Forum Thermomix
Questions Doubts and Requests => Recipe Requests => Topic started by: Sim on September 24, 2009, 01:47:23 am
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Does any body else plan on making hampers of homemade goods as Christmas gifts this year?
After seeing the home made vanilla extract thread, I thought they would be nice as part of a hamper.
I was going to try and do most things in the TM. Are there any fellow hamper makers on this forum? If so, what are you making this year?
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This sounds like a great idea Sim. We will be away on a cruise this Christmas but this is certainly something I will keep in mind for birthday presents as well. There are so many things to choose from - washing machine goo/powder, lemon butter, pate, dips, a batch of the dry pancake mixture someone posted (you just add the wet ingredients), cookies, muffins, chutneys, jams - the list is endless. Some things would have to be kept in the fridge until the last minute but what a wonderful basket you could present. I used to do this pre-TMX and used to make batches of almond bread, beetroot spread, honey mustard and little tidbits like rum balls etc. I'd put them in little tupperware type containers or fancy glass jars and hand them out at any pre-Christmas gatherings of friends or on Christmas day to family. They loved it.
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I've been thinking about it. I'm doing the vanilla extract also.
You could do things like macadamia or almond spread. Even the stock paste would be a nice gift.
I think I need to find jars though. Any ideas?
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Those $2 shops sell decorative glass jars with the glass lids held on by wire - things looks nice in them.
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I put an add on the free classifieds asking for jars.... fingers crossed. I think I will put some signs up at my local shop too.
Last year I put an add on there asking for fruit from backyard fruit trees, I got about 10-15kg of free apricots and plums. People hate the fruit falling on their lawn and they don't want to pick them... so I just take a box and pick them for them and take them home. Pretty sweet deal!
I also have a mate that works at a bar, and I have asked him in the past to reserve any clear wine bottles for cordial making.
I have bought jars from here before:
https://shop.newdirections.com.au/epages/newdirections.sf/secFc5I7e8V__s/?ObjectPath=/Shops/newdirections/Categories/16
Its cheaper the more you buy so I guess if people live in the same place they could do a bulk order together,
Some ideas I had were:
Jam
Cordial (lemon or orange)
Vanilla extract
Body products
Relish
Flavoured vodka
Baked things
Chilli plants + chill chocolate drinking powder (we have some chilli loving friends)
More ideas the better though! Keep them coming!
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you could also do your own chocolates, biscotti, crackers, cake mixes (like the dry pancake mix).
For gluten free friends you could make up your own GF Baking Powder, Rice flours, Bread Mix with the dry ingredients....
Maybe if you have a tmx friend you could put together a recipe book of your favourite recipes?
You could als do infused oils and seasoned salts (PM me if you'd like some more info as they're not my recipes to post).
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Yes I did some last year and put in at the last minute butter, stocks, curry paste, mayo and flavoured mayo's etc in there (think I spent a day in the kitchen making up those last minute things) it was really easy. These went down like a treat.
On top of that I included spice mixes that are posted here made fresh, garam masala that is in the EDC.
I can't remember off the top of my head what else but am sure I wrote them down so will hunt it out as I would like to do it again.
Sharing idea's here will make it easy for everyone ;D
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;D Yes, I am sure with all our thinking caps on we could all make super-duper hampers.
Mmmm... I have an awesome curry powder recipe that I found a while back, all my friends love it so I think I should put that in the hampers. I have been wanting to do it in the TM, last time it did it in my spice grinder small batches a time. The TM is like the queen of all spice grinders so it should be easier!
I think homemade butters are sweet idea too, because they are such a simple pleasure that most people don't experience.
I can't wait! I love packaging food into cute jars and bundles.
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Wellll, we just had a look through the Indian Cookbook trying to decide what to cook for dinner and there are a heap of spice mix and paste recipes in there as well :)
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I think I need to find jars though. Any ideas?
I've been going to St Vincents and buying jars. Amongst the ugly jars, they have some nice glass jars with the rubber stoppers from Moccona coffee. They scrub up very nicely. You can even paint them and add a bit of decoupage if you're crafty.
I'm tempted to try a rum ball recipe - I'm sure I saw one around here somewhere.
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I've got the vanilla essence on the go. Will do some lemon butter. Like my own recipe as it makes twice as much as the recipe book states and I think from memory it has less sugar. (Can't be bothered getting up to check) It's certainly easier in the Thermomix.
Must have missed the dry pancake mix. Can anybody tell me where it is?
This site is a great source of ideas.
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The pumpkin and tomato jam (will post today) is also nice for the hamper.
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Must have missed the dry pancake mix. Can anybody tell me where it is?
Here 'tis
http://www.forumthermomix.com/index.php?action=printpage;topic=1617.0 (http://www.forumthermomix.com/index.php?action=printpage;topic=1617.0)
http://www.forumthermomix.com/index.php?topic=1617.0 (http://www.forumthermomix.com/index.php?topic=1617.0) - extra link
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Readings Sim's suggestions I remembered that I once made a curry paste (beautifull!) which lasts forever in a jar in the fridge - made it in the TM and tinted the MC green (LOL) and the lid had a funny smell for days - nevertheless the end product was worth it. I do another batch, take some photos and post the recipe as that would also be a nice thing for the hamper - and the ingredients are not pricey.
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Getting back to the Christmas hamper idea (I love it) I saw a recipe in the "Bimby Traditional Portuguese Recipe Book" of marzipan cakes - base is dead easy to do and one just needs a little talent in forming the fruit and painting with food colouring.
Photo from book:(http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x161/barbara322330/DSC03350.jpg)
(http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x161/barbara322330/images1.jpg)
I will post the recipe later and look for some more photos
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Last Xmas I made a ton of Dukka and gave that as gifts - after being asked to by some friends who had tried mine! ;)
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Thanks - need to start making them now so I can paint them before Santa comes down the chimney
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I think I need to find jars though. Any ideas?
My ad on the online classifieds worked! A woman contacted me, her avid jam-making mother had recently passed away and she didn't want to through away all her jars that she had collected over the years so she gave me a call.
I haven't counted, but I would think there would be over 100 jars... maybe close to 200!
:) She said I could pick her apricots when they go to fruit as well, what a lovely person.
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That's fantastic, you're set for life. And what a relief for the other lady who didn't know what to do with them.
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Yep! It think it's good they'll go to use instead of the tip.
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Certainly better to be used than thrown away - just give her a bottle or two of jam and sure she'll be ecstatic.
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:) yeah, that's a nice idea
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Then she'll let you have the apricots again next year.
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i need to do that too sim, dh keeps throwing our jars away and when i ask friends they just say they don't have any :(
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Lucky you Sim, that was a great idea.
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Will do some lemon butter. Like my own recipe as it makes twice as much as the recipe book states and I think from memory it has less sugar. (Can't be bothered getting up to check) It's certainly easier in the Thermomix.
Would you mind posting your recipe please Thermo convert? :-*
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i need to do that too sim, dh keeps throwing our jars away and when i ask friends they just say they don't have any :(
I got another response to my ad today, I said I didn't need anymore and I think she was going to post an add on the classifieds. She was located in Canberra, so maybe keep an eye out on the allclassifieds.com.au?
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thank you, will do!
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This is a great thread, lots of ideas.
Another suggestion is cookies or brownies in a jar - with a lovely lid they look great. I did one for a playgroup raffle and it was very popular. My suggestion would be to leave out nuts though just in case of allergies. This site Bakerella http://www.bakerella.com/mix-things-up/ (http://www.bakerella.com/mix-things-up/) has got a good recipe plus lots of other ideas.
I am also doing vanilla, and not sure what else yet. I normally cook peanut brittle, peppermint logs etc and will possibly do that again. This years hampers will go in Ecobags as well.
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Oh! I like the idea of the bags! I just started sewing classes, hehe, so this is good way to show off my new skills!
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That website is awesome!
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Here, here! Love the cake lollipops - have got to try them. Did you see the little Christmas ones?
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Can you buy the sticks anywhere? I just love the idea of the cookie mixture in a jar - even if you don't use it but put it on display in your kitchen :D :D I have printed all that out as I intend to do that for friends one of these days. It won't be this year as we are going to be on a cruise over Christmas but for birthdays would be nice too.
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There was a few shopping links, but haven't looked very closely.
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Wouldn't they look gorgeous on a florist tree :-*?
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You're a busy person Sim.
