Imagine a world with fries but no ketchup, Hakka chowmein without green chilli sauce, or momos without the fiery chutney. What we’re trying to say is our world doesn’t go round without condiments and homegrown brands are pushing the envelope with their newest flavours.
You may not have the pantry of a YouTube chef or the cooking skills of your mum. What you can have is a collection of heady, umami-rich simmer sauces and marinades that will fool anyone into thinking you’re a total pro! Here are some great picks to get you started..
Hot sauces by Bomb Foods Company
The brand’s line of hot sauces uses Himalayan chillies, mustard and spicy peanuts, which offer a different profile than regular Mexican hot sauces. Bomb Foods also has a number of dressings like Mint Masala, Spicy Kebab Harissa and Momo dressing which will add heat, spice and lots of flavour to your meal.
Sassy Sauce Collective’s Chilli Oil
If you love the spicy umami notes of chilli oil, this is the ideal condiment for your kitchen. This brand creates delicious chilli oil in two varieties—Desi and Spicy Garlic. Add these to your fried eggs, noodles, sandwiches and even pizzas to get a kick of spicy deliciousness in every bite.
Master Chow’s Stir Fry Sauces
Master Chow’s stir-fry sauces are already popular. They are no-fuss and will help you get restaurant-style Asian food at home. Just chop up some veggies and toss them with rice or noodles along with the sauce. Pick from Soy and Garlic, Bang Bang, or Kinky Korean to name a few.
Be Chef’s Gochujang
If you haven’t given gochujang a try, you’re sleeping on the most dynamic Asian condiment. The Korean sauce brings heat, flavour and umami notes to your food and it’s a must-have if you’re planning on making Korean recipes like Bibimbap and Tteok-bokki at home. Moreover, you can also use it as a dip or marinade.
Gourmet Jar’s Wholegrain Mustard
Spicy, tangy and punchy—this mustard is unlike any other you’ve ever had. It has hints of honey and vinegar which balances out the heat from the mustard. This is a great dip and goes very well with eggs, meats and fish. Add it to marinades or just spread it on some toast and enjoy!
Big Bear Farms’ Strawberry Jam and Preserve
This strawberry preserve is farm-fresh and made from freshly harvested produce. It is sweet and tangy in flavour while the manufacturing is completely eco-friendly. It’s freshness in a jar and who doesn’t love that?
Molo Foods’ Pickle
Molo Foods offers heirloom recipes with their line of pickles, which taste exactly like a slice of childhood. They feature spices that are heady and fragrant. Pair these with your paranthas and rice to make your regular ghar ka khana that much better.