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Trader Joe's Kung Pao Chicken Mochi Balls

On my most recent shopping trip, I picked up a few essentials (after waiting in line but walking into a fully stocked store) and brought home enough groceries to last a bit when I came across Trader Joe's Kung Pao Chicken Mochi Balls.

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Taste

In an effort to continue some semblance of normalcy, I'm back. And reviews will continue. I might be digging through some pantry items in between, but a bit of normal is good for everyone who feels cooped up inside for the time being.

So I picked up a whole bunch of freezer food for easy meals. Being in the house still means that my job expects me to show up. But it also means I don't want to cook as often either.

So my feelings toward mochi tend to be all over the place. There were times I really liked it and times I thought it was kinda gross. However, this was my first truly savory application of mochi.

Knowing that I had a lack meal of leftovers in the refrigerator as a backup plan, I made this little box of mochi balls.

And even though I don't love mochi, this was actually pretty good.

Now, be warned, this seemed far more of a medium heat than other items. And the filling didn't quite look like it did on the box either. It was paler in color but the ratio of filling to mochi outside here worked.

There is a strong taste of green onions in this too. So if you aren't a fan, that's just a quick heads up. And if you aren't a fan of the taste of ground chicken or at least really finely chopped chicken, this might not be for you.

There is a lot going on here in terms of flavor: there is a good punch of ginger and garlic along with bites of water chestnuts for texture. It isn't too saucy or too dry either.

I found each bite to be relatively pleasant. The mochi was both crisp and sort of chewy. And while I made these in the toaster oven and air fryer would work just as well.

And realistically, this box is about 2 servings. But the heat totally slowed me down on these. They reheated fine the next day if you don't have someone to share this with.

Overall

For $3.99 these won't break the bank. So if you are stuck in the house or practicing some social distancing, these are a good try.

Would I buy these again? Yes, I would buy Trader Joe's Kung Pao Chicken Mochi Balls again. It was a pleasant surprise to see how well mochi goes with a savory filling.

Did you try it? Let me know what you think in the comments section!

Visual rundown

The box of Trader Joe's Kung Pao Chicken Mochi Balls:

The nutritional information and the ingredients:

Nutritional information, calories, and ingredients in Trader Joe's Kung Pao Chicken Mochi Balls

How to prepare:

Out of the package you get:

An open box of Trader Joe's Kung Pao Chicken Mochi Balls showing the pre-packaged product

After being cooked you get:

A fully cooked box of Trader Joe's Kung Pao Chicken Mochi Balls next to the original package

Want to see more items I've reviewed from Trader Joe's? Click on Thoughts & Reviews of Trader Joe's for a searchable list.

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Trader Joe's Sparkling Strawberry Juice Beverage Review: the Summer Sip You Didn't Know You Needed

Looking for a refreshing, non-alcoholic beverage to elevate your summer gatherings? Trader Joe's Sparkling Strawberry Juice Beverage might just be your new favorite. Priced at $3.99 for a pack of four 8.45 fl oz cans, this drink combines the natural sweetness of strawberry juice with a bubbly twist, making it a delightful alternative to traditional sodas.

An unopened box of Trader Joe's Sparkling Strawberry Juice Beverage

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Review

Trader Joe's Sparkling Strawberry Juice Beverage looks simple on the outside, but it manages to deliver something more refreshing and versatile than you might expect from a seasonal, shelf-stable drink.

Each can is individually portioned and easy to grab for on-the-go, but what makes it stand out is the flavor. It tastes like real strawberries, not candy-like, not artificial, and not overly sweet. There's a slight natural tartness that rounds out the flavor, giving it depth. You can tell this wasn't made with artificial flavoring or added sugar. It tastes like someone juiced a handful of ripe strawberries and added just enough sparkle to make it lively.