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I am certain you can buy the sticks from Spotlight in their chocolate aisle (the moulds etc). I have made the brownies in a jar for years. Have always been a huge hit with Teachers during the year as a special thanks for things ;) I have also layered lollies in a jar to create a decorative effect, things like jelly beans, M&M's, boiled lollies all work well. Will see if I can find (wish me well lol) my brownie recipe
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Sorry Ceejay that it has taken me so long to post this recipe for you but I've only just seen it. Anyway here it is
Lemon Butter
125g butter
6 eggs
500g sugar
Rind of 2 lemons
Juice of 3 lemons
Peel rind from lemon and blitz in TM. Insert butterfly and add all other ingredients. Cook for about 16 mins (you will know because you can hear the mixture go thick) at 80 degrees. Speed 3. I can get about 6 small jars from this mix and find they are ideal gift size.
Julie
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Getting back to the Christmas hamper idea (I love it) I saw a recipe in the "Bimby Traditional Portuguese Recipe Book" of marzipan cakes - base is dead easy to do and one just needs a little talent in forming the fruit and painting with food colouring.
Photo from book:(http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x161/barbara322330/DSC03350.jpg)
(http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x161/barbara322330/images1.jpg)
I will post the recipe later and look for some more photos
I would love you to post this recipe - and the best mnarzipan recipe you can find. Love marzipan, and would love this recipe!
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I am so sorry - I missed this request. This is the recipe:
250grs sugar
250grs blanched almonds
1 large size egg white
Place sugar in tm and pulverize for 15 seconds on speed 9
Add almonds and programme 1 minute speed 7
Add egg white and programme 35 seconds on speed 6
Remove the dough from TM wrap it with a damp tea and put in refrigerator overnight.
Colour the marzipan to your liking and make little fruit or figures
Maybe do a search on images of "doces regionais do algarve" - the proper name for this kind of cake and it will give you an idea
wishing you success
Barbara from Southern Portugal
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OMG did I see little pumpkins and fruit in that pic ACF - just too cute. Wish I had more time to fiddle.
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OMG did I see little pumpkins and fruit in that pic ACF - just too cute. Wish I had more time to fiddle.
Finding the time is ok but finding the talent is a whole new ballgame :-[ :-[
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I'm the same as VHJ, having been politely asked to leave art classes in first year. (year 8)
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Yep, my whole family is talented, they just forgot to share it with me!!!!! :-)) :-))
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Wonder why that happens Kathryn ??? ??? My 2 daughters are artistic but I still draw stick figures. Even my 5 yr old GD has progressed from stick figures now so they are all leaving me way behind. We all have something we are good for though, thank goodness. Mmm, now what is it that I am good at :P :P :P
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We all have something we are good for though, thank goodness. Mmm, now what is it that I am good at :P :P :P
Well JD -from the feelings I get from reading your post I think you talent is being a welcoming & positive person- you alway have something nice to say/share.
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I have a recipe for Turron. Does anyone know what that is? Its like a slab of Halva (or similar...I think?) made with lots of sugar and almonds, its delicious and comes in all Spanish Hampers.
Here is the recipe, I tasted it at my last cookery class and its really nice! But you need to make it soon, as it takes a few weeks to set properly!
250g sugar
peel of 1 lemon, no pith
300g roasted almonds (keep a close eye on them in oven as they roast quickly)
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 Blitz sugar 30 seconds speed 5-10
2 add lemon peel repeat 30 seconds speed 5-10
3 add roasted almonds and cinnamon, program 15 seconds speed 6.
4 Scrape down with spatula, and program speed 6 (no time) until all the oil comes out of the mixture and it looks like sawdust, at least 2 to 3 mins, but keep checking.
5 Ideally its supposed to go into a special wooden box for Turron (which soaks up the excess oil), however at the cookery class, they lined a tupperware (chocolate slab size) with plain white paper, pour mixture or spoon mixture in, push down with a spoon, and cover with paper to soak up excess oil, place a kilo of rice or heavy packet of something on top. You may also need to soak the oil up with some kitchen roll underneath the paper and on top, change that when needed. Store somewhere dry and check daily to remove excess oil. You can wrap it in pretty transparent paper with ribbons will try and find a photo somewhere to show you all what Turron is! Any queries, please ask!
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Thanks bron. There was a recipe in a recent Aussie mag Aust gourmet Traveller - but the sugar was caramelised, which the TMX won't do. I made some for MrsT and it was like Almond Brittle
This sounds like a softer version. She may like it. She certainly liked the other one.
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We all have something we are good for though, thank goodness. Mmm, now what is it that I am good at :P :P :P
Well JD -from the feelings I get from reading your post I think you talent is being a welcoming & positive person- you alway have something nice to say/share.
Must have missed this posting VHJ and I thank you for your lovely words. I've had a lot of knocks in my lifetime and I only treat people the way I would like to be treated - it isn't hard.
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Thanks bron. There was a recipe in a recent Aussie mag Aust gourmet Traveller - but the sugar was caramelised, which the TMX won't do. I made some for MrsT and it was like Almond Brittle
This sounds like a softer version. She may like it. She certainly liked the other one.
Oh yes, its lovely and soft, am sure Mrs T will love it! My friend made it at the weekend, and its lovely, easy and quick, and she says you dont have to wait a couple of weeks, the following day it was perfect!
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This is a great thread, lots of ideas.
Another suggestion is cookies or brownies in a jar - with a lovely lid they look great. I did one for a playgroup raffle and it was very popular. My suggestion would be to leave out nuts though just in case of allergies. This site Bakerella http://www.bakerella.com/mix-things-up/ (http://www.bakerella.com/mix-things-up/) has got a good recipe plus lots of other ideas.
I am also doing vanilla, and not sure what else yet. I normally cook peanut brittle, peppermint logs etc and will possibly do that again. This years hampers will go in Ecobags as well.
I just love, love, loved this idea! Now mine isn't as professional looking but my niece loved it! I got her some tickets to see Angelina Ballerina at the playhouse theatre and wanted a unique way to gift it. This was perfect - I attached ticket with curling ribbon, called the mix Ballet Bickies and added a headband with tissue paper into the top of one of those coffee lids. ;)
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Great idea nay-nay. I have the one from Bakerella printed out - will do them for gifts throughout the year as I'm just not up to it this year. If only I could get back to the Las Vegas m & m store to get themed colours (eg footy team colours etc). They have ceiling to floor panels of all the different colours they make - it is absolutely amazing and I have spent hours in there.
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They look great Nay-nay - good work
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Looks fantastic NayNay!!! What a great idea using the themed headband in the lid too!
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Woohoo! Finished my teachers "Thank you" presents today! Now I found some shrink wrap in the cheap shop for only $1.80 and it finshed it off nicely. Baskets, bottles, brown paper and string I already had collected in my hoarders cupboard of shame - so put to good use. ;D
Now there is raspberry cordial, tomato sauce, passionfruit butter, mayonnaise, vegie shock, strawberry jam, Worcestershire sauce and mango chutney.
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I may have to print these photos out in preparation for when I return to teaching one day. I could distribute them to the parents at this time of year as a little hint . . . . ;)
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Wow, they look so lovely. Your children's teachers are very lucky.
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Wow! Very impressed!!!
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Nay-Nay -is it possible to get your raspberry codial recipe please?
Thanks :-*
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oops :-[ just found the recipe in the EDC.
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Does anyone in Canberra need jars? The person who I got all my jars from just found two more boxes and asked if I would like them. I don't need any. Let me know and I will give you her email address and you can arrange to pick them up from the front of her house.
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Nay-Nay -is it possible to get your raspberry codial recipe please?
Thanks :-*
Yep! That's where it's from. ;) I buy the fruit, frozen in those boxes, when on special for about $5 a box. You can get 3 lots out of 1 box - much cheaper than the $10 natural cordial I was buying.
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I am so sorry - I missed this request. This is the recipe:
250grs sugar
250grs blanched almonds
1 large size egg white
Place sugar in tm and pulverize for 15 seconds on speed 9
Add almonds and programme 1 minute speed 7
Add egg white and programme 35 seconds on speed 6
Remove the dough from TM wrap it with a damp tea and put in refrigerator overnight.
Thank you so much for the recipe! I tried this, and the marzipan was delicious, but as hard as - well, not a rock, but as a piece of barely chewable taffy. I could cut thin wedges from it to eat, but couldn't shape it, or anything... and it seemed that the almond sugar mixture was sugary... what do you think I did wrong?
