This is the only Lithuanian recognition in this year’s European Hot Sauce Awards, according to the organizers’ press release.
Read more Judges: there are significant grounds to believe that Duterte is responsible for dozens of murders
Daumantas Mikalčius, founder of “Kanda žandą,” produces sauces in small batches in his kitchen in Kaunas. The brand stands out with bold flavors, humor, and different levels of spiciness – from mild to very hot.
According to Nathan Austin, tasting editor of “Republic of Heat,” “Rūksta Nelabasis” stood out not only for its heat but also for its flavor balance.
“In the medium heat category, you rarely find a sauce that combines three different chili peppers. Habanero provides a fruity heat, Jalapeño pepper adds a fresh green note, and cayenne offers a longer-lasting spiciness. Honey and smoky notes bring this sauce closer to a glaze, so the name ‘Rūksta Nelabasis’ suits it very well,” said N. Austin.
The producer himself presents the sauce as a versatile choice for grilled dishes, meat, sandwiches, vegetables, or eggs.
D. Mikalčius says that such recognition is very important for a small producer from Lithuania.
Read more Quality meat every day: how does „Lidl“ ensure its quality, freshness, and good price?
“From a small kitchen in Kaunas to a silver medal at a European competition – it’s still hard to believe. We create what we ourselves like, so such recognition means a lot,” he said.
This year’s “European Hot Sauce Awards” competition blindly judged more than 200 sauces from across Europe. The jury consisted of chefs, sommeliers, food critics, and heat experts.
EHSA founder Neil Numbas states that the competition was especially fierce in the medium heat category.
“This is the category where true balance is revealed – the heat must be noticeable but still tasty and versatile. A silver medal for a small producer from Kaunas is a serious achievement,” he commented.
Read more „The Economist“. How long will the war last: Zelensky named the numbers
