I normally buy the Channa Masala in the shelf-stable pouch because it’s less expensive and doesn’t take up valuable space in my freezer. However, the taste and texture are definitely better in this frozen version. I wish this came with some rice or as part of a combo plate with rice and an Indian vegetable […]
Trader Joe’s Vegetable Pad Thai (vegan)
This Pad Thai is tasty and filling, but in spite of the name there are hardly any vegetables – just bean sprouts, chives and radish. It’s basically noodles and tofu so a rather bland appearance. Some carrots and red pepper would have added much needed color and crunch. The calorie count is higher than I […]
Trader Joe’s Soft-Baked Snickerdoodles (vegan)
Homemade snickerdoodle cookies are a favorite in our house so I gave these a try. These cookies have a very strong cinnamon flavor which is OK for me, but might not go over with kids. Also, the texture is a bit gritty – probably due to the non-wheat flours. These are soft-baked cookies so soft […]
Trader Joe’s Tarte aux Champignons
I really like the flavors of the mushroom and cheese toppings on this tarte – very rich and satisfying. However, the crust just doesn’t cook well or reliably. It’s very thin – almost like a phyllo dough and isn’t able to support the cheese sauce topping. I have made this tarte at least a dozen […]
Trader Joe’s Chocolate Chip Scone Mix
I love baking mixes that just require water since I never have eggs or butter in my fridge. These scones are easy to make, look good and are edible thanks mostly to the chocolate chips. However, the texture is really dry, even by scone standards. You need to add some jam or butter and have […]
Trader Joe’s Organic Superfood Pilaf (vegan)
From the name alone you know this is going to be super healthy – like vegan retreat in an old growth forest healthy! Fortunately, this pilaf is also pretty tasty. All the pieces have distinct tastes and textures. The kale is bright green and the sweet potatoes aren’t too mushy so someone got the freezing […]
Trader Joe’s Reduced Guilt Mac & Cheese
The only way this mac and cheese might work is if you’ve never tasted Trader Joe’s totally delicious regular Mac ‘n Cheese. I understand that this low cal version can’t be as yummy as the fatty version, but this just makes me sad. The requisite creaminess of mac and cheese is due to a cheese […]
Trader Joe’s Ricotta & Spinach Ravioli
This entrée looks a little odd right out of the package because the tomato sauce is in the form of perfect little rectangles. However, the sauce cooks up with a nice color, pleasant chunkiness and fresh taste. A little plain as-is, but makes a good base for some creative add-ons. Try adding some sautéed mushrooms […]
Trader Joe’s Greens & Seeds Salad
I’m always on the lookout for new salads at Trader Joe’s. This one looked interesting, but it isn’t tasty enough to replace my favorites. The squash is a little too mushy for a salad and the pomegranate seeds are like crunching on small pebbles. I’m glad I tried this, but it’s not a keeper. Location: […]
Trader Joe’s Vegetable Fried Rice (vegan)
This an easy, versatile and colorful rice dish. The edamame is a nice touch in addition to the usual green peas. I prefer the flavor of TJ’s Japanese-style fried rice better, but this dish provides a nice neutral base that can be seasoned as you wish. Good starting point for a meal with stir fry […]