South River Miso Company in Conway, Massachusetts, is now one of our all-time favorite companies to buy from. We ordered a sampler of misos that consisted of one-pound jars with the flavors of Dandelion Leek, Azuki Bean, Sweet Tasting Brown Rice, and, Caroline’s favorite, the Chickpea Barley. Their Tamari is also quite excellent, so much so, that customers are only allowed to order two bottles per year. My favorite miso is the Azuki but having only tried four and enjoying each and every one, we have ordered the other six varieties of South River concocts.

In about a week we should receive a large box with Chickpea, Hearty Brown Rice, Three-year Barley, Sweet White, Garlic Red Pepper, and Mellow Barley misos. We had to order now as South River doesn’t ship during warm or hot months, because the miso is unpasteurized, allowing all of its living glory to remain intact.