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Throughout the years that HSB has been around there have been countless chili-heads, manufacturers, pepper producers and all people of all facets of anything food related visiting, reading and posting just about anything (and then some) about hot food culture.
And through the years there have been comments about a particular manufacturer, reported sightings, and FBI cover-ups over the where abouts of one elusive figure. Dave Hirschkop - one of the true originators and legends among the hot sauce realm.
Sit back, grab a drink and something spicy, and enjoy as Dave talks about his sauce, his views, and what is new and up in coming in the Insanity World!
(The answers below are straight from Dave’s fingers - facts have not been checked)
1. Why hot sauce? Where did the idea come from for you to get involved doing this?
I owned a restaurant called Burrito Madness in College Park, MD. We made creative wraps and Taqueria foods. There were far too many drunks coming into the restaurant so in 1992 I decided to make the world’s hottest sauce. I used an extract to make the sauce hotter than anything on the market and the drunks were brought under control. We also had a lot of fun. It was the first super hot sauce marketed.
2. If you had to pick a favorite sauce yours, which would it be?
My favorite sauce that we make is our Gingerbread Cream, which is fantastic. The product that I am currently eating too much of is our new Smokin’ Nuts. These BBQ chipotle nuts are addictive. If you meant hot sauce, then I am partial to our Hurtin Habanero or our Garlic Chile Sauce. They both have flavors that really bring out the best in some foods.
3. Any new products we should be ready for from your line?
As I mentioned we just launched Dave’s Smokin Nuts. We are also preparing to launch our private reserve for the 12th year since we pioneered producing hand signed limited edition sauces. It is the hottest yet. We are also looking forward to a super limited edition sauce that we will be launching this fall. There will only be 100 to 200 bottles and the packaging will be incredible. On top of that we are launching our Lucky Nuts this fall. These nuts have a special feature to them that people will find very funny and tasty. (I happened to see these puppies at the Fancy Foods Show - every package has a few super hot nuts mixed in ~Nick) Finally, we will be launching more miniature packs this fall to go with our mini four pack.
4. Where do you see the future of hot sauce 5 years from now? 10? 20?
Hot sauces will get more ingrained in U.S. and global culture. The number of people consuming spicy foods will increase. The diversity of ways that they consume spicy foods will increase. The lines between hot sauces and other sauces that are hot will continue to blur. Asian, African, and South American sauces will become more familiar as will sauces that combine different geographical and ethnic influences.
5. What is your favorite sauce that you don’t make?
I like Huy Fong Siracha Sauce. I wish it was 100% natural, but it’s tasty.
6. Do you eat the sauce you make?
As head of QC I eat it all the time. I usually tend to eat our new products and forget the older ones.
7. What do you eat hot sauce on?
I like hot sauce on the usual suspects: burritos, enchiladas, Asian dipping sauces, pasta, chile, etc. I do not like them as eye drops.
8. What sets you aside from the other hot sauce producers out there today?
I was the first producer to make a super hot sauce, which can only be done with extracts. I was the first to make a hand signed reserve. I was the first to make an Adjustable Heat Hot Sauce. I have one of the largest selections of sauces under our brand. I did not see a trend and try to cash in, but make my products because it’s fun and I feel like we really are making people’s lives better. I also have less hair and am less employable than other hot sauce producers.
9. What is your inspiration before you embark on a new concoction?
I have too much time on my hands so ideas pop into my head. My friends and co-workers tend to tell me that my ideas aren’t so good, but once in a while I slip one through. Most ideas do start with a question, “what if”?
10. Outside of creating hot products, what else keeps you occupied or out of trouble?
I have three kids and a wonderful wife, love rafting, working out and pursuing unusual projects. Last year I swam from Alcatraz as part of a triathlon, one year I bicycled across the U.S. for charity, this year I am trying to perfect my land sled.
11. Any weird stories or uses for your hot sauce that you would like to share?
My memory stinks for specific stories so we will start posting them on my site soon. Generally a number of people seem to use Insanity as an animal control device, a sexual aid, a grease remover, barnacle remover, pain killer, practical joke and some people actually eat it.
12. How much sauce do you make in a week?
On a good week we make 50,000 -75,000 bottles of sauce. We have exceeded this at times and have also dipped below it.
13. How many different recipes do you go through when developing a new sauce?
There is a huge range depending upon the type of sauce, type of ingredients, our experience with that item, etc. It can be anywhere from 5 to 100. With experience we tend towards the lower end of the scale nowadays.
14. How did you get started in the industry?
Refer to question one.
15. What is your biggest challenge so far?
The biggest challenge is trying to stay focused and not produce too many crazy products. There are so many ideas that I love and maybe 72 other people would too.
16. What is the most common question you get?
Why? Some people also ask how or how long?
17. What do you want to know from the readers of the HSB?
What would they like for me to produce? How can I improve what Dave’s Gourmet does or help them better? Also, what is the winning number of the next California Lottery?
18. What’s a typical day for you?
One of my wives wakes me up with a gentle massage, breakfast in bed arrives, my kids calmly sit with me, a long hot shower, work at the desk for an hour, four hour martini lunch, work in the kitchen for an hour, golf with my buddies, gourmet dinner, shoulder rub, live entertainment at my home. This assumes that I am not traveling the world or rafting. If you believe that schedule, please call me about a land investment. Actually I am up early, go to the gym, go to work, play with the munchkins, do what my wife tells me to, and go to bed.
