Monday, October 31, 2011

My gourmet condiments now available at Rhinebeck Health Foods

My gourmet Caribbean Hot Sauce and Portuguese Repolho Relish are now available in Rhinebeck, NY at Rhinebeck Health Foods.

It was such a pleasure meeting Rhinebeck Health Foods' owner, Lynn and buyer, Amy recently and is clear to see why Rhinebeck Health Foods is such a popular place. Lynn and Amy are just awesome people. Their friendly and easy-going natures seem to be at the heart of the store's welcoming vibe, which you can feel when you walk in the door. Amy, Lynn...in fact everyone I met at Rhinebeck Health Foods welcome you with big smiles and warm hellos and the delicious smells wafting from the Cafe really beckon you to come on in and try something sure to satisfy.

Rhinebeck Health Foods is located at 24 Garden Street in Rhinebeck, NY just a block away from Rt 9. Give a call at 845 876 2555 to find out the Cafe's menu or special of the day.

At Rhinebeck Health Foods, you'll find organic produce, imported and domestic cheeses, bulf foods and herbs, vitamins, herbal supplements, pantry basics, books and magazines and of course specialty foods. They feature delectable, locally produced gourmet specialties that now include my gourmet Caribbbean Hot Sauce and Portuguese Repolho Relish. Amy invited me to do an in-store demo and I was excited about the chance to introduce my gourmet condiments to Rhinebeck Health Foods shoppers. I enjoyed meeting and talking with everyone who stopped by and tried a sample. Visit Rhinebeck Health Foods on Facebook to check out the pictures that Amy took of the event. I hope to be able to visit again soon with more samples and I look forward to meeting more of you at Rhinebeck Health Foods. I'll let you know when that's scheduled. 

Thank you Amy and Lynn for featuring my gourmet condiments at Rhinebeck Health Foods and to Norman Greig of Greig Farm in Red Hook, NY for connecting me and Amy. I appreciate all the support and I'm looking forward to our ongoing collaboration into the future.

I hope you'll all continue supporting all our local Hudson Valley businesses especially into the holiday season. Scrumptious gourmet foods, made locally and available close to home.

Here's to new friends!

Terry

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Grocers you request now selling my gourmet sauces and condiments

I've been enjoying hearing from and talking with so many of you about the special places where you like to shop for groceries and gourmet/specialty foods and I've been working to get my gourmet Caribbean Mild Jerk Sauce, Portuguese Repolho Relish, Caribbean Hot Jerk Sauce and Caribbean Hot Sauce on the shelves at more of the places you've requested. Here is the first of several announcements about local gourmet/specialty food grocers now selling my gourmet sauces and condiments at your request.

Many of you have asked about My Market in New Paltz, NY a popular local grocer. Great news! I had a wonderful meeting with Sayid the owner. He enjoyed samples of my gourmet sauces and condiments and he felt they were a good fit for My Market. My gourmet Caribbean Mild Jerk Sauce, Portuguese Repolho Relish, Caribbean Hot Jerk Sauce and Caribbean Hot Sauce are now on the shelves at My Market and you can conveniently purchase my gourmet sauces and condiments along with your other grocery items.

It's been fun visiting and exploring your favorite places to shop for delectable gourmet yummies and it's an extra special treat when I discover something new and delicious like the Quadrello di Bufala cheese that Gustav at the Honest Weight Food Co Op in Albany, NY introduced me to recently. YUM!! It's become my latest cheese addiction :)

Are my gourmet Caribbean Mild Jerk Sauce, Portuguese Repolho Relish, Caribbean Hot Jerk Sauce and Caribbean Hot Sauce on the shelves at your favorite local gourmet/specialty food grocers? If not, let me know. Simply send the establishment's name and phone number and I'll give them a call. Stay tuned for details about 3 other local gourmet/specialty food grocers now carrying my gourmet sauces and condiments at your request.

Thanks for requesting my gourmet Caribbean Mild Jerk Sauce, Portuguese Repolho Relish, Caribbean Hot Jerk Sauce and Caribbean Hot Sauce at your favorite local gourmet/specialty food grocers and as always for your ongoing support,

Terry

Monday, October 17, 2011

My gourmet condiments now available at Twisted Foods Pretzel Roll Factory in Rosendale, NY

I'm so happy that my gourmet Caribbean Hot Sauce and Portuguese Repolho Relish are now available at the Twisted Foods Pretzel Roll Factory in Rosendale, NY. I first met owners Jeanne and Gianna at the Rosendale Street Fair a little over a year ago. Our companies were assigned neighboring exhibit spaces and they were so nice that it was easy to become friends. We talked since then about collaborating one day and stayed in touch. I would see Jeanne at the New Paltz Farmer's Market in New Paltz, NY from time to time and we'd always talk about them opening a cafe and then...Twisted Foods Pretzel Roll Factory was born.

Twisted Foods Pretzel Roll Factory is a wonderfully cozy cafe right on Main Street. Jeanne and Gianna rise in the wee hours of the morning to bake a fresh batch of the yummy Pretzel Rolls that they've become famous for. You can enjoy the delicious Pretzel Rolls either plain or topped with chicken, tuna or egg salad or homemade flavored cream cheese. Twisted Foods Pretzel Roll Factory serves the widest variety of cream cheese I've ever seen and they all sound tempting. On my last visit, I had the chicken salad which was addictive- yum, but I'm going to try one of the cream cheese flavors next time I'm in. Check their Facebook page daily for fun contests and specials.

Pretzel Rolls go great with my gourmet Caribbean Hot Sauce but be careful, you won't be able to eat just one :) Eat in, outside under the arbor or get it to go and be sure to bring the little ones- the cafe is kid-friendly and little guests can hang out in the kids room after noshing.

Twisted Foods Pretzel Roll Factory is located at 446 Main Street. Get your day going with breakfast any morning. It's open daily at 7am but closing times vary (from 4-8 pm) so call at 845-658-9121 or check their Facebook page for specific closing times.

Congratulations, Jeanne and Gianna! I'm psyched to be working with you.

Here's to friends achieving their dreams,

Terry

Thursday, September 22, 2011

In support of up & coming chefs

It feels good to offer my support to the senior class of the Culinary Institute of America's (CIA) Bachelor Degree Program.

These future stars of the hospitality industry have planned "A Masked Night in Venice" which is the first of five charity events to be hosted by the senior class. These talented professionals in training have worked hard to plan and execute all aspects of this event- from development of the menu to the overall ambiance and design. Proceeds will benefit the Abilities First Charity and the Clarissa Porlier Memorial Scholarship.

A Masked Night in Venice will take place Saturday, September 24 at Anton Plaza and Farquharson Hall at the CIA in Hyde Park, NY. The festivities will kick off at 6 p.m. with a cocktail hour, passed hors d'oeuvre, and silent auction. Following the reception, guests will enjoy a five-course meal accompanied by live music and dancing. Entertainment will be provided by The Big Band Sound. At the end of the evening, a prize will be awarded for the best mask.

Baron's International Kitchen has donated a tantalizing Caribbean Delectables Gourmet Gift Basket for auction.

For more details, to view the menu or to make reservations online visit the CIA at this link (at http://www.ciachef.edu/restaurants/studentevents/maskednightvenice.asp).

I hope you'll join me in supporting these men and women and helping them achieve their educational and professional goals. Get the word out about the event, attend the event and tell your friends and colleagues about the event. If you do attend, I invite you to post a comment and share your experience and pictures.

Here's to tomorrow's culinary arts professionals!

Terry

Thursday, September 15, 2011

My gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinade on the menu at Ange's

Great news! Robin, owner of Ange's Restaurant in Olivebridge, NY is now using my Hot Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinade to make meals featured on the restaurant's menu. Robin plans to feature my Hot Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinade on Caribbean Baby Back Ribs this Friday (tomorrow) evening. A live band will also be performing.

