SHOPPING FOR INGREDIENTS
Using the best ingredients is one way to guarantee success in the kitchen. But how do you know what to buy? Shelves are filled with a dizzying array of choices—and price does not equal quality. Over the years, the test kitchen’s blind-tasting panels have evaluated thousands of ingredients, brand by brand, side by side, plain and in prepared applications, to determine which brands you can trust and which brands to avoid. In the chart that follows, we share the results, revealing our top-rated choices and the attributes that made them stand out among the competition. And because our test kitchen accepts no support from product manufacturers, you can trust our ratings. See AmericasTestKitchen.com for updates to these tastings.
ANCHOVIES
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Ortiz Oil Packed
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Pleasantly fishy, salty flavor, not overwhelming or bland
- Firm, meaty texture, not mushy
- Already filleted and ready to use, unlike salt-packed variety
APPLESAUCE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Musselman’s Lite
WHY WE LIKE IT
- An unusual ingredient, sucralose, sweetens this applesauce without overpowering its fresh, bright apple flavor
- Pinch of salt boosts flavor above weak, bland, and too-sweet competitors
- Coarse, almost chunky texture, not slimy like applesauces sweetened with corn syrup
BACON, SUPERMARKET
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Farmland Thick Sliced and Plumrose Premium Thick Sliced
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Good balance of saltiness and sweetness
- Smoky and full flavored
- Very meaty, not too fatty
- Crisp and hearty texture
BARBECUE SAUCE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Bull’s-Eye Original
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Spicy, fresh tomato taste
- Good balance of tanginess, smokiness, and sweetness
- Robust flavor from molasses
- Sweetened with sugar and molasses, not high-fructose corn syrup, which caramelizes and burns quickly
BARBECUE SAUCE, HIGH-END
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Pork Barrel Original BBQ
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Generous amounts of vinegar, salt, chili paste, and liquid smoke for bold spicy flavor
- Tangy kick
- Good body
BEANS, CANNED BAKED
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
B&M Vegetarian
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Firm and pleasant texture with some bite
- Sweetened with molasses for complexity and depth
BEANS, CANNED BLACK
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Bush’s Best
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Clean, mild, and slightly earthy flavor
- Firm, almost al dente texture, not mushy or pasty
- Good amount of salt
BEANS, CANNED CHICKPEAS
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Pastene
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Firm yet tender texture bests pasty and dry competitors
- Clean chickpea flavor
- Enough salt to enhance but not overwhelm the flavor
BEANS, CANNED WHITE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Goya Cannellini
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Well seasoned, with both sweet and savory flavor
- Ultracreamy and smooth texture with a nice firm bite
- Big and meaty beans
BEANS, DRIED WHITE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Rancho Gordo Classic Cassoulet
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Creamy and smooth texture
- Fresh taste
- Nutty and sweet flavors
BEANS, REFRIED
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Taco Bell Home Originals
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Well-seasoned mixture
- Super-smooth texture, not overly thick, pasty, or gluey
BREAD, WHITE SANDWICH
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Arnold Country Classics
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Subtle sweetness, not tasteless or sour
- Perfect structure, not too dry or too soft
BREAD, WHOLE-WHEAT SANDWICH
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Pepperidge Farm 100% Natural
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Whole-grain, nutty, earthy flavor
- Dense, chewy texture, not gummy or too soft
- Not too sweet, contains no corn syrup and has low sugar level (unlike competitors)
NOTE: Available only east of the Mississippi River.
BREAD CRUMBS, PANKO
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Ian’s Original Style
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Crisp, with a substantial crunch
- Not too delicate, stale, sandy, or gritty
- Oil-free and without seasonings or undesirable artificial flavors
BROTH, BEEF
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Rachael Ray Stock-in-a-Box All-Natural Beef Flavored Stock
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Deep beefy profile with rich notes and gelatin-like body
- Flavor-enhancing ingredients such as tomato paste and yeast extract
BROTH, CHICKEN
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Swanson Chicken Stock
Best Buy: Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Rich chicken flavor
- Clean, savory taste
- Not too salty when reduced
BROTH, VEGETABLE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Swanson Vegetarian
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Balanced vegetable flavor with carrot and celery nuances
- High concentration of vegetable product not found in competitors
- High sodium content enhances vegetable flavors
NOTE: Despite this broth’s high concentration of artificial additives and salt, it is the only broth we found with acceptable flavor.
