Whether a hot condiment such as Tabasco, sriracha, or gochujang gets folded into the coating for hot and “sexy” chips or into a newly crafted fiery dip, or if the goal is a dressing, a splash, or a pour of flavorful expression, condiments are trending big.
A quick examination of the diversity in today’s condiments reveals that the proverbial gloves are off and anything goes. Still, a close look at the base components involved helps the developer recognize how unpretentious even the fanciest condiments really are. Despite lengthy ingredient lists for some of them, most are made from one or more of only a few base elements: a featured and a supportive flavor, a thickener and/or a liquid, seasoning, and mouthfeel enhancers, all built on a base platform.