19. Worst burn ever?
I had a cyst in my mouth where the nerves intersect and they cauterized it. Ouch
20. Best burn ever?
After having your mouth cauterized all other burns are good. I really like when it is too hot outside and you eat some chiles to cool down. I also love spicy ice cream combinations.
Dave’s Gourmet, Inc.
Palette Fine Foods and Chile Today Hot Tamale
415-401-9100
2000 Mckinnon Ave., Bldg. 428, #5
San Francisco, CA 94124
www.davesgourmet.com
“Dave’s Condiments and Salsas are legendary”
The Washington Post
Chilehead Comments:
Posted by: Nick Lindauer - Categories: Uncategorized
Permalink: Meet Your Maker #8 - Dave Hirschkop
One year ago: Official Hot Sauce of the CFL
- Related Posts:
- Crazy From The Heat by Dave Hirschkop
- Who is Dave?
- Dave’s Insanity Sauce
- Dave Dolliver’s Hot Sauce Collection
- Review: Scotty B’s Mean Green With Envy Hot Sauce
247 Comments »
Sweeeeeet!! Daves here.
It’s good to hear from Dave, when we began collecting he was the first manufacturer we really focused in on and went after all his sauces. We’ve had a Reserve in the wood box since the beginning and it’s always drawn attention from anyone who sees it. Hopefully Dave will come around and post sometimes- it would be great to pick his brain and get some insight on his products and future projects.
Great interview!
yeah, very interestig interview!
I had no idea the creator of those hot nuts was such a veteran in the hot sauce business.
I think he chose an appropriate name Insanity 
this guy is a hoot, I hope he does come around just to post a few words, maybe we can get him addicted and voila he is all ours to pick his brain like we do CaJohn 
that would be sweet!
Dave’s is one of the first non mass marketed hot sauces I tried a long time ago! Man I thought I was going to die! It is good to hear from Dave. Awesome interview
Thank goodness, and I thought I was the only one who liked hot sauce on top of icecream. HAHA go dave, make an icecream topping. Your salsa is currently ripping me a new one.
Man - doesn’t anyone else think this interview is really f-d up? It’s like he’s attaacking Blair and other makers.
Jackson on 7/26/2006 at 1:48 pm said:
Man - doesn’t anyone else think this interview is really f-d up? It’s like he’s attaacking Blair and other makers.
I didn’t think he was attacking anyone, but i am getting a sense of de ja vu didn’t these exact words come out of someone elses mouth about Uncle Big? He was asked his opinion and he gave it, there is nothing wrong with that, ask CaJohn, Jim C, Huvason, Brian the same question and people would think they were attacking other makers too. take the interview for what it is, a get to know you thing, think about it to much and we’ll have a government-daves conspiracy theory going about the blog. (shhhh they are listening) LOL sorry Jackson, i just don’t see it the same as you.
Jackson on 7/26/2006 at 1:48 pm said:
Man - doesn’t anyone else think this interview is really f-d up? It’s like he’s attaacking Blair and other makers.
I dont think he is attacking but I think he is letting it be known he is one of the first to do what is going on now. Gotta give Dave some serious credit. Im sure Blair and CaJohn give him his props. 
“I have one of the largest selections of sauces under our brand. I did not see a trend and try to cash in, but make my products because it’s fun and I feel like we really are making people’s lives better. I also have less hair and am less employable than other hot sauce producers.”
That’s not a cheap shot? I’m not saying it’s a conspiracy but it’s always the same thing - there’s always been a grey area when it comes to the facts of the hto sauce industry
Scott on 7/26/2006 at 1:55 pm said:
I dont think he is attacking but I think he is letting it be known he is one of the first to do what is going on now. Gotta give Dave some serious credit. Im sure Blair and CaJohn give him his props.
Just because someone says they are first, doesn’t mean it’s true. He could be full o crap.
I knew this was going to get interesting!
LOL Anthony!!!!!!!!!!!!
well here is a good oppurtunity then why don’t we pose the “Is Dave full o carp” question to everyone, someone will know the answer
of course we could always google it and put this matter to rest.
quite honestly out of all the interviews I have seen here on the blog none of the other manufacturers have said I am first, except Dave. so my question is….. why would he say it, knowing other makers post here on the blog and would call his bluff if it’s not true?
Jackson on 7/26/2006 at 2:01 pm said:
Just because someone says they are first, doesn’t mean it’s true. He could be full o crap.
First? maybe, maybe not. Does it really matter?
In this community, its what you produce and continue to come up with (no matter if your first) that will seperate you from the others. Keeping it fresh and on the edge will put you on top no matter who was there before. 
my .03 cents I’ll save the other 1.7 for pmac
Anthony on 7/26/2006 at 2:05 pm said:
I knew this was going to get interesting!
Yep, me too. But, I do have to say that Dave’s Insanity Sauce is what got me started in the whole hot sauce thing. That was a looooong time ago.
I may not be an authority on the subject, but I have been collecting Hot sauce for about 15 years and if I remember correctly Dave’s WAS one of the first super hots along with Endorphin Rush and Inner Beauty when I started collecting, I would give him the benefit of being one of the “forefathers” of our current hot sauce craze,
Ed
ahem…more coming right up.
