Every now and again, I pick up a product that I’m not totally into trying. But for the sake of public information, I put it out there. And every now and again, I get something I love and something I absolutely hate. Now, even though I have over 900 Trader Joe’s reviews, I can’t say that I’ve done too much of a deep dive into the salsas. Some people can say they’ve tried them all….
condiment
Trader Joe’s Chile Lime Seasoning Blend
The pros: Trader Joe’s Chile Lime Seasoning Blend is a solid blend found in the spice aisle.
The cons: The name here should be reversed. It should be called lime chile as that is the order of dominant flavors.
The verdict: …
Trader Joe’s BBQ Rub and Seasoning with Coffee and Garlic
The pros: Trader Joe’s BBQ Rub and Seasoning with Coffee and Garlic makes cooking just a bit easier. It’s slightly bitter, sweet, and savory.
The cons: My husband and I both wished that there was a bit more smokey flavor in this. This is seasonal, so if you are curious about this then it is time to pick it up.
The verdict: …
Trader Joe’s Peach Salsa
The pros: Trader Joe’s Peach Salsa might not be as spicy or smoky as the label might suggest, but still makes for a good and refreshing salsa.
The cons: For purists, this might hit you as being a touch sweeter than some palates might like.
The verdict: …
Trader Joe’s Speculoos Cookie and Cocoa Swirl
The pros: Trader Joe’s Speculoos Cookie and Cocoa Swirl is a hypnotic mix of cookie butter and spreadable chocolate.
The cons: I’m still not sure how they figure there are 27 servings in this wee little jar.
The verdict: …
Trader Joe’s Gochujang
The pros: Trader Joe’s Gochujang is new to store shelves and adds a completely different hot sauce that some might not be familiar with.
The cons: If you have never worked with this type of ingredient, then you might not appreciate it fully. This hot sauce has some funk to it which might not garner everyone’s appreciation. It’s best to try this with something and not on its own.
The verdict: …
Trader Joe’s Thousand Island Dressing
The pros: Trader Joe’s Thousand Island Dressing is a solid option in the refrigerated aisle.
The cons: Nothing comes to mind.
The verdict: …
Trader Joe’s 100% Greek Kalamata Extra Virgin Olive Oil
The pros: Trader Joe’s 100% Greek Kalamata Extra Virgin Olive Oil is fruity and flavorful. While it’s not as good as some very pricey olive oils, this is a reasonably priced alternative.
The cons: No date on the bottle to indicate when this was actually bottled.
The verdict: …
Trader Joe’s Thai Green Curry Simmer Sauce
The pros: Trader Joe’s Thai Green Curry Simmer Sauce is returning to shelves at a reasonable price that is below other Thai curry sauces that they sell. It is also well priced as you would need an extensive pantry to achieve a similar sauce.
The cons: Lackluster and boring packaging. Frequently there is a lot going on in terms of the packaging, but with this there isn’t anything but a boring orange label next to the green sauce.
The verdict: …
Trader Joe’s Wasabi Mayonnaise
The pros: Trader Joe’s Wasabi Mayonnaise is perfect for those who love Japanese inspired flavors.
The cons: This might not be for everyone. Spice junkies might not think this brings enough heat.
The verdict: …
Trader Joe’s Gyoza Dipping Sauce
The pros: Trader Joe’s Gyoza Dipping Sauce is a delicious, umami dipping sauce that I have become very fond of. This is far more complex than a regular soy sauce.
The cons: Some purists might still prefer just plain soy sauce. This has cilantro in it, which might not appease all palates.
The verdict: …
Trader Joe’s Thai Red Curry Sauce
The pros: Trader Joe’s Thai Red Curry Sauce makes for a quick dinner. It has good flavor for a jarred sauce.
The cons: This still won’t measure up to going to your favorite Thai restaurant and if you are a spice junkie, then you’ll want to keep the hot sauce close.
The verdict: …
Trader Joe’s Onion Salt
The pros: Trader Joe’s Onion Salt shines on certain products like potatoes and sour cream.
The cons: This is not an all purpose spice mix and a certain amount of trial and error will be necessary. No shallots in this mix.
The verdict: …
Trader Joe’s Yuzu Hot Sauce
The pros: Trader Joe’s Yuzu Hot Sauce tastes like lemon and can compliment anything lemon based by adding a touch of heat.
The cons: Trader Joe’s Yuzu Hot Sauce is a bit pricier than other hot sauces.
The verdict: …
Trader Joe’s Roasted Garlic and Onion Jam
The pros: Trader Joe’s Roasted Garlic and Onion Jam is a good attempt at Onion Confit. However, it’s called a jam for a reason and there is a lot of sugar and pectin holding this product together.
The cons: Very sweet. First ingredient is sugar. Not as savory as I would have hoped for.
The verdict: …
