Once Again
There’s more than Nutella in this life of decadent nutty, chocolatey spreads. Once Again sells organic versions: a classic with hazelnut, and a thicker, equally delicious take thanks to almonds.
Mediterranean Bakery & Cafe
Still using cream cheese? Upgrade with the thick, spreadable, tangy labneh from Mediterranean Bakery & Cafe in Alexandria. // 352 S. Pickett St., Alexandria; 703-751-0030
Teff flour
Teff is more than injera served at Ethiopian restaurants. Pick up teff flour from Nazret Cultural Foods and make a quick bread in a cast iron pan. Top with labneh sprinkled with berbere. // Alexandria and Arlington locations
Pottery
In real life, I’m shopping for non-breakable bamboo/melamine plates and glasses because of the reckless toddler and curious baby in my life. In my pretend, adults-only world, I’m swooning over pottery from local brand White Hearth at the Mosaic District pop-up Park Story.
Pepper Paste
Quesadillas are a weeknight savior. There’s always corn tortillas and some sort of grateable, meltable cheese in the fridge. Slip a coating of the Peruvian aji panca pepper paste (Doña Isabel brand at Shoppers, or Amazon) inside for a burst of fruity, barely there, heat. More uses: turkey sandwich, tomato soup, yogurt sauces.
CBD
Sleeping on the CBD trend? Spray Elixinol’s citrus twist into a bitter cocktail. Things just got happier.