Would you like to be the hero of that Labor Day party you're going to this weekend? Would you like to be complimented, have your name chanted, and/or be carried around the party like you're goddamn Cleopatra?
If you've answered yes to any of the above, we're here to help. It's as easy as showing up to your end of summer party with one of these local products (and a game plan on how to use them) in hand. Here's what to do:
See also: BBQ Like A Boss: 5 Homemade Sauces for Your Labor Day Cookout
The Dish: Bacon Jam Burgers The Local Buy: BRC Gastropub's Bacon Jam The Extras: Burger Patties + Aged Cheddar + All The Fixin's
Step up your burger game the absolute easiest way possible with this sticky, sweet, and salty bacon jam. We like pairing it with sharp aged cheddar, mayonnaise, lettuce, tomato and red onion. And if you really want to get wild, stuff it inside the patty along with some cheese a la the Jucy Lucy.
The Dish: Caphinnated Boozy Milkshakes Local Buy: Caphin Artisan or Signature Blend Extras: Vanilla Ice Cream (any flavor will do) + Splash Bourbon + Whipped Cream
If you've never tried Caphin, you're missing out. The bottled Vietnamese iced coffee (cafe sua da) can be found at grocery stores and restaurants all over town (check their site to find out where).
While the bold, creamy coffee drink is good enough on its own, we're trying to party here. So, we turn it into a milkshake (kinda like Good Dog Houston's spectacular version using Caphin and ice cream from Fat Cat Creamery) and take it to the next level by adding booze. You're welcome.
To make the shake, pour 1 part Caphin to 2 parts ice cream in a blender. Blend, then add in a few splashes of bourbon and top it off with whipped cream because YOU CAN.
The Dish: Spicy Pineapple Shrimp Skewers Local Buy: Bravado's Pineapple & Habanero Hot Sauce Extras: Shrimp + Red Onion + Bell Peppers + Pineapple
Bravado Spice Co. has completely killed it with their spicy, bright, and fruity Pineapple & Habanero Hot Sauce. It pairs especially well with grilled shrimp.
Just throw some shrimp on skewers with onions, peppers, and pineapple. Brush with a little bit of oil and throw on the grill. As they cook, baste with the sweet and spicy pineapple hot sauce and voila! You just won Labor Day.
