Spring Checklist
As the darkness of winter lifts and spring stirs to life, seek out these local food and drink finds this season.
Dukkah
This classic Egyptian condiment is a blend of roasted almonds, sesame seeds and spices. Dukkah is often mixed with oil and served with bread, but it also makes a flavorful crust for chicken and salmon. $6.99. Available at Kimberton Whole Foods, 2140 Kimberton Rd., Phoenixville, 610.935.1444, kimbertonwholefoods.com and online at nannassecret.com.
Fazzoletti with Favas
Springtime marks the beginning of the new growing season, and favas are among the first foods to appear Chef Luke Palladino mixes the tender green beans into an entree with fazzoletti pasta, pesto and shaved Grana Padano cheese. $21. Available at Palladino’s, 1934 E. Passyunk Ave., 267.928.4339, lukepalladino.com.
Honey Bourbon Blueberry Jelly
This blend of Bulleit bourbon, Beech-wood Orchards blueberries and honey is more complex than your average jelly Nonetheless, it makes for a superlative grown-up PB&J—especially when you add a slice of crisp local bacon. $6.50. Available at Metropolitan Bakery, 262 S. 19th St., 215.545.6655, metropolitanbakery.com.
Klub Med Spice Blend
This terrific dried seasoning from local spice gurus at Parable Flavors is made from local oregano and mint. The bold ingredients of Turkish food inspired this mix. Swirled into Greek yogurt, it makes an instant dip whose sunny herbal notes will take your taste buds to the Mediterranean. $ 10. Available at Fair Food Farmstand, 51 N. I 2 St. (in the Reading Terminal Market), 21 5.386.521 I and online at parableflavors.com.
Mezcal
Created by Dock Street Spirits (sister business to Dock Street Brewing Co.) the new Vicio mezcal is a welcome addition to Philly’s craft spirit scene. Floral and smoky it’s suitable for sipping but will also make a mean cocktail. Bartenders around the city, including those at José Pistola’s and Growlers, are mixing and pouring it now. 750 ml bottle is $49.99. Available throughout Pennsylvania via special order by calling 800.332.7522.
Chocolate Milk
Not all chocolate milk is created equal. The creamy and deeply chocolaty drink from Ironstone Creamery combines whole milk from grass-fed Jersey cows with organic cocoa powder and organic cane sugar for an exceptional dairy-rich treat. $3. Available at the Easton Farmers’ Market, 325 Northampton St., Easton, 610.330.9942, eastonfarmersmarket.com.
