Though my work here as the “Localista” is 100% voluntary and doesn’t bring in an income, it’s one of the best “jobs” I’ve ever had. I’ve enjoyed opportunities to meet wonderful people all around the Triangle (and beyond) and to participate in truly special events (Competition Dining being the most fun and filling thus far).
One of those events was Monday morning at the NC Specialty Foods Association Fall Conference where I, along side two other judges, tasted rubs, mixes and dressings made by North Carolina citizens. The NC Specialty Foods Association is a volunteer organization with a goal of assisting specialty food companies in aspects of marketing and manufacturing their products. The conference agenda included topics covering product photography, private labeling, writing press releases and a presentation about one member’s experience selling her product via QVC. All pertinent subjects for specialty food producers seeking to increase their market sales.
As a judge, I did get to select a few of the products we tasted to take home and I’m giving them away to one randomly chosen reader. All you need to do is comment on this blog post (comment section located below), indicating your favorite North Carolina specialty food item. One comment/entry per person, and be sure to include your email address so I can contact you if you’re the winner, please. Comments will be open until 5:00 pm EDT on Wednesday, September 19th, 2012. The winner will be announced on the Facebook page Thursday, September 20th.
Don’t know an NC specialty food producer? I’m sure you do! Just browse through the online “Dish This!” catalog found here and I bet you’ll recognize a few brands you’ve glanced at on store shelves. Next time you see one of those familiar labels, pick it up and give it a try at home.
Thanks for reading and as always, for keeping it local – good luck everyone!
ZIng Sauce http://www.gourmetzingsauce.com/index.html
A big bottle of Zing sauce is in our fridge at all times. Use it in recipes (crab cakes, etc) and mix with a little mayo or sour cream as a sauce, and great by itself on wraps, burgers, etc.
I’m surprised at all the nut companies. I’ve enjoyed Aunt Ruby’s in the past.
I can only pick one? How about Southern Supreme’s fruitcake? Love it!
Perhaps I should have written “at least one.”
So funny you mention Southern Supreme, because I was talking about them with someone else this morning. Must be a Southern Supreme kinda day!
Plutos jerk sauce. Marinate some chicken or pork tenderloin and grill. Awesome.
Salem Baking Co.s Moravian Cookies!
Just about everything from A Southern Season. Mmm… Carolina Cheddar Cheese Straws…
We are new to North Carolina, and so far have tried and just love Cackalacky; we’d like to find some more gems to try!
Carolina Cookie Company!
mami2jcn at gmail dot com
Ginny O’S Cheese Rings!
Bailey Farm Red Habanero Hot Sauce! Must try their Chocolate Habanero Sauce soon. http://www.baileyfarmsinc.com/.
Close second: eggs from local pastured chickens, available at all local farmer’s markets.
Bone Sucking Sauce!