Collection: Gourmet Sauces & Condiments

Condiments are sauces, spreads, or seasonings used to enhance the flavour of food, typically added at the table or during final preparation. They include items like mustards, chutneys, relishes, pestos, and specialised sauces that complement dishes without overpowering them. Premium condiments elevate everyday meals into gourmet experiences through quality ingredients and authentic flavours.

Pesto is a vibrant Italian sauce traditionally made with fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil, ground together into a smooth paste. Modern variations use different herbs like coriander, rocket, or parsley. It's incredibly versatile - perfect for pasta, sandwiches, pizzas, marinades, or as a flavour-packed condiment.

Pesto can be part of a healthy diet, offering beneficial fats from olive oil and nutrients from fresh herbs. While it's calorie-dense due to oil and nuts, these provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Use pesto mindfully - a little goes a long way for flavour. Quality matters: choose pesto made with extra virgin olive oil and real cheese.

Traditional pesto contains fresh basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, garlic, extra virgin olive oil, and salt. Contemporary versions may use different herbs (like coriander or rocket), alternative nuts (walnuts, almonds), or different cheeses. Premium pesto uses high-quality ingredients with no artificial additives, preservatives, or fillers for authentic, vibrant flavour.

Traditional pesto made with basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, and olive oil is naturally gluten-free. However, some commercial varieties may contain additives, thickeners, or modified starches that include gluten. Always verify the ingredients list or look for gluten-free certification on the label if you have coeliac disease or gluten intolerance.

Opened pesto stored in the refrigerator typically lasts 1-2 weeks. To extend freshness, pour a thin layer of olive oil over the surface before sealing to prevent oxidation and browning. Always use a clean spoon when serving to avoid contamination. Unopened jars can last several months in the pantry - check the best-before date.

Most pure tomato sauces made with tomatoes, herbs, and olive oil are naturally gluten-free. However, some commercial varieties may contain modified starch or other additives that include gluten. Always check the label for "gluten-free" certification or review the ingredients list carefully if you have coeliac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Tomato sauce made with real tomatoes, olive oil, and herbs can be quite healthy. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health. Quality matters - choose sauces with minimal added sugar, no artificial preservatives, and high tomato content (look for 90%+ tomatoes). They're low in fat and calories when not loaded with extra oil or cream.

BBQ sauce typically contains a tomato base (ketchup or tomato purée), vinegar, sweeteners (sugar, molasses, or honey), and spices like paprika, garlic, onion, and black pepper. Regional styles vary - some include mustard, liquid smoke, or chilli. Premium BBQ sauces use natural ingredients without artificial flavours, colours, or excessive corn syrup.

Many BBQ sauces are gluten-free, but not all. Some contain malt vinegar or soy sauce (which often includes wheat), modified starches, or other gluten-containing ingredients. Always check the product label for "gluten-free" certification. Premium artisan BBQ sauces typically list all ingredients clearly for dietary transparency.

Many BBQ sauces are vegan and vegetarian, made primarily from plant-based ingredients like tomatoes, vinegar, and spices. However, some contain honey, Worcestershire sauce (which may include anchovies), or other animal-derived ingredients. Always check the label - most premium brands clearly mark vegan-suitable products on their packaging.