Ange's, located on Rt 213 just down the road from the Post Office, was formerly the Tongore Deli. Robin plans to add Caribbean Baby Back Ribs and Hot Caribbean Buffalo Wings to the regular dinner menu so make Ange's a regular stop for Football Sunday and certainly for your Superbowl party! Robin hopes to develop Ange's into a local specialty food market and grocery featuring prepared meals and locally made pantry goods. It'll be great to have such access to tantalizing gourmet goodies right in Olivebridge, NY.

Ange's serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, is open every day except Tuesday and features live bands and other family friendly events on the weekends. Contact Robin at 845 251 1029 about hosting your special event and for all your catering needs.

I hope you'll support Robin and Ange's- stop by, introduce yourself and order a tasty lunch or dinner. It's a great local business with warm and friendly people and fills a terrific need on that part of the Rt 213 corridor. Tell them Terry sent you!

I'm focused on developing and building relationships with other local restaurants and I expect to have more exciting news about new partnerships soon. Local businesses working together is what it's all about.

Here's to local helping local and to new friends!

Terry

The Tarrytown Gourmet closes it's doors

The Tarrytown Gourmet Food Market located on North Broadway in Tarrytown NY has closed it's doors.

I'm sorry to see them go. It was good to have a presence in the lower Hudson Valley, NY and I know so many of you were able to easily purchase my hot and mild Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinade, Portuguese Repolho Relish and Caribbean Hot Sauce there at the Tarrytown Gourmet Food Market.

I am seeking to build relationships with other outlets in the lower Hudson Valley to provide you easy sampling and purchasing access to my complete line of international gourmet marinades and condiments. Where do you enjoy shopping? Let me know your favorite gourmet specialty food markets located in the lower Hudson Valley and I'll give them a call.

Terry

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Thanks for visiting us at the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest last weekend

It was wonderful to see so many old friends and meet all you new ones at the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest this past weekend at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, NY.

This is my 2nd year as a vendor at the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest and it was a much better experience than last year. Mother Nature provided a picture perfect day on Saturday- it was warm and sunny and not a cloud in the sky. If you were there this past Saturday, you know how busy it was! I hope everyone who wanted a sample was able to get one. It was a bit of a challenge to keep up with the demand for samples. Sunday was more cloudy and cool but it was still a pretty busy day. The wine was flowing and the crowd both days was lively, friendly and fun. I purchased a bottle from our vendor neighbor Heron Hill. Their Semi-Sweet Riesling is truly delicious! There were many other NY state produced wineries with wines that were very, very good. I invite you to post a comment about your finds and favorites.

A big "THANK YOU" to my awesome cousins- Jeazette Lalchandani, Shaliza Thomas and Adhalia Lalchandani for their help staffing the booth and beyond. I love you guys! Couldn't have done the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest this year without you.

We had a really great time at this year's Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest but we're still recovering. It was a lot of work to prepare, set up and pack up and 2 very busy days. I've shared a few pics below. I was hoping to snap more pictures of the weekend but it was just too busy at the booth.

If you purchased one of my gourmet products at the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest , I invite you to post a comment about the meal you made and tell how it paired with the wine(s) you purchased at the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest .

Thanks again to you all for your ongoing support! Hope to see you at my next event.

Terry



Jeazette and Shaliza ready to go!

Shaliza greets the crowd


Adhalia & Jeazette making samples


A shot of the booth

A lull in the traffic

Booth visitors

Monday, August 29, 2011

The Hansen Caviar Company Gourmet Foods closes it's doors

It is with great sadness that I'm writing about the closing of the Hansen Caviar Company Gourmet Foods, in Lake Katrine, NY. The Hansen Caviar Company Gourmet Foods was the very first local outlet to start carrying my gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades, Caribbean Hot Sauce and Portuguese Repolho Relish and Michael was a great source of advice. The store was located in Rt 28 in Kingston then but moved to the Lake Katrine location a few months ago.

The Hansen Family established the Caviar business in Europe in 1869 and up till now, the Hansen Caviar Company had been the oldest caviar house in existence, with six generations of experience in the specialty food trade. It's a big loss not only to the global industry but to the local gourmet & specialty food industry here in the Hudson Valley, NY as well.

I'll miss working with owner Michael Hansen, a great guy and valued Baron's International Kitchen partner. Hope we'll soon be hearing about his next venture real soon.

Terry

Friday, August 26, 2011

My products are now available at the Grapevine Market

My gourmet Caribbean Marinades and condiments are now available at Grapevine Farms in Cobleskill, NY.

Owners Tim & Tracy Purcell have worked hard to deliver an enjoyable shopping and dining experience at Grapevine Farms, which includes a store, Farmhouse Bistro and Wine Cellar. The store delivers the ultimate country shopping experience. It features many rooms full of beautiful items to browse while being swept away by the soft background music and delicious scents emanating from the Farmhouse Bistro.

The warm and friendly atmosphere of the Farmhouse Bistro makes it a great choice for lunch. Lunch is served from 11 AM till 3 PM and the menu features daily specials. Beer and wine are also available by the glass.

The Wine Cellar's collection of wines exclusively represent NY state vineyards with 2 - 3 wineries featured each month. There are also daily tastings. Select your favorite wine to take home with you as well as any accessories.

I encourage you to pay Grapevine Farms a visit whenever you're in town, it's well worth the trip. Give Tim or Tracy a call at (518) 234 9148 for directions and be sure to ask about their upcoming events.

Here's to great shopping, gourmet dining and fine wine!

Terry

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

My products are now available at Sunflower Natural Foods Market

The addition of Sunflower Natural Foods Market marks the achievement of a significant benchmark and milestone that I've been working towards since I sold my first case back in March of 2010. Sunflower Natural Foods Market is Baron's International Kitchen's 25th outlet. Can you believe it? The 25th location to sell my gourmet condiments!. I've worked so very hard to reach this goal but I still can't believe that I've actually done it. It's very rewarding.

Let me tell you about the Sunflower Natural Foods Market. Located at 75 Mill Hill Road in the Bradley Meadows Shopping Plaza in Woodstock, NY (across from CVS), this all natural market features a variety of product brands from different categories- everything from lip balm to body wash to beverages to produce to grocery products. All the items available at the Sunflower Natural Foods Market are all natural for a healthy body and mind which which President/Owner Bob Whitcomb observed is a necessary ingredient for a "fully realized life".

The Sunflower Natural Foods Market in Woodstock celebrated their 30th anniversary this Summer. It's encouraging to see a local business brave the ups and downs of the economy and stand the test of time and this achievement was actually very inspiring to me.

Sunflower Natural Foods Market in Woodstock is currently running a Healthy Food Summer Giveaway promotion - 1 lucky WKZE listener will win $981 healthy food shopping spree. Visit Sunflower Natural Foods Market online for more details on how to enter.

Give them a call at 845-679-5361 to find that particular item you've been looking for or just drop by. The store is beautiful and has a welcoming atmosphere and there are so many products to browse in the aisles. I found the staff to be laid back and friendly, I don't think they'll mind. If you don't have time to drop by, visit their website. It's jam packed with tons of information from healthy recipes to an encyclopedia of herbs and supplements to a database of practitioners and so much more.

Here's to healthy living!

Terry

Monday, August 22, 2011

My gourmet products are now available at Wellington's Herbs & Spices

I'm very happy to announce this addition to the retail outlets carrying my gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades.

