- Groceries
- Trader Joes
Hoang Samuelson
Hoang Samuelson
Hoang Samuelson is a freelance writer and editor based in Portland, Oregon, where she lives with her husband and two kids. Her writing has appeared in Food52, the Wall Street Journal, Talenthouse, Booknbrunch, Medium and more. She's always ready to talk about the three b's - baking, books, and British dramas. You can find out more about her at hoangsamuelson.com
published Dec 19, 2021
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There’s something about stepping inside a Trader Joe’s that makes me feel like a kid in a candy store — happy, elated, and, most of all, curious about what I’m going to find. Every time I visit a Trader Joe’s (about two or three times a month), I’m always greeted with a selection of new products I haven’t seen or tried before. The variety and newness, coupled with knowing that just about everything I’ve tried at Trader Joe’s is delicious, have me certain that I’m going to find something good on every trip.
This past weekend was no exception. As I stepped inside my local TJ’s, I saw so many new products, it was hard to decide where to look first. There were fresh wreaths and garlands, cookie tins, drinks, and more — all in the spirit of the holidays. I allowed myself to meander the store like a kid who is finally allowed to have any treat she wants. After admiring every single aisle, I’ve narrowed my list down six new or seasonal products that I think are worth trying this month.
1. O’Nog Non-Dairy Oat Beverage, $2.99 for 32 ounces
At first sight, I was a bit skeptical about this product. It sat right next to Trader Joes’ holiday eggnog, and as someone who’s not very keen on eggnog in general, I was surprised to find that the O’Nog was a delightful drink without the strong “eggnog” flavor. Light on the spices, it is the ultimate “free” drink — gluten-free, soy-free, lactose-free, dairy-free, and vegan — in other words, a perfect holiday drink for everyone, regardless of your dietary restrictions! I love adding it to my morning coffee; it adds a smooth, creamy base that beats the typical holiday-flavored creamer.
2. Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookie Mix, $3.99
If you have a major sweet tooth like me, but you also don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen this holiday season, you’ll naturally gravitate towards making cookies … with this Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookie Mix! Not only is the container pretty enough to keep after the mix is used up, but the cookies themselves are also delectable and downright perfect for those who love peppermint and chocolate in the same mix. All it takes is one stick of butter, one egg, this cookie mix, and 15 minutes in the oven and you’ll have yourself a minty chocolate sensation that’s sure to please everyone in less than an hour. Pro tip: Stock up on these, as you may want to keep some around after the holidays or give them away to friends and family. I only got one and regret it — because I forgot to take a photo and because I want to eat more of these cookies.
3. Entertaining Cracker Duo, $3.99 for 7 ounces
There’s something so satisfying about crackers. Maybe it’s the crunch? Or how well they pair with cheese? Or the variety on the market? For me, it’s all of the above. This Entertaining Cracker Duo makes a great complement to a charcuterie board and for everyday snacking. Beware of the potential for an empty box faster than you can chew, because it happened to me. On a recent Sunday night, I had these crackers with cheese and olives along with some wine with my husband and before we knew it, the crackers were gone. It’s perfect for small, intimate gatherings of two to three people. Have them in stock in case of last-minute drop-ins.
4. 2020 Grand Reserve Pinot Noir, $12.99
I’m no wine expert, but this wine is really good. Ever since the weather dipped down dangerously close to freezing levels in my hometown, I’ve been staying inside and looking for excuses to bake (see #2) while yearning for something that puts me in the holiday mood. This wine fits the bill perfectly. At just $12.99 per bottle, it’s a very decent price for a bottle of wine to enjoy at home. Light with subtle notes of vanilla and cherry, it hits my flavor desires very well for its smooth, polished flavor.
Related: This $20 Bottle of Wine Is the Single Best Bargain at Trader Joe’s Right Now
5. Caramel Coffee Cashews, $6.99 for 11 ounces
That’s right, they’re back! You know how coffee beans often get coated in chocolate? Well, these are cashews! Coated with caramel and a dusting of coffee. The coffee flavor comes through more than the caramel. This year, the nuts are in a tin instead of a pouch, which makes them infinitely more gift-able. Or keep them for yourself. They’re great baked into cookies, on top of ice cream or even yogurt or oatmeal.
6. Porcini Boneless Beef Loin Roast, $14.99 per pound
Whether you’re throwing a holiday feast or just need to put dinner on the table (knowing you’ll have lots of leftovers), this roast can help. It’s a seasonal find and it’s back! To make it, Trader Joe’s (or rather, people who work for him) rubs the roast with porcini mushrooms, salt, minced garlic, onion powder, red bell peppers, parsley flakes, and chili peppers. With all the prep work done, you just have to put it in the oven.
Have you spotted anything great at Trader Joe’s recently? Tell us in the comments below!
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