David's Condiments - Heart Healthy, Great Tasting, Local {Review & Giveaway} {TGCBB}

I was recently invited to a special BBQ event, where I was introduced to a local company and talented chef (though he calls himself a chef-in-training). David's Condiments is based in Toronto, and is entering its third year of operations. This company's story is one of small business blossoming and success, beginning with production and distribution operating right out of David's own kitchen. Today you can find his rubs, marinades and pastes right across the country in a variety of specialty and gourmet outlets as well as in nationally known restaurants.

David's Condiments grew out of a personal tragedy and very real health concerns. David lost his father to complications after cardiac surgery, and then watched his father-in-law survive the same surgery just weeks later. When his father-in-law was placed on a strict low sodium diet, the whole family suddenly became much more aware of salt content in foods and became careful label readers. Having identified a lack of low sodium gourmet seasonings on the market, David worked to develop his own, for his family's use. Following raves from family and friends, David's Condiments was born and the line greatly expanded.

The recipes for these seasonings are all low sodium, with no added salt and no artificial preservatives. The flavour comes from the various herbs and spices used, and you would never know there's no salt in your meal!

At the event we were treated to an array of meat, seafood and vegetable dishes, all made with David's own seasoning mixes. A dash of seasoning, a splash of olive oil, and on to the grill. Easy and delicious.

Our menu for the day

I had a hard time determining which course was my favourite. I loved the grilled prosciutto-wrapped asparagus done with the Special Steak Rub. It's a really versatile mix, reminiscent of Montreal Steak Spice, without the salt and preservatives. We usually grill our asparagus with oil, salt and pepper, but I've told Hubs to try this run out next time. The striploin, my favourite cut, was awesome. The rub gave a great taste but didn't mask the flavour of the beef. David recommends letting your steaks sit at room temperature for about 45 minutes before grilling. Don't marinate, but add a splash of olive oil while resting. Then sear the steak before adding seasoning to seal in the natural juices. It was divine!

His line also include a Caesar Salad paste. It is certified gluten-free, with no dairy, no eggs. It also comes in a vegan version, with no anchovies. Just combine 1 part paste with 2 parts olive oil to make a dressing. Or spread it over pieces of baguette with a little oil, then heat in the oven or grill to make a yummy garlic bread. The Caesar salad we enjoyed at the event was yummy, but, because I'm me, I would add some parmesan to it if I served it at home. I'm a big parm fan! But, I love that these are so heart healthy and safe for different dietary concerns as well.

Overall, I was very impressed with this line of condiments. Taste was great, and the heart healthy aspects definitely appeal to me. Plus, I like to support local and small business wherever I can. Currently I have two beer can chickens roasting on my grill, seasoned liberally with the David's Condiments Chicken Rub. The smell is fantastic!

One final note - as part of David's commitment to heart health, a portion of all proceeds from the sale of his products goes towards the creation of an education program for heart patients as they return home from the hospital. A great cause to support!

A Giveaway

Sharing the great taste! One lucky Raising My Boys reader will take home a prize pack of three rubs from David's Condiments, as pictured here. This includes the classic Special Steak Rub, plus the slightly spicy Peri Peri, and the delicious Chicken Rub.  Entries are via the Rafflecopter widget below, and will be accepted until 12:00 midnight EDT, July 11. Giveaway is open to Canadian residents only. Best of luck!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway