Okay, I had my doubts when Brian brought home this Trader Joe's (aka Traderjoesan) frozen rice & veggie snack. But I'm telling you, this silly little thing was really, really good. It can be found in the frozen isle for just a few bucks. It only takes 3 minutes to heat up, and though it's not much to look at (see the last photo - actual item doesn't look as good as the photo on the box, of course), it really is surprisingly tasty! So much so that I had to post an encouragement for you to try it.
The pumpkin is outstanding. We could not for the life of us figure out what comprised that "shiso seasoning". It's like nothing I've ever had, and I've had a lot of Asian condiments. I can't even begin to describe it. All I know is it was out of this world. Biggest surprise: the green beans were really hot! I'm talking a pretty flavorful kick here! It was nice to see something that says it's spicy for once be really be spicy! Then the eggplant… oh the eggplant. Next to the pumpkin, it's my favorite item in the box. So soft and tender and yummy… I wish I could have an entire plate of that eggplant. The Soba Salad with Oyster Mushroom was the only thing I didn't find very interesting or different. It was very bland, but cooked really well. You might want to put a little soy or ponzu on it to liven it up. And of course the edamame tastes just like edamame should, so we were good there. The baked tofu was great, and all three of the little rice cups were each really unique and flavorful. I loved their different textures. All in all, Brian and I both give this little snack two thumbs way up!
So if you would like to give your tastebuds an expensive, five minute treat, try this little vegetarian bento box at Trader Joe's (eerrr, Joesan's). I really think you'll like it!
The Foodie Adventures of A&B