Mrs.Ryan on 7/26/2006 at 2:16 pm said:
LOL Anthony!!!!!!!!!!!!
well here is a good oppurtunity then why don’t we pose the “Is Dave full o carp” question to everyone, someone will know the answer
of course we could always google it and put this matter to rest.
quite honestly out of all the interviews I have seen here on the blog none of the other manufacturers have said I am first, except Dave. so my question is….. why would he say it, knowing other makers post here on the blog and would call his bluff if it’s not true?
Ok I finally get it now
I am slow as molasses in the winter but i get it
Slinging Carp!!!! Ahh full of Carp!!! Ahhh Ok capr is another word for cra* LOL
ttyall later
Like Mrs. Ryan said - now that the interview is out there, so is the question: Is this true?
I bet someone will know.
I’ve been a long time reader and have stayed out of the trenches here for many reasons but every so often something like this kreaps up. I don’t want to read the HSB if it’s going to be incorrect (not that Nick would do that on purpose - notice the revised note above in the post). wwe as consumers have a right to know if the manufacturers are telling the truth or just blowing smoke to sell more sauce (or rile us up)…
Dave’s quote about the Insanity Sauce——
“There were far too many drunks coming into the restaurant so in 1992 I decided to make the world’s hottest sauce. I used an extract to make the sauce hotter than anything on the market and the drunks were brought under control.”
Blair’s Quote about the Beyond Death——-
“I remember it well because I got pepper extract and Habanero in my eyes and burned for days…I really did not even care back then, I was on a mission the very same one as today. Back in 1993″
Looks like from the dates THEY say that it was close to who made the first extract sauce. Dave 1992 and Blair 1993. But was the 2am on the market before 1992???
OK, ill stop now. I might start a riot or something.
Jackson on 7/26/2006 at 2:45 pm said:
Like Mrs. Ryan said - now that the interview is out there, so is the question: Is this true?
I bet someone will know.
I’ve been a long time reader and have stayed out of the trenches here for many reasons but every so often something like this kreaps up. I don’t want to read the HSB if it’s going to be incorrect (not that Nick would do that on purpose - notice the revised note above in the post). wwe as consumers have a right to know if the manufacturers are telling the truth or just blowing smoke to sell more sauce (or rile us up)…
I understand you want facts to be correct, but I dont think it is in Nick’s place to verify a manufacturer’s claim. If something is not true, it will “come out” as mrs ryan has said. To say “I don’t want to read the HSB if it’s going to be incorrect” isnt really a fair statement. There is plenty of great information here, and yes, some of it may not be 100% true, but that would then be considered an opinion. If you feel that way then what is left “out there” for you to read? What newspaper, magazine, or website is 100% accurate all the time? The post wasnt about “being first”, it was an interview and expressed the “thoughts” of Dave.
I personally have been collecting hot sauces since 1992, and really it matters NOT to me who did what first and when.
Scott on 7/26/2006 at 2:56 pm said:
Dave’s quote about the Insanity Sauce——
“There were far too many drunks coming into the restaurant so in 1992 I decided to make the world’s hottest sauce. I used an extract to make the sauce hotter than anything on the market and the drunks were brought under control.”
Blair’s Quote about the Beyond Death——-
“I remember it well because I got pepper extract and Habanero in my eyes and burned for days…I really did not even care back then, I was on a mission the very same one as today. Back in 1993″
Looks like from the dates THEY say that it was close to who made the first extract sauce. Dave 1992 and Blair 1993. But was the 2am on the market before 1992???
OK, ill stop now. I might start a riot or something.
I really don’t think it matters to anyone. If it was liabalous someone would sue someone else. I think they are both fairly successful, and if it mattered it would have been settled long ago They are both leaders in the industry (along with numerous others) lets just give them a pat on the back for making something we all enjoy and give props to the interviewer and interviewee for an entertaining read! 
Jackson on 7/26/2006 at 2:01 pm said:
Just because someone says they are first, doesn’t mean it’s true. He could be full o crap.
Great. Another 12 year old posting? Or someone who isn’t familiar with the caliber of people he speaks ill of? Liars in this business are smoked out in about 10 seconds. I’ve been in the business for just shy of 20 years now and don’t know Dave to be a liar about anything. If this claim were not true, it would have been challenged 15 years ago when it was made. He was not slamming Blair by pointing out that he was the first, anymore than I would be by pointing out that I grew Red Savina(R) before CaJohn had heard of them.
Ryan, Chris, you’re rubbing off on me
Comment ID #46737 Quote]
Amen. This is petty and stupid and no one cares.
Besides, Danny Cash was first. I remember making extract sauces back in the early 70’s. I also invented skateboarding and indoor air conditioning.
Jim- StepUpForCharity.org on 7/26/2006 at 3:46 pm said:
Great. Another 12 year old posting? Or someone who isn’t familiar with the caliber of people he speaks ill of? Liars in this business are smoked out in about 10 seconds. I’ve been in the business for just shy of 20 years now and don’t know Dave to be a liar about anything. If this claim were not true, it would have been challenged 15 years ago when it was made. He was not slamming Blair by pointing out that he was the first, anymore than I would be by pointing out that I grew Red Savina(R) before CaJohn had heard of them.
