When old man winter is knocking at your door, ’tis the season to enjoy hearty meals that provide sustenance to deal with howling winds. 

Ooh, how folksy! 

Winter calls for good old-fashioned comfort foods that take longer to prepare but are worth the effort to warm the cockles of your heart. 

To that end, over here at BasketWorks, we present the five most popular winter foods to cozy up to.

1. Hearty Soup

Hearty soups like chicken noodle, split pea with ham, and beef barley are the go-to meals in the dead of winter. 

I know, it’s been pretty mild so far in Chicagoland, but I’m sure I just jinxed it.

Soups are easy to prepare and are also great for lunch leftovers. You just toss everything in a pot or slow cooker and let it simmer until all the flavors infuse the broth. Enjoyed with chunks of crusty bread smothered in butter, a grilled cheese sandwich or crackers, soup is the quintessential winter food.

2. Comforting Macaroni & Cheese

Mac n’ cheese has reached legendary status as the ultimate comfort food. 

It has gone from the recognizable blue box everyone keeps in their pantry to a gourmet-level meal with all kinds of clever ingredients that bring it to the next level. But deep down, we all crave the same good old-fashioned version mom always made. 

When it comes to feeling like a warm hug, nothing does it better than mac ‘n cheese.

3. Luscious Pot Roast

Pot roast may be the mother of all comfort foods. 

Slow-cooked meat, gravy, potatoes, and carrots. I mean, come on. 

Pot roast is the ultimate winter meal and just as easy to prepare as soup if you have a slow cooker handy. After a hard day at work, nothing says welcome home more than a simmering chunk of tender beef.

4. Spicy Chili

126.95 million Americans can’t be wrong. Yes, that’s how many of us consumed chili in 2020. Is there anything they don’t track?

Chili is a versatile dish, and we’re going to focus on the spicy kind. 

Whether you love it with plenty of beans or are all about the meat, spicy chili is packed with flavors. That combination of meat, beans, peppers, tomatoes, onions, and spices is a kick start to your taste buds, creating a warming sensation from tongue to tummy, ideal for a cold winter’s day.

5. Rib Sticking Stew

Speaking of versatility, there are hundreds of stews to choose from, like classic beef stew, French boeuf bourguignon, Irish lamb stew, and chicken stew topped with light and fluffy dumplings.

Another slow cooker-friendly meal, stew allows you to combine ingredients and let them simmer while you get on with your day. Always rich and flavorful, stew goes down easy when the weather is snowy, damp, or downright miserable.

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Speaking of soup, it’s always nice to have a bowl when you’ve got a winter cold or bug. To that end, check out our Soup and Quackers Get Well Basket, a lighthearted pick-me-up with chicken soup mix, crackers, a stuffed animal duck, and more! 

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today! Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Although you might feel grumpy and disenchanted when the cold weather arrives, there’s something to be said about the first snowfall in Chicago. 

Everything gets quiet and glistens under a frosty white blanket. Okay, maybe the latter part of that sentence is more realistic, but what I’m building up to here is that rather than letting the snow get you down, you can thrill downhill on a speedy fast sled. 

Today, we’re temporarily veering off the topic of gift baskets to focus on our guide to planning the perfect sledding outing.

Choose the Right Gear 

You can’t show up to your favorite hill unprepared. 

Oh no, because sledding is the quintessential traditional and other adjectives ending in “al” activity, so you have to get it right. 

First, you need to choose a sled:

• Toboggans: Toboggans offer good control with “reins” you can lean into to direct the sled. The toboggan is the classic choice to fit up to four people. The curved front and smooth bottom plow through deeper snow quite well.
• Sledges: Sledges operate the same way as toboggans but include runners on the bottom without the curved front. They are a good choice for a rider or two.
• Saucer: The saucer is a disc, ideal for single sledders. However, they can be quite fast. We’re talking Clark Griswold on a trash can lid fast, so not the best choice for small kids or novice sledders.
• Snow tubes: Tubes are inflatable, offering a nice and comfy ride compared to other sled types. They come in different sizes and shapes but are harder to control and can also go scary fast.  
• Kicksleds: These are like little chairs on runners. They are easy to operate and designed for a single rider.

The key is to make sure the sled you choose has easy grips to hold onto for safety. A helmet is a must for kids and highly recommended for adults. Sleds pick up speed fast, and noggins must be protected. 