Wellington's Herbs & Spices is located at 649 Rickard Hill Road in Schoharie, NY. Carolyn and Frederick, owners of Wellington's Herbs & Spices have cultivated a naturally scenic property into a certified organic farm and country store featuring many unique items. Primarily, the store features herbs and spices of all kinds, grown right on the certified organic farm or imported from Grenada the Caribbean spice island from where Frederick hails. Frederick and I are also negotiating on Habanero peppers and Fresh Thyme. I might have found a new supplier for these ingredients but stay tuned for more on that in another post.

Carolyn hosts events featuring delicious teas and deserts. My kids and I've become addicted to her island tea- a sweetly infused blend of different island herbs and spices. It's truly delicious and is great hot or cold, solo or with your favorite rum. Mmmmm, feels like I'm back in the Caribbean right now :)

You'll meet Carolyn or Frederick any given weekend at the farmer's market where you can purchase a wide variety of the organic items grown right on their farm. Give Carolyn and Frederick a call at (518) 295-7366 for directions or information about the farmer's market.

Carolyn and Frederick also host a Caribbean Festival the last week of July. I wasn't able to attend this year but the event featured Caribbean themed food and music. The event has quite a following and is pretty heavily attended. If you were able to attend this year's event, I invite you to leave a comment or share pictures of all the fun.

The addition of Wellington's Herbs & Spices brings the total number of retail locations carrying my gourmet products to 24 and store # 25 is right around the corner. Stay tuned for that announcement, coming soon.

Here's to setting and meeting goals,

Terry

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

In store sampling at Adams Fairacre Farms in Newburgh NY tomorrow night

Fran will be at the Adams Fairacre Farms store in Newburgh, NY tomorrow night, Tuesday June 28th from 4-8 PM sharing free samples of my gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades, Caribbean Hot Sauce and Portuguese Repolho Relish.

If you haven't yet met Fran, stop by and say hello and of course if you've been interested in trying my gourmet products before you buy, enjoy a sample. The store is located at 1240 Route 300 and you can reach the store at 845 569 0303.

Enjoy,

Terry

Sunday, June 26, 2011

In store sampling at Adams Fairacre Farms in Poughkeepsie, NY tomorrow

Fran will be at the Adams Fairacre Farms store in Poughkeepsie, NY tomorrow, Monday June 27th sharing free samples of my gourmet hot and mild Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades, Caribbean Hot Sauce and Portuguese Repolho Relish.

If you haven't had a chance to meet Fran, stop by and say hello and of course if you've been interested in trying my gourmet products before you buy, enjoy a free sample.

Enjoy,

Terry

Friday, June 24, 2011

In store sampling at Adams Fairacre Farms in Kingston, NY tomorrow

It was fun meeting so many of you yesterday at the Hurley Ridge Market and Cheese Louise. I appreciate you all stopping by, swapping funny stories and sharing a laugh.


If you weren't able to make it yesterday, I'll be out again tomorrow, Saturday June 25th at the Adams Fairacre Farms store in Kingston NY (it's actually Lake Katrine, NY) as an exhibitor in their summer Garden & Gourmet Food Show. I'll be sharing free samples from 11-4 and hopefully hearing more about your grilling adventures. Adams Fairacre Farms is located at 1560 Ulster Avenue and you can reach the store at 845 336 6300.

See you there,

Terry

Thursday, June 23, 2011

In store sampling at the Hurley Ridge Market & Cheese Louise tomorrow

Get ready to serve something tantalizingly different and delicious this July 4th with Baron's International Kitchen's gourmet marinades and condiments based on family recipes from destinations around the world! Want to give them a try?

I'll be out at 2 locations tomorrow introducing my products to those who've not had a chance to try them yet and reconnecting with those of you who have already tried them- I'm looking forward to hearing more of your stories :)

I'll be at the Hurley Ridge Market in West Hurley, NY tomorrow Friday June 24th from 11-3 sharing free samples of my gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades, Caribbean Hot Sauce and Portuguese Repolho Relish. If you've been interested in trying my gourmet products before you buy, stop by and enjoy a sample. The Hurley Ridge Market is located at 295 State Rte 375 and you can reach the store at 845 679 8121.

If you can't make it to the Hurley Ridge Market, stop by Cheese Louise in Kingston NY after work. I'll be there from 5-8 PM also sharing free samples of my gourmet products. Cheese Louise is located at 940 Route 28 and you can reach the store at 845 853 8207.

My products make uniquely scrumptious gifts too so take some along as gifts for your July 4th party hosts. My gourmet products make the perfect gift for that BBQ maniac you know who (like us) is out there grilling all year round- no matter what the weather :)  Next time Josh or I are out in snow up to our knees working the grill, I'll share a picture :) Be fun if you shared your pics too. Go ahead and post them (as comments) anytime.

Looking forward to seeing you at the Hurley Ridge Market and/or Cheese Louise and swapping some funny grilling stories,

Terry

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

I just hired my first helper!

That's right, I've just hired my first outside helper. It's another one of those things that makes it feel like I own a "real" company :)  Can't believe I'm here, just 1 year after selling my first jar. It's so exciting!

So, it's been an increasing challenge to keep up with the store's need for in-store demonstrations now that I'm in more stores. I've been enjoying getting out and meeting so many of you and I wish I could do more demos but it's hard to find time to visit and demo in the stores as often as I would like to while also needing to juggle family and other personal responsibilities at those same times. There just doesn't seem to be enough Saturdays in a month :)

Fran Hales, owner of Pampered Chef will now be working with me to do the in-store demos in the Newburgh and Poughkeepsie Adams Fairacre Farms stores. I met Fran last year at the Rosendale Street Festival where she and I were co-exhibitors and since that time we've become friends. Fran was interested in more projects and had previous experience doing in-store demos and I needed help to do more in-store demos so it was a natural match- a win-win for both of us. Fran is not a Baron's International Kitchen employee. Rather, she provides services as a Consultant. If you are finding yourself in a similar situation and considering hiring employees to meet your staffing needs, I strongly encourage you to first speak with your Accountant about the best way to meet your needs with the lowest impact to your company's bottom line. That's what I did and I'm so glad I turned to him for advise. It's been a headache free and painless process and well worth the I money saved in pursuing other possible alternatives and the BEST part...I'm helping another small, local, woman-owned business to stay in business...and THAT feels really good.

Fran was in the Newburgh and Poughkeepsie Adams Fairacre Farms stores over the Father's Day weekend sharing samples of my gourmet products. She enjoyed meeting and talking with so many of you then and is looking forward to more in-store demos in July and August. Thanks for stopping by, meeting Fran, saying hello and trying a sample of my gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades, Caribbean Hot Sauce and Portuguese Repolho Relish. I'll let you know when and where Fran will be sharing free samples of my gourmet marinades and condiments over the coming months.

I will continue to do the in-store demos in Kingston and West Hurley NY and with Fran's help, we'll be able to connect with more of you, more often in Newburgh, Poughkeepsie and other points in southern NY state.

Here's to local businesses helping each other,

Terry

Sunday, June 19, 2011

Sampling event today!

Stop by the Adams Fairacre Farms store in Newburgh, NY until 4 PM today for free samples of my gourmet Caribbean Herk Sauce Marinades, Caribbean Hot Sauce and Portuguese Repolho Relish.

Adams Fairacre Farms is located at 1240 Route 300, Newburgh, NY 12550. You can reach Adams Fairacre Farms at 845 569 0303.

Happy grilling!

