Summer Pantry Must-Haves for Colorado Springs

By: Ashleigh Miller | May 24 2010
Posted in Find It - Colorado Springs, CO

Summer is approaching with the speed and momentum of a suntan-oiled kid on a backyard slip'n'slide, and all that warm weather means backyard barbecues, outdoor adventures, and late nights spent stargazing. Stocking your pantry with summery local favorites made right here in Colorado Springs means you'll be ready for drop-ins by neighbors (or an impromptu nature walk) and able to sidestep harried runs to the grocery store in search of something savory to satisfy the culinary requirements of the occasion. These treats are all preservative-free and made with fresh, local ingredients.

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Something Sweet
Enjoy movie night with saltwater taffy, handmade peanut brittle, or butterscotch popcorn from Patsy's Candy. Rumor has it Patsy sold his original recipe to Cracker Jack, but the new version is just as good! Take a factory tour from May 15 to September 15 and see how everything's made, or just pick up the Summer Sampler ($25.95) at their store at 1540 S. 21st St.

Black Forest Bison

Something Salty
Black Forest Bison's buffalo jerky is a must-have this summer. Grass-fed, organic bison has less than 3% fat, and Black Forest's jerky is completely preservative-free. Visit their store at 1234 E. Woodmen Road to pick up a package of their original Gunsmoke flavor, or, for a more adventurous palette, try Tombstone Teriyaki or Caliente Canyon. You can also order online. 3.5 oz bag $11, or 7 oz. $20

Patty's Gourmet

Something Condiment-y
At backyard barbecues, slather brats with Patty's Pantry's all-natural mustards. The Hot & Spicy mustard is the perfect blend of sweet and hot, while the Beer Mustard is an intoxicating mixture of amber ale and secret spices. Order online, or take a day trip to visit one of Patty's events. A 6.5 oz jar is $6.50.

Mira Sol Chile Corp

Something Spicy
No get-together is complete without chips and salsa--Mira Sol Chile Corp's fire-roasted salsa, to be precise! This Pueblo-based company has offerings that range from mild (Gourmet Salsa) to wild (X-tra Hot Salsa). Find it in the Springs at Spencer's Market, Drummer Tweeds, or the Vitamin Cottage. A 16 oz jar is $5.99.