This EAPC Crispy Nuts Chili came from Amazon. It popped up as a suggested product, and, being on sale, we took a chance. Normally $12, we got it for just over $9. Even from the photo in the listing, we could tell it would be a crunch fest. Let's see how it tastes.
Main Flavor Elements
- Nuts and seeds
- Sesame
Snapshot
- Base oil(s): Soybean
- Solids to oil ratio: Very high
- Flavor Enhancer: Mushroom powder
- Potential allergens: Soy, sesame, sunflower
- Storage: Refrigerate after opening
Our Impressions
- Heat level: Low
- Texture: Super chunky
- Saltiness: Moderately low (190mg. per 15gm.)
We decided to open and taste before reading anything on the jar. Not recommended for those with allergies, but we are fortunate to not have concerns. The aroma is primarily of nuts. We thought we detected some warm spice like cumin, but it was not found on the ingredient list.
The heat from the chili is subtle, almost non-existent, really buried deep in the overall flavor profile. Odd, we thought, as it's the first ingredient on the list, even before the oil.
What ended up being the biggest surprise was that this is a product of China. Although the name really gave little or nothing away, we were virtually certain this was from Mexico, due to the almost salsa macha (seca?) texture and the presence of sunflower seeds.
Its lack of MSG or other such flavor enhancers was atypical for a Chinese product, but we thought the mushroom powder brought an interesting earthy note in addition to some umami. Also notably absent: allium. No onion, garlic or shallot.
We had to chuckle at the label: "Edible methods: Mix with cold dishes or eat directly." We almost did.
We're glad we tried this one. It's unusual, and we're trying to think of another that comes close. Maybe the Cholula?
Ingredients
Chili, soybean oil, peanuts, sunflower seeds, vegetable protein, sesame, edible salt, mushroom powder.
More Information
Brand: EAPC (USA) Trading Co, Ltd.
Style: Crunchy oil
Price Paid: $9.35 / 6.7oz.
Country of Origin: China
Manufacturer website: www.eapcusa.com
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