Terry

Monday, June 13, 2011

My gourmet products are now available at the Catskill Mountain Country Store

I'm really excited about the latest retailer to be added to my client list. Up to this point, I've really tried to focus on establishing a high presence in the very local market, that is local to where I live, work and play and that's the West Hurley/Kingston area of the Hudson Valley, NY. Yes, it was exciting to add the Poughkeepsie and Newburgh locations of Adam's Fairacre Farms and yes, I was psyched when the Tarrytown Gourmet Food Market (located in Tarrytown NY in Westchester County) started featuring my gourmet sauces and condiments but when I launched the product line so many months ago (can you believe how fast that went by? :) I really wanted to saturate the local area- have my products featured at all the farm markets, gourmet and specialty food markets and restaurants/delis in my neighborhood. There are some restaurants and delis that I would like to work with and there are a handful of farm markets that I'm planning to connect with but for the most part, I've achieved that initial goal of establishing a high presence in the very local area.

The addition of the Catskill Mountain Country Store marks the beginning of the next phase in Baron's International Kitchen's development. My goal is to expand north and west into the ski resort areas, south into the more heavily populated counties of Westchester, the boroughs and NYC and east to the CT, MA and VT borders. It's a daunting goal but very exciting and I'm planning to take baby steps as I move forward, that's worked really well for me so far.

So, let me tell you a little bit about the Catskill Mountain Country Store. The Catskill Mountain Country Store is located on the main street in Windham NY. There's the most amazing view from the front porch of the store of the Windham Ski peaks. On my initial visit, the hypnotic view took my breath away (you know what a sucker for scenery I am :) and I was absolutely spellbound. The trip to the Catskill Mountain Country Store passes over Katterskill Falls, the highest two-tiered waterfall in NY state. I highly recommend visiting, it's well worth the trip.

The Catskill Mountain Country Store features a restaurant that serves the best home cooked breakfasts and lunches on the mountaintop not to mention the best locally made fudge I've yet tasted, a country gift shop where you can find unique gift items for any age and a regional gourmet specialty food store. Gourmet and specialty food samples are provided daily. There is also a "looking zoo" housing animals rescued from local shelters which will delight. You can purchase items via their website and pay for your purchase via paypal. I also invite you to find them on facebook.

The Catskill Mountain Country Store is located at 5510 Route 23 in Windham NY. Directions are available on their website. Give owners/Operators Drew and Natasha Shuster a call at for more information and hours of operation.

Stay tuned for news about additions further afield where you can purchase Baron's International Kitchen's gourmet sauces and condiments. The Catskill Mountain Country Store marks the 23rd store to become a Baron's International Kitchen product retailer. Store #25 isn't far behind. More to come...

Ahh, the views to be found in the great outdoors. I LOVE living in the country!

Terry

Thursday, June 9, 2011

My gourmet products are now available for purchase at the Reservoir Inn Restaurant

I'm especially happy about this new development. Shawn Keizer, proprietor of the Reservoir Inn Restaurant in West Hurley, NY is now selling my hot and mild gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades.

Shawn has been featuring my mild Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinade on the menu at the Reservoir Inn for the past few months. It's the marinade he uses to prepare the Caribbean Baby Back Ribs which was initially featured as a special on the dinner menu. This dish quickly developed a loyal following and it became so popular in fact, that Shawn decided to permanently add it to the restaurant's dinner menu.

The popular response to the Caribbean Baby Back Ribs and my gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades inspired Shawn to make the sauce available to his patrons and he now sells my gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades. To cater to those patrons with a higher heat tolerance, Shawn has also started featuring Hot Caribbean Baby Back Ribs on the menu marinated in my hot gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce. Both the hot and mild Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades are available for purchase at the Reservoir Inn.

Whether you're visiting the Hudson Valley for the weekend or just looking for a night out with friends or the family after a long week, head to the Reservoir Inn Restaurant in West Hurley, NY and order the Caribbean Baby Back Ribs. Be careful though, all reports are that they're addictive!

Here's to grilling season!

Terry

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

My gourmet products are now available at Saunderskill Farms

Saunderskill Farms located in Accord NY, is a farm market and greenhouse that specializes in farm-fresh produce, baked goods, gourmet and specialty foods and flowers. Thanks to Cathy and the Schoonmaker family for the opportunity to feature my gourmet sauces and condiments at Saunderskill Farms. The Schoonmaker property is somewhat of a local historical landmark having been originally granted to their ancestor Lieutenant Hendrick J. Schoonmaker by Peter Stuyvesant in 1663 as payment for military service. It has been continuously farmed since 1680. It's second in age only to the Hull family farm which is located in Southhold, Long Island NY. Feels good to be connected to local history.

Saunderskill Farms farm market opens on Memorial Day weekend featuring their own tomatoes, asparagus and strawberries. More fruits and vegetables are available throughout the spring, summer and fall. Visit their website for crops and approximate dates. At the bakery you'll find delicious cider donuts (trust me they're addictive), breads, cookies, pies, muffins, cookies. Gourmet and specialty foods include local maple syrup, honey and sauces. Dairy items are also available. The greenhouse opens in early April and stocks an extensive line of perennials. It converts to a seasonal gift store offering flower arrangements/baskets, decorated wreaths, poinsettias and so much more. In the fall, Saunderskill Farms features hay rides, pumpkins and a corn maze. On the first Saturday of each month from April - October free gardening classes are taught by master gardener Diane Watts. Give them a call to find out the topic.

Saunderskill Farms located at 5100 Route 209 in Accord NY is open 7AM - 6PM daily. For more information, call 845 626 2676, email info@saunderskill.com or visit their website at www.saunderskill.com and join the mailing list.

A few months ago it was my friend Julia B. who said, "Saunderskill Farms is a great place. I can totally see them carrying your gourmet sauces and condiments. You should connect with them" I'm so glad I took your advice, Julia. Thanks for the recommendation!

This week is the start of the pick your own strawberry season at Saunderskill Farms. Now that we are finally getting some warm, dry and sunny weather here in the northeast, head outside and pick some fresh fruit at this local farm so close to home.

Here's to dry weather, warm sunshine and healthy eating!

Terry

Saturday, June 4, 2011

Baron's International Kitchen to participate in Local Vendor Showcase

Baron's International Kitchen has been invited to participate in Emmanuel's Marketplace's annual Local Vendor Showcase.

The Local Vendor Showcase invites the local gourmet food manufacturers (that supply Emmanuel's Marketplace) to provide samples and host in store demonstrations for shoppers (locally produced products sold at Emmanuel's Marketplace are located at the right side of the store's entrance). I'm looking forward to the opportunity to talk with those of you already buying my gourmet sauces and condiments and hear how you've been using my gourmet products to make memorable culinary experiences with family and friends. I'm also looking forward to meeting and sharing samples with those of you who haven't had the chance to try my gourmet sauces and condiments yet.

I'll be at Emmanuel's Marketplace located at 3853 Main Street on Rt 209 in Stone Ridge, NY today from 10-3, sharing free samples of my hot and mild Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades, Caribbean Hot Sauce and Portuguese Repolho Relish. If you've been interested in trying the locally produced gourmet foods sold at Emmanuel's Marketplace before buying, then head over to the Local Vendor Showcase. Call Emmanuel's Marketplace for more information or directions at 845 687-2214.

Thanks to the team at Emmanuel's Marketplace for doing their part to support the local economy while highlighting some of the delicious gourmet foods made locally right here in the Hudson Valley, NY.

See you there,

Terry

Sampling event today!

Interested in giving my gourmet products a try?

If you'll be in or around Kingston, NY today, stop by the Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union on Rt 9W. Free samples of my gourmet Caribbean Hot Sauce, Portuguese Repolho Relish and hot and mild Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades will be available to everyone. You will see my products prominently displayed on an exhibit table to your right when you first enter the building.

While you're there, check the list of retailers to find a store nearest you where you can conveniently purchase my gourmet condiments and sauces.

Enjoy!

