Author: Content Specialist (Page 16)

It’s an unfortunate truth that big chain stores just don’t have the kind of specialty ingredients that food-lovers need to make the best-tasting recipes.  They carry the basic items for the average meal.

If you’re looking for gourmet specialty foods or that hard to find fresh and unique ingredients you’ve been looking for, then you’ll need to stop by Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce specialty food store and find ingredients that you can’t get anywhere else.

Keep reading to find out how to shop for all of your grocery needs and specialty food items at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce.

1. Find the Nearest Location

For your convenience, Tacoma Boys has three locations in wonderful Pierce County, Washington.

Our location closest to the densest urban core, of course, can be found in Tacoma, Washington, but we also have locations in Puyallup and Lakewood.

Whether you’re taking a car, a bus, or a stroll, Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce has 3 convenient locations near you.

2. Don’t Always Stick to Your List

At Tacoma Boys, you could easily happen upon something you’ve never seen or heard of before.  Especially if you allow yourself to consider taking a few extra seconds to browse the aisles.

Consider dozens of options for unique honey or pepper jelly.  Or pork crown roast and fresh local pears.  Or even gluten free donuts and edemame pasta.  Thousands and thousands of amazing items!

The hunt for something new and the mystery could very well lead to something that can become the secret ingredient in your soon-to-be-famous dish.

There are so many wonderful specialty items waiting to be discovered and tasted at Tacoma boys that you should always be ready for something new and exciting.

3. Bring Reusable Bags

Did you know that Americans go through around 100 billion plastic bags every year?  And they are now against the law in Tacoma.

If you want to know how to buy groceries the sustainable way, you should invest in one or more reusable bags, depending on the number of groceries you usually buy.

It’s always great to do what we can for the environment. Instead of coming home with a bunch of plastic bags, you can use several high-quality bags again and again.  And Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce not only have fabric bags, but fabric bags with a liner to keep all of your chilled items at proper temperature all the way home.  Plus, our bags are just cool looking and show your support for local small business!

4. Check Out Our Weekly Specials

If you want to save on artisan specialty foods and more, then you should also keep track of the weekly specials that Tacoma Boys has.  Sign up for our email newsletter to be notified each week!

From Wednesday to Wednesday, you can expect to find some amazing deals that can save you money, but more importantly, maybe even give you some ideas about what to eat during the week.

For example, you might be able to find delicious and crunchy Gala apples for only 79 cents per pound. If you’re a seafood fanatic, you might find wild lobster tails for less than 10 dollars each. Plus, any meat-lover will do a little dance if they find out that Angus New York steaks are less than 9 dollars per pound (season depending of course).

In order to complement the beautiful and delicious meals that you’ll put on your table, you can also get attractive flowers from Tacoma Boys to make a gorgeous centerpiece. For example, we currently have locally grown cut flowers in hand made bundles starting at only $10.

When it comes to our weekly specials, you can expect to always be pleasantly surprised.

Are You Ready to Go Shopping for Groceries?

Now that you know how to go shopping for groceries and specialty food items at Tacoma Boys, you can get ready to make one of the most delicious meals you and your loved ones have ever tasted.

If you have any questions about our world-class products, feel free to contact us. We’re always happy to help.

The USDA says that if 95% of a food product is made up of organic ingredients, it can get labeled organic.

Organic food is typically richer in nutrients, and free from pesticides and potential bacteria found in non-organic food.

If you are beginning to seek out organic food in the South Sound, you’re likely making changes to improve the health and well-being of your whole family.  We can help with that!

But it is hard to know when and why to spend extra on the organic variety and where can you find the real stuff that will really improve your diet? (Shameless plug: Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce)

Here are our favorite organic grocery shopping tips.

1. Know What “Organic” Means

Food must meet certain standards in order to get labeled “organic” by the USDA.

Items can be labeled 100% organic, organic (95-99% organic,) made from organic ingredients (74-94% organic,) or specific organic ingredients may be listed.

Organic products have been produced without antibiotics, growth hormones, petroleum-based fertilizers, or pesticides. They must meet certain standards approved by the USDA, including lengthy application, record-keeping, and inspections.

