October 2025 - Chef's Companion
🍳 What’s in the Box
The kitchen is often called the heart of the home—a place where flavors come to life, family gathers, and memories simmer alongside every dish. This month’s Chef’s Companion Box celebrates those everyday culinary moments that turn ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.
🔎 Fun Fact
The Microwave Was Invented by Accident!
In 1945, engineer Percy Spencer at Raytheon noticed a candy bar had melted in his pocket while working on a radar system. Curious, he tested popcorn and eggs next—discovering that microwaves could cook food in seconds. A delicious accident that changed kitchens forever!
🌋 Crispino – Hot Chili Peppers in Volcanic Sauce
Straight from Calabria, Italy, these chopped hot peppers are steeped in oil with natural flavorings for a bold, fiery bite. Add a spoonful to pasta, grilled meats, or roasted veggies for an instant flavor explosion.
Taste: Bright heat, deep oil richness, authentic Calabrian intensity.
Try it: Swirl into tomato sauce or drizzle over pizza for a southern Italian kick.
🍝 Filotea – Linguine Aglio e Prezzemolo
Handcrafted in Italy’s Marche region, Filotea’s bronze-drawn pasta is slowly dried and infused with garlic and parsley for a subtle, aromatic lift.
Tasting notes: Gentle garlic warmth, herbaceous balance, springy bite.
Try it: Toss with olive oil, lemon zest, and seared shrimp—then finish with a spoon of truffle sugo for a luxurious twist.
🍅 Greenomic – Sugo di Pomodoro al Tartufo
Where sustainability meets gastronomy, Greenomic’s truffle tomato sugo combines 100% Italian tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, and earthy black truffle.
Tasting notes: Ripe tomato brightness, silky texture, indulgent truffle aroma.
Try it: Warm gently (don’t boil), toss with linguine, and finish with butter and Parmigiano for an elegant weeknight dinner.
🍇 Acetaia Malpighi – Platinum IGP Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
Aged over 25 years and crafted with 90% aged grape must, this thick, high-density balsamic delivers layers of cherry, plum, and caramelized sweetness.
Made by the Malpighi family in Modena since 1850, it’s certified IGP and free from additives—authentic, rich, and perfectly balanced.
Try it: Drizzle over roasted vegetables, aged cheese, or even vanilla gelato for a sweet-savory revelation.
🍒 Southern Root Sisters – Cranberry Pepper Jam
From generations of Southern women comes this vibrant blend of fresh cranberries, spicy peppers, pure cane sugar, and a touch of orange.
Taste: Tart meets heat with a festive twist.
Try it: Serve with brie and crackers, pair with turkey or ham, or layer into a holiday leftover sandwich.
🍷 Dr. Pete’s Foods – Burgundy Marinade
Born in Ailey, Georgia, from Dr. Pete’s original recipes, this marinade combines Burgundy wine, herbs, and spices for a deep, savory flavor.
Taste: Wine-forward richness with balanced herbs and subtle sweetness.
Try it: Perfect for marinating beef, chicken, or pork. For tender cuts, marinate 2–4 hours; for tougher meats like London Broil, let it soak up to 24 hours.
🧂 Salt Odyssey – All-Natural Sea Salt Flakes
Harvested in the wildlife-rich salinas of Messolonghi, Greece, these pyramid-shaped flakes offer a pure, crunchy texture and naturally rich flavor.
Use: Crush gently between your fingers and sprinkle over meats, seafood, pasta, or salads for a gourmet finishing touch.
✨ The Chef’s Takeaway
This month’s collection is designed to spark creativity in the kitchen—balancing Italian craftsmanship, Southern charm, and global flair. Whether you’re experimenting with sauces, seasoning with care, or plating with pride, every ingredient in the Chef’s Companion Box helps turn your next meal into a masterpiece.