Terry

Friday, June 3, 2011

My gourmet company showcased locally

I'm happy to announce that once again, the Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union on Rt 9W in Kingston (across from Adam's) is showcasing Baron's International Kitchen at it's Member of the Month for June. You may recall that Baron's International Kitchen was previously showcased this past December. I was appreciative of the opportunity to introduce my gourmet sauces and condiments to the credit union's clients in December- a top gift giving month. Now I have another opportunity to reach potential new customers and in June- it's the warm weather, it's grilling season (though like me, many of you grill all year round. You know who you are :) and it's Father's Day. It's like a trifecta of great reasons to pick up my gourmet hot and mild Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades, Caribbean Hot Sauce and Portuguese Repolho Relish and head outdoors to BBQ this month.

Visit the credit union and you'll see my exhibit featuring jars of my gourmet products. You'll also find menus and brochures for some of my local partners (businesses where my gourmet products are available for purchase). I hope you'll check out their offers and services and keep them in mind if you're looking to host a party for that special Dad this month. Free samples of my gourmet products will be provided on Saturdays so please do stop by the credit union and pick up a sample if you've been curious to try my gourmet products before you buy.

A very big thank you to to the Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union for the opportunity to showcase my company and gourmet products and for again doing their part to help support the local Hudson Valley economy. At the Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union, you'll find the friendliest people and financial products and services designed to meet personal and business needs. I highly recommend calling on Patrick and his team at the Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union. Tell them Terry sent you.

Shop local!

Terry

Thursday, June 2, 2011

All Work and No Play...

Well, I'm just back from 2 relaxing and restful weeks away. Headed with my family to the Chesapeake Bay area of VA. I'd never been but I was curious to visit. Below are pics of some of the beach days we enjoyed. The water was very clear and calm but quite chilly, unlike the warm waters of the Caribbean that I became used to when I was growing up on the Caribbean island of Antigua. Antigua has 365 beaches- 1 for every day of the year and they're all different.

We caught some very delicious crabs while we were there. I was inspired to try Hot Jerk Crab made with my Caribbean Hot Jerk Sauce Marinade. We added 6 tablespoons of Baron's International Kitchen's Caribbean Hot Jerk Sauce Marinade to the water and boiled the crabs whole. The Caribbean Hot Jerk Sauce infused the crab meat with a sweet flavor that was mild but I am interested in making this dish again with more marinade to see if more of the spicy heat comes through. I'll let you know how that goes. If you decide to try it, post a comment and let me know.

So, I'm recharged, energized and rearin' to go and there's a lot of developments over the past 4 weeks to be announced. So...

Stay tuned!

Terry






Friday, May 6, 2011

My gourmet products now available at Robert O. Davenport & Sons

My gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades, Caribbean Hot Sauce and Portuguese Repolho Relish are now available at Robert O. Davenport & Sons in Kingston, NY.

Robert O. Davenport & Sons located just off the traffic circle in Kingston NY is a cozy country store offering a wide variety of locally made specialty items including baked goods, perishable foods and pantry staples as well as farm fresh produce. Their on site greenhouse supplies many varieties of colorful annuals, perennials and gardening supplies. Robert O. Davenport & Sons is open 7AM - 7PM from May - October.

My friend Cathy actually recommended I visit Robert O. Davenport & Sons and I'm so glad I did- thanks, Cathy! Stop by Robert O. Davenport & Sons today - select a beautiful arrangement for Mom this Mother's Day and check out their selection of locally made gourmet & specialty food products. You'll be glad you did. Tell them Terry sent you :)

Shop local, buy local!

Terry

Sampling Event Today

Interested in trying a sample of my gourmet products?

If you're a member of the Hudson Valley Federal Credit Union and you'll be in Kingston, NY today, stop by the Member Appreciation event today from 10 - 7 PM. The credit union has invited several client members including Baron's International Kitchen to showcase their products- there will be a BBQ outside and lots of free gourmet samples to enjoy. Looks like we should have nice sunny weather here in Kingston, NY so head outside, join the fun and try some yummy foods.

Mmmm, mmm, good!

Terry

Friday, April 29, 2011

Local Restaurant Now Retailing My Gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades

Thanks so much to all of you who have visited the Reservoir Inn Restaurant in West Hurley, NY and ordered the Caribbean Baby Back Ribs. As you know, the Caribbean Baby Back Ribs dinner features my gourmet Caribbean Mild Jerk Sauce as the marinade on the baby back ribs.

Shawn, the Proprietor and Head Chef at the Reservoir Inn Restaurant initially featured the Caribbean Baby Back Ribs meal as a special on the dinner menu but this meal quickly became wildly successful, regularly selling out. As a result, Shawn decided to make it a permanent addition to the restaurant's dinner menu. The Caribbean Baby Back Ribs dinner now has a growing loyal following- patrons who visit the Reservoir Inn regularly just for the Caribbean Baby Back Ribs dinner. How cool is that? :)

I had the great pleasure to meet one of the Reservoir Inn's patrons who is a big fan of the Caribbean Baby Back Ribs meal. He observed, "...your jerk sauce is outstanding, it's made the best ribs I've ever had. I order them all the time, they're so good!" Thank you so much for that feedback. It feels great to know that you're enjoying my Caribbean Mild Jerk Sauce Marinade on your favorite foods. Don't forget to tell your friends to stop by the Reservoir Inn and order the Caribbean Baby Back Ribs dinner :)

Though Shawn has been preparing the Caribbean Baby Back Ribs in my Caribbean Mild Jerk Sauce Marinade, he is now offering a hot version of this meal for patrons who prefer a more intense flavor. The Caribbean Baby Back Ribs dinner at the Reservoir Inn is therefore now available in both hot and mild versions. Shawn has also started retailing both my Caribbean Mild Jerk Sauce Marinade and Caribbean Hot Jerk Sauce Marinade at the restaurant. Reservoir Inn Patrons can now conveniently purchase both of my gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce marinades to prepare their own international creations for sharing with family and friends.

Thanks to Shawn at the Reservoir Inn and all of you for the ongoing support. I so much appreciate it. If you've ordered the Caribbean Baby Back Ribs at the Reservoir Inn, it would be great to hear from you. Why not leave a comment to this post and share your culinary experience with us.

Here's to having an international meal tonight!

Terry

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Marketing to Women -- why do we rule the world?

If you're looking to get some insights into or learn new tactics for improving your marketing to women, then I encourage you to attend this month's meeting of the Business Marketing Association of the Hudson Valley. The featured speaker is Steve Mayhew, President and Founder of Momentum Advertising & Design, a full-service marketing, advertising and media buying firm. He'll explain why Advertising in the New Millennium means Women Rule the World :)

The Business Marketing Association of the Hudson Valley (BMA-HV) brings together professionals from different industries and specialties- including leading marketing academics and consultants who share their knowledge and experience on a variety of business issues. As a small business owner, it's helped me learn about a variety of business issues from folks who have successfully dealt with those issues before. The monthly meeting's are pretty informal and the group somewhat small so it's easy to approach and ask others for advice, insights, etc.

Baron's International Kitchen is sponsoring this month's BMA-HV networking meeting. The meeting is tomorrow evening 4/28 from 6-9 PM at the Ship's Lantern Inn in Milton, NY. If you'd like to attend, learn more.

Look forward to seeing you there!

Terry

Friday, April 15, 2011

Signed first Distributor!

Well, it's sure been a whirlwind of activity these past few weeks and I have news about another big company development - Baron's International Kitchen has hit another milestone with the signing of the Nelson Farms Marketing Group as the first official distributor of my company's gourmet sauces and condiments.

