Stocking Your Pantry

---

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 Spanish

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

RUNNERS-UP

Flott Salt-Packed

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

RUNNERS-UP

Musselman’s Home Style

BACON, SUPERMARKET

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Farmland Thick Sliced Smoked

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Good balance of saltiness and sweetness
• Smoky and full flavored, not one-dimensional
• Very meaty, not too fatty or insubstantial
• Crisp yet hearty texture, not tough or dry

RUNNERS-UP

Boar’s Head Brand Naturally Smoked Sliced and Hormel Black Label Original

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

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

RUNNERS-UP

Bush’s Best Original and Van Camp’s Original

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

RUNNERS-UP

Goya and Progresso

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

RUNNERS-UP

Goya

BEANS, CANNED RED KIDNEY

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Goya

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Sweet with strong bean flavor
• Beautiful red, plump beans
• Smooth, creamy texture, not mushy, chalky, or too firm
• Flavor boost from added sugar and salt

RUNNERS-UP

S&W

BEANS, CANNED WHITE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Goya Cannellini

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Clean, earthy flavor
• Smooth, creamy interior with tender skins
• Not full of broken beans like some competitors

RUNNERS-UP

Bush’s Best Cannellini Beans White Kidney Beans

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

RUNNERS-UP

Goya Traditional Refried Pinto Beans and Old El Paso

BREAD, MULTIGRAIN

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Nature’s Own Specialty 12 Grain

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Substantial, chewy slices
• Nutty, hearty seeds throughout and topped with rolled oats
• Uses no white flour

RUNNERS-UP

Arnold 12 Grain, Pepperidge Farm 15 Grain

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

RUNNERS-UP

Pepperidge Farm Farmhouse Hearty White

BREAD, WHOLE-WHEAT SANDWICH

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Pepperidge Farm 100% Whole Wheat

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)

RUNNERS-UP

Rudi’s Organic Bakery Honey Sweet Whole Wheat

NOTE: Available only east of the Mississippi River.

BREAD CRUMBS, PANKO

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Ian’s Panko

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

RUNNERS-UP

College Inn Bold Stock Tender Beef Flavor

BROTH, CHICKEN

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Swanson Chicken Stock

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Strong chicken flavor, not watery, beefy, or vegetal
• Hearty and pleasant aroma
• Roasted notes, not sour, rancid, or salty like some competitors
• Flavor-boosting ingredients include carrots, celery, and onions

RUNNERS-UP

Better Than Bouillon Chicken Base

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

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Rich, balanced chocolate flavor from both natural and Dutch-processed cocoa
• Moist, chewy, and fudgy with perfect texture

RUNNERS-UP

Barefoot Contessa Outrageous

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

RUNNERS-UP

Land O’Lakes and Vermont Creamery European-Style

CHEESE, AMERICAN, PRESLICED

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Land O’Lakes

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

RUNNERS-UP

Kraft Deli Deluxe White

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, BLUE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

For dressings and dips: Stella

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Sweet, balanced, and mild flavor, not too pungent
• Wet and extremely crumbly texture similar to feta

RUNNERS-UP

Danish Blue

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

For eating out of hand: Stilton

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Balance of buttery, nutty, sweet, and salty flavors
• Fairly firm with sliceable yet crumbly texture

RUNNERS-UP

Roquefort

CHEESE, CHEDDAR, EXTRA-SHARP

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Cabot Private Stock

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

RUNNERS-UP

Cabot Extra-Sharp, Grafton Village Cheese Company Premium, Cabot Sharp, and Tillamook Special Reserve

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

RUNNERS-UP

Cabot All Natural Sharp and Cracker Barrel Natural Sharp

CHEESE, CHEDDAR, PREMIUM

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Milton Creamery Prairie Breeze

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

RUNNERS-UP

Cabot Clothbound, Tillamook Vintage White Extra Sharp, and Beecher’s Flagship Reserve