Also, wear SPF sunscreen for your nose and chapstick for your lips. Also, bring along a bottle of water because dragging the sled up that hill is hard work.

Pack Some Food

You’ll want to pack a lunch to refuel and warm up after a few trips down the hill. 

So, what does one include in a winter picnic basket? 

First and foremost, you’ll want a thermos filled with your favorite heartwarming beverage. Hot chocolate is the classic, especially if sledding with kids. But hey, if coffee is the only thing to get you back up that hill, it is just as sled friendly. Teas work, too, as does a nice hot toddy or spiked cider. 

Think simple and transportable snacks, like wraps and sandwiches cut into bite-sized morsels, sausage rolls, little quiches, “hand” pies, cookies, crackers, cheese, etc. Pack everything into an easy-to-carry picnic basket, tote, or duffel bag, along with paper plates and napkins.

Dress for It

Kids are stubborn (if you haven’t noticed), and they may not want to bundle up. Too bad. 

Snow pants keep you warm and dry. Dress in layers, with a thermal shirt and long johns. Also, thick socks and winter boots are a must. Avoid scarves, as they can be dangerous when sledding. Instead, wear a turtleneck or neck warmer. A properly fitted hat that won’t fall over your eyes in mid-descent finishes off your look.

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Remember when I said in the intro that I’d be veering off the topic of gift baskets? Well, that was a half-truth. 

It’s still the holiday season, and we’re busting out all the stops with our Let It Snow Holiday Gift Box, stuffed with 2 Walker’s shortbread packs, 2 chocolate covered pretzels; 2 Dolcetto cookie bites, 2 Pirouline wafer two packs, and more!

We are open with limited hours tomorrow and shipping as fast as we can.

Happy Holidays! 

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today! Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

You’d think with so many brick and mortar and online retailer options, that finding the right holiday gift would be a cinch. 

Why is gift-giving so hard? Because it is. 

But this isn’t a blog post about why; rather we focus on how to make it an easy process. 

The holidays are the perfect opportunity to show your gratitude to your friends (including frenemies), family (including those who don’t necessarily deserve your gratitude), and clients (who are always awesome no matter what).

You want something meaningful enough to convey your message effectively yet affordable enough that it won’t break your budget. You also want to ensure your gift is available and will arrive on time. 

Let’s take a look at making holiday gifting easy with four simple steps.

Step 1. Determine Your People Gift List

Get planning now if you haven’t started already. 

Make a list of the people you want to thank with a token of your appreciation, complete with their addresses and telephone numbers. 

For business, it’s a good idea to separate the list based on client details, such as longer-term clients vs newer clients or higher value clients vs lower, you can assign different “levels” of gifts based on cost. This ensures everyone receives an appropriate gift.

Step 2.  Determine Your Budget

This step should probably go first, but it’s funnier this way. 

I should have warned you at the beginning that there’d be some math involved, but whatever. 

We’re going to stay on clients a moment, though this same approach can be applied to friends, family, strangers, what have you. Set a budget limit to assign a budget to each gift “level,” using the value of your association with each client as your guide. Remember to include the total cost, such as tax and delivery, as the longer the list, the more quickly these small numbers add up. It’s not about sending something ostentatious and expensive, but instead something thoughtful as a token of thanks.

Step 3. Select a Gift Style or Theme

You’re at an advantage if you have a sense of your gift recipient’s taste. 

This allows you to narrow down your choices by selecting a gift style or theme. For example, you could choose to give all of your friends and family members gifts that are handmade (and then give the gift of a hand massage and manicure afterward). Or, you could focus on giving eco-friendly gifts that will help reduce your carbon footprint. Whatever gift style or theme you choose, make sure to put thought into each and every present. 

It’s a nice touch. 

Step 4. Finalize Your Plans

You can see the finish line! Now it’s time to finish. 

Your gift isn’t ready without a personalized message and a delivery date. You don’t want the gift to arrive after the holidays. Forget better late than never. Get a sense of shipping and delivery schedules, as there can be lags during the holiday season. 

Just like that, your work is done. But it’s not because…

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Today is Giving Tuesday, and we’ve got you covered. 