The carbonation is delicate. If you're expecting soda-level fizz, this isn't it. It leans more toward the gentle bubble of a sparkling water but with more flavor than a LaCroix or seltzer. The subtlety works in its favor. It doesn't overpower your palate or leave a syrupy aftertaste. That makes it a great mixer but also a nice everyday drink you can sip in the afternoon without feeling weighed down.

What surprised me most is how adaptable this drink is. On its own, it's a lightly sweet, hydrating option that feels like a treat. But it also shines when used in creative ways-think summer mocktails, mixed with lemonade for a strawberry twist, or even poured over ice with mint and lime for a casual spritzer. And if you're entertaining? A splash of vodka or prosecco turns it into an easy cocktail that feels festive without much effort.

Some may find the flavor too subtle if they're used to bold, sugary sodas or juices. And while the strawberry flavor is clean, it doesn't have the same intensity as a fresh juice blend or smoothie. Still, the lightness is part of its charm, especially if you're looking for something with lower sugar that still feels seasonal and fun.

Overall, this is one of those Trader Joe's seasonal drinks that's easy to overlook but genuinely enjoyable. It's not flashy, but it delivers on taste, ingredients, and versatility. It's a great option to keep chilled in the fridge all summer long.

Ingredients

The beverage boasts a straightforward ingredient list:

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C): Helps maintain color and freshness
Strawberry Juice: Provides natural sweetness and flavor.
Water: Dilutes the juice to achieve the desired consistency.
Carbon Dioxide: Adds the sparkling effervescence.
Citric Acid: Enhances the tartness and acts as a preservative.

Nutritional information and calories in Trader Joe's Sparkling Strawberry Juice Beverage

How to Enjoy

This sparkling beverage is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

In a Dessert Float: Pour over vanilla ice cream for a fizzy treat.
Chilled Straight from the Can: Perfect for a quick, refreshing drink.
Over Ice with Fresh Mint: Adds an extra layer of freshness.
Mixed with Lemonade: Creates a delightful strawberry-lemonade fusion.
As a Cocktail Mixer: Pairs well with spirits like vodka or gin for a light summer cocktail.

The description on the box of Trader Joe's Sparkling Strawberry Juice Beverage

FAQs about Trader Joe's Sparkling Strawberry Juice Beverage

The following are commonly asked questions about this product:

Is this beverage suitable for vegans?

Yes, it contains no animal-derived ingredients.

Does it contain any added sugars?

No, all the sweetness comes naturally from the strawberry juice.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, there are no gluten-containing ingredients.

Can children enjoy this drink?

Absolutely, it's a great soda alternative for kids.

A can next to an unopened box of Trader Joe's Sparkling Strawberry Juice Beverage

Final Thoughts

Trader Joe's Sparkling Strawberry Juice Beverage is a delightful addition to any summer occasion. Its natural ingredients and balanced sweetness make it a standout choice for those seeking a healthier alternative to traditional sodas. Whether enjoyed solo or as part of a creative concoction, it's a beverage worth stocking up on while it's available.

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Trader Joe's Limone Alfredo Sauce

So we go through a lot of pasta in my household. And my husband likes nothing more than a big bowl of creamy alfredo sauce. He'll have it with gnocchi or pasta (but I haven't been able to get him into the whole zoodle craze). But nonetheless, I started him off with the jarred variety. Then I started making homemade.

Taste

If you are wondering, I started using Trader Joe's Alfredo Sauce. It's not perfect or close to homemade. But in a pinch, it totally works.

Even around the holidays the seasonal Truffle Alfredo Sauce is worth picking up an extra jar or two if you appreciate truffle flavor.

But now we get a super mild citrus rendition of alfredo sauce direct from Italy. Now, since I bought this jar, I haven't seen it on shelves again. I'm not sure if there are some larger geopolitical reasons for this or if it just happened to be a short seasonal item.

In either case, if you manage to get your hands on this jar you'll be rewarded with a super thick and creamy sauce despite the first ingredient being whole milk. That can be a bit of a polarizing thing. So if you want a thinner sauce, I'd reserve some pasta water to thin this down just a bit.