Ryan, Chris, you’re rubbing off on me
Happy to be a positive influence on you Jim I just caught up on this stuff (as I am on my lunch break at the office) and all I have to say is this…Back up your own $#!T. Jaskson uses the word “could”. You’re taking a wild guess my friend, with no basis. The other thing, and though I may get carp slung at me for this, is Blair is not god. He has a very good and popular line of products, but he was not first, is not the best in everyone’s opinion, and he’s just an ordinary guy like any other manufacturer. Quit comparing everyone’s sauces, and every manufacturer to him, or any other for that matter. A lot of the opinions expressed here on this blog are nothing more than that…OPINIONS…not fact. So seeing that there are those that have backed Dave up on his statement, guess its time to off Jackson some salt so he doesn’t get that fungal taste when he sticks his foot in his mouth. That’s my ChaChing for the day 
Mrs.Ryan on 7/26/2006 at 1:53 pm said:
I didn’t think he was attacking anyone, but i am getting a sense of de ja vu didn’t these exact words come out of someone elses mouth about Uncle Big? He was asked his opinion and he gave it, there is nothing wrong with that, ask CaJohn, Jim C, Huvason, Brian the same question and people would think they were attacking other makers too. take the interview for what it is, a get to know you thing, think about it to much and we’ll have a government-daves conspiracy theory going about the blog. (shhhh they are listening) LOL sorry Jackson, i just don’t see it the same as you.
What’s that?? My Spidey sense is tingling. Someone is talking about me on HSB!!
Ah, the “I’m better than you conversation”, which in my opintion was taken out of context, has reared it’s ugly head once again.
I’m not going to give that any energy, because I stand by what I said because I believe it whole heartedly. My fiery foods line, which is growing to include Wing Sauce, BBQ Sauce and Hot Nuts this fall, is different in some regards to the norm. I don’t think I’m better, just different enough to entertain!!. My customers think I’m better than “Eat Sh*t and Die Hot Sauce” Oh pooh, there I went expending energy on it, oh well. I just had a huge bowl of wontons with a lot of Cry Baby hot sauce, so I got energy to burn!
I just read the interview and honestly, DAVE IS FULL OF CR*P, plain and simple.
It is an undisputable fact that I, Uncle Big, maker of Uncle Big’s Killer Hot Sauce and now proud owner of the Droolin’ Devil Fine Foods line of products, has less hair than any other fiery foods manufacturer on the planet. I’m mean come on, I barely have eyebrows for God sake (thanks to a fire in the chicken coop during my youth).
For him to say that he less hair and less employable than me is pure horse puckey!!
He did make some very valid and truthful points. Like Huy Fong Siracha Sauce, that’s good sh*t.
The “worst burn” question kind of freaked me out a bit and made me feel a little queasy, but I don’t think he caught the jist of the question.
I don’t know if reading between the lines on these interviews is always such a good idea, you have to take it with a grain of salt. I mean look at his average day answers. Tongue in cheek to say the least.
It wouldn’t be too difficult to verify who was the originator of the first mass marketed super hots and perhaps someone a little longer in the tooth in this industry (Blair?? Cajohn??) could share their wisdom on this.
I haven’t followed Dave’s products for quite a while, pretty much since he went off shore for manufacturing. And besides, Uncle Big’s insides can’t handle the sauces with the higher vinegar content, so I’m not an avid user of the Insanity products. His new nuts are…quaint… more crazy with flavour than insane heat. I do still like Dave’s microwave popcorn though, it’s yummy.
And that’s all I’ve got to say about that.
I look forward to an avalanche of comments on this interview, I think I’ll snuggle up with the laptop when I get home tonight.
Oh and Lee@DC, I invented battery operated tooth brushes and thong underwear….for men! Stick that in your fuse box!
Dave, where are you??? Are you full of carp?
LOL
JIM YOU ROCK!!!!!!!!!!
so I guess we have the answer Dave is NOT full of carp
I FREAKIN LOVE THIS BLOG!!!!!!!!!!!!
on another note…….Lee it’s hot as hades at my house why don’t you share your air conditioning wealth and send me a window unit ha ha hahahahahaha
Sorry- I’ll blame fatigue It just riles me to have *friends* called liars when there is not the slightest basis in fact to do so. Dave, Blair, CaJohn and nearly anyone else who’s anyone you care to name have never hestitated to help others as they can.
Uncle Big you are right Dave is full of crap about having less hair OMG 
I do have to thank Jackson for making this interview thread very interesting.
Jim- StepUpForCharity.org on 7/26/2006 at 4:09 pm said:
Sorry- I’ll blame fatigue
Do not apologize Jim, everyone here on the blog has seen “the big guys” including you, step up to help out a little guy, most of us are getting our start because CaJohn, brian, you have taken our hands and said hey come on lets do this, I am sure Dave is no different. Lee is no different but i might take that back if i don’t get my air conditioner Just kiddin Lee. Every time we have an interview with a manufacturer the same questions are asked and someone has to start slinging carp although it makes the blog interesting it does get tiresome. just google the damn thing already and be done with it.
Uncle Big: I’d kick your @ss for the male thong thing, but you look big, so nevermind.
Mrs. Ryan: Sorry, I quit the air conditioning thing right before it took off to pursure a career in multi-level marketing.
Man, I can’t wait to meet all you freaks in Texas!
Mrs.Ryan on 7/26/2006 at 4:10 pm said:
Uncle Big you are right Dave is full of crap about having less hair OMG
I do have to thank Jackson for making this interview thread very interesting.
