An Honest Review of Trader Joe’s Yuzu Kosho

Yuzu kosho is a small but mighty condiment that packs a lot of heat and acidity. A little goes a long way when it comes to adding a lot of flavor to pretty much any dish that could use some acid, salt, and heat. Specifically, Trader Joe’s recommends adding its new yuzu kosho to your sandwiches, chicken wings, and even salad dressings. I think I’d also put it in miso soup and on top of my steaks. Trader Joe’s Yuzu Kosho comes in a travel-sized jar, but don’t be fooled by the stature—it’ll last you quite some time. It’s bold. Too bold? Well, let’s discuss.

The condiment has a relish-y look to it, in both color and texture. The color comes from the main ingredient, salted green chili peppers (more on that salted part in a sec). The aroma of chili peppers permeates the air when you crack open the jar. And when you taste it, that’s what jumps out right away—pepper. And salt. Lots of salt. Like, not enough that I’ll have a stroke from overconsumption. But I really don’t think TJ’s needed to add sea salt in addition to the salted peppers. There’s a little bit of yuzu tang to balance out the spice of the peppers, as well as a noticeable heat, but it is a low, slow burn. But before I get ahead of myself, here’s the full review of new Trader Joe’s Yuzu Kosho.

New Product!

Trader Joe’s Yuzu Kosho

Trader Joe’s

Pros: Chili pepper is the main ingredient and the rightful star of the show. You can taste absolutely taste that fresh, vegetal flavor, but it’s not overpowering either. In terms of heat, this easily could have been too intense. But Trader Joe’s Yuzu Kosho nails the spice level for an average consumer. I could still feel a tingle on my tongue long after trying the yuzu kosho, but it wasn’t anything that left me clamoring for a tall glass of milk. Also, and I know it’s a weird thing to focus on, the jar is perfectly sized. It can fit into any corner of your fridge and since the condiment is so flavorful, you just don’t have to use much for it to have a lot of impact.

Cons: The only gripe I have with Trader Joe’s Yuzu Kosho is the salt level. There’s a battle going on between the pepper and the salt, and I fear the salt might be winning. I know I talked up the pepper flavor, but nothing overshadows the salt. You just have to be smart about how you use this. In a dish with some creamy dairy it’ll be great, but maybe not so much on a sandwich packed with salty cold cuts.

Credit: Liv Averett / Trader Joe’s

Rating:

9/10

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