Like fine meats, wines and cheeses?  Have a lot of Texas pride?  A new Dallas-based company has opened recently that have searched the state for its best food and beverage products.  Robin and I had a chance to meet with this new distributor, Republic of Texas.  They offer the best food products Texas has to offer, and their selection is still increasing.

As we entered the office there was a slight hint of fresh turkey that caught our attention.  A moist, spicy turkey awaited us in a back room that was set up for tastings.  We also enjoyed a smoked ham, several varieties of cheese and some pecan toffee.  Their cheese products are made at a commune in Texas.  We savored their aged cheddar (our personal favorite), aged Swiss and a specialty cheddar that had vanilla infused in the rind.  Many of their products appear to be quite traditional, while others are very unique.

The whole company shows a wealth of Texas pride, since all of their products are from companies and producers within the state.  They have even begun making crates for their gift sets that are made from re-purposed wood from wine crates and handcrafted by a local craftsman.

I also loved the idea they gave about having a “guilt free holiday meal in less than two hours!”  Offer cheese and wine as an appetizer, order the turkey or ham already cooked, bake your own rolls, serve a praline pecan pie and toffee bars for dessert, sit back and enjoy!  Visit www.republicoftexas.com to see what they have to offer.Everything they offer from Austinuts to the award winning Tomatillo Salsa Verde are great for gifts or personal use.

Lauren Gesslein is a TWU Dietetic Intern working on her Master’s in Exercise and Sports Nutrition.  She loves cooking and helping people find ways to incorporate healthy, delicious meals and physical activity into their daily lives.