BROWNIE MIX
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Ghirardelli Chocolate Supreme and Barefoot Contessa Outrageous
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Rich, balanced chocolate flavor from both natural and Dutch-processed cocoa
- Moist, chewy, and fudgy with perfect texture
BUTTER, UNSALTED
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Plugrá European-Style
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Sweet and creamy
- Complex tang and grassy flavor
- Moderate amount of butterfat so that it’s decadent and glossy but not so rich that baked goods are greasy
CHEESE, AMERICAN, PRESLICED
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Land O’Lakes, Sara Lee, and Kraft Deli Deluxe
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Strong cheesy flavor, unlike some competitors
- Slightly rubbery but pleasantly gooey when melted
- Higher content of cheese culture contributes to better flavor
CHEESE, ASIAGO
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
BelGioioso
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Sharp, tangy, and complex flavor, not mild
- Firm and not too dry
- Melts, shreds, and grates well
CHEESE, CHEDDAR, EXTRA-SHARP
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Cabot Private Stock
Runner-Up: Cabot
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Balance of salty, creamy, and sweet flavors
- Considerable but well-rounded sharpness, not overwhelming
- Firm, crumbly texture, not moist, rubbery, or springy
- Aged at least 12 months for complex flavor
CHEESE, CHEDDAR, PRESLICED
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Tillamook Sharp
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Slightly crumbly, not rubbery or processed, texture characteristic of block cheddar
- Strong, tangy, and salty flavor, not bland or too mild
CHEESE, CHEDDAR, PREMIUM
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Milton Creamery Prairie Breeze
Runner-Up: Cabot Cellars at Jasper Hill Clothbound
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Earthy complexity with nutty, buttery, and fruity flavors
- Dry and crumbly with crystalline crunch, not rubbery or overly moist
- Aged no more than 12 months to prevent overly sharp flavor
CHEESE, CHEDDAR, REDUCED-FAT
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Cracker Barrel Reduced Fat Sharp
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Ample creaminess
- Strong cheesy flavor
- Good for cooking
CHEESE, CHEDDAR, SHARP
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Cabot Sharp Vermont
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Sharp, clean, and tangy flavor
- Firm, crumbly texture, not moist, rubbery, or springy
- Aged a minimum of 12 months for complex flavor
CHEESE, COTTAGE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Hood Country Style
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Rich, well-seasoned, and buttery flavor
- Velvety, creamy texture
- Pillowy curds
CHEESE, CREAM
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Philadelphia
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Rich, tangy, and milky flavor
- Thick, creamy texture, not pasty, waxy, or chalky
CHEESE, CREAM, ARTISANAL
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Zingerman’s Creamery
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Supercreamy and smooth texture
- Impressive depth of flavor
CHEESE, FETA
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Mt. Vikos Traditional Feta
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Strong tangy, salty flavor
- Creamy, dense texture
- Pleasing crumbly texture
CHEESE, FONTINA
FOR CHEESE PLATE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Fontina Val d’Aosta
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Strong, earthy aroma
- Somewhat elastic texture with small irregular holes
- Grassy, nutty flavor—but can be overpowering in cooked dishes
FOR COOKING
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
BELGIOIOSO
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Semisoft, super-creamy texture
- Mildly tangy, nutty flavor
- Melts well
CHEESE, GOAT
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Laura Chenel’s Chèvre
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Rich-tasting, grassy, tangy flavor
- Salt content enhances flavor and texture
- Smooth and creamy both unheated and baked
CHEESE, GRUYÈRE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Gruyère Reserve Wheel
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Grassy, salty flavor, not bland or pedestrian
- Creamy yet dry texture, not plasticky like some competitors
- Aged a minimum of 10 months for strong and complex flavor
- Melts especially well
CHEESE, MOZZARELLA
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Sorrento Galbani Whole Milk
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Creamy and buttery with clean dairy flavor
- Soft, not rubbery, chew
CHEESE, PARMESAN
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Boar’s Head Parmigiano-Reggiano
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Rich and complex flavor balances tanginess and nuttiness
- Dry, crumbly texture yet creamy with a crystalline crunch, not rubbery or dense
- Aged a minimum of 12 months for better flavor and texture
CHEESE, PEPPER JACK
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Boar’s Head Monterey Jack Cheese with Jalapeño
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Buttery, tangy cheese
- Clean, balanced flavor with assertive spice
CHEESE, PROVOLONE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Provolone Vernengo
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Bold, nutty, and tangy flavor, not plasticky or bland
- Firm, dry texture
CHEESE, RICOTTA, PART-SKIM
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Calabro
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Clean, fresh flavor, not rancid or sour from addition of gums or stabilizers
- Creamy texture with perfect curds, unlike chalky, grainy, and soggy competitors
CHEESE, SWISS
FOR CHEESE PLATE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Edelweiss Creamery Emmentaler
Runner-Up: Emmi Kaltbach
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Subtle flavor with sweet, buttery, nutty, and fruity notes