CHEESE, CHEDDAR, REDUCED-FAT

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Cracker Barrel Reduced Fat Sharp

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Ample creaminess
• Strong cheesy flavor
• Good for cooking

RUNNERS-UP

Cabot 50% Light Sharp

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

RUNNERS-UP

Tillamook Sharp, Cracker Barrel Sharp White, and Grafton Village Cheese Company

CHEESE, COTTAGE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Hood Country Style

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Rich, well-seasoned, and buttery flavor
• Velvety, creamy texture
• Pillowy curds

RUNNERS-UP

Friendship 4% California Style and Breakstone’s 4% Small Curd

CHEESE, CREAM

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Philadelphia

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Rich, tangy, and milky flavor
• Thick, creamy texture, not pasty, waxy, or chalky

RUNNERS-UP

Organic Valley

CHEESE, FETA

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Mt. Vikos Traditional Feta

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Strong tangy, salty flavor
• Creamy, dense texture
• Pleasing crumbly texture

RUNNERS-UP

Valbreso Feta

CHEESE, FONTINA

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

For eating out of hand: 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

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

For cooking: 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
• Smooth and creamy both unheated and baked
• High salt content

RUNNERS-UP

Vermont Creamery, Chevrion, Cypress Grove

CHEESE, GRUYèRE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Gruyère Reserve Wheel (Peney-Le-Jorat)

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

RUNNERS-UP

Gruyère Salé

CHEESE, MOZZARELLA

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Galbani (formerly Sorrento) Whole Milk

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Creamy and buttery with clean dairy flavor
• Soft, not rubbery, chew

RUNNERS-UP

Kraft Low-Moisture Part Skim, Boar’s Head Whole-Milk Low Moisture, and Kraft Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim

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

RUNNERS-UP

Il Villagio Parmigiano-Reggiano and BelGioioso

CHEESE, PEPPERJACK

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Boar’s Head Monterey Jack Cheese with Jalapeño

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Buttery, tangy cheese
• Clean, balanced flavor with assertive spice

RUNNERS-UP

Tillamook Pepper Jack Cheese

CHEESE, PROVOLONE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Provolone Vernengo

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Bold, nutty, and tangy flavor, not plasticky or bland
• Firm, dry texture

RUNNERS-UP

BelGioioso Sliced Mild

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

RUNNERS-UP

Freshly made ricotta cheese without gums or stabilizers

CHEESE, SWISS

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

For cheese plate: Edelweiss Creamery Emmenthaler

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

RUNNERS-UP

Emmi Kaltbach

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

For cheese plate or cooking: Emmi Emmenthaler Cheese AOC

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Creamy texture
• Salty mildness preferable for grilled cheese sandwiches

RUNNERS-UP

For cooking only: Boar’s Head Gold Label Imported

CHICKEN, WHOLE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Mary’s Free Range Air-Chilled

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Great, savory chicken flavor
• Very tender
• Air-chilled for minimum water retention and cleaner flavor

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Bell & Evans Air-Chilled Premium Fresh

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Firm and tender texture
• Full chicken flavor
• Moist and juicy

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

RUNNERS-UP

Springer Mountain Farms and Eberly’s Free Range Young Organic

CHILI POWDER

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Morton & Bassett

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Bold, full-flavored heat
• Multidimensional flavor from a blend of cayenne and other chiles
• Spices that complement but don’t overwhelm the chiles

RUNNERS-UP

Penzeys Spices

CHOCOLATE, DARK

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Ghirardelli 60% Cacao Bittersweet Chocolate Premium Baking Bar

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Creamy texture, not grainy or chalky
• Complex flavor with notes of cherry and wine with slight smokiness
• Balance of sweetness and bitterness

RUNNERS-UP

Callebaut Intense Dark L-60-40NV (60% Cacao)

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

RUNNERS-UP

Endangered Species All-Natural Smooth and Green & Black’s Organic

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, 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