Thanks to my darling wife, I will soon be able to truthfully say that I am the the one in the graphics biz with the least amount of hair
. 
uhhhhh hmmmmm this is about dave being full of carp my darling hubby, lets leave me out of it for now shall we?
Ryan@angrypepper on 7/26/2006 at 4:20 pm said:
Thanks to my darling wife, I will soon be able to truthfully say that I am the the one in the graphics biz with the least amount of hair
Mrs.Ryan on 7/26/2006 at 4:22 pm said:
.
I just gotta ask: Do the 2 of you hang out in the same room and blog each other without saying a word? lol
Lee@DC on 7/26/2006 at 4:18 pm said:
Uncle Big: I’d kick your @ss for the male thong thing, but you look big, so nevermind.
Mrs. Ryan: Sorry, I quit the air conditioning thing right before it took off to pursure a career in multi-level marketing.
Man, I can’t wait to meet all you freaks in Texas!
JUST GREAT LEE!!!! I AM NEVER POSTING HERE AGAIN THANKS TO NO AIR CONDITIONING.
LMAO it’s kind of fun acting like a spoiled 5 year old.
ha ha - this did get a lot more interesting.
I’m not calling Dave a liar - we have no proof of that (but that’s my point).
To date I have not seen proof to back up any of the statements made in the interview. Have any of you? I remeber something on the food network with blair saying somethign about the 80’s. Now that may have been death sauce and not extracts, but it’s more fact then anyone else has come up with.
Jim - I know you like the guy (but to be fair, you seem to like everyone) and I’m not bashing on you or anyone else - just putting it out there. I respect the fact that you have stood up for him.
now where is dave? that’s what we should all be asking. Why has it taken so long for Dave to show his face around here?
Lee@DC on 7/26/2006 at 4:25 pm said:
I just gotta ask: Do the 2 of you hang out in the same room and blog each other without saying a word? lol
nope we tell each other what we’re writing and then crack up laughing and yes we are in the same room, unless Ryan is at work. like right now
Jackson on 7/26/2006 at 4:27 pm said:
ha ha - this did get a lot more interesting.
I’m not calling Dave a liar - we have no proof of that (but that’s my point).
To date I have not seen proof to back up any of the statements made in the interview. Have any of you? I remeber something on the food network with blair saying somethign about the 80’s. Now that may have been death sauce and not extracts, but it’s more fact then anyone else has come up with.
Jim - I know you like the guy (but to be fair, you seem to like everyone) and I’m not bashing on you or anyone else - just putting it out there. I respect the fact that you have stood up for him.
now where is dave? that’s what we should all be asking. Why has it taken so long for Dave to show his face around here?
Let me say this for everyone again……….
WHO CARES? you obviously. the rest of us are enjoying the fact that Dave gave an interview after all this time. he stated opinion, HIS opinion, you have stated yours now can we get back to being mad at Lee for quitting the air conditioning business?
Jim- StepUpForCharity.org on 7/26/2006 at 3:46 pm said:
Great. Another 12 year old posting? Or someone who isn’t familiar with the caliber of people he speaks ill of? Liars in this business are smoked out in about 10 seconds. I’ve been in the business for just shy of 20 years now and don’t know Dave to be a liar about anything. If this claim were not true, it would have been challenged 15 years ago when it was made. He was not slamming Blair by pointing out that he was the first, anymore than I would be by pointing out that I grew Red Savina(R) before CaJohn had heard of them.
Ryan, Chris, you’re rubbing off on me
HA ha…Good Jim, it will also help you in your World Record Attempt
” I also invented skateboarding and indoor air conditioning. “
Wow, sorry I never thanked you before Lee, so Thanks
Jackson on 7/26/2006 at 4:27 pm said:
ha ha - this did get a lot more interesting.
I’m not calling Dave a liar - we have no proof of that (but that’s my point).
To date I have not seen proof to back up any of the statements made in the interview. Have any of you? I remeber something on the food network with blair saying somethign about the 80’s. Now that may have been death sauce and not extracts, but it’s more fact then anyone else has come up with.
Jim - I know you like the guy (but to be fair, you seem to like everyone) and I’m not bashing on you or anyone else - just putting it out there. I respect the fact that you have stood up for him.
now where is dave? that’s what we should all be asking. Why has it taken so long for Dave to show his face around here?
Thanks for helping to keep it interesting Jackson.
Uncle Big writes: “I just had a huge bowl of wontons with a lot of Cry Baby hot sauce, so I got energy to burn”
I say “YOUR THE MAN MR. BIG!!!!!!!!!!”
lol
I know one thing. Uncle big is a funny man! I was wondering what he was up to when he was saying Dave was full of crap but when he referred to the hair thing I had to laugh out loud! Ahh the entertainment the HSB brings me!
Jackson on 7/26/2006 at 4:27 pm said:
ha ha - this did get a lot more interesting.
I’m not calling Dave a liar - we have no proof of that (but that’s my point).
To date I have not seen proof to back up any of the statements made in the interview. Have any of you? I remeber something on the food network with blair saying somethign about the 80’s. Now that may have been death sauce and not extracts, but it’s more fact then anyone else has come up with.
Jim - I know you like the guy (but to be fair, you seem to like everyone) and I’m not bashing on you or anyone else - just putting it out there. I respect the fact that you have stood up for him.
now where is dave? that’s what we should all be asking. Why has it taken so long for Dave to show his face around here?
