The holidays are upon us, and that means it's time to show your buddies you care by buying them things they probably don't need. But there's no reason to shell out for an expensive, ugly Christmas sweater that he'll never wear, or a tchotchke that will sit idly at the back of her closet, when you could give THE gift that everyone loves: food! Eating...Our Words writers have found some of the best food and food-related items for everyone on your list, from pets and kids to the true gourmand, and are sharing some of their favorites with you this holiday season. Let's get shopping!
Whether for a friendly gift exchange, a white elephant party or a stocking stuffer for your family and friends, these local gifts that can be had for less than $15 will hit the spot:
5. Duo of Hot Sauces from Bravado Spice
Bravado Spice Co. started with two friends and a simple goal: to bring real flavor to America's hot-sauce market. One successful Kickstarter campaign, two more additions to the team and a season of Masterchef later (Team James!), the Houston-based company is well on its way to hot-sauce domination -- they even have plans to expand to international markets.
The reason behind their success? The incredible hot sauce, of course. Pick up a bottle of the sweet, spicy and bold Pineapple Habanero sauce ($7), the green apple and jalapeño San Patricio sauce ($7), or both at merchants like Phoenicia, Ruggles Green, Local Foods and more.
4. Whiskey Stones from Biscuit Home
Know someone who loves golf and whiskey (i.e., every guy you've ever dated)? Pick up this set of three golf-themed whiskey stones from Houston's own Biscuit Home. At just $14, they make the perfect stocking stuffer.
3. Locally Made Jam & Marmalade
You can find Garden Dreams Houston's homemade jams, salsas and marmalade ($6 to $9) on weekends at the Urban Harvest Farmers Market. Pick up a jar of kumquat marmalade, blueberry vanilla jam, or cranberry and jalapeño jelly from the market, or order a couple online.
For something a bit naughtier, try BRC Gastropub's famous sweet and spicy pork-filled Chile Bacon Jam ($15 for a pint).
