Last year, I shared my 10 favorite things from Trader Joe’s. I’m still a big fan of many of their products – beans in tomato sauce are still a weekly dinner staple in my apartment – but I have some new (or new to me) favorites that I’d like to share. So here are 10 things I’m loving from Trader Joe’s these days.
frozen shiitake mushroom slices. I never leave TJ’s house without at least two bags. I love shiitake mushrooms, but it’s oddly hard to find them on their own (rather than, say, as part of a mix or ready-made stir-fry). TJ’s always have an earthy, buttery flavor and retain their texture perfectly even after thawing. My main usage is This Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie RecipeI’ve made it at least 7 times in the past 3 months. And these mushrooms really take the top spot.
PB&J Oat Bites. Although they are bite-sized, they are rich and chewy and definitely not muffins. They’re all oat-based, flour-free (and actually gluten-free), and incredibly filling. I keep one in my backpack for those mornings when I’m in such a hurry that I can’t eat breakfast before I leave. My only hope is that the mysterious powers that make product decisions at TJ’s will consider a nut-free version. That way, I can put it in my daughter’s school bag.
freeze dried fruit. The stock of this product fluctuates rapidly, so we don’t know what kind of freeze-dried fruit will be on store shelves. strawberry, raspberryblueberry and mango are common choices (I also saw this last week) apricot!) — but whatever they have, I buy. It’s delicious as is, but I also use strawberries to make it. this strawberry milkBlueberries are great for adding color and flavor to yogurt and overnight oats.
lemongrass coconut body oil. I bought this in anger and desperation last summer after a particularly bad mosquito attack at the playground (you guys, it was perfect for my ankles). The feel and smell were very nice. It’s rich in oil, so even a small amount goes a long way. Now I keep it in the shower and put it on right before I get out. If you want a bright, lush scent that doesn’t smell like perfume, this is for you.
Tortilla chips with quinoa and black beans. These chips don’t get enough praise among Trader Joe’s fans. I don’t want it to become too popular and sell out, but I think it’s about time for it to receive proper recognition. In my opinion, these are the platonic ideals of dipping chips. It’s strong and thick and will stand up to any wack or thick salsa. But personally, I prefer them on their own. It’s very flavorful, but unlike other flavored tortilla chips, it’s not sprinkled with mouth-aching citrus salt (I love you, Hint of Lime Chips, but we both know that’s not a “hint” of anything).
chicken dumpling pot sticker + Soyaki + Thai red curry sauce. Is there another recipe you’ve made an amazing amount of lately? Popular Trader Joe’s Gyoza Yaki. I don’t know who first decided to throw these three TJ’s products together and roast them on a bed of spinach, but I’d like to shake their hands. It’s one of those magical meals that the whole family loves, but what’s even better is that it’s even easier to clean up than it is to prepare. Mix all the sauces directly in the casserole dish, so there’s no need to wash extra bowls or surfaces. That’s trivial!
Fried Rice. My husband often stops at TJ’s on his way home just to see what’s in the frozen fried rice aisle, and he’s yet to find a variety he doesn’t like. Our usual method is to stir-fry it with whatever veggies or protein we have in the fridge or put an egg on top. boom! dinner.
norwegian crispbread. Oh how I love these seedy, rugged things? They truly are the unsung heroes of the pantry aisle. As simple as a cracker, but so much more. It can hold up even when you put heavy things in it, like tuna salad or something slathered in nut butter. Also, since it won’t fall apart due to water, you can serve it with dip. Flavor-wise, it’s so mellow that you can pair it with almost anything, but it brings so much texture that it’s never boring. i love them TJ’s Garlic SpreadBut my favorite way to use it is to make a simple open-faced PB&J for an afternoon snack.
Now it’s your turn! What’s on your must-try list?
PS 3 Trader Joe’s meal hacks and 10 TJ’s products to transform your breakfast.
Source: Cup of Jo – cupofjo.com