Some of us hjave jobs…and brains for that matter. If you had one, you’d be able to comprehend that maybe, just maybe, Dave has something more important than spend all day here on the blog trying to defend a comment. Get over yourself.
to add to that…Jackson, you’re the kind of guy that could screw up a wet dream, and you’ve backed that up plenty Have a nice day!
Uncle Big on 7/26/2006 at 4:02 pm said:
What’s that?? My Spidey sense is tingling. Someone is talking about me on HSB!!
Ah, the “I’m better than you conversation”, which in my opintion was taken out of context, has reared it’s ugly head once again.
I’m not going to give that any energy, because I stand by what I said because I believe it whole heartedly. My fiery foods line, which is growing to include Wing Sauce, BBQ Sauce and Hot Nuts this fall, is different in some regards to the norm. I don’t think I’m better, just different enough to entertain!!. My customers think I’m better than “Eat Sh*t and Die Hot Sauce” Oh pooh, there I went expending energy on it, oh well. I just had a huge bowl of wontons with a lot of Cry Baby hot sauce, so I got energy to burn!
I just read the interview and honestly, DAVE IS FULL OF CR*P, plain and simple.
It is an undisputable fact that I, Uncle Big, maker of Uncle Big’s Killer Hot Sauce and now proud owner of the Droolin’ Devil Fine Foods line of products, has less hair than any other fiery foods manufacturer on the planet. I’m mean come on, I barely have eyebrows for God sake (thanks to a fire in the chicken coop during my youth).
For him to say that he less hair and less employable than me is pure horse puckey!!He did make some very valid and truthful points. Like Huy Fong Siracha Sauce, that’s good sh*t.
The “worst burn” question kind of freaked me out a bit and made me feel a little queasy, but I don’t think he caught the jist of the question.
I don’t know if reading between the lines on these interviews is always such a good idea, you have to take it with a grain of salt. I mean look at his average day answers. Tongue in cheek to say the least.
It wouldn’t be too difficult to verify who was the originator of the first mass marketed super hots and perhaps someone a little longer in the tooth in this industry (Blair?? Cajohn??) could share their wisdom on this.
I haven’t followed Dave’s products for quite a while, pretty much since he went off shore for manufacturing. And besides, Uncle Big’s insides can’t handle the sauces with the higher vinegar content, so I’m not an avid user of the Insanity products. His new nuts are…quaint… more crazy with flavour than insane heat. I do still like Dave’s microwave popcorn though, it’s yummy.
And that’s all I’ve got to say about that.
I look forward to an avalanche of comments on this interview, I think I’ll snuggle up with the laptop when I get home tonight.
Oh and Lee@DC, I invented battery operated tooth brushes and thong underwear….for men! Stick that in your fuse box!
I know. I could tell you but what do I know. Check back tonight too see if you all figure it out. OK 1 clue It did not start on east coast. Ok got my steaks back to the boat.
Ryan@angrypepper on 7/26/2006 at 4:57 pm said:
Some of us hjave jobs…and brains for that matter. If you had one, you’d be able to comprehend that maybe, just maybe, Dave has something more important than spend all day here on the blog trying to defend a comment. Get over yourself.
Ryan, take a breath or your medication. I’m not attacking you or anyone on the HSB so stop making personal attacks against me - I’m just raising the question as to why we’ve never seen Dave on here.
Obviously Nick buys from him and has done a great job getting the HSB out there, so why can’t we as chileheads raise the question?
Wouldn’t you - as a “graphics” guy - want to talk to the graphics fanatics of the world - especially if it was free?
I’m not saying he should come on here to defend himself or what he said - but how about joining the conversation once in a while?
Again, this is not the place for insults - just asking questions.
Jackson, I am sure that was not a personal attack….it was his opinion
Try Wikipedia. They seem to back up what Dave was saying. Nuff said.
Maybe he hasnt come on the Blog yet because he knew this would happen???? Geeeeeze!!! The first time we have an interview with Dave and looks like it might just keep him away longer. But, I hope not. I do have a feeling we will be hearing from him shortly. Hes gonna break bad and start busting caps all up in ya. YO!!!! WORD!!!
Jackson on 7/26/2006 at 5:23 pm said:
Ryan, take a breath or your medication. I’m not attacking you or anyone on the HSB so stop making personal attacks against me - I’m just raising the question as to why we’ve never seen Dave on here.
Obviously Nick buys from him and has done a great job getting the HSB out there, so why can’t we as chileheads raise the question?
Wouldn’t you - as a “graphics” guy - want to talk to the graphics fanatics of the world - especially if it was free?
I’m not saying he should come on here to defend himself or what he said - but how about joining the conversation once in a while?
Again, this is not the place for insults - just asking questions.
I may be wrong, but I believe that Dave has popped on here a time or two. Maybe he’s more comfortable with one of the other blogs out there. Why don’t the makers of Tabasco comment here? Why doesn’t your mother? Its not a sin to not comment on this blog.
That’s taking things to the extreme there Scott, I doubt if he is even offended by this. he is probably laughing to hard to even try and type
I doubt Daves offended at all- we haven’t said anything to offend I hope.
