Manufacturer Name: VEMCO (Valencia Marketing Company)
Location: San Juan, Trinidad and Tobago
Founded: 1968
Website: matouks.com
About the Manufacturer: Matouk’s is a beloved hot sauce brand originating from Trinidad and Tobago, a region famous for its rich, spicy culinary heritage. Founded in 1968, Matouk’s has built a global reputation for bold Caribbean flavors, crafting sauces with island-grown ingredients and distinctive heat. Known for capturing the vibrant taste of Trinidadian cuisine, Matouk’s sauces have become a favorite among fans of authentic Caribbean spice.
Signature Sauce(s):
- Matouk’s Calypso Sauce
- Heat Level: Medium to Hot
- Flavor Profile: A tangy, sweet-heat sauce made from aged West Indian Scotch Bonnet peppers, vinegar, mustard, and a hint of tropical fruit. It delivers a balanced punch of heat with fruity undertones.
- Pairing Suggestions: Perfect for jerk chicken, pork, grilled seafood, and rice dishes. Also delicious as a dip for fried snacks or mixed into marinades.
- Matouk’s Flambeau Sauce
- Heat Level: Very Hot
- Flavor Profile: An intense, fiery sauce featuring Scotch Bonnet and habanero peppers, blended with mustard and vinegar. This sauce packs a serious kick for spice lovers while retaining the tropical, mustardy essence that Matouk’s is known for.
- Pairing Suggestions: Best suited for hearty dishes like stews, curries, and grilled meats, or as an extra-hot condiment for adventurous eaters.
Unique Ingredients: Matouk’s uses locally grown Caribbean peppers, particularly the Scotch Bonnet, which is known for its fruity and floral flavors alongside its heat. The addition of mustard, tropical fruits, and other traditional ingredients gives Matouk’s sauces a unique, island-inspired flavor.
Production Process: Matouk’s sauces are made by blending fresh Scotch Bonnet peppers with vinegar, mustard, and spices, then allowing the flavors to meld and develop. This process brings out the complex, fruity notes of the peppers, creating a well-rounded, flavorful heat. Matouk’s takes care to preserve the authentic taste of Trinidadian cuisine in each bottle.
Awards & Recognition: Matouk’s is celebrated for bringing Trinidadian flavors to a worldwide audience and has been recognized in international hot sauce competitions and Caribbean culinary showcases. It’s widely recognized by hot sauce aficionados for its unique flavor profiles and consistent quality.
Sustainability Efforts: VEMCO is committed to supporting sustainable agricultural practices within the Caribbean, sourcing ingredients locally and working to minimize waste in production. They emphasize responsible sourcing and work with local farmers to maintain high-quality ingredients.
Customer Favorites: Matouk’s Calypso Sauce is a favorite for its balance of heat and sweetness, making it versatile for a variety of dishes. The Flambeau Sauce is a must-try for those looking for intense, authentic Caribbean heat.
Social Media Presence:
- Instagram: @matoukshotpeppersauce
- Facebook: Matouk’s Hot Sauce
Fun Fact: Matouk’s is considered an essential pantry item in many Trinidadian households and is often the “secret ingredient” in Caribbean-style stews, curries, and grilled dishes. Its Calypso Sauce is named after the famous Trinidadian music genre, reflecting the brand’s deep cultural roots in Trinidad and Tobago.