As Matt’s Meals fans know, I love independent makers and I LOVE condiments!

Among my favorite food friends in this relished realm are J. Lee’s Sauces and True Made Foods (both of which are also run by Veterans!), and more local legends like Spicy Shark and American Vinegar Works.

Recently, I came upon a new top topping that comes in a palate-bursting variety of delicious options.

Made by hand in Contoocook, NH, Blackwater Mustard Co. combines ancient seeds with some of today’s most popular foods and beverages to make mustards (Yes- I said “mustardS”!) that are almost good enough to eat on their own (Don’t judge!).

While the most basic version may be the Everyday Café & Pub mustard (which is inspired by and used at a nearby eatery that is favorite among locals and visitors alike- probably thanks at least in part to the mustard!), Blackwater also infuses their mustards with locally-sourced apple cider, cranberries, garlic, and spicy dill (the last of which is named for the founder’s wife!).  They also partner with local maple syrup tappers and local beer tappers as well, including Tuckerman Brewery and a collaboration with Kettlehead Brewery that has revealed a chocolate stout mustard that I have, in fact, eaten with a spoon (I said don’t judge!). In another effort to give back to their community, Blackwater offers proceeds from their Pope Poupon to the New Hampshire Potato Project, which helps hungry neighbors get things to put the mustards on.

As there are so many flavors to choose from, choosing which to use can be a challenge, even for the most devoted mustard-head. Luckily, Blackwater not only offers customizable gift packs, but also an ever-expanding menu of recipes on their website (https://blackwatermustardco.com). 

If mustard is not your thing (What?!), Blackwater also offers Big Pete’s BBQ Sauce and Uncle Billy’s apple wood chips that make nearly any meal more flavorful, but if you want to really turn up the taste, stick to the titular toppings from Blackwater Mustard Co.