A few weeks ago, we filled in a long form that told our story and hit the “Send” button and then sent off some samples of our decadent “Nice Spice” Spice Blend to the NZ Food Awards. (And then promptly forgot all about it.) Till we got an email about bring shortlisted in TWO categories – the Artisan Foods and Pantry Essentials.
Did you know that the “Nice Spice” Spice Blend is an adaptation of a Chettinad curry, from the backwaters of Kerala in Southern India? The flavours, textures and spices are very different from those we grew up with in my Mother’s kitchen. But we’ve never known to discriminate against good food and spice!
I’m particularly proud of how “Nice Spice” turned out!
I love the fact that while it is a traditional “Curry” recipe, its complex flavours and texture don’t allow it to get slotted into a stereotypical spot. We use it as a dry for pulled pork, to season our crumbs to get the tastiest KFC (Kalpana’s Fried Chicken 😉 ) and of course – for a quick Korma Curry. It’s also been our favourite dukkah the last few months.
“Nice Spice” is definitely is a Pantry staple in our house, but we’re pleased the team at Countdown agree with us. The Senior Food Editor of Cuisine Magazine wrote to let us know “The spice mix has a wonderful complexity and … reminds me of all the delicious food in Kerala”. (Can you tell we’re still gushing?)
I’m also very excited and really looking forward to the Awards Gala Night Dinner – I feel a bit like Cinderella just thinking about it!
Just sitting tight and waiting for the results to be announced on 13 October. We shall keep you posted. We’re stoked to have made it to the shortlist (no mean feat with 180 entries! eeeeek)