The Texas summer will keep us indoors or in a pool during the peak hours of the day, but there are special moments that happen every weekend evening that allow for us to gather around a grill, fire, or porch to enjoy the coolest hours of the evenings. When the sun starts to fall, and we all are done working for the day, the best thing to do is come together for a cookout.
One of the things that thrives in the Austin area is the food. While I always boast our own local restaurants like Dirty’s, Hopdoddy, or P. Terry’s – sometimes there is nothing better than gathering friends together to make your own meal. While I’m not particularly a food blogger, and consider myself a struggling chef, I think there are a few local ingredients that can represent the flavors of the community pretty well and I am excited to partner with Ozarka to share my favorites.
Here are some of my top five unique ingredients used to make a meal with my Texas twist.
Paqui Tortilla Chips
Paqui brand offers “better-for-you” tortilla chips and tortillas. Paqui is an Aztec word that means “to be happy.” The chips are so flavorful and are crafted with unbleached, untreated flour. I leave tomorrow for a month long trip to Colorado and had to stock up on 5 bags from Walmart before I hit the road.
Cookwell & Company Queso
This Queso con Salsa Escabeche is built around a flavorful blend of cheddar and blue cheeses combined with fire-roasted tomatoes, onions, diced jalapeños, and fresh-squeezed lime juice. I am so often disappointed with the store bought quesos but this one totally restored my faith!
Snow’s BBQ Sauce
If you know anything about me – you know I LOVE my bbq sauce. Snow’s has now been added to my list of favorites and I guess Texas Monthly agrees considering the magazine named Snow’s BBQ as the best in Texas! The original BBQ Sauce is delicious on any cut of beef, chicken, or pork.
Habanero Yellowbird Sauce
Totally fresh and natural condiments, yum! Made with ♥ in Austin, Tx. I love this sauce on tacos, burgers, pasta, steak, and even pizza! All the Yellowbird sauces are awesome but the serrano is my personal fave. All natural ingredients. No dyes, preservatives, or unpronounceable ingredients. The flavor is phenomenal.
The Jelly Queens Black Garlic Rosemary BBQ Sauce
Jelly Queens handmakes their jelly and jams in small batches using organic and, whenever possible, locally grown Texas ingredients. The Jelly Queens was born out of a love for sustainable food, delicious flavors and words of encouragement. I use the black garlic bbq sauce on chicken and beef. NOM.
Taste Elevated Sweet & Spicy Mustard Seeds
Never knew I would be a fan of mustard seeds till I tried this flavor packed surprise! Absolutely mouthwatering and so unique. I use these anytime I would use regular mustard.
I want to thank Ozarka for partnering with me on this post as part of the #FromHereForHere movement to support local communities through stories, experiences and memorable snapshots. When it comes to Texas, we like our BBQ, our burgers, our tortillas, and our lifestyle. While our meals may seem simple, it is our seasoning that makes it special.