My name is Lydia Alcala-Schwager and I was born and raised in metro-Detroit, Michigan. I come from a very large Mexican family and when I was younger, in caring for my nieces and nephews, I acquired my name, Aunt Lee Lee. When my youngest sister was attending college and I was starting my married life, she cared for my family with much love while I worked; in turn, 10 years later, I did the same for her. My sister’s fi rst born, A.J., was born mildly autistic and shortly thereafter came Rachel. Rachel began speaking very early and A.J. very late. Rachel often helped A.J. with words that he simply did not care to pronounce, like my longstanding name “Aunt Lee Lee”. Rachel had a lisp and could not pronounce her “L’s” which eventually turned into “N’s” and that is how I became “Aunt Nee.” Both children latched onto this name with which I am now very proud to have.

When I started my business in 2006 I opted to incorporate under the name Aunt Nee’s and since the decision was made to move forward we have had the support from VFW Post 6896 – Sgt. Romanowski in Westland, Michigan. They kindly opened their doors in order for me to mix and package Aunt Nee’s. This step was pivotal as I needed a kitchen facility to be approved by the State of Michigan, Department of Health. The generosity of the Commander continues to play an instrumental role in our business.

Making Mexican food continues to be the most fun I could ask for in a job. However, there are a lot of people that don’t know just how much of a saving grace Aunt Nee’s has been for my family. In 2008 my husband lost his job, and my younger son did as well. I realized that with the economy being so bad I no longer had the option of returning to work either. The whole situation had us more strapped than we had ever been and it was di cult for all of us. With little options remaining, our family banded together and decided to make a push with my little hobby, Aunt Nee’s Fresh Salsa Mix. We hit street fairs, farm markets, festivals and did everything we could to sell our salsa so we could continue to make our house payment and put food on the table. 

After all was said and done that year we realized that people really loved our stuff ! They said it was the freshest and best they had ever tasted and it was so easy to make right at home in a blender. What started as a hobby turned into something that we never thought possible. Aunt Nee’s now has a full line of salsa mixes and delicious homemade tortilla chips. The three of us know how lucky we are to have this company and it means the world to us that people continue enjoying our products.

Just as my mother told me, if you have a hobby, a recipe, a great idea, anything and you truly love what you have created, take the leap and bring it to life…. you never know what the outcome may be. As we continue to grow we will be donating a portion of our profi ts to select autism foundations in AJ’s honor. We could not have gotten here without the help of others. It only follows that we give back to make a positive diff erence in somebody else’s life. 

I had the absolute pleasure of reviewing Aunt Nee's Salsa Mix.  I was sent two packets to review; one mild and one medium.  Making your own salsa has NEVER been easier.  All you need is a can of tomatoes, or a pound of fresh tomatoes, and one packet of Aunt Nee's Salsa Mix.  I was also sent a can of tomatoes (awesome, huh).  For my first batch I used the Mild Salsa Mix.  I added one can of tomatoes, a little salt and the whole packet of salsa mix.  I then processed in the food processor, for about 5-10 seconds and it was DONE!  Told ya that easy peasy, didn't I?!  I shall not lie when I say that this is THE BEST homemade salsa I have ever tasted!!  For many years, I either made my own (it was ok, but certainly not the best) or I would buy some from a wonderful local mexican restuarant.  One taste of this salsa and I was hooked.  I LOVE salsa and anybody that knows me personally, knows that when I get a hold of some delicious salsa; I could literally drink it, no lie!  Oh My Goodness it was delish!  

For the second batch I used one pound of fresh tomatoes, 4 jalapenos (I love mine HOT) and one packet of Aunt Nee's Medium Salsa Mix.  Oh My Lord, for a split second, I was in Heaven!  I'm telling you, this is some wonderful stuff.