BURBANK, Calif. — After shopping at numerous farmers’ markets and frequenting food shows, Brian Van Dorn, owner of Van Dorn Gourmets, realized that he could come up with better and more creative spice blends, rubs, dip mixes and more. As a result, he started crafting a line of handmade goods and recently launched VanDornGourmets.com. “I have always had a personal passion for cooking, so the move into creating a line of new and exciting gourmet products was a natural one,” Van Dorn says.
Van Dorn has a professional background in creating special makeup effects for the Hollywood film industry, but has always nurtured and indulged his culinary talents. He first started creating gourmet gifts for family and friends who quickly encouraged him to take his talents to the next level.
“Granted, my initial packaging may have been over the top for some,” Van Dorn says.
The original packaging labels pictured Van Dorn’s head on a platter with a plum stuffed in his mouth. Now that he has taken his items public, the design is a bit more demure and highlights the abundance of farmlands across America.
Gourmet specialty items include: spice blends, spice rubs, dip mixes, salt blends and teas. “Gourmet” bath products such as bath teas, bombs and salts are also offered. Soy candles round out the gourmet offerings and come in an array of alluring scents – the most popular is a bamboo grapefruit blend.
One of Van Dorn’s favorite spice rubs is the espresso.
“It really stands out from other coffee rubs I have tasted,” he says. “It’s made with real espresso and positively appeals to the senses.”
The poultry seasoning is one of the most popular spice blends and a recipe for use can be found in the recipe section of the site.
Van Dorn Gourmets creates party favors and gift sets that are perfect for the holiday gift-giving season, or year round. Accessories such as spice racks are also available.
All products are handmade and created by Van Dorn. He uses only the finest ingredients, and recipes are designed for the health-conscious consumer. Some herbs are organic and many blends are salt and/or sugar free. Nothing contains MSG.
Products are currently available at: www.VanDornGourmets.com .
