Hasta La Ideas

With Brooklyn’s artisanal, back-to-basics food movement well underway, it seemed only a matter of time before jams and jellies joined the flurry of small-batch chocolates, beers, pickled goods, and popsicles. But that’s as predictable as Anarchy in a Jar gets.

Founded by self-proclaimed “Jamarchist” Laena McCarthy, Anarchy turns out seasonal selections of flavorful and eclectic jams, jellies, preserves and chutneys that—despite only consisting of a handful of ingredients—couldn’t be further from basic. Current options include Grapefruit Marmalade with Smoked Salt, Hot Fireman’s Pear Jam that carries hint of cinnamon and subtle smokiness from chipotle peppers and the exceptional Strawberry Balsamic Jam.

Made from local handpicked ingredients, including produce from the Brooklyn Grange Farm (above left), the menu reflects ingredients at the peak of their growing season. Look out for Brooklyn Green Tomato Chutney next fall and Strawberry With Pink Peppercorn or Chocolate Mint in the next few weeks.

Jars range from $5-9 and sell from local-goods vendors throughout Brooklyn and Manhattan, as well as Whole Foods’ Bowery location. Their Traffic Jam delivery service via bicycle also makes a charmingly viable option to residents of Brooklyn and downtown Manhattan who buy three jars or more.