RUNNERS-UP

Hershey’s Special Dark Mildly Sweet

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

RUNNERS-UP

Valrhona Cacao Pate Extra 100% and Scharffen Berger Unsweetened Dark

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

RUNNERS-UP

Ghirardelli Classic White

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

RUNNERS-UP

Smith and Truslow Freshly Ground Organic and Adams Ground

NOTE: Available through mail order, Penzeys (800-741-7787, www.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

RUNNERS-UP

Droste

COCONUT MILK

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

For savory recipes: 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

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

For sweet recipes: 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

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Dark roast: 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

RUNNERS-UP

Starbucks Coffee House Blend

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Medium roast: Peet’s Coffee Café Domingo

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Extremely smooth but bold-tasting with a strong finish
• Rich chocolate and toast flavors
• Few defective beans, low acidity, and optimal moisture

RUNNERS-UP

Millstone Breakfast Blend

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

RUNNERS-UP

Peet’s Decaf House Blend Ground and Starbucks Coffee Decaf House Blend

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

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, www.penzeys.com).

DINNER ROLLS, FROZEN

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Pillsbury Oven Baked Dinner Rolls/Crusty French

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Fluffy insides with crispy crusts
• Close to homemade texture

EGG WHITES, PROCESSED

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Eggology 100% Egg Whites

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Work well in egg white omelets
• Pasteurized; safe for use in uncooked applications
• Make satisfactory baked goods

FIVE-SPICE POWDER

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Frontier Natural Products Co-op

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Nice depth, not one-dimensional
• Balanced heat and sweetness

RUNNERS-UP

Dynasty Chinese Five Spices, McCormick Gourmet Collection Chines Five Spice, Dean & DeLuca Five Spice Blend, and Morton & Bassett Chinese Five Spice

FLOUR, ALL-PURPOSE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

King Arthur Unbleached

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

RUNNERS-UP

Gold Medal Enriched Bleached Presifted, Gold Medal Unbleached, and Heckers/Ceresota Unbleached Enriched Presifted

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

RUNNERS-UP

Bob’s Red Mill Organic

FRENCH FRIES, FROZEN

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Alexia Organic Yukon Select Fries

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Crispy exteriors with fluffy, creamy interiors
• Earthy, potato-y flavor

RUNNERS-UP

Ore-Ida Golden Fries

GIARDINIERA

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Pastene

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Sharp, vinegary tang
• Crunchy mix of vegetables
• Mellow heat that’s potent but not overpowering

RUNNERS-UP

Scala Hot

GNOCCHI

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Gia Russa Gnocchi with Potato

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Tender, pillowlike texture
• Nice potato flavor
• Slightly sour taste that disappears when paired with tomato sauce

RUNNERS-UP

De Cecco

GRITS

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Anson Mills

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Full, ripe, fresh corn flavor
• Nice chew while still thick and creamy

RUNNERS-UP

Arrowhead Mills, Bob’s Red Mill

HAM, BLACK FOREST DELI

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

For Cooking: Dietz & Watson

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

For Eating on Its Own: Abraham’s Black Forest Prosciutto Ham

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Good texture
• Nice ham flavor
• Concentrated, silky texture
• Intense ham flavor with bold smokiness

HAM, COUNTRY

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Harper’s Grand Champion Whole Country Ham

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Aged 3 to 6 months
• Porky and complex, with robust flavor and balanced salt levels
• Available online or in some southern supermarkets

RUNNERS-UP

Burgers’ Smokehouse Ready to Cook Country Ham; Edwards Virginia Traditions Uncooked Virginia Ham

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

RUNNERS-UP

Ba-Tampte Prepared Horseradish

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

RUNNERS-UP

Hebrew National Beef Franks

HOT FUDGE SAUCE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Hershey’s Hot Fudge Topping

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 and Frank’s RedHot Original

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Right combination of punchy heat, saltiness, sweetness, and garlic
• Full, rich flavor
• Mild heat that’s not too hot

