Mother’s Day Gift Guide: Christine Muhlke

With Mother’s Day around the corner, we asked some of our favorite chefs what they’ll be giving — and hoping for! — this year. We also asked them to share their most special Mother’s Day memories and traditions. Read on for their picks and to learn how they’ll be celebrating this very special holiday, with their kids, mothers and entire families. Happy Mother’s Day!

 

Christine Muhlke is the Executive Editor of Bon Appetit magazine. She had her first child, a son, in 2012.

 

How do you celebrate Mother’s Day?  

Last year was my first, so I don’t remember much! This year I’m hoping for croissants and tea in bed.

 

What’s your favorite thing to cook with your mom? With your children?

I always loved watching my mom make lasagna—every time I go home, I beg her to make it. My son is 15 months, but he really likes chicken curry, so I try to make that more than I make oatmeal.

 

What’s the most important thing you’ve learned from your mom in the kitchen?

Cooking is a pleasure.

 

What’s the most important lesson you’ve tried to teach your children in the kitchen?

Don’t throw things.

 

What was your favorite childhood meal?

Leftover lasagna and birthday cake.

 

 

1. Vitamix Professional Series 750 Blender: “I’ve always wanted a Vitamix for making juices, nut milk, and quick soups—not to mention grinding my own flour. Hopefully this very public nudge will finally make it happen!”

 

2. The Preserved Lemon Crate: “My dear friend Luise, mother of Anatole, 5, has the perfect sunny window for the Meyer lemon tree in this Agrarian Preserved Lemon Crate.”

 

3. Jars Tourron Bowls: “My fairy godmother, Bernice, who taught me about style, would love these Jars Tourron bowls in Indigo. The French company has been around since the 1850s, but they look so up-to-the-minute.”

 

4. Three Months of American Cheese: “A few years ago, my mom, who lives in Wisconsin, came along when I interviewed cheese artisans. I’d love for her to try what the incredible cheese makers in the rest of the country have to offer.”

 

5. Tartine Bread Cookbook: “Tartine Bread is such an inspiring book! I think my friend Bernie, mother of Ruby, Mei and Coco, could really go deep with it. (If not, there are great recipes for what to do with leftover bread.)”