S&B Crunchy Garlic with Chili Oil is from Japan. While similar in many ways to traditional Chinese chili crisps, it has its own sensibility that is distinctively Japanese.
Main Flavor Elements
- Chili pepper
- Fried garlic
- Sesame oil
- Monosodium glutamate
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Sugar
- Soy sauce powder
- Chili paste
- Fried onion
- Almond
- Ground sesame seeds
Snapshot
- Base oil(s): Corn, sesame
- Solids to oil ratio: High
- Flavor Enhancer: MSG IMP,GMP
- Potential allergens: Soy, wheat
- Storage: "Consume soon after opening"
Our Impressions
- Heat level: Mild
- Texture: Satisfyingly crunchy
- Saltiness: Moderately high (540 mg. per 30 gm.)
As with many taberu rayu, the crunch is the thing, and this one's got it. As expected, the main flavor here is garlic, and there are plenty of crunchy fried slivers in the mix.
The crunch to oil ratio is quite high, similar to that of the Lao Gan Ma chili crisp. Refrigerated, it almost turns into a solid.
What we enjoyed about it most was the combination of ingredients giving it a peanut-y character, even though there are no peanuts in it. We also found this to be true of the Momoya Chili Oil with Fried Garlic, which we very much liked. Both are similar, although the S&B has a tad more chili flavor.
As the label notes, heat-wise it is mild. A "spicy" version also exists for those who want a little more heat.
Ingredients
Corn oil, Chili pepper, Fried garlic, Sesame oil, Monosodium glutamate, Onion powder, Salt, Sugar, Soy sauce powder (Soy sauce [Soybeans, Wheat, Salt], Dextrin, Salt), Chili paste (Chili pepper, Salt, Rice), Fried onion, Almond, Ground sesame seeds, Disodium guanylate, Disodium inosinate, Mixed tocopherols.
Revised Formula
A "new formula" of the S&B Mild version removes the almond in favor of extra onion and an adjustment of the ratios of some of the other ingredients. It has the same UPC code, so it is a replacement, not a new variant. It will also be about 11% lower in sodium. Fortunately, it doesn't appear to detract from the satisfying level of crunch. Jars with "best by" dates of November 11, 2026 and after will contain the new formulation.
Available on Amazon.
More Information
Brand: S&B Foods, Inc.
Style: Taberu rayu
Price paid: $7.49 / 3.88oz.
Country of Origin: Japan
Manufacturer website: https://www.sbfoods-worldwide.com/lp/us/umamitopping/
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