But it is creamy has large specks of black pepper to go along with it. But in terms of assertive lemon flavor, it just isn't there. With the truffle alfredo, there was no hiding the truffle. This jar just has a bit of brightness to it. It's more of a slight acidity to brighten up a dish. Which is probably why they recommend more than just pasta as a pairing.

I had no problems finishing a small bowl of fettuccine and neither did my husband. It met with his approval although he hinted he would have preferred me to make some from scratch.

If you are a low carb person, this keeps the carbs mostly in check with only a modest amount of added sugar which likely comes from the lemon itself.

But regardless, if you are more on team low fat, then this is one of those items you might not find yourself reaching for. If you are watching your sodium, then I have some bad news for you. You'll get nearly a quarter of your daily serving amount in just a quarter cup of this sauce.

Overall

For $3.49 this isn't badly priced for a creamy sauce. Especially when you consider it is pretty close to how much it would cost you to make it at home.

Would I buy this again? Yes, I would buy Trader Joe's Limone Alfredo Sauce again. Not a bad jar to have on hand for a quick meal and it tasted better than the frozen alfredo entrees they sell too.

Did you try it? Let me know what you think in the comments section!

Visual rundown

The jar of Trader Joe's Limone Alfredo Sauce:

An unopened jar of Trader Joe's Limone Alfredo Sauce

Calories and ingredients

Nutritional facts and ingredients in Trader Joe's Limone Alfredo Sauce

How Trader Joe's describes this product:

The description of Trader Joe's Limone Alfredo Sauce from the side of the jar

After being mixed with some pasta:

A black bowl with fettuccine in it next to a jar of Trader Joe's Limone Alfredo Sauce

Want to see more items I've reviewed from Trader Joe's? Click on Thoughts & Reviews of Trader Joe's for a searchable list.

The Bottom Line

Don't forget to share your thoughts by going to the "user review" at the bottom of the box (click on the number of stars you believe this product deserves) and leave a comment below.

You can also FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest to see what I'm up to.

Trader Joe's March 2020 Fearless Flyer Matchups

Welcome to the third Fearless Flyer of the year. My goal here with this Trader Joe's March 2020 Fearless Flyer Matchups are to match the products featured with reviews from this blog and from around the web.

If there is a picture next to the product, it is matched with a review from this blog. If it is just a link, then it is a review on a different site. If there is neither, that means I couldn't find a review to match up with that product.

Lots of fun new items to check out this month. Some old ones, some classic items featured. Happy Shopping! I hope this helps you work on your next shopping list!

Bakery

Blueberry Muffins

Everything Ciabatta Rolls

Beverages

Ethiopian Blend Coffee Cups

Hibiscus Lemongrass Sparkling Beverage

Sparkling Water with Blueberry Lemonade Flavor

Banana & Almond Butter Protein Smoothie

Organic Fair Trade Wake Up Blend

Frozen

Black Bean & Cheese Taquitos

Chocolate Peanut Butter Mochi

Grocery

Wild Skipjack Tuna

Jumbo Pitted Greek Kalamata Olives

Produce & Flowers

Organic Pitted Medjool Dates

Daffodils

Vegetable and Soba Noodle Stir Fry Kit

Refrigerated Products

Organic Dutch Gouda Cheese

Guava Passion Fruit Mango Greek Whole Milk Yogurt

No Sugar Dry Rubbed Uncured Bacon

Organic Creamy Cashew Cultured Yogurt Alternatives

Sharp Cheddar Cheese Snack Pack

Vegan Ranch Dip

Snacks and Sweets

Scandinavian Swimmers

Chili & Lime Flavored Rolled Tortilla Chips

Corn, Pea, Bean & Quinoa Crisps

Chocolate Chip Cocoa Meringues

Soft Baked Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Dark Chocolate Almond Butter Cups

