Of all the different specialty food subscription boxes I’ve tested (and I’ve tested quite a few), Hatchery is probably my favorite.
I love the idea that you get to try so many products in each box, and although they aren’t full-sized, you can get a lot of use out of them while deciding if you want to invest in a full-sized version of the product. Hatchery’s boxes are valued at $20. The box I got contained 5 different products.
These products won’t be the centerpiece of any meal, but they will add a much-needed flavor element to a dull dish. They’re all so unique – you’ll have a lot of fun experimenting in the kitchen.
So besides great products at a great value, you can also take heart in the fact that each box features products made by people and small companies, not corporations. Each box contains an insert with an in-depth company bio and tasting notes for each product. There are also a couple of recipes to serve as inspiration to get cooking!
The Hatchery theme of handcrafted(/homemade) is present in everything they do, including the box that the products come in.
Without further ado, here’s what I received in my tasting box:
Fourth Creek Foods – Sweet Red Pepper Relish
$7 full-size
Here in Chicago, I’m pretty used to hot giardiniera relish being a standard side. Sometimes it’s nice to balance out a sandwich instead with a sweeter version of the same type of condiment. My boyfriend was very happy for this addition to my fridge.
Chi-Cho Sauce
$9 full-size
This sauce has some spicy elements, but is quite mild in taste. I’m glad to have it in my fridge for when I have someone over who likes flavor, but not major spice.
Laguna Salt Company – Summer Smoke
$8 full-size
I love specialty spices and salts, so this one’s perfect for when I’m experimenting with flavors. I’ve got to say, the packaging also draws me in. It all fits together so beautifully.
South Boulder Sauce – All Things Orange Hot Sauce
$9 full-size
This hot sauce is a little more intense than the previous one (there’s some habanero!), but interestingly enough, contains a flavor in common – carrots! I like to think that makes it a little healthier than the average hot sauce…
Laura Ann’s Jams – Strawberry Vanilla Bean
$9 full-size
Most of the time, I opt to buy the “boring” jams at the grocery store. Its good to get tasting boxes like these with curated products – it forces you to step outside of your comfort zone. What I liked about this was how balanced the flavor was. Perfect for spreading on a sweet and savory english muffin!
Hatchery has both tasting boxes and a la carte products available on their website. Sign up for the email newsletter to be notified when awesome deals happen!
If you’re still looking for a Christmas gift, as of this writing, they’re offering $10 off gift subscriptions using code, “HOHOHO” at checkout.
Have you tried Hatchery or other food-related subscription boxes? Share your finds in the comments!
Please note: A free Hatchery box was provided in exchange for this review.