- Firm yet gently giving texture, not rubbery
- Aged longer for better flavor, resulting in larger eyes
- Mildly pungent yet balanced
FOR CHEESE PLATE OR COOKING
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
EMMI EMMENTALER CHEESE AOC
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Creamy texture
- Salty mildness preferable for grilled cheese sandwiches
CHICKEN, WHOLE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Mary’s Free Range Air-Chilled (also sold as Pitman’s)
Runner-Up: Bell & Evans Air Chilled Premium Fresh
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Great, savory chicken flavor
- Very tender
- Air-chilled for minimum water retention and cleaner flavor
CHICKEN, BREASTS, BONELESS SKINLESS
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Bell & Evans Air-Chilled
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Juicy and tender with clean chicken flavor
- Not salted or brined
- Air-chilled
- Aged on bone for at least six hours after slaughter for significantly more tender meat
CHILI POWDER
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Morton & Bassett
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Blend of chile peppers with added seasonings, not assertively hot, overly smoky, or one-dimensional
- Balance of sweet and smoky flavors
- Potent but not overwhelming
CHOCOLATE, DARK
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Ghirardelli 60 Percent Cacao Bittersweet Chocolate Premium Baking Bar
Runner-Up: Callebaut Intense Dark Chocolate, L-60-40NV (60% Cacao)
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Creamy texture, not grainy or chalky
- Dark, bold flavor with notes of cherries, wine, and smoke
- Balance of sweetness and bitterness
CHOCOLATE, DARK CHIPS
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Ghirardelli 60% Cacao Bittersweet
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Intense, complex flavor beats one-dimensional flavor of competitors
- Low sugar content highlights chocolate flavor
- High amount of cocoa butter ensures creamy, smooth texture, not gritty and grainy
- Wider, flatter shape and high percentage of fat help chips melt better in cookies
CHOCOLATE, MILK
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Dove Silky Smooth
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Intense, full, rich chocolate flavor
- Super-creamy texture from abundant milk fat and cocoa butter
- Not overwhelmingly sweet
CHOCOLATE, MILK CHIPS
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Hershey’s
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Bold chocolate flavor outshines too-sweet, weak chocolate flavor of other chips
- Complex with caramel and nutty notes
- Higher fat content makes texture creamier than grainy, artificial competitors
CHOCOLATE, UNSWEETENED
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Hershey’s Unsweetened Baking Bar
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Well-rounded, complex flavor
- Assertive chocolate flavor and deep notes of cocoa
CHOCOLATE, WHITE CHIPS
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Guittard Choc-Au-Lait
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Creamy texture, not waxy or crunchy
- Silky smooth meltability from high fat content
- Complex flavor like high-quality real chocolate, no artificial or off-flavors
CINNAMON
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Penzeys Extra Fancy Vietnamese Cassia
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Warm, fragrant aroma with clove, fruity, and slightly smoky flavors
- Mellow start with spicy finish
- Strong yet not overpowering
- Not harsh, bitter, dusty, or gritty
NOTE: Available through mail order, Penzeys (800-741-7787, Penzeys.com).
COCOA POWDER
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Hershey’s Natural Unsweetened
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Full, strong chocolate flavor
- Complex flavor with notes of coffee, cinnamon, orange, and spice
COCONUT MILK
FOR SAVORY RECIPES
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Chaokoh
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Strong coconut flavor
- Smooth and creamy texture superior to competitors
- Not very sweet, ideal for savory recipes like soups and stir-fries
FOR SWEET RECIPES
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
KA-ME
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Rich, velvety texture, not too thin or watery
- Fruity and complex flavor, not mild or bland
- Ideal sweetness for desserts
COFFEE, WHOLE-BEAN, SUPERMARKET
DARK ROAST
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Millstone Colombian Supremo
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Deep, complex, and balanced flavor without metallic, overly acidic, or otherwise unpleasant notes
- Smoky and chocolaty with a bitter, not burnt, finish
MEDIUM ROAST
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Peet’s Coffee Café Domingo and Millstone Breakfast Blend
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Extremely smooth but bold-tasting with a strong finish
- Rich chocolate and toast flavors
- Few defective beans and low acidity
COFFEE, DECAF
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Maxwell House Decaf Original Roast
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Smooth, mellow flavor without being acidic or harsh
- Complex, with a slightly nutty aftertaste
- Made with only flavorful Arabica beans
CORNMEAL
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Arrowhead Mills Whole Grain
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Clean, pure corn flavor comes from using whole-grain kernels
- Ideal texture resembling slightly damp, fine sand, not too fine or too coarse
CRABMEAT
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Phillips Premium
Crab Jumbo
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Moist, plump, meaty chunks
- Taste comparable to freshly picked crabmeat
CURRY POWDER
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Penzeys Sweet
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Balanced, neither too sweet nor too hot
- Complex and vivid earthy flavor, not thin, bland, or one-dimensional
NOTE: Available through mail order, Penzeys (800-741-7787, Penzeys.com).