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How fresh were the almonds? In Spain/Portugal they have extremely fresh almonds -it may be that they had dried out and so you may need some more moisture.
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name for this kind of cake and it will give you an idea
wishing you success
Barbara from Southern Portugal
Thank you, Barbara!!!!
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Does anyone in Canberra need jars? The person who I got all my jars from just found two more boxes and asked if I would like them. I don't need any. Let me know and I will give you her email address and you can arrange to pick them up from the front of her house.
bugger, i wish i'd seen this 3 months ago!!! lol
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Thought I would give this a kick start again as that time is fast approaching us :o :o :o
Judy's review of the Red Pepper Jam is what got me thinking :)
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Good thinking faffa :-* Before we know it Christmas will be upon us :o :o
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92 days ILB just in case you wanted to know :o :o ;D ;D
my kids have a countdown on my computer so it is forever in my face :-)) :-))
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Ohhh yes, great ideas, keen for more seeming a Thermomix is new to me this year. I am constantly raving to my family and friends about it so they would probably enjoy some homemade gifts. Looking forward to seeing more bright gifting ideas soon.
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In the past, pre TMX days, I gave friends, Xmas Puds and Pate. This year , I have been collecting recipes from the Forum and have so far......Spiced Mixed nuts, (thanks Brazen), Panforte,(thanks Tenina),Turron, (thanks Thermomixer),Lime and Maca. Fudge,
( thanks ?), Tablet, (Thanks?), Pear Pastilles,(British Larder). Last year I also made Fruit Mince Pies, with a recipe from Andi and a fat free filling from Cookie or Gert.? The ratio of filling to pastry worked really well. The Xmas Pud and Pate I have posted.
I would like to know what others put in their hampers, if this is not too early to decide .
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To reply to a problem mentioned upthread, re: almonds that may be too dry for producing soft marzipan.
Don't despair, they can be resurrected by steaming.
Blanch the almonds as usual, remove the skins and steam them for 8 to 10 minutes. Use them immediately or dry them well and freeze them until ready to use - after steaming they will mold rapidly.
Almonds are grown locally and I usually buy a 5-gallon bucked of the shelled almonds late in the season when the prices have dropped and store them in the pantry for three months or so then in the freezer (if I have any left). After being frozen for a few months, they do tend to dry out and I blanch and steam them prior to using in any recipe, not just marzipan.
If I'm preparing flavored almonds for snacks, the oven roasting and drying is sufficient to drive out the excess moisture and they will not become moldy.
I hope this helps.
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Every year I make a lot of candied citrus peel and candied ginger.
I can't have chocolate myself but it seems that all my friends and family love chocolate, especially the dark, bittersweet type. After preparing the candied orange peel or the ginger, I melt bittersweet chocolate and dip part of each piece of peel or ginger in it.
It drys hard enough that it will keep at normal room temp fairly well.
I cut bakers parchment into sheets to fit a cookie tin and store the choc dipped pieces in single layers on the parchment.
I used to buy candy boxes from a local supplier but a few years ago a local gift store went out of business and I bought their entire stock of cookie boxes and cookie tins and still have a supply that should last me a few more years.
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Andi, that is a great ides. I make candied peel for dinner parties, so had better get busy.
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Thanks for bumping. A couple of ideas that I thought should go here are Chookies KFC mix
http://www.forumthermomix.com/index.php?topic=4364.0 (http://www.forumthermomix.com/index.php?topic=4364.0)
and meganjane's cake mix. http://www.forumthermomix.com/index.php?topic=4418.0 (http://www.forumthermomix.com/index.php?topic=4418.0)
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I put my recipe for candied ginger up on my blog today:
ginger (http://www.asenjigalblogs.com/?page_id=48)
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Good one andie - I went to a ginger factory in Queensland many years ago. They have HUGE vats of ginger going through all those stages.
It smells superb.
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Personalised Christamas Lablesfor the cost of postage
I make hampers every year and my friends love it, I make little plum puddings (going to steam in calico in TM this year), jam, dips mayo it is endless really.
Save your cans, like caned corn and grease and line with baking paper and cook mini christmas or chocolate cakes - to decorate place a ribbon or paper on outside. When my daughter was little she decorated the paper we wrapped them in, my friends and family ask if they are getting their hamper this year in about October.
I order personalised labels from www.vistaprint.com.au and put a quote on them 'If (the divine creator/god/jesus) has taken pains to give us delicious and exquisite things to eat, the least we can do is prepare them with love & share them with ceremony.'
or simply ' grown with love, made with love and too share with my loved' etc.
P.S. I order my christmas cards and gifts at vistaprint too.
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Thanks for the tips berringambabe.
Last year I made; panefort (tenina), asian sea salts (Lil Bowden), Lemon Butter (my recipe converted), Passionfruit Butter (forum), Raspberry Cordial (EDC), Lime & Macadamia Fudge (forum), Sugared Almonds (forum), Biscuits, Dukkuh (EDC), choc hazelnut spread (EDC), wine :-)), I'm sure there were a few other things too but I can't remember them at the moment.
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ILB, can I go on your list for this year?????? PLEASE
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You'll have to get behind me on that list Chookie ;) ;) I couldn't begin to imagine how wonderful a hamper you could put together either Chookie, having sampled some of your products.
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Ha ha!! Of course ladies :-* :-* :-*
This year I'll need to do it a bit smarter though, as it ended up costing quite a bit of money last year, mainly in jars and things (the wine was cheap though ;)).
Chookie I like your KFC mix to add to the hampers as well.
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Personalised Christamas Lablesfor the cost of postage
(snip)
I order personalised labels from www.vistaprint.com.au and put a quote on them 'If (the divine creator/god/jesus) has taken pains to give us delicious and exquisite things to eat, the least we can do is prepare them with love & share them with ceremony.'
or simply ' grown with love, made with love and too share with my loved' etc.
P.S. I order my christmas cards and gifts at vistaprint too.
Can you get Avery labels in Australia? I buy the inkjet labels and you can go to the Avery web site and download free software that allows you to design your own labels, add photos or graphics of your own and print them for a lot less than is charged by custom print companies, (here they can be very expensive).
I use several sizes of labels for different sized containers and just print as many as I need at one time and each type has a different design: My tea blends have a photo of one of my antique teapots and a cup and saucer in the upper right corner and a shadow line drawing of a teapot in the background of the entire label.
The jam jar labels have a picture of whatever fruit is in the jam at the top of the label.
The pickles have a dancing cucumber I drew years ago and the spiced peaches have a picture of a peach in a devil costume, holding a little pitchfork.
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yes, we use Avery labels all the time. Works well - thanks andie.
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I went to a Thermomix cooking meet yesterday evening and it was actually quite good.
This recipe is perfect for a Christmas hamper.
Ingredients:
200g sugar
2 sticks of cinnamon
1 tsp whole coriander
1/4 nutmeg
12 cloves
1/4 tsp powdered ginger
2 star anise
1/4 vanilla pod
5g candied orange peel
5g candied lemon peel
Directions:
Add all the ingredients to the TMX, grind 30s on speed 10.
Use for everything that should be scented with Christmas, for example, tea, punch, wine...
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Made a start on hampers today as I need one to donate to the Carers' Christmas raffle 1st December. Today I made the chocolate & lolly Christmas trees, worcestershire sauce and sugared almonds.
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Judy, they look marvellous.
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they really do JD. made me wish that I had a bit of 'go' in me to do the same.
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O.K. how did you make those wonderful trees?Would love to know but get your hamper finished first Judy. ;D
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Having my morning cuppa so will describe the technique now CC. I have been doing them for years and everyone I know now has one. The best part, after the initial layout of money for the craft goodies, you just use the base etc again next year and only have to buy the lollies or chocolates. If you want to make one, you will need to get your craft supplies as early as possible as they sell out fast of the cones in particular.
