Bacon has become quite the swanky ingredient, making it’s way into chocolate bars, martinis and many other unlikely places. I’m a huge fan of testing the limits of gastronomy, finding unique combinations in unusual places. But sometimes I’m simply craving just really good bacon - all on its own. Just imagine that classic morning breakfast with warm bacon sizzling on the stove sending that salty, smoky scent wafting through the air. The thought of it almost instantly makes me drool. James Beard, the father of gastronomy, once said “If I were about to be executed and were given a choice of my last meal, it would be bacon and eggs.” And if Mr. Beard had the chance to choose that bacon, it would probably be Benton’s.

Through the TechStars program, we had the incredible opportunity to talk with Chris Wand, currently managing director at Foundry Group and passionate foodie, who introduced us to the world of Benton’s Bacon. The first time we talked to Chris, we talked a little about business and a lot about…bacon. He’s convinced that bacon as good as Benton’s can convert any vegetarian into a bacon lover. Nestled in Madisonville, TN - Benton’s prides itself on the their process. The ham and bacon is all dry cured and then aged for 9-10 months. They also offer a hickory-smoked version that is smoked in a small, wood stove smokehouse on the premises. This unassuming little ham and bacon business is the secret ingredient for many high-end chefs across the country. After my investigation and poking around to learn more, it was clear that I had to get myself some.

I ordered the minimum amount of 4 lbs of bacon, which will hopefully be enough to get me through my unwavering cravings, but it will likely be 7 weeks before it actually arrives in Boulder. I’m usually impatient when it comes to food and 7 weeks is almost intolerable, but something about their explanation makes me perfectly okay with waiting. “We are a small, family-run business and producing high quality products is a process that cannot be rushed.” That right there is the essence of Foodzie. Finding those producers who are just so passionate about what they do and hold quality to the highest standard no matter what.