RUNNERS-UP

Original Louisiana, Tapatio Salsa Picante

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

RUNNERS-UP

Häagen-Dazs Vanilla Milk Chocolate All Natural, Blue Bunny Big Alaska, and Good Humor Milk Chocolate

ICE CREAM CONES

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Joy Classic Waffle Cones

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Lightly sweet, with vanilla, toasty, and nutty flavors
• Crunchy and crisp but not overly hard
• Individual paper jackets keep things neat

RUNNERS-UP

Joy Sugar Cones, Keebler Waffle Cones, Keebler Sugar Cones, Comet (Nabisco) Sugar Cones

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

RUNNERS-UP

Friendly’s Rich & Creamy Classic Chocolate Ice Cream

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

RUNNERS-UP

Häagen-Dazs Vanilla

ICED TEA

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Loose leaf:

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Tazo Iced Black Tea

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Distinctive flavor with herbal notes
• Balanced level of strength and astringency

RUNNERS-UP

Luzianne and Tetley Premium Blend

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Bottled, with lemon: Lipton PureLeaf

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Bright, balanced, and natural tea and lemon flavors
• Uses concentrated tea leaves to extract flavor

RUNNERS-UP

Gold Peak

JUICE, FROZEN ORANGE CONCENTRATE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Minute Maid Original Frozen Concentrated Orange Juice

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Full-bodied orange flavor
• Good texture, includes some pulp

RUNNERS-UP

Tropicana 100% Juice Frozen Concentrated Orange Juice

KETCHUP

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Heinz Organic

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Clean, pure sweetness from sugar, not high-fructose corn syrup
• Bold, harmonious punch of saltiness, sweetness, tang, and tomato flavor

RUNNERS-UP

Hunt’s and Simply Heinz

LEMONADE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Natalie’s Natural Lemonade

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Natural-tasting lemon flavor from 20 percent real lemon juice, without artificial flavors or off-notes
• Perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, unlike many overly sweet competitors

RUNNERS-UP

Simply Lemonade and Minute Maid Premium Frozen Concentrate

MACARONI & CHEESE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Kraft Homestyle Classic Cheddar

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 breadcrumb topping

RUNNERS-UP

Kraft Velveeta Original

MAPLE SYRUP

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Maple Grove Farms 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

RUNNERS-UP

Highland Sugarworks Grade B (especially in baking) and Camp Grade A Dark Amber

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

RUNNERS-UP

Hellmann’s Real, Hellmann’s Light, and Spectrum Organic

NOTE: Hellmann’s is known as Best Foods west of the Rockies.

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

RUNNERS-UP

Hellmann’s Canola Cholesterol Free

NOTE: Hellmann’s is known as Best Foods west of the Rockies.

MIRIN (JAPANESE RICE WINE)

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Eden Mirin Rice Cooking Wine

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Roasted flavor that is caramel-like and rich
• Subtle salty-sweet and balanced flavor

RUNNERS-UP

Sushi Chef Mirin Sweetened Sake and Kikkoman Aji-Mirin Sweet Cooking Rice Seasoning

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

RUNNERS-UP

Plantation Barbados Unsulphured and Grandma’s Molasses Unsulphured Original

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

RUNNERS-UP

Gulden’s, French’s Classic, and Westbrae Natural

MUSTARD, DIJON

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Grey Poupon

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

RUNNERS-UP

Maille Dijon Originale Traditional and Roland Extra Strong

MUSTARD, COARSE-GRAIN

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Grey Poupon Harvest Coarse Ground

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

RUNNERS-UP

Grey Poupon Country Dijon

OATS, ROLLED

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

For hot cereal: 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

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

For baking: Quaker Old-Fashioned

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Plump, almost crunchy texture with a slight chew, not gluey or mushy
• Hearty, oaty, and toasty flavor
• Subtly sweet with a natural taste

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

RUNNERS-UP

Arrowhead Mills Organic Hot Cereal, Country Choice Organic, and Hodgson’s Mill Premium