The word “natural” is not synonymous with organic. Natural labels are not regulated by the USDA and may be somewhat misleading.  If you’re at one of our 3 stores, we make it easy.  Just ask one of our friendly employees who are always happy to help!

2. Intimate Grocery Shopping Experience

Healthy eaters have learned that shopping the perimeter of the grocery store can provide them with a more nutritious diet, as most stores put their fresh produce along the perimeter.  But at Tacoma Boys, our local stores are more intimate, and we have great fresh food throughout our entire store!

Focus on providing yourself with a colorful variety of fresh fruits and veggies. The rainbow of colors reflects a variety of vitamins, minerals, and photo nutrients.

Your body also needs two servings of protein a day. It can help you repair tissue and build muscles and bones.

Lean proteins like fish, chicken, and turkey can decrease your appetite and increase muscle strength. Salmon and other fatty fish are also a great source of Omega 3’s, which can lower your blood pressure and help reduce your risk for a heart attack or stroke.

An organic seal on meats means they have only been fed organic feed, and they have not eaten any bi-products of other animals. All organic meats have been subject to regular inspections by USDA-certified inspectors and we carry a wide variety!

3. Don’t Forget Your Fresh and Local Dairy

Organic dairy products typically contain more vitamins and no antibiotics. They have higher levels of Omega 3’s, iron, and Vitamin E, all of which have impressive health benefits.  And we carry lots of local organic dairy products.  As fresh as it gets!

Many dairy products contain potassium, calcium, and Vitamin D that are essential for the health and maintenance of your body. If you don’t drink milk, consider picking up some drinkable yogurt, smoothies, almond milk or pre-portioned cheeses to strengthen your bones and immune system.

4. Check Out The Weekly Specials

Shopping organic can take a little more time than ordinary grocery shopping. So be sure to check out your weekly specials before heading to the store, and plan out your meals accordingly. Sign up for our weekly specials here and stay up to date on all of our featured items of the week to save you time in store!  And we’re always here to help, so feel free to ask any of our friendly employees if you need help finding something specific.

5. Whole Grains For The Win!

Organic whole grains are one of the great reasons to shop organic.  They just taste so good! They are loaded with nutrients that include fiber, protein, and antioxidants. Whole grains can lower your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and some forms of cancer. Whole grains have everything we need to fuel our day for work, kids and families!

Whole oats, brown rice, and rye are all great investments in your and your family’s health.

Grocery Shopping Tips

Shopping organically can be a tricky change, but we make it easy at Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce. You can save time with a quick trip in and out, and keep your family eating well by following a few simple grocery shopping tips.

For more information on healthy eating, read our blog today.

There are twelve basic varieties of meat, and hundreds of various qualities and cuts.  From flank steak to deli-sliced ham, there are a ton of options for the most adventurous party platter ideas.  And there are benefits to each!

For example, sliced deli meat is more than just a tasty snack.  It can reduce your appetite, increase your metabolism, and build stronger bones and muscles.

Tasty, flavorful cheese is a great source of calcium, fat, and protein.

A savory meat and cheese platter is more than just a fantastic party appetizer. It is a great way to feed friends’ appetites for healthy, fun snacks.

Here are some of our favorite party platter ideas.

1. Meat And Cheese Platter

You can’t go wrong with a classic meat and cheese platter. Think rolled cuts of thinly sliced imported prosciutto, or various cuts of hard salami.  We have a ton of these varieties at all 3 of our locations!

Aim for a variety of hard and soft cheeses to create a collage of tastes, textures, and colors.

Consider soft brie or camembert as a centerpiece. Other awesome soft cheeses include burrata or fresh mozzarella. Cheddar, parmigiana, or pepper jack look interesting and are delicious hard options.

And lastly, adding a little fruit like grapes, apple slices, dried apricots or strawberries can punch up your platter with color, flavor and sophistication.