Visit a craft store (Spotlight here in S.Aust) and buy a polystyrene cone - they come in different sizes but don't go too big as it will cost too much to cover. I use the 20cm size. Move to the cake decorating section and pick up some alfoil covered cake bases about the size of side plate. I have also sprayed old saucers with gold paint which came up a treat. You then need pins, a Christmas decoration with a spike/stick attached and 3 x 250g packets of alfoil wrapped toffees (you can usually get these in green, red, silver or gold so choose your top to suit the colour of the toffees). Attach the cone to the base with a good strong craft glue (preferable one which sets clear) and leave overnight to set. When you are ready to decorate it, start at the bottom of the cone and pin the toffees onto the cone using a pin through one of the little twisty bits. Just work your way around, moving up a row each time you've done the full circle. The idea is to hide as much of the polystyrene as possible. You can go back over it after you've done the first layer and just pop the odd one in if you have gaps. You will soon get the hang of it and now I can do it in under 10 minutes. Push your top down into the top of the cone, attach some ribbon and voila - an edible Christmas decoration.
I have also done it with the gold covered ferrero rocher balls but they cost around $35 to make so have to be for someone very special or usually it is just for the family gathering. You have to glue them individually around the cone and I just pop tiny, coloured, glittery pompoms into the gaps that are left because of their shape.
They are great fun to make and look lovely in the middle of the table.
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Wow, what a great idea JD. I love it! Perhaps my in-laws might get a ferrero rochere one from me this year!
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A big thank you for explaining how you constructed the tree Judy.I can look in my nearest hobby craft shop for the cone and the charity shop for old saucers to spray.I think it's a great idea, gets people like me thinking "how did they do that". ;D
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Looks fantastic Judy! What a great idea. I think DD would love helping make those!
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And eating them after Christmas ILB ;D ;D
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I've been sharing your tree making skills Judy with a friend today.She thought it a great idea. ;)
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That's great CC, the more Christmas ideas we can share around the world the better I say.
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I'm getting ready to take a run to the produce market to pick up a crate of extra-large navel oranges they ordered for me so I can start on my annual big batch of candied orange peel.
If y'all haven't visited my blog, I have the super easy way of removing the peel, illustrated in photos, on a page with the title "How to peel an orange --"
This method works with grapefruit and lemons and some other citrus. Not all citrus can be nicely candied. Turkish limes (the seedless kind) turn an ugly gray and some tangerines have peel that is just too tough and leathery. I do occasionally candy the Minneola Tangelos and the Royal mandarins but they are not always available before Christmas. These both have a thicker, more tender peel.
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And eating them after Christmas ILB ;D ;D
Yes, that too JD - SIGH.... it's likely that we'll eat plenty too....
Thanks Andi for the reminder of the candied peel. Not sure if I'll get time for it this year though :-\
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I was just spending a couple of minutes catching up on my BBC Good Food newsletters and saw this. They are not TMX recipes but if you are stuck for ideas it may help you.
http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/content/recipes/christmas/christmas-gifts/?utm_source=Week%20208%20-%2017%2F11%2F10%20-%20christmas%20section&utm_medium=email&utm_content=More%20homemade%20gifts...&utm_campaign=Week%20208%20-%2017%2F11%2F10%20-%20christmas%20section
I put this elswhere too but added a copy here if it is of use to anyone.
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Lots of great ideas in this thread!
Judy, you are so creative-that looks fantastic. What a great idea!
I was thinking of making the christmas shortbread and lime/macadamia fudge for the carers who look after my DD1 at creche. The only thing is, we are not allowed to bring in food for the kids to eat as there are some kids with severe nut allergies (like my daughter has to peanuts) and I would feel horrible if I put nuts in and one of the kids ate the carer's gift!
I figure I can probably sub craisins for the macadamias in the fudge but I suspect the christmas shortbread needs the pistachios to give it the right texture. Has anyone else tried either recipe without nuts?
Thanks in advance for any suggestions! I am going to order tags or stickers when they are on sale for next year-in addition to vistaprint there is snapfish.com.au to check out too-they have regular discounts and send you vouchers when you buy something through them.
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Bumping this one for newcomers. Feel free to add more suggestions.
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thanks JD will start reading it soon
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Thanks JD that's awesome.
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Thanks for bumping this thread, JD. I have a terrible inferiority complex about giving someone a present I made - I'm happy giving away things I make during the year, ie. jams, lemon butter, biscuits, etc., but giving someone a present I made specifically as a present is a big problem for me. I will have to trawl through this thread a few times to try and get some confidence to make some gifts. Last year I did do a couple of chocolate salamis as gifts, but was very self conscious about that.
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i love given food hampers to new mums ;D
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Marina, you should never be anxious about giving home made gifts to friends. In my experience it is the hand made gift that gets the most appreciation. I certainly love to get them.
My friends are insulted if I give them a store-bought gift, which I have had to do on rare occasions because of mine or family illnesses.
I've already had some broad hints dropped that all the candied ginger from last year has been used up... and similar stories.
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Marina, how can you feel bad about giving a home made gift basket - the amount of work and the cost of ingredients that goes into making some of these should wipe away all the guilt. It is not as if you just went to a shop and bought a ready made basket, our hampers are made with love and a lot of thought goes into each one for each individual. We don't give presents to adults these days - Christmas is for children in our eyes but I will make and give a hamper to different people for no reason at all other than I want to share the brilliant things the TMX can make.
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JD any photos on this thread of any christmas hamper
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Some on page 4 and page 6 of this thread fundj. Make sure you all take photos this year girls :)
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thanks bella
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after my second son was born my friend came with food as a gift instead of babystuff
since l had kept all my stuff from the first one
l thought it was great idea and saved it me cooking
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I've never done this before but think I may for a few friends this year. A few questions.
Where do you get all the lovely jars and covers from please?
When can you start?
I think I had better go back and read this post from the beginning and I'm sure my questions will be answered. :-\
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I've never done this before but think I may for a few friends this year. A few questions.
Where do you get all the lovely jars and covers from please?
When can you start?
I think I had better go back and read this post from the beginning and I'm sure my questions will be answered. :-\
Cookie,
IKEA had the preserving jars at a really good price (sorry cant remember what but know it was good!)
I love the hamper idea, afraid at the moment I havent even got back into any baking so not sure if it will happen. Catching up with work!!
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Thanks. I have to go out there soon to look at a few things. Was going today but DH forgot he isn't 21 anymore and hurt his back at car club anymore. So I'm home making sure he doesn't do any work!!!!! Very hard. :P :P
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Give his back a good rub Cookie - hope he comes good soon :-*
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Thanks. I have to go out there soon to look at a few things. Was going today but DH forgot he isn't 21 anymore and hurt his back at car club anymore. So I'm home making sure he doesn't do any work!!!!! Very hard. :P :P
Horrible bad backs, look after him.
Judy, I love your Xmas tree table decs. Very clever.
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Thanks Denise - they are fun to make.
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Cookie - I know Plasdene (http://www.plasdene.com.au/) in Canning Vale sell a huge variety of jars but don't know how many you have to buy at once (although I've never had an empty jar go off ;))
. I've often purchased inexpensive Xmas fabric from Spotlight or similar and cut out circles to go over the lids with pinking shears.
I thought of glueing decorations onto the jars with a hot glue gun but my decorating skills are zilch!
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Cookie - I know Plasdene (http://www.plasdene.com.au/) in Canning Vale sell a huge variety of jars but don't know how many you have to buy at once (although I've never had an empty jar go off ;))
. I've often purchased inexpensive Xmas fabric from Spotlight or similar and cut out circles to go over the lids with pinking shears.
I thought of glueing decorations onto the jars with a hot glue gun but my decorating skills are zilch!
One of the easiest methods of making a nicely decorated jar, without any artistic skills is to buy some of the very wide "ribbon" that is printed with holiday themes, cut a length that will wrap around around the jar and glue it in place with a couple of spots of glue-gun glue.
When the jar is eventually empty, it is not difficult to remove the strip and the glue and re-use.
If you get the plastic lids for regular canning jars, you can also use stickers on the lid.
I bought a 25yd roll of this (http://www.karabooribbons.com/product/0097973W/Christmas-Ribbon---Holiday-Stripe---WE/) last year, still have about half. I also have some partial rolls purchased in past years, Santas, Poinsettias, Holly and pine cones.
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Bonsai, this one is for the baby boomers so not sure if you fit into that category.
When I was a kid we used to be able to buy cheap "Swaps" - small colourful cut out shapes of paper that we used to glue into our swap books. We would also swap amongst ourselves - if you had too many angels, or birds, or butterflys, or whatever, you would swap with your friends. So, if "swaps" are still around, you could buy some and perhaps use them to decorate your jars. In fact, I am pretty sure there is something similar still around, not as flimsy as the swaps of my childhood, but I often see small smiley faces, butterflies, dots, etc. decorating children's cases and books so perhaps a visit to a children's store may be an idea. Oh, I just thought, I am sure I have seen something similar in our small stationer's store - probably find something in a craft store as well.
