The Spice Co.
Spices and herbs have been a routine part of our lives for several thousands of years. Most commonly they have been consumed as ingredients to enhance the flavor of our food. These ingredients have also applied to other practices including magic, perfume, religion, embalming and preservation. Additionally we find numerous cultures that have developed complete medicinal systems based upon the use of spices and herbs to treat the human condition.
The result of so many plants and their associated parts being in high demand fueled global economies and grew empires as the spice trade unfurled like flags on the global stage with pepper, cinnamon, clove and nutmeg being the first ingredients to fuel the commerce of spices.
Those in the spice trade were as mysterious as the spices themselves as the traders would spin tales about these far off lands where the spices came from which often raised the price of goods when one may have to fight off winged creatures and risk life and limb against fabled creatures whose very existence was so charged with guarding the spices.
As a child this shroud of mystery was fueled by National Geographic magazines and then further enhanced by travelling to a handful of lesser developed countries has led me to create a line of spice rubs and blends. The Spice Co. will be premiering its product launch with Reggae Rub, Curry in a Hurry, Kick-Ass Cajun and the Mexican Kitchen Cartel to name a few.

Kick Ass Cajun delivers a great tasting Cajun seasoning that is balanced with an east to swallow heat!
The Spice Co. line is handcrafted as we roast, smoke and mix our select ingredients in small batches to ensure freshness and optimal flavor. The packaging design helps ensure that its contents are protected from the harmful environmental effects caused by UV rays and Oxidization. The unique formula for developing each spice blend begins after testing and exploring flavours with different recipes for each blend. The Spice Co. created its artisanal line of herb and spice blends over decades of recipe and menu development and has been tested in restaurants on those who enjoy great food and appreciate all things encompassed by good taste.
The Spice Co.’s robust combinations of flavors allow you to use it in small quantities while adding very little calories to your food. Many of the seed born spices contribute significant portions of micronutrients to our diets which are found within the spices high concentrations of protein, fats and carbohydrates. Their naturally occurring antioxidants promote nutrition and the absorption of other nutrients from our foods.
Look for the Spice Co. and its product line at select retailers in Buckhorn at Kawartha Country Winery, The Kawartha Store in Fenelon Falls, The Market in Lakefield, The Firehouse Gourmet in East City Peterborough, Shopease Foods Inc., The Market in Burleigh Falls, Sun Run Pantry in Maynooth and O’Briens Classic Grill in Kapuskasing. You can also shop on-line at www.chefbrianhenry.com
The following recipe is for an smoked, earthy tasting dip using the Mexican Kitchen Cartel
Cartel Chipotle Dip
Ingredients:
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 tsp. Dijon mustard
1 tsp. freshly squeezed lime juice
1 tbsp. Mexican Kitchen Cartel
Method:
In a glass bowl, whisk all of the ingredients together. Cover and let the mixture rest for 4-6 hours before using as a dip, sandwich spread or salad dressing.