Nelson Farms, located in Cazenovia NY, is a very scenic though far drive northwest of my company headquarters in West Hurley, NY. Nelson Farms, a specialty food co-packaging company, has had the insight to offer additional value-added services well-suited not just to the gourmet food manufacturing entrepreneur who is just getting started but also to the growing specialty food producer. The full suite of services provided by Nelson Farms makes them a really attractive (co-packaging) option because when you're ready to grow your gourmet specialty food production business, Nelson Farms Marketing Group is right there providing the services you need to take your business to the next level. This makes Nelson Farms feel more like a trusted partner rather than just another service supplier/vendor and I believe working with Nelson Farms will be a good fit for Baron's International Kitchen.

I'm excited about working with the Nelson Farms Marketing Group. Our partnership will expand Baron's International Kitchen's presence out into the the upstate NY market and beyond - into restaurants and some of the larger retailers/supermarkets interested in showcasing Pride of NY products. It feels good to have this partnership in place as this year's outdoor grilling/BBQ season gets started.

Here's to connecting with more of you in 2011,

Terry

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Now a Pride of New York member!

Baron's International Kitchen is now a member of the Pride of New York Program.

The Pride of New York Program was developed to promote and support the sale of agricultural and food products grown and processed within New York state.

The Program's membership includes farmers, processors, retailers, distributors, restaurants and related culinary and support associations. All of these organizations work together to bring wholesome and high quality New York State products to the marketplace. The Pride of New York Program provides an easy way to connect with these organizations.

The Pride of New York website contains a searchable online database so you can easily look for organizations either by region, county or type of product/food. Companies are organized alphabetically in the database. You'll find Baron's International Kitchen listed in the Metro Region of the member search list.

So whether you're looking for Alpacas, Wine Gift Packages or Zucchini, you can find products made locally, grown locally and processed locally on the Pride of New York website.

Here's to growing our local economy!

Terry

Monday, April 11, 2011

My gourmet products now available at the Nelson Farms Country Store!

My gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades and Caribbean Hot Sauce are now available at the Nelson Farms Country Store in Cazenovia, NY.

The addition of the Nelson Farms Country Store marks my entre into the north country market. It's exciting to have this opportunity to reach foodies in upstate NY and I'm expecting to add additional stores throughout upstate NY this summer.

The Nelson Farms Country Store delivers an upscale, visually appealing shopping experience. The store features gourmet and specialty foods produced by local Pride of NY businesses. Products include syrups, jams and jellies, barbecue sauces, salsas, cheeses, chocolates, pancake, muffin and other mixes and much more! You can also mix and match any of the items in the Country Store to create your own unique Gourmet gift basket- a distinctive gift they're sure to remember that's right for any occasion.

Just after my products were placed on the shelves at the Nelson Farms Country Store, Laurie Terrier a Nelson Farms employee shared the following experience, "One of my friends came to the store yesterday and bought a bottle of your hot jerk sauce. They called me last night and said it was the best marinade they ever used." How cool! Thanks, for sharing your friend's experience, Laurie. I would be interested to know what your friend prepared with my gourmet Caribbean Hot Jerk Sauce Marinade. I hope you'll invite them to post a comment to this post and share their experiences with us.

If you're in upstate NY, I hope you'll stop by and visit the Nelson Farms Country Store located on Route 20 in Cazenovia, NY. Browse all the delicious gourmet and specialty yummies New York State has to offer, it's a great way to spend a lazy afternoon.

Shop local, buy local!

Terry

Monday, April 4, 2011

Hansen Caviar Company new location!

I'm very excited for Michael Hansen, owner of Hansen Caviar Company Gourmet Foods. He's at a new location. Hansen Caviar Company Gourmet Foods is now located at 1706 Rt. 9W in Lake Katrine. Phone and website are still the same (800 735 0441, online at www.hansencaviar.com).

The new location has an awesome glassed-enclosed viewing room where you can watch Michael's selection of high quality caviar being prepared. Michael will continue to feature the yummy gourmet foods, specialty tools and other items you've come to expect from the Hansen Caviar Company Gourmet Foods specialty store. Micheal's restocked my Portuguese Repolho Relish and Caribbean Hot Sauce so you can also continue to purchase my gourmet products at this new location.

I hope you'll stop by and check out the new store in support of Michael's grand re-opening!

Here's to old friends,

Terry

Friday, April 1, 2011

My gourmet condiments are now available at the Earthgoods Market!

I'm happy to announce that my gourmet Caribbean Hot Sauce and Portuguese Repolho Relish are now available at the Earthgoods Market located at 71 Main Street in New Paltz, New York.

Clement Lau owner of the Earthgoods Market is strongly committed to providing organic, all natural, local products and when you enter the store, you'll get a real feel for Clement's commitment (I've included a few pictures below for your viewing pleasure). The shelves at the Earthgoods Market are stocked. There's a wide variety of all natural products including fresh produce, vitamins/supplements, coffees and teas, snacks, baked goods, gluten free foods, vegan prepared foods and even skin care products. The Earthgoods Market also accommodates bulk purchases to suit your needs.

Clement is dedicated to nurturing healthy minds and healthy bodies. In the future, he hopes to offer new services sure to enrich minds, souls and lives. These are in the planning and development stage so I'll be sharing more info as details become available.

I hope you'll visit the Earthgoods Market and meet Clement and his team. The Earthgoods Market is open Saturday - Sunday from 9am - 9pm. Call at 845 255 5858 and visit them on Facebook.

Here's to healthy living!

Terry

selection of specialty coffees

vitamins and supplements
Teas and snacks



Look for the storefront sign

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Baron's International Kitchen signs Contract Packaging Company

Hey folks,

Well, I've been out of touch for a bit but I now have some wonderful news to report. I have selected Nelson Farms as my contract packaging company or "co-packer".

Nelson Farms will be taking over the work of cooking my gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades and Caribbean Hot Sauce. This is exciting on so many fronts but most notably because it means that my company is growing- always great news :) As I've been lamenting, now that I am in 16 stores, I just cannot keep up with cooking all the products myself at the Reservoir Inn Restaurant while also growing the business by getting my products into new stores and performing the book-keeping, marketing, customer service, vendor relations, strategic planning, accounts payable, event planning and accounts receivable tasks.

It's a bittersweet achievement actually because I really do enjoy the cooking...well, maybe not the getting up at 2 in the morning part of the process :) but there's something creative in mixing onions, garlic, spices and other ingredients together and getting yummy sauce at the end. I've also been a bit anal about product quality- I want it to taste PERFECT!! That anal-ity has paid off it seems as so many of you continuously share how much you're enjoying my gourmet sauces and condiments. Your feedback inspires me to remain focused on quality.

One of the many reasons I choose this particular co-packer is their dedication to quality, commitment to process and focus on gourmet specialty food entrepreneurs. Nelson Farms will be following my recipes and they are committed to following these to the letter so the taste of my Hot and Mild Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades won't change. You may notice that they are more smooth in consistency, not so chunky in texture perhaps but this is merely a function of the high-tech processing machines at their disposal versus my doing the same work by hand. It's actually pretty awesome the work these machines can do. In my case, I can see that doing all the work by hand isn't necessarily better :) The same is true of my Caribbean Hot Sauce- it looks a little different, smoother consistency but it has the same awesome taste. I invite you all to share your thoughts about the products when you buy them on the shelves this year.

I still have some work to do on my Portuguese Repolho Relish. As you know, the Relish is more the consistency of Sauerkraut so it falls outside of what the processing machines can bottle. I am planning to spend some time with Amanda, the Production Development Manager at Nelson Farms to adjust the consistency so that the Portuguese Repolho Relish can be processed by machine. No matter how the consistency changes, I commit to you that the great taste won't change.