2. Melon and Prosciutto Platter

Another classic at parties is melon!  Melon adds brightness and juiciness to your plate. You can top with some fresh herbs or tiny banquettes for some variety. Prosciutto is a fantastic pairing for the sweetness of melon and the saltiness of the meat.  Or for vegetarians (or not!) pair with fresh berries for a balance of sweet and tartness.  For even more textures and sweetness, try adding some watermelon, honeydew, or cantaloupe.

Burrata and mozzarella are great cheeses that bring out the light party flavor.  And don’t forget the toothpicks to make grabbing your favorite pairing even easier!

3. Greek Appetizer Plate

An example of a Greek appetizer plate uses nuts, soft-boiled eggs, and feta cheese to add some savory variety. And don’t forget the grape leaves and olive oil for real Mediterranean flare!

We also like freshly made hummus and our fresh olive varieties, which you can find near the cheese at all 3 of our locations.

4. Vegan or Gluten Free Platter

No animal-based foods? No problem! A Vegan platter can serve your friends with nearly any dietary needs in style.

Try Vegan breadsticks combined with dips like olive tapenade or artichoke hummus. Vegan and cauliflower cracker varieties are available at all 3 of our stores, including gluten free and vegan options.  Veggies like cauliflower, carrots and broccoli are always great options, especially when they are fresh from Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce!

5. Healthy Platter

Your friends may be meat-eaters, but they may still be health-conscious and be watching their calories. Try using lean turkey, whole wheat crackers, and almonds to keep your guests’ guts and hearts happy.  And you can never go wrong with fresh greens like snap peas or broccoli.

And don’t forget healthy berries and grapes to add beautiful color, as well as a few vitamins!

6. Kid-Friendly Meat and Cheese Platter

Got teeny party people in the house? No problem!

Make a kid-friendly platter by cutting up milder cheeses like cheddar and Swiss. Your meats can be more kid-friendly and rolled up for easy munching. Think deli ham, turkey, and chicken skewers.  Kids also love to pair items like cornichhons rolled into little logs with cream cheese and turkey.  (Adults will want some as well)

Veggies like baby carrots and grape tomatoes are colorful kid favorites. Don’t forget some pretzels or pita chips for a little salty flavor and the ranch dressing for dipping!

7. A Dessert Platter

For a twist or follow up to a great meat and cheese party platter ideas, a great platter can also be the perfect finger food when it’s dessert time. Sliced fruit and dark chocolate work great with chocolate or cream cheese-based dips. You may even want to add some banana or zucchini bread for your health-conscious guests, and some warm dipping chocolate is always fun with fresh fruit like strawberries!

The Best Party Platter Ideas

The best party platter ideas are themed, colorful and flavorful. Your guests will be raving about them and loving your soiree in no time!

For more great party advice, check out our blog today.

According to statistics, between 30 and 50 million Americans are dairy intolerant.

If you are someone who cannot tolerate dairy, you might feel like you are missing out on some of the best dishes! However, nowadays creamy mains, melt-in-your-mouth sauces, and frozen desserts do not have to be off-limits.

You just need to have the right recipes up your sleeve!

If you want to whip up some incredibly delicious dairy-free recipes that are simple and easy to make—read on. Because we are about to share with you 4 lactose-free recipes that you won’t believe don’t have dairy.

1. No-Bake Cheesecake

Cheesecake. One of the dishes missed most by those who have dairy intolerances.

Fortunately, there are many dairy-free cheesecake recipes that you can try. One of them is this no-bake cheesecake from Minimalist Baker.

To make the crust, place 1 cup pitted dates in a food processor and blend until you can make a ball with the mix. Remove and place 1 cup raw walnuts into the food processor. Blend into a meal.

Then add the dates back and process until a dough forms.

Grease a muffin pan and press 1 tbsp of crust into each depression.

Then combine 1 1/2 cups raw cashews (flash soaked in hot water), juice of one large lemon, 1/3 cup melted coconut oil, 2/3 cup full-fat coconut milk, and 1/2 cup agave nectar in a blender. Blend until smooth.  And our Tacoma Boys raw nuts come in bulk, so you can toss them into other recipes as well!

Next, simply scoop the filling into your muffin pan. At this stage, you can add any toppings/flavoring of your choice, such as fresh blueberries, or caramel sauce.

Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for 4-6 hours.