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

RUNNERS-UP

Sciabica’s Sevillano Variety Fall Harvest

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

RUNNERS-UP

Lucini Italia Premium Select and Colavita

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 F, so not specifically recommended for cooking

RUNNERS-UP

Filippo Berio

ORANGE JUICE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice Company

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Blend of Hamlin, Pineapple, and Valencia oranges
• Fresh, sweet, and fruity flavor without overly acidic, sour, or from-concentrate taste
• Gentler pasteurization helps retain fresh-squeezed flavor
• Pleasant amount of light pulp

RUNNERS-UP

Tropicana Pure Premium 100% Pure and Natural with Some Pulp

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

RUNNERS-UP

Aunt Jemima Original

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

RUNNERS-UP

Penzeys Hungary Sweet (available through mail order, Penzeys, 800-741-7787, www.penzeys.com)

NOTE: Available only through mail order, The Spice House (312-274-0378, www.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

RUNNERS-UP

Buitoni Four Cheese and Celentano

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

RUNNERS-UP

Seviroli and Buitoni Three Cheese

PASTA, EGG NOODLES

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Pennsylvania Dutch Wide Egg Noodles

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Balanced, buttery flavor with no off-flavors
• Light and fluffy texture, not gummy or starchy

RUNNERS-UP

De Cecco Egg Pappardelle; Light ‘n Fluffy Egg Noodles, Wide

PASTA, ELBOW MACARONI

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Barilla

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Rich flavor from egg yolks
• Firm, chewy bite
• Wide corkscrew shape

RUNNERS-UP

Mueller’s

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

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

No-boil: Barilla

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Taste and texture of fresh pasta
• Delicate, flat noodles

RUNNERS-UP

Ronzoni and Pasta DeFino

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Whole-wheat: Bionaturae Organic 100% Whole Wheat

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Complex nutty, rich wheat flavor
• Substantial chewy texture without any grittiness

RUNNERS-UP

DeLallo 100% Organic

PASTA, PENNE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Mueller’s Penne Rigate

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Hearty texture, not insubstantial or gummy
• Wheaty, slightly sweet flavor, not bland

RUNNERS-UP

Benedetto Cavalieri Penne Rigate and De Cecco

PASTA, SPAGHETTI

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

De Cecco Spaghetti No. 12

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Rich, nutty, wheaty flavor
• Firm, ropy strands with good chew, not mushy, gummy, or mealy

RUNNERS-UP

Rustichella D’Abruzzo Pasta Abruzzese di Semola di Grano Duro, Garofalo, and DeLallo Spaghetti No. 4

PASTA, SPAGHETTI, WHOLE-WHEAT

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Bionaturae 100% Whole Wheat

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Chewy, firm, and toothsome, not mushy or rubbery
• Full and nutty wheat flavor

RUNNERS-UP

Barilla PLUS Multigrain

PASTA SAUCE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Bertolli Tomato & 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

RUNNERS-UP

Francesco Rinaldi Traditional Marinara, Prego Marinara Italian, and Barilla Marinara

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

RUNNERS-UP

Classico Marinara with Plum Tomatoes and Olive Oil

PEANUT BUTTER, CREAMY

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Skippy

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Smooth, creamy, and spreadable
• Good balance of sweet and salty flavors

RUNNERS-UP

Jif Natural and Reese’s

PEPPERCORNS, BLACK

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

RUNNERS-UP

Morton & Bassett Organic Whole (widely available)

NOTE: Available only by mail order, Kalustyan’s (800-352-3451, www.kalustyans.com).