I'm considering signing on with Nelson Farms' Distribution Program which is an interesting and valuable program specifically focused on helping gourmet and specialty food entrepreneurs get their yummy goodies on store shelves so stay tuned for more about that.

So, this is part of what's been keeping me so busy of late. I'm back on my regular posting schedule now and I will be sharing more exciting news so stay tuned.

Here's to growing and growing pains,

Terry


Nelson Farms located in Cazenovia, New York is affiliated with Morrisville State College. Nelson Farms is entrepreneurially focused and offers many services to help the new and growing gourmet & specialty food manufacturer take their recipe(s) from kitchen to store shelves to the world. Nelson Farms provides entrepreneurial agri-business opportunities for specialty food processors, farmers, growers and producers. Services include processing/co-packing, product development, dairy incubator, distribution, marketing & sales and so much more. I invite anyone out there interested in starting or growing their gourmet or specialty food production company to contact Nelson Farms ASAP. Tell them Terry sent you.

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Bookkeeping for growing small businesses

So I've been most consumed lately getting all the end of year paperwork and calculations ready for my corporate tax filings- yes, tax season is once again upon us and lining up a co-packer. I have great news about the co-packer but more about that maybe tomorrow.

Now, some reflections on the financial stuff...

As owner of a business that's started to show consistent sales activity, I'd been keeping track of my expenses, sales and all that good stuff using an Excel spreadsheet. Now to be totally honest, this method had been working just fine. Everything was pretty straightforward and the spreadsheet was easy to use.

Now that I have loans, prepaid expenses and all sorts of stuff like that, the process of working through receipts in January was like wrestling a huge bear with sharp claws. I mean, OK so an expense is always an expense, right? Well maybe except if it's a loan?? ...and how exactly do you calculate cash on hand? Clearly, I am going to need some help but my business is still a start-up and I just can't afford to hire a full time CFO or bookkeeper. Still, it became clear that my Excel spreadsheet just wasn't going to cut it anymore.

My business partner and hubby Josh and my friend Ric Dragon of Dragon Search Marketing both highly recommended Quickbooks. Ric uses Quickbooks for his business bookkeeping and commented how user friendly the software is to use and how  much it simplified the bookkeeping process.

So, I'm jumping in with both feet! I did an online google search for Quickbooks training classes in the local area and found a course offered by Suny Ulster (course # DCM 646 36). It was easy to browse their online catalog and the entire registration process was quick and simple. The course runs 4, 3-hour evening sessions and my registration fee includes a textbook and student copy of the software (a nice cost savings for the software).

I'm pretty psyched! Hopefully, the hardest part will be getting caught up with all of my receipts from January 1st till today :)  The first class is tonight 3/1- I'm a little nervous about it but looking forward to learning an easier way to organize and classify all the receipts. I'll let you know how it goes.

Here's to lifelong learning!

Terry

Now #1 in google search results for Caribbean Hot Sauce

So, there 's a lot going on as usual...stay tuned over the next couple of posts to find out all that's new and exciting.

First, a big thanks to Buddah and his team at iloveitspicy.com for their reviews of my gourmet Caribbean Hot Sauce and gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce marinade.

I also want to sincerely thank all of you out there who took the time to watch the reviews. Your views of those videos have propelled Baron's International Kitchen to the #1 spot in google's results for searches of "caribbean hot sauce" -- WOW! How cool is that?! Very exciting.

I'm really looking forward to and I'm working really hard to get ready for Spring and the kickoff of grilling season and there are lots of new developments.

Stay tuned!

Terry

Friday, February 11, 2011

Using my gourmet products on your favorite comfort foods

I've heard from so many of you about the ways you've been inspired to use my gourmet products on some of your favorite recipes and comfort foods. I've had the chance to try a few of these and they're really good. Thanks to everyone who's shared recipes on my Facebook page, I really do appreciate that. A few friends recently told me about a few of their favorites and I wanted to share-

Corinna from Stone Ridge, NY adds my Caribbean Hot Sauce to sweet potatoes. She wrote, "My new fav thing to put your (Caribbean) Hot Sauce on is sweet potatoes. Yum!" I absolutely LOVE sweet potatoes and I'm looking forward to trying this a try. I imagine the heat from the Caribbean Hot Sauce goes great with the sweet and creamy flavor of the sweet potato.

Molly & Lars also from Stone Ridge, NY add my Portuguese Repolho Relish to grilled cheese sandwiches. "Add the Portuguese Repolho Relish to the sandwich in a layer on top of the cheese then put in a frying pan and melt both sides" says Lars, "It's delicious!"

Doris also from Lake Katrine recently used my Caribbean Hot Jerk Sauce Marinade on chicken thighs. "I marinated for an hour and then we baked them in the oven. They were so HOT but they were so good! We couldn't stop eating them." My Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades in hot and mild can help you whip up a quick meal even when you're short on time. Marinate your favorite meat- chicken, pork, beef for 1 hour minimum (overnight for best flavor) then cook.

I have a favorite dish that I'd like to share too. I've been putting my Portuguese Repolho Relish as a topping on baked Herb Crusted Tilapia. I cook a 5 oz piece of Tilapia that is already coated in the herb seasoned flavored breadcrumbs. I bake the Tilapia at 400 degrees for about 15 mintues in a pre-heated oven (I like my Tilapia dark and crispy but adjust the temp for your preference). As soon as it's done, I top with the Portuguese Repolho Relish. It's delish!


If you get a chance, you've got to remember to try my Portuguese Repolho Relish and Caribbean Hot Sauce on Chicken and Crab Rangoons. I blogged a while back about this appetizer which I purchased and served for the first time at a family party...WOW! They were a HUGE hit. Since then, I've heard from many of you who have also tried these Rangoons with my Portuguese Repolho Relish and Caribbean Hot Sauce that they were a hit for you too. How cool!

The Rangoons I purchase already prepared (they're the Inspirations brand) and they're sold at Hannaford Supermarket the local grocery store here in Kingston, NY. Cook the Rangoons according to the directions then serve with my Portuguese Repolho Relish and Caribbean Hot Sauce. I have to warn you, they're addictive!

How are you using my gourmet products to spruce up your favorite comfort foods? Share your recipe as a comment to this post or put them up on my Facebook page.

Here's to sharing new food experiences with friends,

Terry

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Second formal review of my gourmet products

The folks at I Love it Spicy are hard core chili heads who sure do LOVE it spicy! They've just reviewed my Caribbean Hot Sauce and the reviews were awesome!

The reviewers gave my gourmet Caribbean Hot Sauce a score of  4 on a scale of 1-4 for flavor and a score of 4 on a scale of 1-4 for spicy-ness. Much thanks to Buddah and his team at www.iloveitspicy.com for taking the time to give my Caribbean Hot Sauce a try. I really appreciate it.

Check out the reviews of my Caribbean Hot Sauce on YouTube and please share them with your friends.



Thanks for helping to get the word out about my Caribbean Hot Sauce,

Terry

Monday, February 7, 2011

First formal review of my gourmet products!

The first formal review of my Caribbean Hot Jerk Sauce Marinade has just been completed by the folks at I Love it Spicy.

They reviewed my gourmet Caribbean Hot Jerk Sauce Marinade which is based on an authentic Caribbean recipe and I'm so excited because the review was great!

The reviewers gave my gourmet Caribbean Hot Jerk Sauce Marinade a score of 3.75 on a scale of 1-4 for flavor and a score of 8 & 1/2 out of 10 for spicy-ness. Much thanks to Buddah and his team at www.iloveitspicy.com for taking the time to give my Caribbean Hot Jerk Sauce Marinade a try. I really appreciate it.

