The Sweet and Spicy Treat
Hot honey has taken the culinary world by storm, blending the natural sweetness of honey with a fiery kick that elevates everything from simple snacks to gourmet dishes. Whether you’re drizzling it on pizza, adding it to a cheese board, or serving it with fried chicken, this versatile condiment is a must-have in any kitchen. But where does hot honey come from, and how did it become such a popular staple?
Let’s discover the history of hot honey, its uses, and why our Hot Honey deserves a place in your pantry.
The History of Hot Honey
Hot honey, while relatively new to mainstream kitchens, has roots in ancient culinary traditions. Infusing honey with spices has been practiced for centuries, particularly in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cultures. These infusions were often used to add complexity to savory dishes and were believed to have medicinal benefits. However, the modern rise of hot honey as we know it today is credited to Mike Kurtz, the founder of Mike’s Hot Honey in Brooklyn, New York. In the early 2000s, he began drizzling spicy honey on pizza, and the concept quickly caught on, spreading from pizzerias to restaurants and home kitchens around the world.
Since then, hot honey has exploded in popularity, becoming a trendy and beloved ingredient. Its unique combination of sweet and spicy makes it incredibly versatile, appealing to those who love bold flavors. Whether you’re adding it to a marinade or pairing it with charcuterie, hot honey adds a distinctive flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
Our Hot Honey
At Manna Epicure, we’ve taken this concept and made it our own with our Homemade Hot Honey. Crafted with raw bluegum honey, chili, garlic, thyme, and onion, our hot honey offers a rich, layered flavor with just the right amount of kick. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness and heat, with aromatic herbs to add depth. Our hot honey is not just a condiment—it’s a culinary experience in every jar.
Packaged in a beautiful glass jar with a wooden lid, our Hot Honey is as visually appealing as it is flavorful, making it a perfect addition to your kitchen or an ideal gift for food lovers. You can find it in-store, on our new bar snack menu, and in our online store, ready to be shipped straight to your door.
What You Can Use Hot Honey For
The beauty of hot honey lies in its versatility. It can transform a wide range of dishes, adding a sweet heat that’s perfect for everything from savory meats to sweet desserts. Here are a few creative ways to incorporate hot honey into your meals:
- Drizzle on Fried Chicken: One of the most popular pairings for hot honey is fried chicken. The contrast of crispy, savory chicken with the sweet and spicy honey is simply irresistible. At our restaurant, we serve Hot Honey with our Panko-Crumbed Chicken Lollies on the bar snack menu. The crispy coating and tender chicken are elevated by the heat and sweetness of our hot honey—an absolute must-try!
- Topping for Pizza: Just like the original Brooklyn pizzerias, hot honey makes a perfect topping for pizza. Drizzle it over pepperoni or sausage pizza for a bold, spicy-sweet flavor.
- Add to Cheese Boards: Hot honey pairs beautifully with cheese, especially sharp or creamy varieties like cheddar, brie, or goat cheese. Its sweetness complements the richness of the cheese, while the spice adds a little excitement.
- Marinades and Sauces: Mix hot honey into your marinades for meats like chicken, pork, or shrimp. It also works well in salad dressings or as a glaze for roasted vegetables.
- Cocktails and Desserts: Don’t limit hot honey to savory dishes! Stir it into cocktails, like a hot honey margarita, or drizzle it over desserts like ice cream, waffles, or cheesecake for a unique twist.
Get Your Hot Honey Today
Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or just looking to spice up your meals, our Homemade Hot Honey is the perfect choice. Available now in our Online Shop and in-store, this artisanal creation is sure to become your new favorite condiment. Stop by and try it with our Panko-Crumbed Chicken Lollies, or take a jar home to experiment with in your own kitchen.
Hot honey is more than just a trend—it’s a flavorful revolution that’s here to stay. Its sweet-heat balance makes it incredibly versatile, and at Manna Epicure, we’re proud to offer a homemade version that’s packed with flavor and crafted with care. Whether you’re drizzling it on chicken or using it in cocktails, our Hot Honey is sure to elevate your meals. Visit us online or in-store today and discover the magic of hot honey for yourself!