Dang it Nick!! stay out of this we’re having a great time (just kidding)
Thank you Dave for granting Nick this interview and giving us all something to talk about
Mrs.Ryan on 7/26/2006 at 6:00 pm said:
That’s taking things to the extreme there Scott, I doubt if he is even offended by this. he is probably laughing to hard to even try and type
I was just having some fun. He knew it was just playing around. I mean C’mon, how can you take a guy with a Mullet like mine seriously.
you have a mullett? oh dear say it isn’t so, Scott, the mullett is um….so well BAD mulletts are BAD
a fire in the chicken coop, Uncle Big? sounds interesting LOL
Mrs.Ryan on 7/26/2006 at 6:23 pm said:
you have a mullett? oh dear say it isn’t so, Scott, the mullett is um….so well BAD mulletts are BAD
Yeah, I got one. There is a pic in the HSB Picture archives.
Mrs.Ryan on 7/26/2006 at 6:15 pm said:
Dang it Nick!! stay out of this we’re having a great time
Thank you Dave for granting Nick this interview and giving us all something to talk about
LOL - come back from work to a rumble in the jungle!
DK on 7/26/2006 at 5:53 pm said:
Try Wikipedia. They seem to back up what Dave was saying. Nuff said.
To quote Wikipedia:
“The original Dave’s Insanity Sauce premiered around 1995 and was one of the first sauces to be made directly from capsaicin extract, allowing it to be hotter than the hottest habanero-pepper sauces of the day.”
More fuel for the fodder fire
Nick Lindauer on 7/26/2006 at 6:33 pm said:
LOL - come back from work to a rumble in the jungle!
If it will make anyone feel better, we can always bring my mother into this
Nick Lindauer on 7/26/2006 at 6:33 pm said:
LOL - come back from work to a rumble in the jungle!
LOL! well c’mon Nick did you expect anything less of us? most of us here can turn anything into a conspiracy
I for one thought it was a great interveiw. Just been staying away from the blog for most of the day to much B****ING going on, I know I know we all have our own opinion and that is fine. State your opinion and move on. I would like to thank Dave for taking time out of his busy to do the interveiw. It is nice to hear from the manufacturers.THANKS….
Mrs.Ryan on 7/26/2006 at 6:48 pm said:
LOL! well c’mon Nick did you expect anything less of us? most of us here can turn anything into a conspiracy
Don’t I know it
As long as it’s all in good fun it’s all good
Jackson on 7/26/2006 at 6:35 pm said:
To quote Wikipedia:
“The original Dave’s Insanity Sauce premiered around 1995 and was one of the first sauces to be made directly from capsaicin extract, allowing it to be hotter than the hottest habanero-pepper sauces of the day.”More fuel for the fodder fire
One of the first. see he was a first, so there all is well on the HSB!
Nick Lindauer on 7/26/2006 at 6:52 pm said:
Don’t I know it
As long as it’s all in good fun it’s all good
well of course it’s all in good fun…. we don’t ever take anything seriously around here
Not to get off track but did you see the post in the FC500 thread. A guy got his FC500’s and they were numbered xxx/999. 999 not 500!!!! Now that is different.
Ryan@angrypepper on 7/26/2006 at 6:41 pm said:
If it will make anyone feel better, we can always bring my mother into this
Already have Ryan, she’s here with me!! 
Tracy C on 7/26/2006 at 6:56 pm said:
Already have Ryan, she’s here with me!!
ROFL!!!!!!!!!!! Tracy you are bad
Scott on 7/26/2006 at 6:55 pm said:
Not to get off track but did you see the post in the FC500 thread. A guy got his FC500’s and they were numbered xxx/999. 999 not 500!!!! Now that is different.
well, is he full of carp? did you see pics?
I crack myself up
Tracy C on 7/26/2006 at 6:56 pm said:
Already have Ryan, she’s here with me!!
Sucks to be you my friend
Ryan your mom is a nice lady…..the cat fight may not be so good between her and and mrs.tracy though……
Mrs.Ryan on 7/26/2006 at 6:48 pm said:
LOL! well c’mon Nick did you expect anything less of us? most of us here can turn anything into a conspiracy
Nick Lindauer on 7/26/2006 at 6:52 pm said:
Don’t I know it
As long as it’s all in good fun it’s all good
Admit it, Nick…a little stirring of the pot can be entertaining…especially for those of us doing the stirring
Dave was the first in my personal experience. I remember betting a buddy $5 to eat a piece of cheese with two drops of Insanity Sauce without being allow anything else for 10 minutes. He won.
I was the first to point out ‘carp’ on HSB though.
Mrs.Ryan on 7/26/2006 at 7:03 pm said:
Ryan your mom is a nice lady…..the cat fight may not be so good between her and and mrs.tracy though……
Yeah she’s nice, but but she’s gone fron the silent nagging to being very vocal. I can’t imagine my mother liking anything about North Carolina and she would let Tracy know to no end
Ryan@angrypepper on 7/26/2006 at 7:01 pm said:
Sucks to be you my friend
You can just call me Daddy!
Mrs.Ryan on 7/26/2006 at 6:28 pm said:
a fire in the chicken coop, Uncle Big? sounds interesting LOL
Mrs. Ryan,
Not to hijack the interview thread, the “Fire in the Henhouse” as the Tragically Hip so eloquently put it happened when I was a teenager.