Check out the reviews of my Caribbean Hot Jerk Sauce Marinade on YouTube and please share them with your friends.



Thanks for helping to get the word out about my Caribbean Hot Jerk Sauce Marinade,

Terry

Saturday, February 5, 2011

What to serve at your Superbowl party this year.

Well, the Superbowl is here once again. Tomorrow's the day! Are you ready to host your big game party? Know what you'll be cooking and serving? If you're like me, though your schedule is crazy busy, you want to host a great and fun party. Consider letting someone else do the cooking for you this year.

You can purchase the more traditional platters and sandwiches for any size group from local retailers and valued Baron's International Kitchen partners like Emanuel's Marketplace and Adams Fairacre Farms. If you're looking to serve something a little different though- check out Cheese Louise and the J & J Gourmet Deli where you can order party sizes of their menu items. For example, Rick at Cheese Louise can prepare

-North African Bean, Butternut Squash & Lamb soup
-mildly seasoned Moroccan lamb & beef sausage with yogurt cucumber dressing and French Feta
-Bilinshi's Buffalo style chicken sausage with lettuce and a creamy blue cheese spread
-a variety of Wurst (sausage) with slaw and condiment on baguettes
-salmon cakes
-chicken, rice & bean enchiladas
-and of course Mild jerk slow pulled beef made with my gourmet Caribbean Mild Jerk Sauce Marinade on ciabatta roll with Portuguese Repolho Relish on the side.

His garden salad options include a roasted butternut squash, craisins, romaine, feta with a house vinaigrette and desert options include chocolate raspberry bars, pecan squares and blueberry crisp. Mmmmmm!

When I did the in store demonstration at Cheese Louise a few weeks ago, Sam made a Beer Fondue for sampling that was out of this world good. I observed that Fondues are a great social activity in a meal. I mean, people gathered around the pot, dipped bread into the cheese, ate and mingled. It was a lot of fun.

I'm not having any luck attaching the recipes for Beer Fondue and Classic Fondue from Sam to this post so if you're interested in giving them a try, use the contact form to let me know and I'll email the recipes out to you. Give them a try, I promise you won't be disappointed and your party guests will enjoy it.

Cheese Louise sells Fondue pots and a variety of cheese to get your Fondue going. Below I've included some pictures of the layout at Cheese Louise as well as shots from that Fondue Friday evening when I did the in-store demonstration so you can see what the Fondue and pot look like. If you do make either of these or any Fondue, I hope you'll post a comment and share pictures of how it came out. Cheese Louise located at 940 Route 28 in Kingston, NY is open today, Saturday from 11 till 7 PM. Give them a call at 845 853 8207 and order your Superbowl party fare and check them out on Facebook at Cheese Louise NY.

I was planning to get out to the Hurley Ridge Market later today for an in store demonstration from 11:30 till 4 PM but we've snow, ice and rain in the weather forecast (yes, again :) so I'm not sure I'll be heading out in this weather. It's already started snowing here now. If you're planning to head out to the Hurley Ridge Market on Route 375 in West Hurley and I do make it out, I'll see you there.

Enjoy the big game!

Terry



The layout of the store

The delicious items served at Cheese Louise


Here's what the Fondue pot looks like
Sam gets the Fondue pot ready



















The Beer Fondue is ready to eat!











Dipping sausage and bread!











Here I am at Cheese Louise











Cheese Louise shoppers trying

samples of my gourmet products


Sunday, January 30, 2011

In-store tasting today at Adams Fairacre Farms in Poughkeepsie, NY

I'll be back at the Adams Fairacre Farms store in Poughkeepsie, NY tomorrow, Monday the 31st from 11:30 - 4 PM sharing samples of my gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades, Portuguese Repolho Relish and Caribbean Hot Sauce. If you haven't yet had a chance to try my gourmet products which are based on family recipes from destinations around the world, I hope you'll stop by, say hi and give them a try.

Hope to see you there,

Terry

Saturday, January 29, 2011

In-store tasting today at Adams Fairacre Farms in Kingston, NY

Today I'll be in the Adams Fairacre Farms store in Kingston, NY from 11:30 - 4 PM sharing samples of my gourmet Caribbean Marinades, Caribbean Hot Sauce and Portuguese Repolho Relish.

If you have been interested in trying my gourmet products, I hope you'll stop by the Adams Fairacre Farms store in Kingston, NY today, say hi and give them a try.

Hope to see you there,

Terry

Friday, January 28, 2011

My gourmet products sell out at Adams Fairacre Farms in Kingston, NY!

Well, Phil the Grocery Manager at the Adams Fairacre Farms in Kingston NY has just shared some really great news- my gourmet products which are based on family recipes from destinations around the world have completely sold out. WOW!

Thanks to all of you out there who visited the Adams Fairacre Farms store in Kingston, NY and purchased my gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades, Caribbean Hot Sauce and Portuguese Repolho Relish. I so much appreciate your support of Baron's International Kitchen and Adams Fairacre Farms.

If you have been looking for my products on the shelves at the Adams Fairacre Farms store in Kingston, NY, I'm sorry they have not been available. Phil has just placed an order so my products will be back in stock and on the shelves at the Adams Fairacre Farms store in Kingston, NY tomorrow.

I will be at the Adams Fairacre Farms store in Kingston NY tomorrow Saturday the 29th sharing samples of my Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades, Caribbean Hot Sauce and Portuguese Repolho Relish. If you haven't had a chance to try my gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades, Caribbean Hot Sauce and Portuguese Repolho Relish yet, I hope you'll stop by the Adams Fairacre Farms store in Kingston NY tomorrow Saturday the 29th, say hi and give them a try.

It would be nice to see you there,

Terry

Thursday, January 27, 2011

My Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinade a hit at local restaurant!

I enjoyed my visit to the Hurley Ridge Market yesterday. I met and got to talk with lots of really nice neighbors from West Hurley and Woodstock. Thanks so much for stopping by, giving my new gourmet products a try and a special thank you for your purchases and support of owner Michael, his team and the Hurley Ridge Market. I appreciated all the encouragement, support and insider info on some new and cool local avenues for introducing my gourmet products to the world.

I was also super psyched to meet someone who had enjoyed the Caribbean Baby Back Ribs that Shawn, owner at the Reservoir Inn Restaurant has been featuring as the dinner special. Shawn is making these amazing Caribbean Baby Back Ribs with my Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinade! It was truly rewarding to hear that the Caribbean Baby Back Ribs were delectable and delicious and that you enjoyed them. YEY! That was a great surprise and one of the best parts of the whole day. Thank you so much for letting me know how much you enjoyed my products and the Caribbean Baby Back Ribs dinner special. I'll be sure to let Shawn know.

This Saturday, I'm planning to be at Adam's Fairacre Farms on Rt. 9W in Kingston NY from 11:30 - 4 PM. I'll be sharing free samples and it would be great to see you there (weather permitting :)

Terry

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

In-store sampling at the Hurley Ridge Market in West Hurley, NY

Tomorrow I'll be at the Hurley Ridge Market in West Hurley NY sharing free samples of my gourmet products from 11:00 till 2PM. If you haven't had a chance to try my gourmet Caribbean Jerk Sauce Marinades, Portuguese Repolho Relish or Caribbean Hot Sauce yet, plan to drop by the Hurley Ridge Market in West Hurley, NY and give them a try. It would be great to meet you!


The Hurley Ridge Market is located on Rt 375, one of the main arteries to and from Woodstock, NY. As I mentioned, the Hurley Ridge Market is an elegant, upscale specialty food supermarket with typical supermarket departments- deli, meat, produce, bakery, etc but their items are tastefully presented and displayed in appealing fashion. Plan to pick up lunch while you're there.

See you then!

Terry