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i remember years ago using the vegemite glass the one with the lid and wrapping the lid only or was it a sticker :-))
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i also fine these bottle size, good for hampers
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Bonsai, this one is for the baby boomers so not sure if you fit into that category.
When I was a kid we used to be able to buy cheap "Swaps" - small colourful cut out shapes of paper that we used to glue into our swap books. We would also swap amongst ourselves - if you had too many angels, or birds, or butterflys, or whatever, you would swap with your friends. So, if "swaps" are still around, you could buy some and perhaps use them to decorate your jars. In fact, I am pretty sure there is something similar still around, not as flimsy as the swaps of my childhood, but I often see small smiley faces, butterflies, dots, etc. decorating children's cases and books so perhaps a visit to a children's store may be an idea. Oh, I just thought, I am sure I have seen something similar in our small stationer's store - probably find something in a craft store as well.
If the scrapbooking (http://www.scrapbookingtop50.com/) fad has reached OZ, you can find thousands of sticker things for every season imaginable at scrapbooking shops.
We have four in Lancaster and even the tiny town of Rosamond north of here has one.
I stay far away from those stores. I have enough going on as it is and do not need another hobby.
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I never thought of scrapbooking, and admittedly don't know much about it, but it sounds perfect. Good thinking, Andie.
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Thanks for the help everyone. DH buys his olive preserving jars from Plasdene.
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;) Try the 2 dollar shops ..reject and crazy clarkes. They are now carrying alot of scrapbooking supplies! Great 3d stickers would be great onthe jars..plus the paper string in bows would look great!!
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Plasdene (http://www.plasdene.com.au/) in Canning Vale
Is this a new name? I've bought jars and bottles from a place in Canningvale but I'm sure that wasn't the name.
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I put my recipe for candied ginger up on my blog today:
ginger (http://www.asenjigalblogs.com/?page_id=48)
j
Hi Andie, your recipe for crystallised ginger was so interesting to read. I'm from the 'ginger capital of Australia'. My Mum adores ginger, me too, i'd love to try your recipe. I put a small piece in my green smoothie every morning, adds a little va va voom. Also spruces up an otherwise ordinary green salad. Dip it in chocolate, well I wouldn't know from my almost puritan upbringing!!
I've put the call out at work for jars, so lucky/unlucky friends may get my homemade stuff at Xmas. I'm a hoarder, and I married a chucker. Where have all my containers gone? I remember grandmas's house with a huge amount of jars under the house, it's genetic this hoarding tendency.
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I have enough going on as it is and do not need another hobby.
if I can be completely honest andie, I would have put you in the " compulsive hoarder" category. I really do not know where or how you file everything away. You seem to have every appliance and technical device known to woman, and you have the tech know how back up. Then I saw your wonderful kitchen and its just so streamlined, and I am like...where is everything filed away? what am I missing? Perhaps I have missed chunks of your story somewhere, and I know you have taught people less fortunate than yourself but I am wiling to pick up where I have left off and learn again. I do love your knowledge and you have made a difference to my life :-*
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I have enough going on as it is and do not need another hobby.
if I can be completely honest andie, I would have put you in the " compulsive hoarder" category. I really do not know where or how you file everything away. You seem to have every appliance and technical device known to woman, and you have the tech know how back up. Then I saw your wonderful kitchen and its just so streamlined, and I am like...where is everything filed away? what am I missing? Perhaps I have missed chunks of your story somewhere, and I know you have taught people less fortunate than yourself but I am wiling to pick up where I have left off and learn again. I do love your knowledge and you have made a difference to my life :-*
There is a fine line between "collecting" and "hoarding" and there is often great difficulty in deciding where that lies. ;D
Hoarders, and I have known a few, seem to save everything indiscriminately and live in the midst of chaos. Years ago I had a neighbor who could not get into some of the rooms in her home because of piles of trash, bags of clothes, purchased but never worn, boxes of junk picked out of dumpsters and too many cats to count. I, along with other neighbors, helped her daughter clear it out when her mother was hospitalized and it was horrendous. The animal control people had to make three trips to get all the cats and the stink was so bad that we needed heavy duty masks with goggles.
I also know a lot of collectors, some of who collect things I wouldn't have in my home, but that is their choice. As long as it is organized and not just piles of junk, it counts as collecting and not hoarding. One friend collects really creepy antique medical instruments - some give me goose bumps and make me shudder. :o
I know of book "collectors" (bibliomaniacs) who suffer from OCD and gather all the books they can find (or steal) but never read them and have dangerous stacks to the ceiling in some rooms - and people have died in such surroundings, buried by their books.
I have a lot of books but have read every one and don't collect ones just to have them. I consider myself a bibliophile.
Right now I have a bunch of cookbooks stacked in my office because I am putting them up for sale and have to scan the covers and type descriptions for each one. I am thinning out the ranks!
I'm also getting ready to sell a bunch of SciFi books that have been in storage since I moved up here. My helper asked me what was in all those metal footlockers (purchased at an auction when an Army base was closed thirty-some years ago ($1.00 each) and when I told him SciFi books, he asked if he could borrow some. He moved the lockers to the front of the storage area and I have been sorting and choosing which to sell.
As for the kitchen things. I began collecting odd old gadgets about 40 years ago when I noticed that some of the old things were interesting and were being thrown away without regard to how they had contributed to history. Rotary egg beaters, for instance.
I also began collecting Art Deco about that time and extended it into the kitchen appliance category because those things were made to be beautiful as well as functional. I started with toasters and I don't have any of the very early ones because esthetically they weren't attractive to me. I did have one of the early ones but traded it to another collector for something that fit better in my collection.
I've been collecting teapots since I was in my teens. I inherited several and then family and friends noted that I had them and began gifting me with them. My parents, grandparents and other family members lived through the Great Depression and were not conditioned to dispose of things readily. None were hoarders but they didn't throw things away that were in good condition.
A few years ago, one of my aunts sold an extensive collection of colored bakelite jewellery for enough to buy a new Cadillac. In her case, holding on to that "old junk" from the '20s and '30s really paid off.
I don't gamble, I don't drink or take drugs and I'm never bored, so my "collecting" is a fairly innocuous pastime. ;)
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Andie, I definetly wouldn't consider you a hoarder and only wished I lived closer to come and see your wonderful kitchen things, you have such a broad collection. I have seen some of those tv shows with hoarders and it appears to be a real illness very sad, they keep everything and anything, and it takes over their lives. Keep collecting it is a wonderful interest and a door to the past.
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Andie you are definitely a collector.
Your description of your neighbours house you helped to clean was exactly like Ma in laws place. She was a hoarder. She collected junk from the streets, bins and goodness knows where. The stench was unbearable and the junk was waist deep in all the rooms, including the bathroom and toilet. I even got used to rats running by me when we cleaned it out. Over 1000 cubic metres of junk went from one small suburban home. She threw absolutely nothing out, even saved all the things she checked her blood sugar with every day :-\ :'(.
The illness is called Diogenes Syndrome. It is very hard for family to deal with. She is still the same in the nursing home, goes through bins, in the kitchen ones as well. Her room is ghastly. She had a fall the other day and they managed to clear out some of the rubbish. DH has gone down there this morning to try and take some junk but I don't like his chances.
VHJ, I'll check what the name of the place in Canning Vale is, I just assumed it was Plasdene.
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Gosh Cookie, I hope they don't tell your DH they don't want her anymore and that he has to take her home with him :o ;) It must be such a problem for the nursing home.
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I think it is Judy. Unfortunately with her dementia she has had a personality change and now used lots of naughty words. :-)) I guess they get used to it though. I hope so.
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I could kick myself, my sister offered me 2 shopping bags full of herb last week and i said no thanks.
This morning while storing my rosemary that i had dried, it hit me like a ton of bricks...... xmas hampers
I only have about 200 of these jars. what the hell was i thinking
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I could kick myself, my sister offered me 2 shopping bags full of herb last week and i said no thanks.
This morning while storing my rosemary that i had dried, it hit me like a ton of bricks...... xmas hampers
I only have about 200 of these jars. what the hell was i thinking
It happens to all of us at one time or another. ;D
I recently purchased some tea towels then remembered that a friend had sent me three dozen that she had ordered and arrived with the wrong initials embroidered at each end. (She has a B&B.) The vendor replaced them for free so I got the duds.