I grew up on wheat/cattle/chicken/financial black hole farm in southern Saskatchewan. We had just gotten 300 baby chicks for the new season of butchering and egg production.
We came from church, actually my family came home from church as I awoke hung over from yet another bush party somewhere in the sticks surrounding my hometown, and I looked out the kitchen window to see plumes of smoke coming from our hen house.
Now as most of you may or may not know, animal poop makes a lot of steam in the winter time, so I with my alcohol soaked brain in neutral chalked it up to steaming poop.
Upon further investigation my father summized that the “G*d d*amned hen house was on fire”!!
Being a lot more nibble in my younger days I sprinted out there in the knee deep snow like Ben Johnson on steroids (is there any other way really) to save the day.
One thing that slipped my mind was this simple equation:
three 500 watt heat lamps (to keep chickies warm)
+
1 lard ass cow in the henhouse doing the Charleston
=
smoldering bales of hay.
Now I’m no chemist or physicist or what have you, but when you have the sum of that equation and add a gush of rushing air from me yanking open the 8 foot by 8 foot door, but that equals a big ass fireball.
Picture this Uncle Big (more like Cousin Large at the time) rocking a serious Bon Jovi perm down past my shoulders and a momentary firestorm, well that equals the smell of burnt hair and an instant and very non flattering rat tail mullet (no offense Scott). Not to mention the cheesy teenage mustache I was nurturing under my nose was missing in action along with my eyebrows.
Side note, the baby chicks didn’t make it through the fire, and the ones that straggled out of the ruins, well let’s just say they went to baby chick heaven as well. That made me sad.
Back to my hair. As a teenage boy, I was completely devastated. My mom had to get out the clippers and try and salvage what was left of my 1/4″ hair on the top of my head and then we strangled the long stuff in the back into one of the arty farty ponytails that were popular with gallery owners named Jean Pierre back in early 90’s.
Funny thing, ever since then, I’ve had a fascination with fire and things that are hot, and oh yeah I’ve also had eyebrow envy since then as well.
Now of course the shaved head is by choice (my genes chose that, not me) and the eye brows are coming a long nicely, 20 year later. Groucho Marx here I come…
We now return you to your regularly scheduled HSB Meet You Maker interview………
“I was the first to point out ‘carp’ on HSB though.”
That is a fact that can be backed up in another thread, he did in fact point out carp FIRST. and it’s in writing so that can not be disputed
somebody should do another interview with Uncle Big!!!
ROFL Uncle Big.
I am sorry about the chicks, and your eyebrows, you wrote that all so eloquently i could picture it and I think I am gonna hurt from laughing so damn hard. all I have to say is Mulletts are bad, (scott get rid of it). your desriptions were awesome, I am going to try and stop laughing now, my dog is looking at me like I am a crazy person.
Mrs.Ryan on 7/26/2006 at 7:14 pm said:
ROFL Uncle Big.
I am sorry about the chicks, and your eyebrows, you wrote that all so eloquently i could picture it and I think I am gonna hurt from laughing so damn hard. all I have to say is Mulletts are bad, (scott get rid of it). your desriptions were awesome, I am going to try and stop laughing now, my dog is looking at me like I am a crazy person.
I have to agree with Mrs. Ryan, d*amn funny stuff, as unfortunate as it all was, hahahahaha!
Hey Uncle Big, I too once had an unfortunate “hair on fire, nothing left but a bad mullet ” situation when I was younger. Yes, I too was sporting the Bon Jovi perm (w highlights). Add half a can of Aqua Net hair spray, me trying to light a cigarette on the stove and whoosh! Ahhh the 80’s!
kristi on 7/26/2006 at 7:29 pm said:
I have to agree with Mrs. Ryan, d*amn funny stuff, as unfortunate as it all was, hahahahaha!
Hey Uncle Big, I too once had an unfortunate “hair on fire, nothing left but a bad mullet ” situation when I was younger. Yes, I too was sporting the Bon Jovi perm (w highlights). Add half a can of Aqua Net hair spray, me trying to light a cigarette on the stove and whoosh! Ahhh the 80’s!
God I’m such a child of the 80’s man, they were bitchin’!!
Further to your story, I set a “chick’s” hair on fire in the exact same manner. She had big hair, lots of the Aqua Net and I was lighting a left handed cigarette (wink wink) and whoosh, we had a bit of a brush fire going on there in my buddy’s basement for a couple of seconds. It was a scene man.
Tell me, tell me, tell me, you had the “bitch flip” going on in the front of that hairdo. You know you didn’t perm the front and then curled your bangs under and then hair sprayed the beJesus out of them??
I was a Final Net boy (big ass gold can, aerosol too better coverage). I had to steal my moms, but that was only when my band was rocking out at the high school prom. I think I stole her eyeliner too. I was a huge Ozzy Ozbourne fan, he was my god. Don’t even get me started on the bandanas and spandex..oh God, I’m having a flash back….Welcome to Jungle baby, we’ve got fun and games…..
Uncle Big on 7/26/2006 at 7:59 pm said:
God I’m such a child of the 80’s man, they were bitchin’!!
Further to your story, I set a “chick’s” hair on fire in the exact same manner. She had big hair, lots of the Aqua Net and I was lighting a left handed cigarette (wink wink) and whoosh, we had a bit of a brush fire going on there in my bu
And, as is typical of most folks in this biz, he is one of the nicest people you’ll meet and very approachable.