Five spice gifts that actually get used

Spices make wonderful gifts when they are chosen with the cook in mind. Here are five ideas.

• A small set of warm baking spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, mace and cloves.
• A curry night kit, with a roasted blend, chili and a simple recipe.
• A tea sampler, so they can find a favorite.
• A single hero spice in a beautiful tin, such as true cinnamon quills.
• Anything that comes with a recipe or a story card.

Tips: choose smaller sizes so nothing sits for years, check for allergies, add a handwritten note, and order early if the gift needs to travel internationally.