Trader Joe's Spicy Tempura Seaweed Snack

Light, crispy, and utterly abounding with umami, roasted seaweed is perhaps as close to perfect as a snack food can get. But even that level of near-perfection can be improved upon, especially when that improvement involves a dash of spicy, savory seasoning and a crunchy tempura coat. Need proof? Look no further than Trader Joe’s Spicy Tempura Seaweed Snack! They’re made for us by a supplier in Thailand, who takes sheets of nori harvested from a seaweed farm in Korea, dips them in savory, starchy tempura batter and fries them until they’re superlatively crisp, then finishes them off with a fiery, togarashi-inspired seasoning blend. Each and every bite is crunchy, spicy, bursting with savory flavor, and, somehow, better than the last.

Trader Joe’s Spicy Tempura Seaweed Snack can be enjoyed totally on its own, as a companion to sports spectation, movie marathoning, or any other occasion that calls for something satisfyingly crunchy. It also makes a remarkably apt chip for scooping up all kinds of savory dips—although we’re particularly partial to pairing it up with other maritime flavors, like ceviche. And is if that weren’t enough, it also lends a tremendous pop of texture when crumbled over salads, soups, and rice bowls.

Ingredients