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three dozen tea towels :o
i hate new t towels
There is something that you can soak them in to make them soft, do you know what that is, andie?
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Cookie and VHJ there are two places in Canningvale - Plasdenes is one and the other name is eluding me at the moment but know I have it written somewhere so will put it here when I find it ;)
Quite often it is cheaper at these places the more you buy, if so maybe we could look at a co-op situation for those of us in Perth?
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Cookie and VHJ there are two places in Canningvale - Plasdenes is one and the other name is eluding me at the moment but know I have it written somewhere so will put it here when I find it ;)
Silverlock is the place I got mine from. Thank goodness I remembered -was really bugging me!! Could have driven straight to it but the name just eluded me. :D :D
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YES!! That's them :D :D
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oh want to do the hamper thing this year if I can source enough jars etc (they are quite expensive here even in the 'cheap' shops...followed this thread last year as i had not long had my thermie well few months so looking forward to putting little things together but will probaby use a christmas paper type covered simple box as the base with clear celophane type paper over the top..and love JDs christmas lolly tree so might so some mini mini ones as a centerpiece of the box...ideas ideas decisions decisons ;D
oh and this year have two large bottles of vanilla essence so will be using one to put in mini bottles for gifting as part of the hamper...yay ;D
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three dozen tea towels :o
i hate new t towels
There is something that you can soak them in to make them soft, do you know what that is, andie?
I just put them in boiling water for a few minutes to remove the sizing, drain and then put them through a regular wash cycle.
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l am not shore if everyone australia wide gets the same woolworth catalog each week
as l do here in wa
but saw these cute reindeer tartlets and thought that some of you might like to make for your hampers
l will post the recipe and picture later
sorry have not converted it yet it is how it is in the catolog
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Judy and i are going to make some spice mixes to put in our Hampers. Something like the KFC , but for different purposes.Will keep you posted.
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look and sound very easy to make nazar :)
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Missed this thread last year. Need to find time to read 10 pages of posts before I start my Xmas hampers. Keep on posting!!
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Hi Guys. Not sure if this has been mentioned already but my lovely consultant gets her jars from ikea. I've had a look at them and they are perfect in size for hampers and really cute. She gave me one with some warm lemon butter in it when she did my delivery. They are quite cheap and come in a 4 pack so work out to 98 cents each. Bargain! I've posted a photo below so you can all see what they look like. :)
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I'll be doing chocolate truffles, Peppermint, Cherry Ripe, Oreo Cheesecake, Turkish delight and Hokey Pokey (honeycomb) :)
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Thanks Lisa, those jars are gorgeous. We were at Ikea a few weeks ago and I didn't see them - certainly would have bought some. I picked up some nice small jars in Tanunda today - going to use them to put some Madras curry powder in for Christmas gift giving.
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ive seen them before and they are cute but im not sure they are meant for wet ingredients?? I dont know how the lid would react ie rust etc as they are spice jars and meant for dry ingredients..how did your lemon butter go in them?? definately worth a look though so thanks...ikea also sell much cheaper than other brand preserve jars in different sizes which seem to be of a reasonable quality..
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Hi Frozzie, The Lemon Butter is still fine in the jar. The inside of the lid is plastic, so hasn't gone rusty at all. Although I wouldn't be tempted to put it in the dishwasher. Definitley really suited to the dry curry powders etc. :) There are some other great jars at Ikea also with stainless steel lids wish are dishwasher and oven proof and i think they are $3.95 each :)
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thanks lisa...i plan on going there today to see what they have over here...that spice jar size is good but they tend to have non suitable lids...i have come across the clip type jars in mini format which are cute too..im planning on doing gifts for the kids teachers and some friends just to try it out and see if it is well received over here..most things at christmas here as food gifts are fois gras, paté and liqueur!..it gets a bit old after a while! :)
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Last day of school here and finally got the foodie hampers done for the kids teachers...I finished only seconds before having to race out the door to be on time to pick the kids up...here are some photos...i didnt have enough time to do the whole list of things I wanted so ended up with only 4 items ..I am planning on doing some for new years for our dinner guests and some friends too so will give myself a few more days for them!! I ended up doing Dukkah, Fudgy Wudgy Cookies, Gingerbread bikkies in star and angel shapes and mini bottles of vanilla extract (which in the little bottles didnt smell too vanillery lol so I added a couple of vanilla pods split open into them and put in my little note in the hamper that its best to keep the longer the better??? I think I will start anohter couple of bottles but this time leave them for at least 9mths to a year so ready for next chrissy!)
ok photos...
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wanted to also do some sugar coated nuts, lemon butter, cookie fudge and the cake release....didnt give myself anywhere near enough time.. :-))
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They are lovely Frozzie, I'm sure the teachers will appreciate them. Time waiteth for no man ;) Last year I did baskets for relatives, this year it was for friends - can't do everyone, there is just not enough time.
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They look fabulous Frozzie 8) I bet the teachers loved them. :)
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thanks JD and CCµ..so true about the time JD...i will do something bigger for friends for new years..just need to start at the beginning of the week and not half way through lol
the teachers were very pleased.. just wish i could have made more...however they were quite impressed..just hope they enjoy the contents... :)
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They look good Frozzie - remember, it's quality not quantity and I think you got that right!
I'm attempting a recipe for preserved cherries in port today - I haven't got time for hampers, just a single tasty (with luck) gift. Hope they turn out OK otherwise I'll have to do some panic buying in the next couple of days.
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i was thinking the same thing this afternoon cuilidh lol..thought worst case ill jsut go and buy a nice box of choccies each...thankfully i was happy with the end result..after buying all the mini trays, xmas paper, celophane, mini jars and bottles and deco then cooking it all ..i hope they enjoy them...guess ill hear about it in the new year :)
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If all the students of all the teachers gave them a gift like yours, we would have a whole very happy profession on our hands (not to say slightly tubby as well!). I would love to know if any of our teachers on the forum got such special gifts.
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they didnt at our kids schools...sometimes its flowers, others chocolates but havent seen any homemade goodies...think there are alot that either dont cook or cant be bothered with all the prep that goes into it..actually this year I didnt see hardly any gifts...Sad really...they spend all year with our kids and teach them every day...think a small gift is a nice way to say thankyou
next on the list will be deciding a meal for christmas dinner...already have some stuff for the apero...DH came home with a gift basket of different goodies and a bottle of moelleux (sweet wine...just need to make some bread in my festive tins for toasts..have fois gras, different terrines, rillettes etc etc...
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Help please everyone!!
I have my Christmas hampers to finish off this week and as you can imagine my brain is not working properly!
I have managed to misplace my list of recipes that I wanted to make to make matters harder.
I am doing hampers of nibbles this year and pretty much have the sweeter side of things covered so am now looking for some savoury ideas.
So far I have managed to remember the crispy olives :-)) :-)) :-))
please help me with some suggestions!! :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
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you could also do dukkah, unami paste, chutney?? will get back to you with some others..oh chookies KFC kit with instructions..I remember seeing that last year..you could also do savoury salts
quatre epices (chookies recipe)
spiced mixed nuts (brazen)
sauces ..ketchup, bbq sauce, worcestershire sauce
mayo
stock
different spices
the cake release that i think fundj posted that CC found
other than that I cant think of anything more for the moment..hope it helps :)
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Welcome back, Kathryn, you are amazing tackling hampers at the moment.
I can't add to Frozzie's list, I'm afraid, I just wanted to post that the preserved cherries in spiced port that I made yesterday worked out well - for once I'm pleased with my gift making efforts. I'll try to post the recipe in non-thermomix recipes tomorrow if anyone is interested.
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My dear old grandma is 90 in Marchand going blind so this Xmas I have made her some apricot jam and tomato sauce. I would love to make her some XMas Shortbread but can't find the recipe on here. Can someone help me find it please.
Thanks ever so much
DG xxxx
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DG, this (http://www.stephberg.com/?p=704) shortbread recipe is very popular at this time of the year. It is from the little booklet Festive Flavour which H.O. put out a couple of years ago.
Here's (http://www.forumthermomix.com/index.php?topic=2508.0) a review.
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Thanks JD do u know if I make it now, will it keep til xmas? Or can I freeze it?
DG xxxx
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Welcome back, Kathryn, you are amazing tackling hampers at the moment.
