Get to know DAKOTA HEAT

Let us introduce ourselves and why we love what we do!

  • WHAT MAKES OUR HOT SAUCES STAND OUT

    Created using high-quality, natural ingredients for hot sauce lovers and those who are open to bold flavors to hellevate their food experience. We pride ourselves in using the best, locally-sourced ingredients we can possibly get. Always made in small batches in the heart of the Black Hills of South Dakota. We are a small South Dakota Company supporting local farmers, beekeepers and other local businesses.

  • WHO WE ARE

    As a family-owned company, we are centered around family and community. Located in the small town of Spearfish, South Dakota, nestled in the northern portion of the Black Hills is this place we call home. We take great pride in our community and doing what's right. We believe in hard work and a balance of fun, family and responsibility. Without hard work and the support of loved ones, we wouldn't be here today. We pass those core values down to our children, whom we hope, will appreciate and grow to cherish them as well.

  • HOW WE GOT STARTED

    This adventure all began with a Father's Day gift from my wife. In 2022 she gifted me a kit to make hot sauce. I do the majority of the cooking at the house and enjoy creating great food for the family. I followed all the steps of the kit and used their peppers and seasoning.  It was..."mild hot sauce." I knew next time I would do it my way. Months later I noticed some ghost and habanero peppers in the fridge. I decided to make a sauce for a friend who always "wants it hotter." I delivered my creation to my friend the next day. I didn't even try it as I suspected it was too hot for me. Then the text messages started to come. My friend (Derek C.) was adamant that he loved it and it was his new favorite.  Furthermore, he urged me to make more and attempt to sell it. It took a lot of convincing, but I finally thought, why not?  Everyone seemed to like it. 

    First let me say, I would not be in this position were it not for the amazing support and encouragement from many friends and my family. I am proud to produce this sauce in the heart of the Black Hills SD, where most of my family has resided for four generations. I found a great facility with some great people in Sturgis, SD to begin brewing my creations. Many of which have come about from talking with friends about flavors they love. On my daily 90 minute commute to work, I am able to let these ideas bounce around. The only way I was able to fund this endeavor was getting my side hustle on. I may have actually delivered you a meal if you live in Spearfish, SD!

  • A NOTE FROM DEREK N. THE CREATOR OF DAKOTA HEAT

    I hope you enjoy the flavors I create.  I believe it is not good to simply just have heat.  If you include great flavor, you can create an amazing product.  I am working with local farmers and nurseries in the area so the majority of the peppers in Dakota Heat can be locally sourced.  I always insist upon only high quality ingredients.  I will only use purified water and Himalayan salt. 

    If you have any ideas or thoughts of different flavor combinations, please email us and let me work on making it happen.  I have several different flavors to come, so please sign up for us to email the release of these new items.  There is much more to come.

    Thank you all for your support, and I look forward to hearing from you!!

    Derek N.