I was intrigued by this new entree given the interesting combination of ingredients and the fact that it’s “West African inspired”. On a positive note the couscous is perfect – moist, yet fluffy. Unfortunately, the topping is an unappealing brown color and the flavors aren’t very pleasant. In particular the combination of peanuts and tomatoes […]
Trader Joe’s Jaipur Vegetables
This is my favorite of the shelf-stable Indian Fare offerings. The sauce is rich and flavorful and the cashew pieces are a nice touch. However, the best thing about this dish is the noticeable chunks of vegetables (potatoes, carrots, peas, green beans). Most of the Indian Fare dishes focus on one main ingredient (eggplant, spinach […]
Trader Joe’s Vegetable Panang Curry (vegan)
This is a really tasty curry dish due mostly to delicious sauce. Extra points for being vegan and low cost. The rice is packaged in a separate compartment in the tray and cooks up nice and fluffy. The vegetables aren’t readily identifiable. I wouldn’t have known there are asparagus and kale in the mix unless […]
Trader Joe’s Spinach & Kale Pie
Trader Joe’s describes this as a “modern take on spanakopita”. I guess the kale is what makes it modern. This looks and tastes like spanakopita, except that the smell and flavor of feta is stronger than what I’m used to. Not unpleasant, just different. There are no quick cooking instructions and it requires a full […]
Trader Joe’s Palak Paneer – frozen
The taste, appearance and texture of this frozen Palak Paneer is so much better than the shelf stable pouch version (also available at Trader Joe’s). The spinach is bright green and the spices stand out in a good way. This is really good with Garlic Naan or Vegetable Biryani. Location: frozen food case with other […]
Trader Joe’s Dolmas (vegan)
These bite-size treats are hidden away in the grocery aisle near the olives and artichoke hearts and make a great addition to a Mediterranean plate. If you are use to fresh dolmas you may not like these as much as I do. However, I actually prefer the small size and soft texture of canned dolmas […]
Trader Joe’s Roasted Garlic Hummus (vegan)
This hummus has a nice texture and flavor. My only complaint is that like all TJ’s hummus containers, there’s a large indentation in bottom so there’s much less hummus than you anticipate. Location: Chilled case, usually near the produce section Quantity: 7 oz tub, 7 servings per container Calories: 50 calories per serving, 25 calories […]
Trader Joe’s Japanese Fried Rice (vegan)
Trader Joe’s Japanese Style Fried Rice is a satisfying side dish that serves as a starting point for a tasty and easy meal. 3 pineapples for this flavorful rice mix. This dish is comprised of a rice base with a small amount of edamame, carrot and tofu and a savory sauce. The shredded tofu gives […]
Trader Joe’s Scallion Pancakes
I recently discovered this pleasant surprise in the frozen food case. A nice addition to an Asian-style meal, but also good for a quick savory snack. Quick and easy to cook. Especially tasty when dipped in TJ’s soyaki or just sprinkled with a little soy sauce. Top with shredded cabbage and carrot for a nutritional […]
Trader Joe’s Falafel (vegan)
I didn’t have high expectations for these frozen falafel since reheated falafel are often dry. However, these are a pleasant surprise, especially given that they cook quickly in the microwave without getting tough. In general, falafel don’t stand well on their own, but need some sauce to add flavor and moisture. Trader Joe’s tahini is […]