2. Dairy-Free Cheese Sauce

Having a good dairy-free cheese sauce recipe on hand is invaluable for anybody who is lactose intolerant. Try this simple rendition from Ela Vegan.

To start, combine 3/4 cup coconut milk, 3 tbsp nutritional yeast, 2 tbsp tapioca flour, and 1/2 tsp salt in a saucepan. You can also choose to include onion powder, garlic powder, and/or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Bring up to boil and simmer for 1 minute while stirring. Once the sauce is stretchy, voilà!

You can use this cheese sauce as a dip, in dairy-free lasagnas, or even on top of pizzas in place of melted cheese.

3. Creamy Dairy-Free Alfredo Sauce

This basic recipe from Simply Whisked can be used on its own with fettuccine pasta, or as a base into which you can add chicken or veggies.

To begin, heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp garlic in a skillet and sauté. Add 2 tbsp flour, and stir. Then whisk in 1/2 cup chicken broth.

Lastly, whisk in 3/4 cup cashew cream, 3/4 cup full-fat coconut milk 1/2–1 tsp salt, 1 tsp nutritional yeast, and black pepper to taste. Simmer until thick.

Try These Dairy-Free Recipes With Our Premium Ingredients

Now that you have this list of delicious and indispensable dairy-free recipes, all that you need is some quality ingredients to make them with.  We’ve got a wide variety of dairy-free options in store, 24 hours per day.  As a specialty grocer, if you can’t find it, we can likely get it!

Here at Tacoma Boys, we pride ourselves stocking only the best and freshest goods every day. Because we know that good cooking starts with the freshest and the highest quality ingredients. Check out our store locations and come and visit us today. You won’t be disappointed.

If you are hungry for more tasty dairy-free recipes, take a look at our this Butter Chicken with Cauliflower Rice recipe!

It’s Christmas for football fans. For just one night each year, millions of fans gather in front of the TV to indulge in Super Bowl food and cheer their team (and boo the 49ers) to the biggest victory of the season.

And while you might not be spending $5,000 on a Super Bowl ticket this year, you will be investing in high quality snacks, drinks and hors d’oeuvres to keep you and your guests happy and sated — even if you don’t care who wins or loses.

Ready to throw an epic Super Bowl party? Don’t leave the food to chance! Stock up on these fan-favorite items to score an automatic touchdown:

Chicken

The quintessential food of football fandom, a Super Bowl party without chicken is like New Orleans without seafood.

There’s a style and flavor for every taste. And since this year’s Super Bowl will be held in Miami, you’ll want to go all-in on muy caliente flavors.

We’re talking buffalo, spicy garlic, habanero, hot barbecue, and maybe even some chili-infused honey! And Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce carries lots of types of sauces and powders to spice up the best smelling and tasting chicken around!

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Grab a pork shoulder and let your slow cooker or pressure cooker get to work! Tender pulled pork is a must-have item for tailgates, thanks to its versatility.

Pile it on mini sliders or sandwich buns, add some barbecue sauce, and you’ve got a complete meal that will win MVP of your party.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

Any type of dip you can make in a slow cooker is an instant hit, both for your guests and the person doing all the cleanup. These one-pot wonders eliminate the need to dirty up a ton of dishes, and the slow cooker does all the work once you load the ingredients.

For the simplest buffalo chicken dip recipe, all you need is freshly cooked chicken (which could be cooked in the slow cooker prior to making the dip), buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and ranch dressing.

Add a few green chiles for extra spice, and make sure you have pita bread or chips for dipping.

Oysters

Fresh oysters aren’t hard to find in Washington, and they’re guaranteed to make a statement at your Super Bowl party.

It’s a good idea to order these bad boys ahead of time and pick them up on game day for the freshest flavor.  And don’t forget the beer to pair it with!

Game Day Chili

Ask 10 people how to make game day chili and you’ll get 10 different answers. Beans, no beans, spicy, mild, extra cheese, thick and hearty — you name it, chili has you covered.  It’s great for kids and adults alike and we’ve got everything you need for your party!

Beer Cheese

What’s a Super Bowl game without “beer” something?