PEPPERONI, SLICED

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

RUNNERS-UP

Boar’s Head

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

RUNNERS-UP

Cento

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

RUNNERS-UP

Claussen

PIE CRUST, READY-MADE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Wholly Wholesome 9” Certified Organic Traditional Bake at Home Rolled Pie Dough

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Palm oil gives it a tender, flaky texture without artificial taste
• Sold in sheets so you can use your own pie plate
• Slightly sweet, rich flavor

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

RUNNERS-UP

Freschetta Ultra Thin Golden Baked Crispy 5-Cheese, Tombstone Extra Cheese Original, and Amy’s

PORK, PREMIUM

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Snake River Farms American Kurobuta (Berkshire) Pork

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Deep pink tint, which indicates higher pH level and more flavorful meat
• Tender texture and juicy, intensely pork-y flavor

RUNNERS-UP

D’Artagnan Berkshire Pork Chops (Milanese-Style Cut) and Eden Farms French-Cut Kurobuta Pork

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

RUNNERS-UP

Herr’s Crisp ’N Tasty and Utz

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

RUNNERS-UP

Lay’s Kettle Cooked Reduced Fat Extra Crunchy

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

RUNNERS-UP

Trappist Red Raspberry Jam

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

RUNNERS-UP

Smucker’s and Smucker’s Simply Fruit Spreadable Fruit

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

RUNNERS-UP

Heinz Premium

RICE, ARBORIO

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

RiceSelect

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Creamier than competitors
• Smooth grains
• Characteristic good bite of Arborio rice in risotto where al dente is ideal

RUNNERS-UP

Riso Baricella and Rienzi

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

RUNNERS-UP

Kohinoor Super

RICE, BROWN

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Goya Brown Rice Natural Long Grain

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Firm yet tender grains
• Bold, toasty, nutty flavor

RUNNERS-UP

Lundberg Organic Long Grain Brown

RICE, LONG-GRAIN WHITE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Lundberg Organic Long Grain White Rice

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Nutty, buttery, and toasty flavor
• Distinct, smooth grains that offer some chew without being overly chewy

RUNNERS-UP

Carolina Enriched Extra Long-Grain and Canilla Extra Long-Grain Enriched

RICE, READY

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Minute Ready to Serve White Rice

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

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

RUNNERS-UP

Newman’s Own All Natural Chunky Hot and Herdez Hot Salsa Casera

SALSA, MEDIUM

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Chi-Chi’s Medium Thick and Chunky Salsa

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Fresh, balanced flavor; vegetables are firm and crunchy
• Jalapeño chiles for medium-level heat

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

RUNNERS-UP

Fleur de Sel de Camargue, Morton Coarse Kosher, and Diamond Crystal Kosher

SAUSAGE, BREAKFAST

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Farmland Fully Cooked Pork Links

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Big pork flavor, not bland or overly spiced
• Good balance of saltiness and sweetness with pleasantly lingering spiciness
• Tender, super-juicy meat, not rubbery, spongy, or greasy

RUNNERS-UP

Farmland Original Pork Links

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

RUNNERS-UP

Progresso Traditional

SOUP, CANNED TOMATO

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Progresso Vegetable Classics Hearty

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

RUNNERS-UP

Imagine Organic Vine Ripened

SOY SAUCE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

For cooking: Lee Kum Kee Tabletop

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

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

For dipping: 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

STEAK SAUCE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Heinz 57 Sauce

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Mellow, restrained flavor that doesn’t overpower the meat
• Fruity, sweet and tangy flavor with hints of heat and smoke
• Smooth texture with enough body to cling to steak without being gluey

RUNNERS-UP

Lea & Perrins

SWEETENED CONDENSED MILK

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Borden Eagle Brand Whole Milk

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Made with whole milk; creamier in desserts and balances more assertive notes from other ingredients

RUNNERS-UP

Nestlé Carnation

TARTAR SAUCE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Legal Sea Foods

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Creamy, nicely balanced sweet/tart base
• Lots of vegetable chunks

RUNNERS-UP

McCormick Original

TEA, BLACK

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

For plain tea: 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

RUNNERS-UP

PG Tips

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

For tea with milk: 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

RUNNERS-UP

Tetley Specialty English Breakfast

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

RUNNERS-UP

Muir Glen Organic with Basil and Hunt’s Organic

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

RUNNERS-UP

Muir Glen Organic Diced Tomatoes

TOMATOES, CANNED PUREED

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Muir Glen Organic Tomato Puree

