Since the release of Trader Joe's Everything but the Bagel seasoning, there really isn't much that I go through by the bottle regularly. Until now. While it was just recently released, this little jar packs a punch in the flavor department.
Taste
Now, Trader Joe's has played around with the elote flavor in certain products like the frozen Mexican style roasted corn and with the Elote Corn Dippers (my husband ate every bag before I was ever able to photograph it which is why that review isn't done) which are nothing short of addicting.
But Trader Joe's has finally listened and bottled their best flavors (except in the Indian section, which they seem to be keeping to themselves).
Before I tell you all the things I love about this, we have to talk about one thing that caught me off guard: the first ingredient sugar.
Despite the marketing on the front and the nutritional facts (and the teeny tiny serving size), it would appear like it has no carbs to it. But I found myself getting quite heavy-handed with seasoning this on a batch of popcorn.
The more I added the more I loved it. But that being said, it might lead you to believe that it is keto-friendly or sugar-free when in fact it isn't. Most likely due to its minuscule portion size.
So other than the sweetness it lends to whatever you put it on, then what you have here is super flavorful.
It is sweet, savory, and cheesy, with a touch of acidity. It reminded me slightly of the Chile Lime Seasoning Blend but was far more complex. It had a touch of cumin with the umami of parmesan cheese.
Pairing suggestions
Pair well with Trader Joe's Everything but the Elote Seasoning Blend? Anything corn, avocado, tomato, a starch like rice or potatoes, tomatoes, cheese, and pretty much your imagination can dream up. Even adding this to butter or mayo would be delicious.
Overall
This is a totally solid seasoning blend well priced at $2.49. But for my vegan friends out there it, this isn't vegan-friendly.
Would I buy this again? Trader Joe's Everything but the Elote Seasoning Blend is going into my regular purchases. It's very good and it seems like it can go on just about everything. A new favorite in my household.
If you can't get to a Trader Joe's, then you can also find this through third-party sellers on Amazon.
Did you try it? Let me know what you think in the comments section!
Product Photos
The jar of Trader Joe's Everything but the Elote Seasoning Blend:
Calories
Ingredients
How to enjoy this product according to Trader Joe's:
Served with some popcorn:
Want to see more items I've reviewed from Trader Joe's? Click on Thoughts & Reviews of Trader Joe's for a searchable list.
Trader Joe's Everything but the Elote Seasoning Blend
Product Name: Trader Joe's Everything but the Elote Seasoning Blend
Product Description: Trader Joe's Everything but the Elote Seasoning Blend is a new seasoning blend that pairs well with just about everything.
Price: $2.49
Currency: USD
Availability: InStoreOnly
Summary
Trader Joe's Everything but the Elote Seasoning Blend is a new spice blend that rival's the Everything but the Bagel Seasoning Blend.
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Taste
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Value
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Worthy of Repurchasing
Pros
- Trader Joe's Everything but the Elote Seasoning Blend is a fantastic all around spice
- The more I added the more I loved it
Cons
- Despite the nutritional facts stating otherwise, sugar is the first ingredient.
- Not vegan either.
Joy says
Looks interesting. I’ll definitely have to try it! I wonder if people can make their own vegan version using nutritional yeast and the spices in the ingredient list. Thanks for the review!!
becomebetty says
Hey Joy! I don't see why it couldnt be done with nutritional yeast. Glad I could help!
Alek says
Cornbread would be perfect application for this. Lots of possibilities; chowder, buttered bread, stir fries, pasta, burritos, tacos, and salsa. YUM!
I agree with you on the Indian products; they need to bottle the exact sauces from the tikka masalas. What's taking them too long?! But I applaud TJ's for stepping up their spices game. The spice sections now becoming more interesting.
becomebetty says
Hey Alek! I totally agree with your suggestions. And I seriously agree with you about those sauces. But yes the spice section is getting more interesting. Thanks again for stopping by!
judilyn says
Putting this on the list for March excursion to the Big City wherein lives a Trader Joe's store!
Virtual hugs,
Judie
Dagmar says
OMG - this seasoning sounds AWESOME! I can't wait to go get some. I am thinking maybe on a baked potato with some Mexican Crema, green onions and some Mexican cheese or feta.
Alek says
Not a bad idea. Since this is a new product; maybe after many feedback comments toward TJ's; they could experiment to make a vegan one.
Markdowns and Letdowns says
I heard about this. I can't wait to try it. I plan to pick it up next time I head to TJ's.
PattiAnn says
I just read about this seasoning yesterday and was wondering how it was and lo and behold here is your review😊 Thank you. I think I'll try it!
becomebetty says
Hey PattiAnn! It just hit shelves. I havent had it long enough to do extensive food pairings but it is very good.
Dagmar says
I just bought it, got home and sprinkled some of my hand to try on its own....lol. So good! Now I am thinking about adding it to a savory cornbread mix with some uncured bacon, cheddar and make some corn muffins!
Jill says
This is my favorite Trader Joe's product. I use it on air popped corn with avocado oil spray. So good!
becomebetty says
Thanks so much for sharing!