Nigella's Christmas Utensils

Asked by yangste. Answered on 22nd December 2013

Full question

In Nigella's Christmas book there is a lovely jug which is cream with holly on it and a brown handle. I would really like one and wondered where it came from or is it, maybe, a family heirloom? Thank you anyway for a brilliant website.

In Nigella's Christmas book on page 47 there are 3 cake stands. I am would love to purchase some, can you help?

Hi, in Nigella's Christmas on page 152 there is a picture of 3 Scandinavian/Nordic red star shaped candles, can you tell me what brand they are and where can I buy them from please? Many thanks, Kym121

I would like to find the wire strainer Nigella uses in her TV series. It looks like it is made from chicken wire.

Our answer

Most of Nigella's Christmas paraphenelia has been collected over a long period of time and the sources are very varied. Unfortunately the holly milk jug is a vintage item and the candy cane cake stands and candles were purchased some time ago and we are not able to suggest vendors for these items. However you can from time to time fond similar items on eBay and in antique or second-hand (thrift) stores and these are good places to look for unusual or quirky ceramics and other items.

We suspect that the strainer you are referring to is commonly known as a "spider" (due to the web shape) and originated in Chinese kitchens. It is now very popular all over the world and can be found in many cookware shops as well as on-line. You can also usually find them in Asian supermarkets.