Attractive colors, varied sizes, BPA- & BPS-free platinum-grade silicone. They can be used in the freezer, microwave, or oven (they’re heat-safe up to 550°F, but please keep away from open flames on the stovetop and do not use with a broiler or in a toaster oven). Stain-resistant, non-porous, naturally antimicrobial, and easy to clean – just pop them in the dishwasher.
Souper Cubes
What are “Souper Cubes”? Well, let us tell you, they are for a whole lot more than soup! Yes, you can use these silicone “cubes” to freeze your homemade low FODMAP stocks and broths but what about your Low FODMAP Garlic or Onion Infused Oils? You can freeze your homemade oils into cubes and draw upon them from the freezer as needed. Great for pestos of every sort, too.
Sheet Pans
If you spend any time around FODMAP Everyday® you know that Dédé is constantly calling for half-sheet pans – those uber sturdy rimmed aluminum pans. She uses them in the Test Kitchen for everything from cookies to bar cookies, jelly-roll cakes to roasting chicken and vegetables, sheet pan dinners – you name it.
Nordic Ware is our brand of choice and they come in a few sizes. We think the “half-sheet” is the most versatile for home ovens but take a look at the other sizes as well. These are practically warp-proof and can last a lifetime. An excellent investment for you and your kitchen – and not that expensive either.
3.5 quart Staub Multi-Use Braiser with Glass Lid
We only recently added this pan to our Test Kitchen, and it is fast becoming a favorite for braises and even for shallow frying. You will reach for this pan for braising short ribs and making hearty stews or pan-frying pork chops but don’t overlook it for sweet dishes like crisps, skillet cakes and breakfast dishes like stratas. Gorgeous colors, too. This is an amazing gift – or maybe you want to treat yourself? The glass lid, which is new, allows you to see what’s cooking. (We got the Grenadine and can’t stop staring at it).
Staub Multi Use Braiser with Glass Lid
Ninja Max XL Air Fryer
Looking to join the air fryer craze? Go with one of the most highly rated machines – the Ninja Max XL Air Fryer. Why air fry? Use up to 75 % less fat than traditional frying methods. Yes, you can make low FODMAP air-fried chicken, fries and more.
The technology delivers 450°F of superheated air to cook foods up to 30 % faster than other air fryers for hotter, crispier results with little to no oil. Ceramic-coated nonstick basket and crisper plate accommodates 3-pounds of French fries or chicken wings. The broil rack gives meals or sides a crispy and bubbly finish. Functions include: Max crisp, air fry, air roast, air broil, bake, reheat, dehydrate.
Making Bread!
Raisenne Dough Riser
Have you become an avid bread baker? Or have you always been and yearning for a proofer? Professional kitchens have “proofers” which are pieces of equipment that can hold rising dough at the perfect temperatures for optimum rise. This tool, an electric bread riser, is perfect for home use and will help you make the best bread, more easily than ever. It will maintain the right temp, regardless of ambient temperature or humidity. Just set a covered bowl of dough on top, and it’ll handle the rest. It is quite thin, too and easy to store.
KoMo Classic Grain Mill
Were you one of the millions who went sourdough crazy this year? You did know that sourdough bread is low FODMAP, right? That’s right! Even wheat based. Our article How To Choose Low FODMAP Bread has all the info you need. Some bakers have wanted to take the DIY to the max and have begun experimenting with grinding their own grains to flour and this home mill is as beautiful to look at as it is effective. Beechwood construction & long-life corundum-ceramic burrs. You can choose your grind from fine flour to coarse. 360W (½ HP) motor, which processes 8 to 9-ounces of flour per minute. Made in Austria with a 12-year warranty. This is a very special gift or purchase for your kitchen.
Smithey Hand-Forged Carbon Steel Roaster
Looking for a luxury item? Just take a look at this Smithey Hand-Forged Carbon Steel Roaster. If you are not familiar with carbon steel, just ask any professional chef and they will tell you how durable and even heating this material is. It is used for knives, as well as pans such as this oval beauty that just begs for a chicken to be roasted within. This one is pre-seasoned and easy to care for: simply wash with warm water and a few drops of dish soap, if needed. Dry and wipe with cooking oil after each use. Beautiful enough to keep on display.