DINNER ROLLS, FROZEN
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Pepperidge Farm Stone Baked Artisan French Dinner Rolls
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Pleasantly wheaty and yeasty flavor
- Chewy, tender insides and crispy crust
- Tastes closest to fresh homemade
FIVE-SPICE POWDER
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Frontier Natural Products Co-Op
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Woodsy, sweet, and aromatic taste
- Harmonious flavor with a nice spice kick
FLOUR, ALL-PURPOSE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
King Arthur Unbleached Enriched
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Fresh, toasty flavor
- No metallic taste or other off-flavors
- Consistent results across recipes
- Made tender, flaky pie crust, hearty biscuits, crisp cookies, and chewy, sturdy bread
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
PILLSBURY UNBLEACHED ENRICHED
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Clean, toasty, and hearty flavor
- No metallic or other off-flavors
- Consistent results across recipes
- Made flaky pie crust, chewy cookies, and tender biscuits, muffins, and cakes
FLOUR, WHOLE-WHEAT
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
King Arthur Premium
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Finely ground for hearty but not overly coarse texture in bread and pancakes
- Sweet, nutty flavor
GIARDINIERA
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Pastene
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Sharp, vinegary tang
- Crunchy mix of vegetables
- Mellow heat that’s potent but not overpowering
GNOCCHI
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Gia Russa
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Tender, pillowlike texture
- Nice potato flavor
- Slightly sour taste that disappears when paired with tomato sauce
HAM, BLACK FOREST DELI
FOR COOKING
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Dietz & Watson Smoked
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Good texture
- Nice ham flavor
FOR EATING ON ITS OWN
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Abraham’s Black Forest Prosciutto Ham
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Concentrated, silky texture
- Intense ham flavor with bold smokiness
HAM, PROSCIUTTO
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Volpi
Best Buy: Del Duca
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Tender and buttery flavor
- Silky and supple texture
- Very thin slices
HAM, SPIRAL-SLICED, HONEY-CURED
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Cook’s Spiral Sliced Hickory Smoked Honey
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Good balance of smokiness, saltiness, and sweetness
- Moist, tender yet firm texture, not dry or too wet
- Clean, meaty ham flavor
HOISIN SAUCE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Kikkoman
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Balances sweet, salty, pungent, and spicy flavors
- Initial burn mellows into harmonious and aromatic blend without bitterness
HORSERADISH
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Boar’s Head Pure Horseradish
WHY WE LIKE IT
- No preservatives, just horseradish, vinegar, and salt (found in refrigerated section)
- Natural flavor and hot without being overpowering
HOT DOGS
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Nathan’s Famous Beef Franks
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Meaty, robust, and hearty flavor, not sweet, sour, or too salty
- Juicy but not greasy
- Firm, craggy texture, not rubbery, mushy, or chewy
HOT FUDGE SAUCE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Hershey’s Hot Fudge
WHY WE LIKE IT
- True fudge flavor, not weak or overly sweet
- Thick, smooth, and buttery texture
HOT SAUCE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Huy Fong Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce
Runner-Up: Frank’s RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Right combination of punchy heat, saltiness, sweetness, and garlic
- Full, rich flavor
- Mild heat that’s not too hot
HUMMUS
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Sabra Classic
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Nutty, earthy flavor
- Thick, creamy texture
- Clean flavor of tahini
ICE CREAM BARS
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Dove Bar Vanilla Ice Cream with Milk Chocolate
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Rich, prominent chocolate flavor
- Thick, crunchy chocolate coating
- Dense, creamy ice cream with pure vanilla flavor
- Milk chocolate, not coconut oil, listed first in coating ingredients
ICE CREAM, CHOCOLATE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Ben & Jerry’s
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Deep, concentrated chocolate flavor, not too light or sweet
- Dense and creamy texture
ICE CREAM, VANILLA
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Ben & Jerry’s
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Complex yet balanced vanilla flavor from real vanilla extract
- Sweetness solely from sugar, rather than corn syrup
- Creamy richness from both egg yolks and small amount of stabilizers
ICED TEA
LOOSE LEAF
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Tazo Iced Black Tea
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Distinctive flavor with herbal notes
- Balanced level of strength and astringency
BOTTLED, WITH LEMON
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Lipton PureLeaf
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Bright, balanced, and natural tea and lemon flavors
- Uses concentrated tea leaves to extract flavor
KETCHUP
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Heinz Organic
Best Buy: Hunt’s
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Clean, pure sweetness from sugar, not high-fructose corn syrup
- Bold, harmonious punch of saltiness, sweetness, tang, and tomato flavor
LEMONADE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Natalie’s Natural
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Natural-tasting lemon flavor, without artificial flavors or off-notes
- Perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, unlike many overly sweet competitors
- Contains 20% lemon juice
MACARONI & CHEESE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Kraft Homestyle Dinner Classic Cheddar Cheese Sauce
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Reinforces flavor with blue and cheddar cheeses
- Uses creamy, clingy liquid cheese sauce
- Dry noodles, rather than frozen, for substantial texture and bite
- Crunchy, buttery bread-crumb topping
MALT POWDER, DIASTATIC
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Hoosier Hill Farm Old Fashioned Dry Malt (Diastatic) Powder
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Converts starches in flour to sugar to help develop crust in breads
- Different from plain malt powder or malt syrup
MAPLE SYRUP
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Maple Grove Farms 100% Pure Grade A Dark Amber
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Clean yet rich maple flavor, not too mild, harsh, or artificial in flavor
- Moderate sweetness bests overwhelmingly sugary competitors
- Ideal consistency, neither too thin nor too thick like pancake syrups made from corn syrup
MAYONNAISE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Blue Plate Real
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Great balance of taste and texture
- Richer, deeper flavor from using egg yolks alone (no egg whites)
- Short ingredient list that’s close to homemade
MAYONNAISE, LIGHT
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Hellmann’s Light
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Bright, balanced flavor close to full-fat counterpart, not overly sweet like other light mayos
- Not as creamy as full-fat but passable texture
NOTE: Hellmann’s is known as Best Foods west of the Rockies.
