Sandra & Chris Elrod
Up North Longhorn Smokers
We smoke each individual batch of salt in our own “old timey” wooden smokehouse using the same tried and true methods developed generations back.
Up North Longhorn Smokers was founded by a family passionate about outdoor cooking and supporting their special needs son. They handcraft smoked salts using sea salt, seasoned hickory, and time—each batch smoked for at least 12 hours in a wooden smokehouse. Their mission includes creating employment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Why We Love Them
Soulful Smoked Salt
This maker smokes sea salt in a traditional wooden smokehouse, creating bold blends like Garlic, Jalapeño, and Hatch Chile. Their mission goes beyond flavor—they provide employment opportunities for people with autism and developmental disabilities. It’s seasoning with soul.
Meet the Maker
Sandra & Chris Elrod
This company was built on two things its founders know best: outdoor cooking and raising a family full of love and purpose—including their son Austin, who has special needs, and their incredible daughter, Allison. As Austin transitions into adulthood, they wanted to create something meaningful—a business where he could apply his skills and feel empowered in the process. That dream became the heart of their company.
They craft their smoked sea salt blends the traditional way, using just three simple ingredients: high-quality sea salt, smoke from seasoned hickory, and plenty of time. Each small batch is cold-smoked for at least 12 hours in their own wooden smokehouse, then bottled on-site. The result is a line of bold, flavorful salts that elevate any dish.
But this business is about more than great seasoning. It’s a mission-driven venture focused on inclusion, empowerment, and opportunity. As the company grows, they hope to employ others with similar abilities and continue building a space where everyone’s strengths can shine.
New flavors are always in the works—and they love hearing ideas from fellow flavor lovers!
