Do You or Someone You Know Carry Around a Specific Condiment Just in Case a Restaurant Doesn't Have It?

Have you ever seen a person with a leather pouch or a tiny bottle of hot sauce hanging from their belt or in their pocket? This is a common sight in many restaurants, where some patrons prefer to carry their own condiments when they know a specific spice or sauce is hard to find in restaurants. Whether it's a trusty bottle of Tabasco, sriracha, or even a personalized bag of seasoning mix, these items can make a significant difference in a meal's flavor. Let's explore this fascinating habit and the stories behind it.

The Hot Sauce Obsession

Back since 1995, I have been a regular in bringing around 1-3 bottles of hot sauce because most restaurants tend to only offer Tabasco, which tastes terrible. Tabasco's dominance in the restaurant scene has pushed many individuals to carry their personal hot sauce. One of the reasons for this is the vast array of flavors and heat profiles that store-bought hot sauces offer. Not everyone can handle the fiery taste of Tabasco, a brand that is perceived to be bland and overly sweet.

Other Condiments on the Move

Hot sauce is not the only condiment that people carry around. For instance, a friend of mine always carries a bottle of hot sauce, even going to Paris, Europe, with a backup. The worry was about the availability of this condiment in cafes along the Champs d'Elyse, which is known for its numerous eateries. Another interesting case was a Canadian friend who carried hot sauce and maple syrup for emergencies, which seemed both Canadian and amusing.

A Master Chef's Clever Strategy

Living in Japan, I knew a guy studying to become a Master Chef through the American Culinary Federation (ACF). The exam process included both written and cooking tests. To ensure he had all the bases covered (pun intended), he filled tiny, resealable bags with different flavored bases—mushroom, vegetable, chicken, beef, lobster, and ham. He would attach these to his T-shirt, and when no one was looking, he would discreetly reach for the bag that suited his current dish. This approach to flavor flexibility and culinary adaptability was both ingenious and unexpectedly practical.

My Culinary Addiction

I have my own condiment addiction too. I have been using Matouk's West Indian Hot Sauce since 1975, and it remains my absolute favorite. This unique sauce is made from a blend of Scotch Bonnet peppers, which give it a complex heat and a distinct, flavorful profile that can enhance the taste of almost any dish. Unlike many hot sauces, Matouk's West Indian Hot Sauce retains its delicious flavor, making it a go-to condiment for me. It is available at Caribbean, Mexican, and African stores, as well as on Amazon, though it may be more expensive online.

Adapting to Culinary Preferences

Adapting to the varied culinary preferences is essential when dining out. Carrying a specific condiment allows individuals to maintain their preferred taste without compromising on quality. This habit not only enhances the enjoyment of a meal but also fosters a deeper connection with one's own tastes. Whether it's a bold hot sauce, a unique salad dressing, or a personalized seasoning mix, these small items can significantly impact the overall dining experience.

So, the next time you find yourself in a restaurant with limited condiment options, consider bringing your own. You might find it not only adds a personal touch to your dining experience but also ensures your favorite flavors are always available.