Speciality food importer and distributor Empire Bespoke Foods has extended its brand-leading portfolio of Mrs Elswood pickled vegetables with the launch of a trio of Mezze products.
The ‘Made for Mezze’ range comprises semi-dried Tomatoes (gently dried for extra juiciness), spicy Kebab Peppers and flame-roasted Red Peppers. They have been developed in response to growing consumer demand for Turkish, Greek and Middle Eastern cuisines and will roll out across independent, convenience and multiple food retailers, farm shops and wholesalers from 1 February.
“Mrs Elswood has been pickling and fermenting gherkins for over 75 years – these newly created additions to the Elswood family build on that expertise in preserving delicious vegetables and take them into a new area that consumers want to buy and experiment with” commented Jonathan Hehir, Senior Innovation Manager at Empire Bespoke Foods.
Recent research shows that Mezze vegetables, a key component of Middle Eastern cuisines, are rapidly gaining popularity; the Food People Report on Middle Eastern Cuisine 2025 states that Middle Eastern cuisine has seen an increase in market appeal and influence and remains a key focus in UK restaurants. The UK Mezze/antipasti category is now worth £127m, with +8% YOY growth.1
The Mrs Elswood Tomatoes, which also contain baby peppers for a contemporary flavour twist, are semi-dried, not sun-dried – a process which preserves a high moisture content of between 65-80% for a softer, juicier texture and a delicate, fresh flavour, and avoids the leathery consistency often associated with traditional sun-dried tomatoes. Most sundried tomatoes typically have a moisture content of below 20%.
The Turkish Kebab Peppers are fermented for flavour, with deliciously warm heat – adding spiciness, colour and crunch to meals, while the flame-roasted Red Peppers also incorporate flavour-enhancing fruity Aleppo chilli flakes. All are suitable for vegetarian diets and come in resealable glass jars featuring clear labels for high impact and maximum on-shelf appeal.
“The vegetables are just so versatile. They are delicious on their own or when boosting other dishes, but they also add flavour and authenticity to traditional Mezze platters when served alongside chargrilled meat and vegetables, breads and dips,” added Jonathan.
“As more and more people discover Middle Eastern cuisines, we’re confident that the Mrs Elswood ‘Made for Mezze’ range will be a big hit with consumers seeking a way to explore this culinary journey.”
1 NIQ May 2025
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