10 Savory Secrets of the Pittsburgh Spice and Seasoning Company You Can’t Afford to Miss!

Table of Contents

• Introduction: A Flavor-Packed Journey Begins
• The Origins of Pittsburgh Spice and Seasoning Company
• Why Pittsburgh's Spice Scene is Unique
• Top 5 Must-Try Spices from the Pittsburgh Spice and Seasoning Company
• Spice Showdown: Pittsburgh vs. National Brands
• How to Use Pittsburgh Spices Like a Pro Chef
• Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Spices for Your Kitchen
• Perfect Occasions for Pittsburgh Spice Gifts
• Conclusion: Spice Up Your Life with Pittsburgh’s Finest

Introduction: A Flavor-Packed Journey Begins

Welcome, fellow flavor explorers! Whether you're a seasoned home cook or someone who just discovered the magic of paprika, today we’re diving into one of America’s most underrated culinary gems — the Pittsburgh Spice and Seasoning Company. This local treasure has been quietly revolutionizing kitchens across Pennsylvania and beyond with its unique blends and bold flavors.

In this article, we’ll explore everything from the history behind the brand to practical cooking tips, product comparisons, and gift ideas that will make your taste buds sing. So grab your apron, and let’s get spiced up!

The Origins of Pittsburgh Spice and Seasoning Company

Born out of a love for authentic flavors and community-driven business values, the Pittsburgh Spice and Seasoning Company was founded in the early 2000s by a group of local food enthusiasts. Their mission? To bring handcrafted, small-batch seasonings to everyday cooks without compromising quality or tradition.

What started as a modest stand at a weekend farmer’s market quickly grew into a full-fledged spice emporium. Today, they offer over 100 unique blends inspired by global cuisines, regional favorites, and even some quirky seasonal specialties like Smoked Apple Pie Cinnamon or Steelers Game Day Rub.

Why Pittsburgh's Spice Scene is Unique

Pittsburgh may be known for steel and football, but did you know it also has a rich culinary heritage? The city’s diverse immigrant population — especially Italian, Eastern European, and Appalachian influences — has shaped a uniquely hearty and flavorful food culture. The Pittsburgh Spice and Seasoning Company taps into this heritage with every jar.

Unlike mass-produced national brands, their spices are often locally sourced, non-GMO, and free of artificial additives. They also collaborate with local chefs and restaurants to create signature blends that reflect the region’s evolving tastes.

Top 5 Must-Try Spices from the Pittsburgh Spice and Seasoning Company

Ready to spice things up? Here are five standout blends that every kitchen should have:

1. Steel City Smokehouse Blend – A perfect mix of smoked paprika, garlic, and hickory that brings backyard BBQ vibes indoors.
2. Kennywood Krazy Curry – Inspired by Pittsburgh’s iconic amusement park, this golden-yellow curry adds warmth and depth to soups and stews.
3. Iron City Garlic Butter Gold – Rich with roasted garlic and herb notes, ideal for steak or popcorn (yes, really!).
4. Squirrel Hill Za’atar – A Middle Eastern-inspired blend featuring thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds; great on flatbreads or hummus.
5. Pennsylvania Dutch Herb Mix – A savory medley of rosemary, sage, and marjoram — perfect for roasting potatoes or turkey.

Spice Showdown: Pittsburgh vs. National Brands

To help you decide where to invest your spice budget, here’s a side-by-side comparison between the Pittsburgh Spice and Seasoning Company and two popular national brands.

Feature	Pittsburgh Spice Co.	Brand A	Brand B
Ingredients	All-natural, locally sourced	Some preservatives & fillers	Mixed sources
Variety	Over 100 custom blends	~30 basic options	~50 standard blends
Eco-Friendly Packaging	✅ Glass jars + recycled labels	❌ Plastic bottles	✅ Recyclable plastic
Local Sourcing	✅ Strong emphasis	❌ No local focus	➖ Some regional suppliers
Flavor Complexity	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	⭐⭐☆	⭐⭐⭐

How to Use Pittsburgh Spices Like a Pro Chef

Now that you’ve got your hands on these amazing spices, how do you use them effectively? Here are some insider tricks:

• Layer flavors: Add spices during different stages of cooking. For example, toss chicken with Steel City Smokehouse Blend before grilling, then sprinkle more on top right before serving.
• Create infused oils: Heat olive oil gently with Iron City Garlic Butter Gold and drizzle over pasta or pizza crusts.
• Season popcorn: Yes, popcorn! Try Kennywood Krazy Curry on freshly popped kernels for a fun snack twist.
• Make compound butter: Mix softened butter with any of the spice blends and refrigerate. Use on grilled meats, corn, or toast.
• Enhance store-bought sauces: Jazz up marinara or Alfredo sauce with a pinch of Pennsylvania Dutch Herb Mix for a homemade touch.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Spices for Your Kitchen

If you're new to the Pittsburgh Spice and Seasoning Company, navigating their expansive collection can feel overwhelming. Here’s a handy guide to help you pick the perfect spices for your lifestyle and preferences.

For the Casual Cook

• Steel City Smokehouse Blend – Adds instant smokiness to burgers, fries, and grilled veggies.
• Iron City Garlic Butter Gold – One-swap wonder for garlic lovers; use on almost anything.

For the Home Chef

• Squirrel Hill Za’atar – Elevates Mediterranean dishes effortlessly.
• Kennywood Krazy Curry – Brings complexity to weeknight dinners without extra effort.

For the Grilling Enthusiast

• Pennsylvania Dutch Herb Mix – Great on roast chicken, pork chops, or grilled zucchini.
• Smokehouse Blend – A must-have for outdoor BBQ lovers.

For the Gift Giver

• Spice Sampler Box – Comes with mini versions of 6-8 top-selling blends; perfect for beginners.
• Seasonal Specials – Think peppermint cocoa mix for winter holidays or pumpkin pie spice in fall.

Perfect Occasions for Pittsburgh Spice Gifts

Spice gifts are thoughtful, useful, and incredibly versatile. Here are some occasions when gifting from the Pittsburgh Spice and Seasoning Company makes sense:

• Housewarming: A starter pack with essential blends makes an awesome host gift.
• Holiday Parties: Include sample sizes in party favor bags — guests will love the edible souvenir.
• Cooking Classes: Offer mini spice kits as part of the lesson materials.
• Birthday for Foodies: Curated boxes based on dietary preferences (vegan, keto-friendly, etc.) are a hit.
• Thank You Gifts: Say thanks to teachers, neighbors, or friends with a personalized spice bundle.

Conclusion: Spice Up Your Life with Pittsburgh’s Finest

The Pittsburgh Spice and Seasoning Company isn’t just about selling spices — it’s about celebrating flavor, supporting local craftsmanship, and bringing communities together through food. Whether you're upgrading your pantry or searching for the perfect gift, this brand offers something special for every kind of spice lover.

So next time you're looking to add a little pizzazz to your plate, remember: sometimes the best flavors come from places you least expect — like a bustling city known more for bridges than barbecue. Happy seasoning!