We bought this Trader Joe's Crunchy Salsa Macha on a whim months ago. It was under $5 for the 8 oz. jar, a bargain if it was good. So was it?
Main Flavor Elements
- Mostly the nuts, seeds
- Salt
Snapshot
- Base oil(s): Olive oil
- Solids to oil ratio: High
- Flavor Enhancer: Natural
- Potential allergens: Sesame
- Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place
Our Impressions
- Heat level: Low
- Texture: Crunchy, by way of seeds and nuts
- Saltiness: Low (90mg. per 15g.)
Another of the few olive oil-based ones we've seen, which we liked. There's a load of sesame seeds, sunflower seeds and pepitas. But we were quite surprised to see how little chili pepper there was in this supposed "salsa macha". The flavor here is mainly seed nuts and salt. There is little to nothing in the way of heat or spice. Pequin chile pepper, far down the list of ingredients, is barely detectable unless tasting the condiment exclusively on its own.
TJ's has another product called Crunchy Chili Onion that comes far closer to being a salsa macha. Having said that, there must be a place for this product in the world of infused oil condiments, but we aren't really sure where that is. Still, we kinda like it anyway.
We can't in good conscience categorize this as a salsa macha, so we're calling it a Crunchy Oil instead.
Ingredients
Olive oil, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, pepitas, garlic powder, dried pequin chile pepper, salt.
More Information
Brand: Trader Joe's
Style: Crunchy oil
Price Paid: $4.49 / 8oz.
Country of Origin: USA
Manufacturer website:
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