BasketWorks proudly supports the Northfield Food Pantry with our Gifting for Good Food Pantry Gift Basket. Twenty-five dollars from each basket sold will be donated to the pantry. A card is included in each basket notifying the recipient of this donation. And it’s a great basket, loaded with holiday goodies like Everton butter toffee pretzels, English tea cookies, peanut brittle,, ice wine chocolates, and so much more. 

Happy Holidays!

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today! Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

You’ll enjoy this blog post…if you’re not a turkey. 

I know what you’re thinking: Come on, everyone knows turkey is healthy. What is this, a throwaway post? 

Well, folks know that turkey is white meat and on the leaner side, but it kind of ends there. Oh, but there are many more ways this bird does the body good. 

Today, we carve out (see what I did there?) the answers. 

1) A Healthy Source of Protein

Turkey is often touted as a healthy source of lean protein, and for good reason.

A single turkey breast can contain as much as 20 grams of protein, more than half of the recommended daily intake for most adults! We love protein because it’s essential for muscle growth and repair. 

Now, I won’t claim that you can’t go wrong with a juicy slice of turkey, because you can if you’re not careful about portion sizes. While protein is crucial nutritional content, you don’t want to load up on unnecessary calories. 

2) It’s Stuffed with B Vitamins

Who knew that turkeys are flying multivitamin packs?

Turkey is an excellent source of several different B vitamins, including thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin B6. These vitamins are essential for metabolism, energy production, and nervous system function. 

So when you’re enjoying that delicious turkey dinner, remember that you’re also getting a healthy dose of nutrients that will help keep your body running like a well-oiled machine or something. 

3) Reliable Source of Minerals 

As any self-respecting Thanksgiving host knows, the turkey is not only the centerpiece of the meal, but also a veritable goldmine of minerals. 

Turkey is rife with selenium, zinc, phosphorus and iron, which can support thyroid function, immunity, bone health and energy production.

4) Turkey is Low in Fat

As a lean protein, turkey is low in saturated fat and cholesterol, and one can argue that it’s a healthier option than other types of meat. In fact, turkey actually gives salmon a run for its money when it comes to omega 3 fatty acids.

Keep in mind, how you cook turkey–sauteed with olive oil rather than bacon fat–impacts saturated fat levels. 

5) Known to be Heart Healthy 

Turkey is often hailed as a healthy alternative to red meat. 

But what about turkey’s effect on the heart? Turkey can be quite beneficial for heart health. The amino acid L-carnitine, which is found in turkey, has been shown to improve blood flow and decrease inflammation. 

Turkey also contains CoQ10, an important nutrient that helps protect the heart from damage. In addition, the selenium in turkey can help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

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You know what goes nicely with turkey? Our Ultimate Autumn Gift Basket, replete with Everton butter toffee pretzels, cheese straws, mulling spices, ginger cookies, mixed nuts, and so much more. 

After reaping the health benefits of turkey, you can reward yourself with treats!

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today! Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

The humble cracker has come a long way since the days of boring saltines served on the side of chili and soup. 

Crackers have become a bit of an art form with a multitude of gourmet options that bring your cheese and charcuterie boards to the next level. Many of the new ingredients being used to up the flavor profile of these crispy little snacks, such as grains and seeds, have also made crackers a surprisingly healthy snack. 

If you thought our blog about the health benefits of honey was astounding, buckle up for this one about crackers, specifically multigrain. 

A Boost of Fiber

When you choose multigrain crackers, you get a boost of fiber that can offer some unexpected health benefits. 

First, if you serve up a nice platter of crackers and cheese as a healthy appetizer, you feel full and will eat less at dinner. The high fiber content can aid in weight loss because it helps you feel satisfied longer. 

Fiber is also known to reduce the risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. 

Lots of Protein

We make a big deal about protein for good reasons. 

Protein is essential for energy and carrying oxygen throughout the body and in our blood. It also promotes antibodies that combat infections and illnesses, as well as maintaining healthy cells and generating new ones. 

If that weren’t enough, protein helps you lose weight because you actually burn more calories during the digestion of proteins.

Vitamins and Iron

Grains contain B vitamins that allow you to convert the nutrients in your food into fuel. 

As a result, your metabolism gets a boost that keeps it running efficiently throughout the day. B vitamins from grains offer the following health benefits:

• Vitamin B3: This is great for your skin while also supporting a healthy nervous system.
• Vitamin B1: This B vitamin helps keep your appetite in check for healthier eating habits.
• Vitamin B6: This contributes to healthy red blood cell production.

