It’s not as glamorous as it sounds but I was recently driving back from Philadelphia to the Hamptons. I know, I know… the Outerbridge Crossing is New Jersey’s answer to the Pacific Coast Highway. But alas, I’m straying off point. While taking said drive I stopped at the Long Island Visitors Center in Dix Hills which in case you didn’t know is the first non-disgusting place to stop after Trenton. It’s also the home of a little store called “A Taste of NY.” The store features all locally made foods and products from area farm, vineyards and bakeries. This had me thinking, while we all know about the bigger local products like Tate’s Cookies and Wolffer wines. There are some other great local products that you might have missed. Lucky for you, I’m here to share a few of my favorites.
Vine Street Cafe’s Mushroom Bolognese Sauce – A hearty alternative for your vegan dinner guests, this stuff is just as good as visiting the restaurant. Seriously, this is not like buying Emeri’s stuff which is more like Ragu with a different label! I’ve always loved this dish at the restaurant and this is pretty close to dining out. While VSC has other sauces including a basic tomato and vegetable to go, this one is IMHO the winner. It doesn’t taste like a real bolognese (sausage, veal, etc.) but it is rich, hearty and doesn’t make you feel like you’re missing anything. It’s thick rich and awesomely flavorful. The sauce retails for about $12.00 and you can buy it at Vine Street on Shelter Island, Cove Hollow Tavern in East Hampton, Harbor Market in Sag Harbor or order it online by clicking here.
Nounos Greek Yogurt – Real greek yogurt made right here in Southampton! Don’t let the fancy packaging intimidate you, this is like a trip to Mykonos without the hangover or Lindsay Lohan. This stuff is incredibly rich, flavorful and it’s low-fat! Nounos according to their website is all natural, hormone and anti-biotic free. If you’re going to try one, I suggest the blueberry blend or mixed berry. You might have seen Nounos around town in places like the Golden Pear but probably didn’t know it’s local. Well it is and it’s good and you need to try it. A 5+ ounce container retails for about $4.00. If you don’t see it around town you can visit their website to find local sellers.
Hamptons Salt Company Black Truffle – When I was growing up my Lithuanian Grandmother used to love to cook for me. I always wonder if she actually liked me based on her stew. She would cook for my family more than I cared to admit and food had two flavors, salted or really salted. Anyway, real chefs know the
seasoning is as important as
the actual cooking and there is nothing more crucial than the salt. I discovered this stuff at Red Horse Market in East Hampton and it was love first shake. My personal favorite recipe is slightly blanched brussel sprouts covered with a light olive oil and the Hamptons Salt Company Black Truffle seasoning. Awesomeness! They also have a variety of salts including rosemary,
ghost pepper and even lime. Prices range from about $10 for a basic sea salt to $29 for the truffle. If you want more information or where you can buy HSC click here.
So now you know why I haven’t blogged in a long time. I’ve been cooking…. and eating. Now time to hop on the Peloton and burn off all the extra calories. Hopefully I’ll be back again soon.