There are many reasons to love Glen Powell. His stellar performances in TV shows and movies, from Scream Queens to Twister, are enough to make anyone a fan. Then there’s his adorable rescue dog, Brisket, and his fierce loyalty to his native Texas (where he currently resides).
For those who don’t know Glen Powell yet, however, there’s one more reason that might change your mind, especially if you’re into all things food-related. The Golden Globe-nominated actor and producer announced today that he’s launching his own line of condiments for home cooks everywhere, called Smash Kitchen.
Powell’s condiment line includes classics like ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, and barbecue sauce—he’s particularly fond of BBQ sauce—but also offers some subtly spicy options like spicy mayo and hot honey barbecue sauce. These may sound simple, but what Powell hopes will really make these sauces stand out is ingredient transparency and affordability. Smash Kitchen will focus on creating products with organic and non-GMO ingredients, no unnecessary additives or artificial ingredients—all at an affordable price.
Co-founded by Powell, Samir Mehta and Sean Cain, the brand initially launched with eight condiments: Organic Classic Ketchup, Organic Hot Honey Ketchup, Organic American BBQ Sauce, Organic Hot Honey BBQ Sauce, Organic Yellow Mustard, Organic Dijon Mustard, Organic Real Mayonnaise and Organic Spicy Mayonnaise.
Ketchup, mayonnaise and mustard are available in two different sizes, ranging in price from $1.97 to $4.97. In addition to being affordable, Smash Kitchen’s condiments will be widely available and are currently available at Walmart stores nationwide or Walmart.com.
Powell realized there was a huge gap in the condiments market and decided to move into food. A native Texan, he is an avid football fan who can often be found on the sidelines of University of Texas Longhorns games, and outdoor cooking is a favorite of the actor. “Food has always been a big part of my life—backyard barbecues, dinners around the table, and enjoying good food with friends and family,” he explained to Food & Wine.
“In recent years, I’ve started paying more attention to what I eat at parties and what I serve to my family and guests. I realized how many condiments and everyday sauces are filled with overly processed ingredients that most people don’t even think twice about,” Powell said. “When I started digging deeper, I found that many organic options either lacked the nostalgic flavors that I loved or were expensive. So I started making my own.”
What exactly does a more transparent ingredient list look like? This means you’re probably familiar with every ingredient listed on every condiment. “You can flip over the label and really identify and read all of the ingredients on it,” Powell explained. “And the prices are pretty incredible. To be able to offer a product that tastes great, is made with better-for-you ingredients, and is priced under $5 is almost unheard of in the organic food space.”
For example, Smash Kitchen’s Classic Ketchup is made with organic ketchup, organic cane sugar, organic white vinegar, salt, organic onion powder, organic ground cloves, organic allspice, organic chili powder, and organic paprika. At $3.97 for a 20-ounce bottle, it’s pretty close to the price of a similar-sized bottle of Heinz ketchup, which costs about $3.19. Unlike Smash Kitchen, Heinz ketchup contains high fructose corn syrup, corn syrup, and natural flavorings.
When it comes to flavor, the product line isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel — at least not yet. Instead, it aims to deliver the same intense flavor and nostalgia of the classic condiments. Smash Kitchen wants to offer new pantry staples, not items reserved for special occasions. After trying these sauces, I’m definitely keeping them in my kitchen.
Chicken tenders are served at a table set with fresh vegetables and bottles of Smash Kitchen condiments.
Glen Powell carries several bottles of Smash Kitchen products.
Chicken tenders are served at a table set with fresh vegetables and bottles of Smash Kitchen condiments.
Three of our team’s favorite condiments are: Organic Classic Ketchup, Organic Hot Honey Ketchup, and Organic Hot Honey BBQ Sauce. Smash Kitchen’s classic ketchup is sweeter than brands like Heinz, and I enjoyed it with salty fries. Organic red pepper puree adds a pleasant vegetal heat to the spicy ketchup, but it’s not too spicy to enjoy.
The Hot Honey BBQ sauce doesn’t have a strong kick, but it reminded us of McDonald’s hot and sour BBQ sauce—which we consider the highest compliment and proof of the nostalgia it evokes. Both mayonnaises are tart, sweet, and tangy, and delicious. Their textures are similar to Hellmann’s, which is silky and delicious, perfect for spreading on sandwiches.
Although Smash Kitchen has launched with just eight condiments, the brand is already planning to expand its inventory.
“We’re already exploring expanding beyond condiments,” Powell revealed. “We have some exciting products in the works, with the goal of continuing to build a full pantry with good-for-you staples that can become everyday staples in American families.”
The name of the new food line wasn’t chosen randomly; according to the actor and founder, it evokes meals from his own family. “In my family, we always say, ‘That was great.’ It’s our way of celebrating a great night out — good food, great atmosphere, and quality time with family. That statement sticks with me,” Powell explains.
Perhaps these ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise will become a hit in your kitchen, too — and at such affordable prices, you’ll easily make repeat purchases.
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