Smithey Hand-Forged Carbon Steel Roaster
Steel Griddle
Are you obsessed with making the perfect pizza in your home oven? Then you need this Steel Griddle. Also excellent for artisanal breads. We have gotten superior results with this steel sheet over ceramic stones – steel is a more conductive cooking surface than any stone or ceramic. The blistered, crispy crusts of your dreams are finally within reach. This is a newer model that features a grease channel around the perimeter making it also the perfect surface for eggs, bacon and pancakes for those weekend breakfasts. Kenji López-Alt (of Serious Eats fame) calls it the “world’s best consumer cooking surface”. Only downside – it’s heavy! 25 pounds!
5.5. Quart Le Creuset Dutch Oven
We have many recipes at FODMAP Everyday® that call for a large Dutch-oven and this is the one we reach for time and again. These are not only kitchen work horses, but they are also heirloom quality – Robin inherited 4 of them in different colors and sizes from her parents who used them for over 50 years – and they still look brand new even though she uses them constantly. Absolutely worth the money. A joy to behold and use, they conduct heat beautifully and work just as well on top of the stove as in the oven. Classics for a reason, in a wide choice of colors – but we are always partial to “Flame”, one of their original colors.
5.5. Quart Le Creuset Dutch Oven
Simple Human Liquid Soap Sensor Pump
This year, we developed a new relationship with soap and washing our hands. We have become experts and anything we can do to make the job more enjoyable, we heartily support. One of our new habits has been to wash our hands as soon as we come home and being able to approach the sink and begin in a touchless fashion is a boon in our book. This Simple Human Liquid Soap Sensor Pump has been around for a while, but they now have more finishes to match any décor: brushed stainless steel, polished stainless steel, rose gold, white or brass. Fast, precise, clog proof and you can even “tell” the sensor how much soap to dispense with the distance you hold your hand under the pump: farther away = more soap.
Simple Human Liquid Soap Sensor Pump
Phone & Accessory Sanitizing Tray
OK, we are almost to the end of 2020 (can it just end already?) and we have discussed germs, bacteria and viruses more this year than when we were taking microbiology in college. But it has become a matter of our everyday lives and this gadget can help sterilize items that are known germ collectors – namely your phone and items like keys and rings.
Our hands are out there all day long coming in contact with surfaces that are laden with – well, that’s the point – we have no idea! It uses UV light to kill 99.99% of germs and bacteria within five minutes—that’s two times faster than other UV cases on the market. In addition to the above-mentioned items you can use it for your wallet, face masks and small remotes as well. Will hold phones (and other items) up to 7-inches in length and is light enough to be portable (less than a pound). Great choice for travelers. Charges with included USB cord and has a 10,000-hour lifespan.
Phone & Accessory Sanitizing Tray
Mediterranean Vinyl Mats
These heavy-duty vinyl mats look like intricate, vibrant Mediterranean tile – but these offer cushioning for your knees, protection for your floor and delight your eyes to no end. They’re made with 3 layers of vinyl for extra durability and the ink is tattooed into the center layer, so you don’t have to worry about it rubbing off with use. Easy to clean. The only problem is deciding which pattern to buy.
Handcrafted Wood Bowls
Looking for a handcrafted gift that is also functional and versatile? These Handcrafted Wood Bowls come in various sizes and finishes and are perfect for salads and all those plant-based recipes we are loving right now. The grey is particularly eye-catching and guaranteed to be different from any other wooden bowls you for your giftee might have.
Stocking Stuffers
Looking for a smaller gift – for yourself, friend or loved one? We have some great choices that won’t break the bank and that will make your time in the kitchen all the more enjoyable.
Olive Wood Tools
These are as functional as they are beautiful to look at and to touch. Rich in color, smooth and buttery in texture in the shapes you want.
Zwilling Thermo Stainless Steel Food Jar
Following the low FODMAP diet can be a challenge when eating out and we tend to bring food with us when we go to work, school or need a meal outside of the home. And sometimes we want to bring something hot, like a soup , stew or last night’s leftovers. This thermos is elegant and functional in design and we love it. The double-walled insulation keeps contents hot (or cold) for up to 11 hours. 100% leakproof, dishwasher safe, and features an anti-slip base. Available in silver-white or matte black, they are made from 18/10 stainless steel, BPA-free plastic, and silicone. The wide top acts as a bowl and there is a built-in spoon.
