Raju Sauces, a Manchester based start-up, has secured listings in Ocado and Selfridges London for its range of sauces, which fuse flavours from different cultures.
The three-strong line-up: Hot Lime Pickle, Sweet Chilli Mango and Tangy Tamarind BBQ sauce are already available in delis and c-stores, as well as online. The products are also used in recipes served in the hospitality suites at Manchester City Football Club.
Raju Sauces was founded by Zee Ahmed in November 2023 with the aim of marrying the good, bold flavours of the world food aisle with more traditional table sauces.
“I wanted to create a sauce for a modern Britain – sauces that can be used in different ways and I wanted to do more fusion foods,” he says.
Research conducted by the brand found seven out of 10 people described their taste as global and inspired by diverse flavours from different cultures.
“Raju is more than just a brand, it’s a catalyst for change,” says Ahmed. “Whilst food and culture have always been intrinsically linked, our thinking around cultural perceptions and misconceptions, especially related to ethnicity and authenticity, have not always moved with the times.”
The brand is introducing a series of recipes for its sauces – the products can be used a dip or a marinade – and is looking to bring people together from different backgrounds and inspire creativity. The Tangy BBQ Tamarind, for example, can be served with bacon sandwiches or pulled pork dishes; while the Sweet Chilli Mango is a great accompaniment to cheese and the Hot Lime Pickle works well with burgers.
As well as committing to great taste, Raju Sauces have no artificial flavours and are vegan-friendly. The business also donates 1% of all profits to support local charities and community causes.
Ahmed launched his business from his own kitchen before expanding to production facilities in Manchester. He joined the NatWest Accelerator programme, which helps UK entrepreneurs scale their businesses to the next level, and has been recognised in the Great British Entrepreneur Awards.
The partnership with Ocado.com, the world’s largest dedicated online supermarket, marks a major milestone for the company.
Meri La Bella, oils, vinegars and sauces buying manager at Ocado Retail, said: “We’re delighted to be the first major supermarket to stock Raju Sauces and are really excited to be introducing Raju’s range of flavours.
“Raju’s new recipe series comes just in time for Valentine’s Day so if you’re looking to cook up a treat, you can find the sauces together with all your ingredients at Ocado.com.”
Raju’s new recipe
Hot lime pickle lamb cutlets
Serves 2
Ingredients
4 lamb cutlets
4 tablespoons of yoghurt
1 tablespoon of Caribbean curry powder
2 tablespoons of Raju Sauces’ Hot Lime Pickle
Salt and pepper
1 tablespoon of fresh chopped mint
Method
1 Place the cutlets in a zip lock bag
2 Spoon in the curry powder, yoghurt and mint
3 Shake the bag up until the cutlets are coated (rest in fridge for minimum of one hour)
4 Heat up a grill or griddle pan
5 Take the cutlets from the bag and grill or griddle until golden. Turn and repeat
How to serve:
Season with salt and pepper and serve with Hot Lime Pickle from Raju Sauces. This dish goes really well with couscous or even a red cabbage slaw to accompany it.
If you’re planning on cooking for your loved one this Valentine’s Day, simply pair this dish with a classic red wine such as a pinot noir or cabernet sauvignon from the range online at Ocado.com
