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The Best Condiments of 2024
Imagine your favorite burger, hot dog, or sandwich. Now, picture it without that tangy twist of mustard, the relish of ketchup, or the zing of mayonnaise. It feels incomplete, right? That's the magic of condiments — those unsung heroes that transform an ordinary meal into a culinary delight. In the pantheon of kitchen essentials, these popular condiments have earned their rightful place. Not just for their taste-enhancing prowess but also for the way they cater to a plethora of individual preferences, dietary needs, and diverse culinary nuances. From the spiciest of hot sauces to the most exotic of dressings, these noteworthy products add a dash of personality to every dish. Among these culinary companions, Cholula stands out as the best condiment, delivering unparalleled taste and quality.
Our Top Picks For Condiments
View all Contents- The Best Condiment Buying Guide
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People Also Asked
- How should condiments be stored?
- What is the shelf life of condiments?
- How can I tell if a condiment has gone bad?
- Are all condiments gluten-free?
- Are there any condiments suitable for vegan diets?
- How can I reduce the amount of sodium in my diet when using condiments?
- What are some unconventional uses for condiments?
- Related Articles
The Best Condiments
Best Overall
The Cholula original hot sauce is your ticket to an unforgettable culinary adventure. It’s not just any hot sauce; this is the queen of condiments. Crafted with a unique blend of Mexican peppers, signature spices, and a dash of tradition, it’s the ideal blend of heat and flavor that’s guaranteed to spice up any dish. It’s gluten-free, kosher, vegan, low-sodium, and sugar-free, so everyone can enjoy this tangy delight.
The multipack features three large, 12-ounce bottles, each adorned with those delightful, distinct wooden caps — a hallmark of Cholula’s quality. Something about the balanced heat and complex flavor makes everything taste better, be it eggs, pizza, or Mexican-inspired dishes. You’ll find yourself reaching for this condiment again and again. What’s more, it’s presented in a stylish gift-ready box, making it an ideal present for hot sauce connoisseurs or Mexican food lovers. So, whether you’re a spice enthusiast or someone who relishes a little heat in their meals, you can’t go wrong with this hot sauce, making it the top choice on our list.
Pros
- Excellent blend of heat and flavor
- Large bottle for lasting use
- Adds extra flavor to dishes
Cons
- Mild heat may require extra spice
- Not as sweet as some may prefer
Best for Bulk Buyers
The CMC Products variety pack is an all-inclusive pack brimming with 75 single-serve packets of your favorite condiments: Heinz Ketchup, French’s Mustard, Kraft Real Mayo, and even a dash of relish. Imagine all the hamburgers, hot dogs, and fries you can jazz up with these classic condiments. Heinz Ketchup, made from the firmest, ripest, and juiciest tomatoes, offers a savory yet slightly sweet taste that will have you reaching for more. French’s Yellow Mustard is a guilt-free addition to your food with zero calories, zero fat, and absolutely no artificial flavors.
Now, let’s talk about Kraft Real Mayo, which not only adds a light, creamy texture but also a rich flavor to any dish. Prepared with cage-free eggs, vinegar, lemon juice, and a perfectly balanced blend of seasonings, this mayo is a game-changer in the condiment world. Whether you’re looking to layer a flavor-packed spread on your sandwich or whip up a garlic aioli from scratch, Kraft Real Mayo delivers the right amount of flavor every time. Moreover, everything comes in bulk packaging, which is excellent for those impromptu gatherings or if you’re a condiment hoarder.
Pros
- Contains a variety of condiments
- Comes with additional bag clip
- Ideal for self-serve condiment stations
Cons
- Inconsistent packet count per product
- No specific distribution ratio
Most Loved
Hellmann’s real mayonnaise gluten-free mayo is made with 100 percent certified cage-free eggs, oil, and vinegar, giving you a delicious condiment that you can feel good about using. This mayo is excellent for a variety of uses, from spreading on sandwiches and wraps to grilling juicy burgers and mixing creamy dips. It’s also great for preparing fresh salads and simple meals. And with the unique squeeze bottle, you can get your mayo exactly where you want it. The clean lock cap and precision tip give you total control over your condiment application.
This mayo is also rich in Omega 3-ALA (contains 650 mg of ALA per serving, which is 40 percent of the 1.6g daily value of ALA), making it a great option for those looking for delicious gluten-free condiments. And to top it all off, Hellmann’s bottles and jars are now made from 100 percent recycled plastic so you can feel good about your purchase.
Pros
- Excellent, unbeatable taste
- Great for various dishes
- Fresh and rich in quality
Cons
- High price for the product size
- Some people may not like the texture
Most Versatile
The 365 Whole Foods Market organic pickle relish is made from fresh, crisp cucumbers that are carefully hand-picked and processed to retain their natural flavor and crunch. The recipe for this relish ensures that each jar is bursting with flavor and authenticity.