Strawberry-Mango Fruit Leather Buttons

Savory Banana & Nut Trek Mix

Health and Beauty Aids

Ultra Hydrating Gel Moisturizer

Wine & Beer & Spirits

Shell House Sparkling Hard Seltzers

Corte Rossa Barolo

Shaw Red Blend made with Organic Grapes

TJ Grand Reserve Cavernet Sauvignon Chalk Hill

VINTJS Malbec from Argentina

Become Betty's Top 5 Picks

Black Bean and Cheese Taquitos
Ultra Hydrating Gel Moisturizer
Scandinavian Swimmers
Chocolate Chip Cocoa Meringues
Vegetable and Soba Noodle Kit

Previous Months Fearless Flyers

The Bottom Line

Don't forget to share your thoughts on what you are excited to try and leave a comment below. You can even tell me what you'd like to see me get to. I have so many items photographed, the reviews are just waiting to be published.

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Trader Joe's Mandarin Style Orange Chicken Bowl

Ah, a new freezer item. I don't know why I get more excited over these than other items. But anything to make a quick and easy lunch that I don't need to think about.

Taste

Trader Joe's is mildly double-dipping here. On shelves is two popular items: Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken and the meatless mandarin orange variety.

Now the regular variety has been more or less repackaged and placed into a microwavable bowl.

Now, the Mandarin Orange chicken is a consumer favorite year after year. I used to be a bigger favorite of the meatless variety until it disappeared off shelves and was reformulated.

But nonetheless, this is a bit pricey for what you get at $3.99. Yes, it is still cheaper than takeout. But with a bit of planning, I think you could make a week's worth of Mandarin Orange lunches better.

First off, don't expect the crispy texture that you would get from the orange bag. Because you are making this in the microwave the crispy exterior is long gone. However, if you make it at home and portion it out, you'll likely get the same result.

The other part of this bowl is quite a healthy portion of rice with a few scatterings of veggies.

And some of you will look at the nutritional facts and say "Holy Carbs Batman!" And this is one of those items they could have used it as an opportunity to make this just a smidge healthier.

They sell and excellent stir fry mix in the vegetable section. I just can't imagine why they would put so little veggies and so much rice. Yes, rice is a cheap filler, but a lot of consumers are more health-conscious.

Fortunately, there is a small bag of sauce on the side. You can portion that out as you like because that is where most of the hidden sugars are.

Overall

Did it make for a bad lunch? Not at all. It basically tasted like a Trader Joe's leftover mix that you can easily replicate at home.

However, because this is nearly $4, I think with a few containers and a few minutes of prep you can make something equally good, using all Trader Joe's ingredients, which is both less expensive and healthier.

Would I buy this again? While I didn't really hate anything about this other than the fact it is so rice heavy, I'd rather make my own Trader Joe's Mandarin Style Orange Chicken Bowl at home.

Did you try it? Let me know what you think in the comments section!

Visual rundown

The box of Trader Joe's Mandarin Style Orange Chicken Bowl:

An unopened box of Trader Joe's Mandarin Style Orange Chicken Bowl

Calories and ingredients

Nutritional facts, ingredients, and calories in Trader Joe's Mandarin Style Orange Chicken Bowl

Instructions

Heating directions for Trader Joe's Mandarin Style Orange Chicken Bowl

Out of the package you get:

A fully frozen Trader Joe's Mandarin Style Orange Chicken Bowl out of the original box

After being cooked you get:

A fully heated Trader Joe's Mandarin Style Orange Chicken Bowl with the packet of sauce and original box next to the product.

Want to see more items I've reviewed from Trader Joe's? Click on Thoughts & Reviews of Trader Joe's for a searchable list.

The Bottom Line

Don't forget to share your thoughts by going to the "user review" at the bottom of the box (click on the number of stars you believe this product deserves) and leave a comment below.

You can also FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest to see what I'm up to.