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Full tomato flavor without any bitter, sour, or tinny notes
• Pleasantly thick, even consistency, not watery or thin

RUNNERS-UP

Hunt’s, Progresso, and Cento

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

RUNNERS-UP

Hunt’s

TOMATO PASTE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Goya

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Bright, robust tomato flavors
• Balance of sweet and tart flavors

RUNNERS-UP

Pastene and Contadina

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

RUNNERS-UP

Tostitos 100% White Corn Restaurant Style, Green Mountain Gringo All Natural, and Tostitos Natural Yellow Corn Restaurant Style

TORTILLAS, FLOUR

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Old El Paso 6-Inch Flour Tortillas

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Thin and flaky texture, not doughy or stale
• Made with plenty of fat and salt

RUNNERS-UP

Mission

TOSTADAS, CORN

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Mission Tostadas 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

RUNNERS-UP

Charras

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

RUNNERS-UP

American Tuna Pole Caught Wild Albacore and Starkist Selects Solid White Albacore

TUNA, CANNED PREMIUM

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Nardin Bonito Del Norte Ventresca Fillets

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Creamy, delicate meat and tender yet firm fillets
• Full, rich tuna flavor

RUNNERS-UP

Tonnino Tuna Ventresca Yellowfin in Olive Oil

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

RUNNERS-UP

Good Shepherd Ranch Heritage (available through mail order, Good Shepherd Turkey Ranch Inc., 785-227-5149, www.reeseturkeys.net)

VANILLA BEANS

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

McCormick Madagascar

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Moist, seed-filled pods
• Complex, robust flavor with caramel notes

RUNNERS-UP

Spice Islands Bourbon

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

RUNNERS-UP

Rodelle Pure and Gold Medal Imitation by C.F. Sauer Co.

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

RUNNERS-UP

Mazola Canola Oil

VINEGAR, APPLE CIDER

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Maille

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Deep, warm profile with sweet, mellow, and smooth cider flavor
• Balance of richness and tanginess
• Complex with notes of honey and caramel with clear apple flavor

RUNNERS-UP

Spectrum Naturals Organic Unfiltered

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

RUNNERS-UP

Monari Federzoni of Modena and Ortalli of Modena

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

RUNNERS-UP

Pompeian Gourmet and Spectrum Naturals Organic

VINEGAR, WHITE WINE

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

For cooking: Colavita Aged

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Balance of tanginess and subtle sweetness, not overly acidic or weak
• Fruity, bright, and perfumed

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

For vinaigrettes: 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, GREEK FULL-FAT

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Olympus Traditional Greek Yogurt Strained, Plain 10% Fat

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Rich taste and satiny texture, not thin, watery, or soupy
• Buttery, tangy flavor

RUNNERS-UP

Greek Gods Traditional Plain and Fage Total

YOGURT, GREEK NONFAT

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Olympus Traditional Greek Nonfat Yogurt Strained, Plain

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Smooth, creamy consistency, not watery or pudding like from added thickeners, such as pectin or gelatin
• Pleasantly tangy, well-balanced flavor, not sour or metallic

RUNNERS-UP

Voskos Greek Plain Nonfat, Brown Cow Plain Greek 0% Fat, and Dannon Greek Plain 0% Fat

YOGURT, LOW-FAT STRAWBERRY

TEST KITCHEN FAVORITE

Dannon Fruit on the Bottom

WHY WE LIKE IT

• Good strawberry flavor, not too sweet, sour, or bland
• Pleasantly thick, not watery or runny
• No artificial, plasticky, or otherwise unwelcome flavors as in many competitors

RUNNERS-UP

Wallaby Organic Creamy Australian-Style and Fage 2% All Natural Greek Strained

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

RUNNERS-UP

Stonyfield Farm Organic Plain