The Beginning - A Grave Mistake
As a self-proclaimed spicy food fanatic, there's nothing I love more than a good habanero pepper. These citrusy balls of fire pack a punch that I can't get enough of. My love for spicy food - and ultimately this whole hot sauce business - was sparked by accidentally eating one whole when I was 10 years old.
Grandma had just made a pot of soup when the phone rang. She ran a small business, not unlike her grandson would come to do many years later. I waited as long as I could for the phone call to end but impatience won and I snatched the ladle from the stovetop and dipped it into the steaming pot to grab myself a bowl.
Unbeknownst to me, the single habanero pepper in the soup - meant to add a kick to the whole pot - made it's way into my bowl and ultimately, right into my gullet.
Yada, yada, yada - several hours and mouthfuls of ice and glasses of milk later - the burn had finally subsided. What hasn't subsided however; is a passion for spicy food that would continue into adulthood and culminate in my own family business selling hot sauce and spicy seasonings.
Habaneros: A Love Letter
Habaneros have a unique flavor profile that sets them apart from other peppers. They have a distinct fruity taste that is balanced out by the intense heat.
I also appreciate how versatile habaneros are - they can be used in a variety of dishes (not just hot sauce) including salsas and marinades, or even added to chocolate for a sweet and spicy treat.
Our first sauce, Don't Touch the Baby, uses fresh habanero peppers for a bright and citrusy heat that adds depth and complexity to dishes, making them taste more interesting and exciting.
The Burn Brings Us Together
I've come to realize that my passion for spicy food goes beyond just the heat - it's about the flavors, the culture, and the experience. Eating spicy food is an adventure and I love how it can bring people together and create a sense of camaraderie. There's just something about it that hurts so good.
I hope this has reminded you of the joys of a good habanero pepper and to always ask what's in Grandma's soup.