Looking for a gift that stands out from the crowd? Small businesses across the US are offering unique, handcrafted products that make for thoughtful presents. From artisanal chocolates in Buffalo to affordable candles in Los Angeles, these items are made with care and often support local communities.
One standout is Paro's kitchari, a simple mix of mung beans, basmati rice, and spices like turmeric and cardamom. Founder Umaimah Sharwani named the company after her mother, who sent her ziplock bags of lentil and spice mix after she moved out for college. Paro also offers a tomato kitchari with lentils and tarka oil.
Buffalo-based Blue Table Chocolates offers sampler collections with truffles like Blackberry Lavender and Spicy Cherry Cashew. The company regularly supports local organisations, making these a thoughtful gift from a business that prides itself on craft and community.
For bean lovers, Rancho Gordo's gift boxes of rare heirloom beans are a hit. The company works with growers in the western US and Mexico to source rare and indigenous beans, focusing on sustainability and small-scale farming.
Canaan Palestine produces luxe olive oil and tapenades from ancient trees in the West Bank. The company employs regenerative agricultural practices and plants a tree on a Palestinian farm with each holiday gift set purchased.
Other ideas include small-batch misos from San Francisco's fermentation company, ice cream from Baltimore's worker-owned Taharka Brothers, and tea towels from food publication The Bitter Southerner.
