Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/471637
106 / the tasting panel / march 2015 The Chsy Far too often, folks praise cheese for its melty, ooey-gooey qualities, but we think there's something to be said for those crisp burnt edges on lasagna pans and crunchy bits baked onto the bottom of cheese biscuits. Enter Kitchen Table Bakers, whose line of crispy little crackers are made of . . . wait for it . . . 100 percent cheese (!!!). Light and crispy, all 12 flavors of these crisps are worth a nibble, from the savory addition of rose- mary to a gentle spice backdrop off the jalapeño, we envisioned a variety of uses for these as soup garnishes, charcuterie accompaniment, salad additions—or just perfectly delish little snacks to pop right in your mouth. Geing Jerky with It The days of gas station jerky are long behind us, thanks to brands like Krave Jerky, which are increas- ingly making their way onto consum- ers' must-eat lists. With the obvious low-carb/big flavor appeal, Krave also comes up with some unexpected flavor combinations, like Turkey Basil Citrus, Beef Black Cherry Barbeque and Pork Grilled Sweet Teryaki. A newer entrée to the jerky pack is Field Trip Artisan Crafted Provisions, a boy scout–worthy snack that's all-natural and preser- vative- and nitrate-free, resulting in jerky that's as close to nature as it gets. With flavors ranging from Beef Honey Spice to Turkey Cracked Pepper, this is one dried meat you won't feel like a jerk Heo, Je-o If you hear the word "Jell-o shot" and immediately revert to terrible colligate memories involving jiggling piles of 151, tell your gag reflex to take a seat: Ludlows Cocktail Co. Jelly Shoots—the brain- child of the geniuses who created the Coolhaus empire—are here to restore your faith in the power of positivity. Offered in flavors like Moscow Mule, Old Fashioned and Planter's Punch, these classic cocktails are perfectly suspended between a state of liquid and solid, resulting in a shooter that's flirty, fun and—gasp!—actually tastes great. Roll this one out for your gourmet consumer guests, and the party will take care of itself.