The joys of having young children - life MUST go on and Christmas waits for no one! ;)
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Thanks JD do u know if I make it now, will it keep til xmas? Or can I freeze it?
DG xxxx
Here is what ILB had to say in the review link DG, I haven't even made them as I am not a fan of shortbread.
"I think theese will last for about 2 weeks or so without chocolate in an airtight container. With chocolate it will need to be kept in the fridge (for about a week or a little longer.)"
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Thanks JD xxx
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Here's a photo of the trays of cookies remaining after I had packed several tins to include in holiday baskets.
(http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h129/Basenjibabe91/Baking/HPIM4440.jpg)
Two varieties were entirely used up and I only had a few left of the sturdy peanut butter cookies and the banana nut cookies.
I still have a bowl full of the peanut butter cookie dough but don't know if I will get time to bake them off before I leave next Tuesday.
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you have been busy andi
they all look good and i am sure taste great 2 ;D
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That looks like quite a feast, Andie. I'm sure the recipients will be absolutely delighted.
Sounds like you are off on holiday so, have a great time and safe travels - don't forget to drop in now and then to keep us in touch with what you are up to.
Best wishes of the season to you.
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What a great selection andie, you must be all cookied out ;) Enjoy your break, put your feet up and try and relax, you have earnt a rest. Happy, safe holiday and Merry Christmas to you.
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Thought it was about time to bump this thread and I mentioned it elsewhere so thought it may help to have it up the top :)
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It sure is Meaghan! I think I will be adding some of Tenina's flavored salts to mine this year.
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Thanks for bumping this, my plan this year is to make hampers for DH's family when we go back in December as early Xmas presents.
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Thanks for bumping this Meagan - have been thinking about this for a while now - (but haven't done anything about it yet . . . ??? ) Wanting to be all organised this year . . which is what I say every year - but somehow it doesn't quite work out that way . . ;D ;D
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Thanks for bumping this. I am starting to do my list for hampers.
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I better start making a hamper list too.... jam, mustard, sweet chilli sauce, fudge.... ;D
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Can I ask for ideas/photos on how people giftwrap or parcel up or present their hampers?? In previous years I have made goodies to give to people as gifts, and have always felt that my presentation let things down a bit. Particularly with smaller collections of goodies, as well as the large ones .........
Any suggestions (and especially photos, if people have them) would be greatly appreciated.
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Karen if you go back to the beginning of this thread there are a few pictures of wrapped hampers - reply No. 152 on page 11 from Frozzie eg.
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Hi Karen - no photos but Here are my suggestions:
go to your local op shop and pic up baskets etc for about $1 each to use as a base.
Use shredded or tissue paper on the bottom.
Search for 'free printable Christmas tag' to find some lovely tags to ties on your goodies. Oneprettything.com (http://www.oneprettything.com/) has plenty in their printable section.
Use lots of ribbon and twine on the individual items.
Use celephane to wrap altogether, tie a big bow and include some fake holly.
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Great ideas there Snappy, I might do that for my hampers :D
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Here are some links to beautiful gift hampers I found on pinterest
http://pinterest.com/pin/207306389067730203/ (http://pinterest.com/pin/207306389067730203/) - love this one and if I knew that my SS gifted had an icecream s/he would be getting one of these!
http://pinterest.com/pin/186406872047241236/ (http://pinterest.com/pin/186406872047241236/)
http://pinterest.com/pin/176695985350691236/ (http://pinterest.com/pin/176695985350691236/) - beautifully presented homemade gifts!
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Thank you so much JD and snappy and frozzie, beautiful ideas there. I have never been very good at wrapping presents prettily, but this has given me great ideas ......... I might have to head off to the op shops and $2 shops to collect some baskets and pretty glass jars and bottles .......
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I found if you can find min trays in pretty colours wood or plastic.. Just cheap ones.. To put your goodies into.. Then wrap in celephane is probably the cheapest option that still looks pretty.. baskets are lovely but can get expensive depending on how many gifts you need to make.. You can either make or buy celephane type bags and tie with a ribbon and a bead or mini christmas bobble.. Think you could find mostly everything in either 2 dollar type shop or op shop and would finds heaps at the moment with christmas round the corner
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(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/10/31/aqezy2ap.jpg)
Wardrobe Sachets
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I will be doing a few hampers
I have on my list so,far
Cajun spice
Dukkah
Cookies n cream fudge
Kezzas mustard
Chookies wardrobe sachets
Emmas nut things
I need things that will keep.
Any other ideas?
H :)
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Sauces generally keep
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The vanilla essence is nice but really takes a year to do ..
Sweet chilli or Worcestershire
The many spice mixes or tenina a salts??
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Thanks Frozzie, will check Teninas web site.
H :)
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Helene's site is good for ideas too.,
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If u have Ffs the salts are in that
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If u have Ffs the salts are in that
Yes I do :)
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I was going to do some nuts and bolts for my hampers :)
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Taco seasoning :P
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The sweet and savory nuts..
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When my daughter was in primary school she gave her class mates 'raindeer poop', she and I tie dyed cotton hankies and fillled them with 'raindeer poop' tied the top with ribbon and she wrote the little poem was so cute.
We used dried fruit and carob buttons for the raindeer poop, the nuts and bolts recipe would be good too
http://christmas.organizedhome.com/crafts/christmas/reindeer-poop
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I was in Foodland today and saw these - how easy to make, and they would look nice in a hamper!
I have photographed the ingredients list (hope it is readable!), and on the inside of the card were simple instructions on how to make a basic soup using the contents of the jar
(http://i1057.photobucket.com/albums/t391/kheath1409/file-27.jpg)
(http://i1057.photobucket.com/albums/t391/kheath1409/file-28.jpg)
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Not seen those before Karen.
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Not sure if you can see the price tag below Judy - but they were charging $7.50 for a what was essentially a fancy jar of dried soup mix :o :o :o
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They look lovely Karen. :) $7.50 seems a tad expensive,they must have a huge markup price on them.
Super idea though ;)
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I didn't notice that Karen, bit expensive though. I wonder what fresh ingredients you have to add to them.
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Stock and chopped vegetables ....... meat optional.
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Thanks Karen :-*
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This thread has ideas too.
http://www.forumthermomix.com/index.php?topic=11595.105
The last post I made last night onthsi thread had recipes from a site for other soup mixes, and cookie mixes. Just be aware some contain Stock with MSG so need to do substitutes.
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I was in Foodland today and saw these - how easy to make, and they would look nice in a hamper!
I have photographed the ingredients list (hope it is readable!), and on the inside of the card were simple instructions on how to make a basic soup using the contents of the jar
(http://i1057.photobucket.com/albums/t391/kheath1409/file-27.jpg)
(http://i1057.photobucket.com/albums/t391/kheath1409/file-28.jpg)
Here are some other suggestions . . . was thinking that instead of using stock cubes in the jar maybe a jar of stock concentrate to go along side it might work . . . .
http://www.food.com/recipe/good-luck-soup-in-a-jar-201351
http://allrecipes.com/recipe/country-soup-in-a-jar/
http://www.budget101.com/frugal/soup-mixes-200/
http://christmas.organizedhome.com/crafts/gifts-in-a-jar/recipe-index
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They look great $7.50 :o :o a tad steep
H :)
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I've been thinking about it. I'm doing the vanilla extract also.
You could do things like macadamia or almond spread. Even the stock paste would be a nice gift.
I think I need to find jars though. Any ideas?
redtradingcompany.com.au
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Welcome to the forum Como.
That link does not work for me.....
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I've been thinking about it. I'm doing the vanilla extract also.
You could do things like macadamia or almond spread. Even the stock paste would be a nice gift.
I think I need to find jars though. Any ideas?
redtradingcompany.com.au
I just tried the link. I assume it is http://www.redbacktrading.com.au/
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Herb rice mix
US measurements
1 pound long grain rice
2 cups dried celery flakes
2/3 cup dried minced onion
½ cup dried parsley flakes
2 tablespoons dried tarragon
3 to 4 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons pepper
Mix well and store in airtight containers
Additional ingredients
2/3 cup water
1 teaspoon butter or margarine
To prepare 1 serving of rice
In a saucepan over medium heat bring water and butter to the boil.