Poultry Sheers
We love to Spatchcock chicken and turkey – even duck! And it’s a far easier task when you have the right sheers. We promise you will get great use out of these and be glad you have them when needed. 
Vintage-Inspired Food Ornaments
Dédé went a bit nuts when she found these. Her Christmas tree has a theme. The only ornaments allowed are ones that relate to something in her family’s life or they are food-themed. Score! You need bacon hanging from your tree, you know you do. Or how about a croquembouche, charcuterie board, madeleine, black-and-white cookie or avocado? So many to choose from – you will find one that speaks to you, like an everything bagel!
Shot Glass Liquid Measuring Cups
We use these all the time in our Test Kitchen. Measuring 1 ½ teaspoons of vanilla? 2 tablespoons of olive oil or vinegar? This is your tool. Convenient and accurate.
Ergo Chef DUO Tongs
What tool do I grab more than any other? Tongs, and more specifically the 9-inch size of these DUO tongs. They feature a patented design with a half silicone and half stainless-steel head; I use the silicone side for my nonstick pans. Multi-purpose with locking heads for savory and sweet cooking; slotted heads drain liquid easily when you are lifting vegetables out of blanching water, pasta, etc. The silicone is heat resistant to 500° F and BPA free. Sauté, boil, BBQ, grill, bake or deep fry with these tongs. Easy to clean and top-shelf dishwasher safe.
Cupcake Bangle Bracelet
Know a fabulous baker? Do they love bangles? This bracelet features a pink enamel cupcake as well as stainless steel, laser etched charm in addition to a mixer, cupcake tin and measuring spoons. Adjustable and fits wrists up to 7 ½ -inches. Other charms are silver-plated zinc alloy.
Cookbooks
These are our favorite cookbooks of 2020!
Kate Scarlata RDN and I have written the best selling Low FODMAP Diet Step by Step.
Kate has been educating about the low FODMAP diet for many years and you will find everything you need in this book, from shopping lists to over 130 recipes, meal prep advice and a thorough explanation and guide through the Challenge phase.
Amazon US
Amazon UK
Amazon CA
Our friend and colleague Alana Scott published this GORGEOUS book last year, The Gut-Friendly Cookbook. Packed with full-color photos and enticing recipes from the founder of A Little Bit Yummy.
Our friend and colleague Alana Scott published this GORGEOUS book last year, More than 100 recipes for delicious dinners, breakfasts, lunches, and snacks, plus sweet treats, gorgeous photographs of each recipe, and plenty of easy-to-read background information on FODMAPs, a shopping guide, and advice on how to change your eating through the whole cycle of the low-FODMAP journey. The recipes have all been reviewed and approved by a FODMAP- trained registered dietitian.
Amazon US
Amazon UK
Amazon CA
A 28-Day Plan for IBS Relief
Registered dietitians Audrey Inouye BSc RD and Lauren Renlund BASc MPH RD have written The 28-Day Plan for IBS Relief: 100 Simple Low-FODMAP Recipes to Soothe Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. You can read all about this extremely helpful low FODMAP guide in our interview with Audrey and Lauren – which also has some of our new favorite recipes in it such as their Orange Chicken Broccoli Bowl
Amazon US
Amazon UK
Amazon CA
Colleen Francioli of FODMAPlife.com, along with oversight from dietitian Joanna Baker, has a wonderful book, The Low-FODMAP 30-Minute Cookbook.
We all need quick recipes that are low FODMAP and Elimination-worthy! Helpful charts, lists, and nutritional information make it simple to whip up quick and delicious meals that will satisfy even the most sensitive stomach.
Amazon US
Amazon UK
Amazon CA
Can’t decide? Head on over to our AMAZON Low FODMAP Shop! We have curated all of our favorite low FODMAP products, cookbooks and equipment in one easy to navigate shop. Both for the US and for the UK! (sorry, Amazon CA doesn’t have this option yet.)
Do you have a favorite kitchen tool or resource you feel you couldn’t do without? Tell us about it in the comments below!
