Brooklyn Sesame Halva Spread

Typically dry, crumbly sweet halva is reinvented as a versatile spread

Taking Brooklyn by storm is newcomer Brooklyn Sesame, whose debut product breaks down dense, crumbly blocks of sweet halva (Arabic for “dessert”) into a delicious spread for more versatile munching. Halva is a traditional food enjoyed all over the world in diverse forms and is a particular favorite of Israeli Jews—including Shahar Shamir, a Brooklynite who arrived from Tel Aviv over a decade ago. He …

The Jam Stand

Unusual ingredients and experimental spreads from a booze-friendly duo in Brooklyn

Ever since we discovered boozy jams made from local spirits, our expectations for unique, bold flavors have drastically increased—and the offerings from Brooklyn-based The Jam Stand do not disappoint. Founders Jessica Quon and Sabrina Valle aren’t afraid to get weird with their recipes—yet always ensure that they use the freshest of ingredients—pairing onions with wine, raspberries with jalapeños, and bananas sprinkled with rum and lime. …

Shire City Herbals Fire Cider

The family-owned company's spicy concoction will ward off colds and even abate hangovers

by Eva Glettner People have been searching for preventative and homeopathic treatments for the common cold for centuries, and one such remedy is Fire Cider, which has been all but perfected by Shire City Herbals, a Massachusetts-based family-run business. Their concoction can tame sore throats, fight cold and flu symptoms—even abate hangovers and heartburn. Shire City Herbals Fire Cider is comprised of certified organic apple …