MIRIN (JAPANESE RICE WINE)
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Mitoku Organic Mikawa Mirin Sweet Rice Seasoning
Best Buy: Eden Mirin Rice Cooking Wine
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Good straight up or in teriyaki sauce
- Balanced flavors with woodsy overtones and smoky aftertaste
MOLASSES
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Brer Rabbit All Natural Unsulphured Mild Flavor
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Acidic yet balanced
- Strong and straightforward raisin-y taste
- Pleasantly bitter bite
MUSTARD, YELLOW
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Annie’s Naturals Organic
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Lists mustard seeds second in the ingredients for rich mustard flavor
- Good balance of heat and tang
- Relatively low salt content
MUSTARD, DIJON
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Grey Poupon
Runner-Up: Maille Dijon Originale Traditional and Roland Extra Strong
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Potent, bold, and very hot, not weak or mild
- Good balance of sweetness, tanginess, and sharpness
- Not overly acidic, sweet, or one-dimensional like competitors
MUSTARD, COARSE-GRAIN
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Grey Poupon Harvest Coarse Ground and Grey Poupon Country Dijon
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Spicy, tangy burst of mustard flavor
- High salt content amplifies flavor
- Contains no superfluous ingredients that mask mustard flavor
- Big, round seeds add pleasant crunch
- Just enough vinegar, not too sour or thin
OATS, ROLLED
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
BOB’S RED MILL ORGANIC EXTRA THICK
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Rich oat flavor with nutty, barley, and toasty notes
- Creamy, cohesive texture
- Plump grains with decent chew
OATS, STEEL-CUT
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Bob’s Red Mill Organic
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Rich and complex oat flavor with buttery, earthy, nutty, and whole-grain notes
- Creamy yet toothsome texture
- Moist but not sticky
NOTE: Not recommended for baking.
OLIVE OIL, CALIFORNIA
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
California Olive Ranch Arbequina
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Round and full, sweet olive flavor with little bitterness or pungency
- Complex with fruity, nutty, and buttery notes and fresh, pure olive aftertaste
OLIVE OIL, EXTRA-VIRGIN
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Columela
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Buttery flavor that is sweet and full with a peppery finish
- Aromatic and fruity, not bland or bitter
- Clean taste, comparable to a fresh-squeezed olive, outshines bland, greasy competitors
OLIVE OIL, REGULAR
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Colavita
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Peppery, fruity flavors
- Bold flavor, not too bland or mild like some competitors
- Loses most flavor when heated to 300 degrees, so not specifically recommended for cooking
OLIVES, PIMENTO-STUFFED GREEN
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Mezzetta Super Colossal Spanish Queen
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Meaty and juicy
- Bright taste when cooked
- Calcium chloride helps to firm flesh
ORANGE JUICE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Natalie’s 100% Florida Gourmet Pasteurized
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Squeezed within 24 hours of shipping
- Superfresh taste with no flavor manipulation
- Gentler pasteurization helps retain fresh-squeezed flavor
- Pleasantly variable flavor with notes of guava and mango
OYSTER CRACKERS
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Sunshine Krispy
Runner-Up: Olde Cape Cod All-Natural (also sold as Westminster Crackers)
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Wheaty, toasty flavor
- Flaky, delicate crackers that retain their crispness in soup
PANCAKE MIX
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Hungry Jack Buttermilk
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Flavorful balance of sweetness and tang well-seasoned with sugar and salt
- Light, extra fluffy texture
- Requires vegetable oil (along with milk and egg) to reconstitute the batter
PAPRIKA
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
The Spice House Hungarian Sweet
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Complex flavor with earthy, fruity notes
- Bright and bold, not bland and boring
- Rich, toasty aroma
NOTE: Available only through mail order, The Spice House (312-274-0378, TheSpiceHouse.com).