In addition to its delicious taste, this condiment is also 100% organic, meaning it is free from harmful chemicals, pesticides, and other synthetic additives. This commitment to organic farming is just one of the ways that 365 by Whole Foods Market is dedicated to providing customers with healthy, sustainable food options. Whether you’re a fan of hot dogs, hamburgers, or sandwich wraps, this relish is the ideal condiment to add a zesty pop of flavor to your favorite foods.
Pros
- Enhances flavor of various dishes
- Perfectly balanced sweet taste
- High-quality and great value
Cons
- Small jar size
- Sweetness may be overwhelming for some
Most Classic
French’s classic yellow mustard, packaged in a convenient 14-ounce bottle, is the quintessential American condiment. This mustard is known for its perfectly balanced flavor — a smooth blend of tart vinegar, a hint of spices, and the rich taste of mustard seeds.
Its bright yellow color and creamy texture make it an appealing addition to a variety of dishes. Whether slathered on hot dogs, burgers, or used as a key ingredient in dressings and marinades, this condiment adds a tangy, flavorful twist to any meal.
Pros
- Has a long shelf life
- Easy to open and use
- Great for various dishes
Cons
- Only available in limited sizes
- Flavor profile may not appeal to everyone
The Best Condiment Buying Guide
If you’re a food enthusiast, you’re probably no stranger to the wonderful world of condiments. Whether it’s ketchup or hot sauce, mustard or soy sauce, condiments are the hidden heroes that tie our meals together, adding an extra burst of flavor that can transform a good dish into a great one. But with so many condiments available, how can you make sure you’re choosing the best? Let’s delve into a comprehensive guide to finding the best condiments.
Quality of Ingredients
The best condiments start with the best ingredients. When shopping for condiments, look at the ingredient list first. High-quality condiments will typically list real, recognizable foods instead of artificial additives and preservatives. For example, a top-tier mustard should contain water, mustard seeds, vinegar, salt, and perhaps some spices. If you see a long list of chemicals you can’t pronounce, it might be best to pass.
Brand Reputation
Brand reputation is another crucial factor to consider when picking condiments. Like any other product, some brands are known for producing superior condiments. Look for brands that have positive reviews, both online and offline. Friends, family, and online reviews can be a great source of insight. Remember, a brand with a longstanding reputation for quality is often a safe bet.
Flavor Profile
Your personal tastes will significantly influence the condiments you choose. Some like their condiments to be spicy, while others prefer them sweet or tangy. When selecting a condiment, consider what flavors you enjoy most. If you’re not sure, consider buying small bottles of several different condiments to experiment and find your favorites.
Versatility
A good condiment is versatile and can be used in multiple dishes. Condiments like soy sauce, ketchup, and mustard are versatile and widely used. Also, consider how the flavors of a condiment might complement the foods you frequently cook. For instance, if you often make Asian cuisine, soy sauce or hoisin could be a good choice. If you’re a fan of barbecue, a top-notch barbecue sauce should be in your kitchen.
Value for Money
While it’s true that quality often comes at a price, that doesn’t mean you should overspend on condiments. Some condiments may be pricey, but they offer excellent quality and a unique taste that can’t be beaten. On the other hand, some affordable condiments are also of great quality. The key is to find a balance between cost and quality.
Health Considerations
Health considerations are becoming more important when choosing condiments. While condiments often add flavor to our food, some can also add unnecessary calories, sugar, and sodium. Look for condiments that are low in these components, or choose organic or natural versions that don’t use artificial preservatives or sweeteners.
People Also Asked
How should condiments be stored?
Most condiments should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. After opening, many condiments should be kept in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and quality.
What is the shelf life of condiments?
The shelf life of condiments varies widely depending on the type. Most condiments have a 'Best Before' or 'Use By' date printed on their packaging. However, many condiments can last beyond this date if they are stored correctly.
How can I tell if a condiment has gone bad?
Signs that a condiment may have gone bad include an off smell, a change in color, or a change in texture. If you notice any of these signs, it's best to discard the product.
Are all condiments gluten-free?
Not all condiments are gluten-free. While many condiments, such as mustard and ketchup, are typically gluten-free, some may contain ingredients derived from wheat or other gluten-containing grains. Always check the ingredient list if you are following a gluten-free diet.
Are there any condiments suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, many condiments are suitable for vegan diets. However, some may contain animal-derived ingredients, such as honey in some mustards or anchovies in some Worcestershire sauces. Always check the ingredient list to ensure a product meets your dietary needs.
How can I reduce the amount of sodium in my diet when using condiments?
Some condiments can be high in sodium. To reduce your sodium intake, look for low-sodium or sodium-free versions of your favorite condiments. You can also use less of a high-sodium condiment or substitute it with herbs and spices for flavor.
What are some unconventional uses for condiments?
Besides their traditional use on food, condiments can have a variety of other uses. For example, ketchup can be used to clean copper and brass, while mayonnaise can be used to remove sticky residue. Always test a small area first when using condiments in this way.