Add ¼ cup rice mixture, reduce heat and cover simmer for 20 mins let stand for 5 mins or until liquid is absorbed .fluff with a fork
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Creole seasoning mix
US measurements
2 tablespoons plus 1-1/2 teaspoons paprika
2 tablespoons garlic powder
1 tablespoons salt
1 tablespoons onion powder
1 tablespoons dried oregano
1 tablespoons dried thyme
1 tablespoons cayenne pepper
1 tablespoons pepper
Mix well and store in airtight containers
Use to season chicken,seafood,steak or vegetables
1 batch = about ½ cup
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I've finished my Xmas hampers (apart from the dog biscuits, starting to think that was a silly idea!!)
I've made: vanilla, tomato relish, HP sauce, Gentleman's relish, mustard fruits, Worcestershire sauce, cookies & cream fudge, salted caramel fudge, milk & dark choc cherry bites, apricot delight, malt slice, mini Xmas cakes & peppermint foot scrub.
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/12/12/24/byqy6a2a.jpg)
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Your recipients are very lucky Katie.
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Well done Katie, I'm sure they will be greatly appreciated! :D
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What a job, Katie, well done. They look so beautifully presented.
I've just finished Quirky Jo's Ferrero Rochers, I'll do Rara's Cherry Bites tomorrow and I have also done the dried fruit to go with the Camembert kits that CC posted the link to.
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Katie, your hampers are wonderful!!! Anyone would be thrilled to be honoured with a gift such as that!!
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Lovely hamper KatieJ
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Lovely well done.
Am getting rave reviews for Brazens spiced nuts. ;
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Katie, those hampers are wonderful, well done
Marie
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The hamper looks great, I forgot to take a photo of mine before I gave them away. The family loved them and my suitcase was a lot lighter coming back lol
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You obviously didn't smuggle any wombats or Tassy Devils home with you. :)
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Not this time cookie, I did bring back a kilo of scollops, and they were very nice curried.
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Katie what a wonderful selection of goodies - I was lucky enough to receive 3 of them. I actually wondered (but unfortunately didn't ask) if you had made the foot scrub but I thought surely not - I'm going to have a bath tonight and try it out, it has the most gorgeous smell.
My DD received hers today - hers was the best of all that I did and contained
Limoncello
Salted Caramel Fudge
French Onion Soup Mix
Balsamic Glaze
5 spice powder
Nesquik
Dishwashing powder
Chilli Con Carne seasoning mix
Star biscuits
Nuts & Bolts
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Yes I did make it Judy - remember it contains almond oil and needs to be washed off completely or your feet may be oily.
Your DD must have been rapped with her hamper.
I've taste-tested a few of those and they are all lovely. DH is going to make chilli con carne with the mix you gave us later in the week.
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My feet as so dry Katie they probably need some oil but I will be careful to wash them well.
I just googled 'as dry as ......' to see if I could find a suitable word to describe my feet. Mmm, not quite suitable for this forum :-))
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Mmm. My DH has a saying about dry things and a dingo is in it. Like yours Judy it is not fit for the forum. :) :)
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That was one that came up Cookie - so your DH came up with that one did he :D :D :D ;)
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I was so intrigued that I had to ask Mr Google what you ladies were talking about.... he didn't disappoint LOL ;D ;D ;D
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;D ;D ;D ;D ;D and no superlative to boot . . . ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Ooo where is the foot scrub recipe katie :)
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Sorry Kim I missed your question (thanks JD for pointing it out to me).
It's not a TMX recipe, just mix it up in an old ice-cream container or bowl.
Peppermint Foot Scrub
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup sweet almond oil
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint essential oil
• A few drops of lavender essential oil (optional)
• Drop of green food colouring
1. Mix the sugar and sweet almond oil together.
2. Add the peppermint oil, lavender oil and the food colouring. Mix until the food colouring is completely incorporated.
3. Store in an airtight container or glass jar.
Best to use when in the bath - massage into your wet feet, rub well into your heels to smooth any rough patches and then rinse with warm water. Body wash can then be used on your feet to remove any traces of oil.
Take care not to slip as your feet may still feel slightly oily.
I got the idea from here:
http://moneysavingmom.com/2011/12/a-handmade-christmas-homemade-body-scrubs.html
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Thanks Katie, passing this onto a friend of mine who absolutely loved the smell of mine and the idea.
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Thx katie and jd.. .. 😊
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Bumping this handy thread for new members (and old ones like me who need inspiration)
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It is getting near that time again.
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I missed the foot scrub last time, glad to see it.
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Tank you for bumping. I'm thinking of putting a hamper together for my 4 yo Kindy teacher. I think she'd really appreciate it.
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I am going to make the foot scrub tonight.
Thanks
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Thank you, will be making this for pressies. :)
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Robyn let us know how it goes. Maybe a photo?
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Tank you for bumping. I'm thinking of putting a hamper together for my 4 yo Kindy teacher. I think she'd really appreciate it.
Kindy teachers are getting younger every year!!!
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Lol.
I'm doing a happy for the kinder teacher too.
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Tank you for bumping. I'm thinking of putting a hamper together for my 4 yo Kindy teacher. I think she'd really appreciate it.
Kindy teachers are getting younger every year!!!
ROFL
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Tank you for bumping. I'm thinking of putting a hamper together for my 4 yo Kindy teacher. I think she'd really appreciate it.
Kindy teachers are getting younger every year!!!
LOL!
She's very good for her age! 😜
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Bumping this one as well ... for anyone looking for inspiration
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My first Christmas Hampers are finished. It's been fun taste testing everything 😄
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/12/11/tyre7uve.jpg)
I made limoncello, balsamic reduction, citrus curd, FFS granuesli, Mrs Mason's nuts & bolts, malt slice, salted caramel fudge, shortbread stars and mini Xmas fruitcakes.
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All the items look and sound fantastic Kimmy
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They really look wonderful Kimmy. Well done.
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Beautiful packaging Kimmy!
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gorgeous kimmy :D:D
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They look fantastic and so well presented. Well done.
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They look wonderful Kimmy! Well done! Where did you get the labels from?
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I googled them Karen. Downloaded them, added my text and printed them on photo sticker paper.
Here's the link http://www.overthebigmoon.com/neighbor-gift-jar-label-printable/
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Your hampers will please for sure Kimmy, you can be very proud of them.
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Thanks Kim! I have been making food gifts for kindy/playgroup teachers and have been looking for nice labels for them - there are just perfect. I like some of the other ideas on her website too. Thanks!
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That hamper looks fabulous Kimmy. Your friends are very fortunate. Thanks for the link to the labels. Very interesting :)
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I found this site for gift labels (http://www.jamlabelizer.com/) last week and really liked the options there. I will have to experiment how best to print them up ... transparent labels? plain white? coloured? ... decisions, decisions, decisions!
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Bumping for Christmas.
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Bumping this again for Christmas.
There are some really good ideas here.
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It's unbelievable that it is November already.
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I know cookie1 I can't believe it.
It is nearly time to make the pudding!
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MM has put this (http://www.bakeplaysmile.com/) website up on our FB site, non-TMX but some great ideas for Christmas. I love the marshmallow pops.
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Thanks MM. Have saved several recipes to make as special treats for Xmas.
Judy, several have TMX instructions at bottom of recipe.
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I received this in my FB feed this morning and thought it would be a great idea for those making Christmas hampers this year or even for their own use. Remember it is an American recipe so the tablespoon is 15 ml compared to the Australian 20 ml. A US cup of flour weighs 125g and a cup of sugar weighs 200g but I'd appreciate it if someone could confirm those cup weights as it wasn't that clear cut finding these measurements. I will be interested to hear if anyone tries it, the vanilla cake looks very moist.
http://www.kitchennostalgia.com/canning_and_preserving/homemade_cake_mix_recipe.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+KitchenNostalgia+%28Kitchen+Nostalgia%29
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A fabulous idea Judy.Thanks for sharing the idea :-* :-*
On a website I found a cup of All Purpose flour weighs 120g and a cup of Granulated Sugar weighs 198g
http://www.kingarthurflour.com/learn/ingredient-weight-chart.html
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We'll done girls.
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Why don't all recipes use grams? Some good cooks give a choice, cups, grams and ounces next to each ingredient.
Thanks for the link Judy. Very good idea.
My GC made jars of cookie mix for friends one Xmas. Think Marina posted the recipe.
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I can't remember the last time I used a packet cake Chookie, I would have been in my early 20's I think. I thought this was a great idea and I completely agree with you on the weight issues from country to country.
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The weight differences are a nuisance, especially when you forget half way through the recipe, and have used the wrong tablespoon measure.