PASTA, CHEESE RAVIOLI
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Rosetto
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Creamy, plush, and rich blend of ricotta, Romano, and Parmesan cheeses
- Pasta with nice, springy bite
- Perfect dough-to-filling ratio
PASTA, CHEESE TORTELLINI
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Barilla Three Cheese
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Robustly flavored filling from combination of ricotta, Emmentaler, and Grana Padano cheeses
- Tender pasta that’s sturdy enough to withstand boiling but not so thick that it becomes doughy
PASTA, EGG NOODLES
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Pennsylvania Dutch Wide
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Balanced, buttery flavor with no off-flavors
- Light and fluffy texture, not gummy or starchy
PASTA, ELBOW MACARONI
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Barilla
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Rich, wheaty taste with no off-flavors
- Pleasantly hearty texture, not mushy or chewy
- Ridged surface and slight twist in shape hold sauce especially well
PASTA, FRESH
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Buitoni Fettuccine
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Firm but yielding, slightly chewy texture, not too delicate, gummy, or heavy
- Faint but discernible egg flavor with no chemical, plasticky, or otherwise unpleasant flavors
- Rough, porous surface absorbs sauce better than dried pasta
PASTA, LASAGNA
NOODLES
NO-BOIL
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
BARILLA
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Taste and texture of fresh pasta
- Delicate, flat noodles
WHOLE-WHEAT
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
BIONATURAE ORGANIC 100% WHOLE WHEAT
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Complex nutty, rich wheat flavor
- Substantial chewy texture without any grittiness
PASTA, PENNE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Mueller’s
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Hearty texture, not insubstantial or gummy
- Wheaty, slightly sweet flavor, not bland
PASTA, SPAGHETTI
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
De Cecco No. 12
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Rich, nutty, wheaty flavor
- Firm, ropy strands with good chew, not mushy, gummy, or mealy
- Semolina flour for resilient texture
- Dried at moderately low temperature for 18 hours to preserve flavor
PASTA, SPAGHETTI, GLUTEN-FREE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Jovial Gluten Free Brown Rice
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Springy texture
- Clean-tasting flavor
- No off-flavors or gumminess
PASTA, SPAGHETTI, WHOLE-WHEAT
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Bionaturae Organic 100% Whole Wheat
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Chewy, firm, and toothsome, not mushy or rubbery
- Full and nutty wheat flavor
PASTA SAUCE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Bertolli Tomato and Basil
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Fresh-cooked, balanced tomato flavor, not overly sweet
- Pleasantly chunky, not too smooth or pasty
- Not overseasoned with dry herbs like competitors
PASTA SAUCE, PREMIUM
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Victoria Marinara Sauce
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Nice, bright acidity that speaks of real tomatoes
- Robust flavor comparable to homemade
PEANUT BUTTER, CREAMY
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Skippy
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Smooth, creamy, and spreadable
- Good balance of sweet and salty flavors
PEPPERCORNS, BLACK
ARTISAN
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Kalustyan’s Indian Tellicherry
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Enticing and fragrant, not musty, aroma with flavor to back it up and moderate heat
- Fresh, complex flavor at once sweet and spicy, earthy and smoky, fruity and floral
NOTE: Available only by mail order, Kalustyan’s (800-352-3451, Kalustyans.com).
SUPERMARKET
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
MORTON & BASSETT ORGANIC WHOLE
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Spicy but not too hot
- Sharp, fresh, classic pepper flavor
PEPPERS, ROASTED RED
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Dunbars Sweet
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Balance of smokiness and sweetness
- Mild, sweet, and earthy red pepper flavor
- Firm texture, not slimy or mushy
- Packed in simple yet strong brine of salt and water without distraction of other strongly flavored ingredients
PEPPERONI
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Margherita Italian Style
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Nice balance of meatiness and spice
- Tangy, fresh flavor with hints of fruity licorice and peppery fennel
- Thin slices with the right amount of chew
PICKLES, BREAD-AND-BUTTER
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Bubbies
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Subtle, briny tang
- All-natural solution that uses real sugar, not high-fructose corn syrup
PICKLES, WHOLE KOSHER DILL
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Boar’s Head
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Authentic, garlicky flavor and firm, snappy crunch
- Balanced salty, sour, and garlic flavors
- Fresh and refrigerated, not processed and shelf-stable
PIZZA, CHEESE, FROZEN
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
California Pizza Kitchen Crispy Thin Crust Margherita
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Pleasing combination of flavors and fresh taste with no offensive off-flavors
- Low in preservatives as compared to the competition
- Chunks of tomato in place of sauce
PORK, PREMIUM
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Snake River Farms American Kurobuta Berkshire Pork
Runner-Up: D’Artagnan Berkshire Pork Chops, Milanese-Style Cut
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Deep pink tint, which indicates higher pH level and more flavorful meat
- Tender texture and juicy, intensely porky flavor
POTATO CHIPS
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Lay’s Kettle Cooked Original
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Big potato flavor, no offensive off-flavors
- Perfectly salted
- Slightly thick chips that aren’t too delicate or brittle
- Not too greasy
POTATO CHIPS, REDUCED FAT
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Cape Cod 40% Reduced Fat
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Real potato flavor with excellent crunch and texture
