From Their Hands to Yours
Stories from the Market
Uncle Moo’s Emporium Brings Tradition in a Jar
“I can read in red. I can read in blue.
I can read in pickle color too.” — Dr. Seuss
As we officially enter the Christmas season, our ovens are warm, our cards are stacked and ready to mail, and our tables are filling with all types of seasonal delights — from holiday roasts to rich sweets like cakes, cookies, and creamy desserts. Here at the Market, we love this time of year when traditional family favorites return to the spotlight. Which is why we’re excited to introduce one of our newer vendors who can help balance those rich, wonderful holiday feasts: Uncle Moo’s Emporium of Goffstown, NH.
Because nothing cuts through holiday indulgence quite like a perfectly pickled bite.
Pickling with vinegar dates back nearly 4,000 years in the Middle East before becoming a hallmark of European and American cuisine. Many immigrant communities brought their pickling traditions with them, and pickles have even been part of Thanksgiving tables as early as 1827. Beyond tradition, pickled foods play a positive role in digestive health — vinegar stimulates stomach acid production, herbs and spices like garlic and mustard seed add antioxidants, and the balanced acidity can help the body process rich meals more comfortably.
Uncle Moo’s is a specialty food company rooted deeply in family recipes and tradition. From pickled beets, asparagus, carrots, and dilly beans to beloved classics like piccalilli and Grampa’s traditional dill pickles, their lineup brings both nostalgia and creativity. You’ll also find sweet Bread & Butter pickles, spicy varieties, the notorious Frog Balls (pickled Brussels sprouts), and even a smoky tomato relish that deserves a spot on everything from sandwiches to eggs to holiday dips.
We chatted with Robert, aka Uncle Moo, to learn more about their story.
Meet Uncle Moo’s — A Quick Q&A
How did Uncle Moo’s Emporium get started, and who is Uncle Moo?
The nickname came from a family dinner when my nephew, Liam, mooed like a cow on command — and “Uncle Moo” stuck. The business began in 2021 during the pandemic, when homemade holiday gifts evolved into a small business thanks to enthusiastic feedback. Today, farmers markets are our home base, with me, “Uncle Moo”, as creator and purveyor, supported by my sister, Amy Colby.
What inspires your products?
Many recipes come straight from family traditions.
- Grampa’s Dill Pickles — from a recipe created by Aunt Jane, featuring Grampa Edwin on the label.
- Piccalilli — a generations-old recipe from Grammy Agnes Selma Victoria Osberg Fischer.
- The line rotates but includes tangy carrots, asparagus, onions, dilly beans, hot & spicy options, jalapeño, garlic, pickled beets, sweet relish, spicy dill tomato relish and more.
Top Sellers & Favorites?
- Grampa’s Dill
- Bread & Butter
- Frog Balls
- Robert’s personal favorite: the dill pickles — delicious, and full of family memories.
And the story behind “Frog Balls”?
A fellow market vendor once suggested trying pickled Brussels sprouts — jokingly called “frog balls.” I gave it a try, and they quickly became a bestseller. The name now serves as a happy reminder of that friend, Kim, who passed away shortly after sharing the idea.
How to use pickled products?
Save the brine for dressings or marinades, add pickles to salads or sandwiches, mix into cocktails, or serve veggies on charcuterie boards. Piccalilli is perfect with roast meats, and all pickled veggies add brightness to meals.
How to order?
While there isn’t an online store, if you’re in need between our Market days, orders are happily taken via Facebook, Instagram, email, or phone. Local delivery is available within ~20 miles of Manchester, NH.
Stop by their table and welcome Uncle Moo’s Emporium to your favorite Market — and pick up a few jars to brighten your holiday meals. Their product line is always evolving, so make them a regular stop throughout our Winter Market season.