This tasty beer-infused queso is the perfect complement to anything you feel like dipping. Pretzels, chips, and even pigs in blankets will all taste better with a little beer cheese on your Super Bowl food menu.  And if simple is your game, try our Tacoma Boys queso salsa with some amazing Tacoma Boys chips!

Stock Up on Super Bowl Food at Tacoma Boys!

We all know the real hero of any tailgate or party is the Super Bowl food! Tacoma Boys has you covered with fresh meats, organic fruits and veggies, and all the specialty fare that will make your home THE place to be.

Take a look at our weekly specials and start planning your Super Bowl party menu today!

Are you excited to plan some great foods at your New Year’s Eve bash that will top all of the other parties you’ve attended in the past? If you’re in charge of hosting the festivities this year, then you may be feeling a little overwhelmed by how much work you need to do to pull off “party success”. One of the most important elements of any party is the food.  Delicious, fresh, amazing party foods!

Are you looking for a few ideas of inspiration to create your menu? Check out our list of the top 5 party foods you can make using the best ingredients from your local Tacoma Boys market.

1. Italian Subs Party Food

Lots of people who are searching for easy party foods end up buying a pre-made sandwich trays to set out. If you pick out fresh ingredients yourself, you can turn this boring party food into a gourmet surprise. The secret is to buy your specialty meats, amazing cheeses, toppings and spreads at a Tacoma Boys’ deli counter.

When done right, Italian subs are the ultimate party food because they’re portable and satisfying. This recipe combines ham, Genoa salami, Capocollo ham, provolone cheese, and refreshing veggies. Adding a drizzle of red wine vinegar and a sprinkle of oregano can take your subs to the next level.

2. Ginger Pork Potstickers

Do you know anyone who’s favorite New Year’s tradition is ordering Chinese takeout? If you want to wow your guests, you can serve them these juicy pork potstickers that are loaded with flavor!  And Tacoma Boys and H&L Produce have all of the ingredients, including delicious and amazing pork, to use in your potstickers.  For those who want the best potstickers, look no further than making your own wraps. Essentially flour and water!  And what a treat for those who are gluten-free if you can make some of these with gluten-free flour! (Check our gluten free section for this)

3. Whipped Feta and Avocado Crostini with Pomegranate Seeds

We’ve all had bruschetta or flatbreads before. But one of the best ways you can elevate your bread appetizer is to make crostini topped with whipped feta and avocado. Like avacado toast, but better!  This recipe creates a beautiful balance of crunchy, creamy, savory, and sweet thanks to the pomegranate garnish.  And the beauty of pomegranates can be used for table decor!

4. Grillable Veggie Burgers

Parties are a blast for everyone, but having dietary restrictions or allergies can dampen the mood. The good news is that these grillable veggie burgers can be prepared vegan and gluten-free. In just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have homemade veggie burgers with only the best ingredients!  You can serve them as an entree or you could even set up a fun slider bar with plenty of fresh toppings, sauces and condiments.

5. Hot Chocolate Cake for the win!

No celebration would be complete without dessert, which is why you should make a decadent hot chocolate cake. This recipe is one of the best New Year’s Eve party foods because it’s an exciting twist on a classic winter drink.

Not only are cakes tasty, but if you take your time decorating them, they can also double as a centerpiece decoration. If you don’t want to fuss with cutting slices for everyone, you can always pour your batter into cupcake tins, and for the kids at the party, provide all of the fun toppings for them to help decorate!  Kids love decorating and creating, especially when they can show off their creations!

Delicious Party Foods To Help You Start the New Year Right

If you serve any of these crowd-pleasing party foods, your New Year’s Eve bash is sure to be a huge success.

Once you’re done planning your menu, you can head on down to Tacoma Boys to find all of the high-quality ingredients you need in one convenient place. From our hand-picked produce to our wide range of unique wines, beers, produce and meats… your inner chef will be thrilled the second you step into our local neighborhood market.

Check out our locations so you can find a store near you. Our friendly staff is ready to help you with anything you need to get your party started.  We’re open 365 days per year and 24 hours per day, for your convenience!