Grains are an excellent source of iron which is also great for your blood. Iron helps produce red blood cells that transport oxygen throughout your entire system and store it in your muscles for future use. You need iron for energy, cell growth, and DNA synthesis. When you combine your crackers with vegetables, cheese, and fruit, you also get a good boost of Vitamin C, which improves iron absorption. 

Win-win.

Building a Healthy Appetizer with Crackers

You can build an even healthier ensemble with your crackers by adding these ingredients:

• Hummus and other planted-based spreads such as guacamole
• Nuts such as almonds, walnuts, pecans, and pistachios
• Pickles and brined foods such as olives, peppers, and beets
• Fresh and dried fruits such as figs and dates
• Vegetable sticks with healthy dips such as tzatziki, yogurt, raita, and soft cream cheese

You might not always think of crackers when you think of healthy snacks, but when you choose multigrain crackers packed with grains and seeds, they become not only tastier but also healthier. 

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Seeing as we’re in the thick of fall, there’s no better time to place an order for our Flavors of Fall Gift Basket. We’ve gone fall out (see what I did there?) on this one, which features Everton toffee pretzels, mulling spices, Anna’s ginger cookies, 3 Dad’s popcorn, and much more! 

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company, located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today! 

Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Last time we blew your minds with 4 Health Benefits of Cherries That Will Make You Chipper, and if you thought we’d stop there, prepare to be re-mesmerized.

Bees may frighten us with their buzzing and stingers, but we love their honey, that delicious ingredient that adds a depth of flavor to beverages, snacks and chef-worthy dishes. 

If you love the sweet taste of honey, you’ll be happy to know it is also quite healthy, and you bet your sweet nectar that we’re about to explore its health benefits. 

1. Honey Contains Polyphenols

Poly what?

Polyphenols are plant-based compounds found in foods such as fruit. Polyphenols have been linked to many potential health benefits, including:

• Lowering blood sugar levels
• Reduced risk of heart disease
• Prevention of blood clots
• Improved digestion
• Improved brain function

2. A Powerful Antioxidant

We can’t avoid the word “antioxidant” because it shows up in every healthy food. So deal with it! 

Fresh, unprocessed honey is rich in antioxidants and the darker the variety, the more antioxidants you’ll find. Antioxidants help neutralize the potential damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. As a benefit, polyphenols can help combat the signs of premature aging.

3. A Healthy Alternative to Sugar

Now that you’re an expert in polyphenols, you’ll be happy to know that the polyphenols in honey can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels, especially when compared to basic sugar. 

To be clear, honey does still raise blood sugar levels, but it also helps improve blood sugar regulation because it can help increase levels of the hormone adiponectin. Just be sure you’re using pure honey without any additional sweeteners or syrups. 

4. Improved Heart Health

Honey can reduce the risk of high blood pressure. In addition, the propolis in raw honey could improve your triglyceride and cholesterol levels. Aren’t we just so sciencey?

5. Aids in Wound Healing

Honey has been used as a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory treatment dating back to ancient Egypt. 

When honey is applied to burns and wounds, it can help promote healing and can also ease discomfort related to skin conditions such as psoriasis. Whatever you do, don’t lick it while it’s doing its healing thing. 

6. Calming Coughs and Soothing Sore Throats

Some contend that honey is the ideal natural cold medicine, offering an excellent cough suppressant. 

Just a spoonful has been known to calm coughs without the side effects of over-the-counter medicines. In fact, studies have found it to be better than diphenhydramine, a medicine commonly used to ease troublesome coughs. 

It can also help soothe painful sore throats. If it’s a little too sweet on its own, add a generous spoonful to your tea or a cup of warm water with a squirt of fresh lemon.

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We usually go with one siren emoji, but in case you’re tired today, this will wake you up. 

We can’t talk about honey without mentioning our Breakfast Tray Gift Basket, featuring a mini honey jar, Bonne Maman lemon curd, Sticky Fingers scone mix, and more. 

While honey might be the ideal treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, it makes an excellent alternative to sugar, thanks to its many health benefits.  

About Basketworks

BasketWorks is a woman-owned gift basket company located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today! Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.