- Contain only potatoes, canola oil, and salt
- With less sodium than many competitors, they have just the right balance of salt
PRESERVES, RASPBERRY
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Smucker’s
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Clean, strong raspberry flavor, not too tart or sweet
- Not overly seedy
- Ideal, spreadable texture, not too thick, artificial, or overprocessed
PRESERVES, STRAWBERRY
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Welch’s
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Big, distinct strawberry flavor
- Natural-tasting and not overwhelmingly sweet
- Thick and spreadable texture, not runny, slimy, or too smooth
RELISH, SWEET PICKLE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Cascadian Farm
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Piquant, sweet flavor, lacks out-of-place flavors such as cinnamon and clove present in competitors
- Fresh and natural taste, free of yellow dye #5 and high-fructose corn syrup
- Good texture, not mushy like competitors
RICE, ARBORIO
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
RiceSelect
Runner-Up: Riso Baricella Superfino
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Creamier than competitors
- Smooth grains
- Characteristic good bite of Arborio rice in risotto where al dente is ideal
RICE, BASMATI
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Tilda Pure
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Very long grains expand greatly with cooking, a result of being aged for a minimum of one year, as required in India
- Ideal, fluffy texture, not dry, gummy, or mushy
- Nutty taste with no off-flavors
- Sweet aroma
RICE, BROWN
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Goya Natural Long Grain
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Firm yet tender grains
- Bold, toasty, nutty flavor
RICE, JASMINE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Dynasty
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Floral fragrance
- Separate, toothsome grains
RICE, LONG-GRAIN WHITE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Lundberg Organic Long Grain
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Nutty, buttery, and toasty flavor
- Distinct, smooth grains that offer some chew without being overly chewy
RICE, READY
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Minute Ready to Serve White
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Parboiled long-grain white rice that is ready in less than 2 minutes
- Toasted, buttery flavor
- Firm grains with al dente bite
RICE, WILD
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Goose Valley
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Plump grains
- Firm texture
- Woodsy flavor
SALSA, HOT
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Pace Hot Chunky
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Good balance of bright tomato, chile, and vegetal flavors
- Chunky, almost crunchy texture, not mushy or thin
- Spicy and fiery but not overpowering
SALT
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Maldon Sea Salt
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Light and airy texture
- Delicately crunchy flakes
- Not so coarse as to be overly crunchy or gritty nor so fine as to disappear
SAUSAGE, BREAKFAST
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Jimmy Dean Fully Cooked Original Pork Sausage Links
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Nice and plump with crisp golden crust
- Good balance of sweetness and spiciness with hints of maple
- Tender, super-juicy meat, not rubbery, spongy, or greasy
SOUP, CANNED CHICKEN NOODLE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Muir Glen Organic
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Organic chicken and vegetables and plenty of seasonings give it a fresh taste and spicy kick
- Firm, not mushy, vegetables and noodles
- No off-flavors
SOUP, CANNED TOMATO
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Progresso Vegetable Classics Hearty Tomato
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Includes fresh, unprocessed tomatoes, not just tomato puree like some competitors
- Tangy, slightly herbaceous flavor
- Balanced seasoning and natural sweetness
- Medium body and slightly chunky texture
SOY SAUCE
FOR COOKING
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Lee Kum Kee Table Top Premium
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Pleasantly salty yet sweet with high sodium and sugar content
- Depth of flavor balances salty, sweet, roasted, and fruity notes
- Aromatic in rice and teriyaki
FOR DIPPING
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Ohsawa Nama Shoyu Organic Unpasteurized
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Lower sodium content allows clean, mellow taste to shine in uncooked applications
- Rich and nuanced flavor with sweet, floral, and caramel notes resulting from traditional, slow-brewed production
SWEETENED CONDENSED MILK
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Borden Eagle Brand and Nestlé Carnation
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Made with whole milk
- Creamier in desserts and balances more assertive notes from other ingredients
TARTAR SAUCE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Legal Sea Foods
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Creamy, nicely balanced sweet/tart base
- Lots of vegetable chunks
TEA, BLACK
FOR PLAIN TEA
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Twinings English Breakfast
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Bright, bold, and flavorful yet not too strong
- Fruity, floral, and fragrant
- Smooth, slightly astringent profile preferred for tea without milk
FOR TEA WITH MILK
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
TAZO AWAKE
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Clean, strong taste
- Smoky and fruity with notes of clove, cinnamon, and vanilla
- Aromatic but not overwhelming
- Good balance of flavor and intensity
- More astringent profile stands up to milk
TERIYAKI SAUCE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Annie Chun’s All Natural
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Distinct teriyaki flavor without offensive or dominant flavors, unlike competitors
- Smooth, rich texture, not too watery or gluey
TOMATOES, CANNED CRUSHED
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Tuttorosso in Thick Puree with Basil
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Chunky texture, not pasty, mushy, or watery
- Bright, fresh tomato taste
- Balance of saltiness, sweetness, and acidity
NOTE: Available only in New England, Mid-Atlantic region, and Florida.
TOMATOES, CANNED DICED
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Hunt’s
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Bright, fresh tomato flavor that balances sweet and tart
- Firm yet tender texture
TOMATOES, CANNED FIRE ROASTED
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
DeLallo
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Intense smoky flavor
- Natural tomato texture
TOMATOES, CANNED PUREED
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Muir Glen Organic
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Full tomato flavor without any bitter, sour, or tinny notes
- Pleasantly thick, even consistency, not watery or thin
TOMATOES, CANNED WHOLE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Muir Glen Organic
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Pleasing balance of bold acidity and fruity sweetness
- Firm yet tender texture, even after hours of simmering
TOMATO PASTE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Goya
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Bright, robust tomato flavors
- Balance of sweet and tart flavors
TORTILLA CHIPS
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Santitas Authentic Mexican Style White Corn
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Mild and pleasantly salty flavor, not bland, artificial, or rancid
- Sturdy yet crunchy and crisp texture, not brittle, stale, or cardboardlike
TORTILLAS, FLOUR
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Old El Paso 6-Inch
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Thin and flaky texture, not doughy or stale
- Slightly rich and buttery
TOSTADAS, CORN
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Mission Estilo Casero
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Crisp, crunchy texture
- Good corn flavor
- Flavor and texture that are substantial enough to stand up to hearty toppings
TUNA, CANNED
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Wild Planet Wild Albacore
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Rich, fresh-tasting, and flavorful, but not fishy
- Hearty, substantial chunks of tuna
TUNA, CANNED PREMIUM
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Nardin Bonito Del Norte Ventresca Fillets
Best Buy: Tonnino Tuna Ventresca Yellowfin in Olive Oil
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Creamy, delicate meat and tender yet firm fillets
- Full, rich tuna flavor
TURKEY, WHOLE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Empire Kosher
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Moist and dense texture without being watery, chewy, or squishy
- Meaty, full turkey flavor
- Buttery white meat
- Koshering process renders brining unnecessary
VANILLA BEANS
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
McCormick Madagascar
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Moist, seed-filled pods
- Complex, robust flavor with caramel notes
VANILLA EXTRACT
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
McCormick Pure
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Strong, rich vanilla flavor where others are weak and sharp
- Complex flavor with spicy, caramel notes and a sweet undertone
VEGETABLE OIL
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Crisco Natural Blend Oil
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Unobtrusive, mild flavor for stir-frying and sautéing and for use in baked goods and in uncooked applications such as mayonnaise and vinaigrette
- Neutral taste and absence of fishy or metallic flavors when used for frying
VINEGAR, APPLE CIDER
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Spectrum Naturals Organic Unfiltered
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Good balance of sweet and tart
- Distinct apple flavor with a floral aroma and assertive, tangy qualities
VINEGAR, BALSAMIC
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Lucini Gran Riserva Balsamico
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Sweet, nuanced flavor lacking any harshness or astringency
- Smooth and thick like traditional balsamic, not too thin or light
- Balance of tanginess and sweetness with complexity and a slight acidic zing
VINEGAR, RED WINE
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Laurent Du Clos
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Crisp red wine flavor balanced by stronger than average acidity and subtle sweetness
- Complex yet pleasing taste from multiple varieties of grapes
VINEGAR, WHITE WINE
FOR COOKING
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Colavita Aged
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Balance of tanginess and subtle sweetness, not overly acidic or weak
- Fruity, bright, and perfumed
FOR VINAIGRETTES
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
SPECTRUM NATURALS ORGANIC
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Rich, dark flavor tastes fermented and malty, not artificial or harsh
- Fruity flavor with caramel, earthy, and nutty notes
YOGURT, FROZEN
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
TCBY Classic Vanilla Bean
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Balanced sweetness
- Straightforward vanilla flavor
- Smooth texture
YOGURT, GREEK NONFAT
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Olympus Traditional Strained, Plain
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Smooth, creamy consistency, not watery or puddinglike from added thickeners, such as pectin or gelatin
- Pleasantly tangy, well-balanced flavor, not sour or metallic
YOGURT, GREEK FULL-FAT
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Olympus Traditional Strained, Plain 10% Fat
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Rich taste and satiny texture, not thin, watery, or soupy
- Buttery, tangy flavor
YOGURT, WHOLE-MILK
TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE
Brown Cow Cream Top Plain
WHY WE LIKE IT
- Rich, well-rounded flavor, not sour or bland
- Especially creamy, smooth texture, not thin or watery
- Higher fat content contributes to flavor and texture