If you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine, you probably have a go-to sushi spot where you indulge in your favorite rolls. But what if you could satisfy that sushi craving with a quick trip to Trader Joe’s? Enter the Trader Joe’s California Roll—a product that has sparked quite a bit of debate among shoppers. Some see it as a convenient and tasty option, while others aren’t as thrilled. We decided to give this controversial item a try to see what the fuss is all about.
Why We Love This
Trader Joe’s California Roll is a convenient, ready-to-eat sushi option that offers a decent flavor experience at an affordable price. It’s perfect for those times when you want a quick sushi fix without the hassle of dining out or preparing it yourself. Made in the traditional Japanese style, this roll includes seasoned white rice, fresh cucumber, avocado, and imitation crab made from Alaskan pollock, all wrapped in a sheet of dried nori seaweed. The addition of white and black sesame seeds, organic soy sauce, zesty wasabi-style paste, and pickled ginger slices make it a complete sushi experience in a single package.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1 package (205g)
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 730mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 57g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Total Sugars: 10g (includes 10g added sugars)
- Protein: 8g
- Calcium: 6% DV
- Iron: 4% DV
Ingredients
- Seasoned White Rice (Water, Rice, Sushi Seasoning [Sugar, Water, Distilled Vinegar, Rice Vinegar, Salt, Brown Sugar, Trehalose, Canola Oil])
- Imitation Crab Meat (Alaska Pollock, Water, Sugar, Tapioca Starch, Potato Starch, Egg Whites, Sea Salt, Mirin Wine, Canola Oil, Natural Crab Flavors)
- Mayonnaise (Sunflower Oil, Egg Yolks, Water, Distilled Vinegar, Salt, Sugar, Lemon Juice)
- Cucumber, Avocado
- Organic Soy Sauce (Water, Organic Soybeans, Organic Wheat, Salt)
- Sushi Ginger (Ginger, Water, Salt, Sugar, Acetic Acid)
- Wasabi Style Paste (Water, Horseradish Powder, Mustard Powder, Rapeseed Oil, Citric Acid, Turmeric, Spirulina Extract)
- Sesame Seeds (White & Black)
- Dried Nori Seaweed
What Customers Say
Customer reviews on the Trader Joe’s California Roll are mixed, to say the least. Some customers appreciate the convenience and taste, especially considering the price point, and find it to be a decent option for a quick lunch or snack. Others, however, are less enthusiastic, citing the texture of the rice or the flavor of the imitation crab as reasons for their disappointment. The debate is real, with some customers even saying they “threw it out after one bite,” while others are content to grab it again on their next TJ’s run.
How to Prepare
One of the great things about Trader Joe’s California Roll is that it’s ready to eat straight out of the package. However, to enhance your sushi experience, here are a few tips:
- Chill it: Keep the roll refrigerated until you’re ready to eat. Cold sushi tastes fresher and more satisfying.
- Dip and Spice: Use the included organic soy sauce for dipping. If you enjoy a bit of heat, mix in some of the wasabi-style paste.
- Cleanse the Palate: Use the pickled ginger slices between bites to cleanse your palate and enhance the flavors of the next piece.
Conclusion
Trader Joe’s California Roll may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it does offer a convenient, affordable option for sushi lovers on the go. Whether you’re a fan of its simplicity or prefer a more authentic sushi experience, this controversial item is worth a try—if only to see which side of the debate you land on. So, next time you’re at Trader Joe’s, why not grab a pack and taste for yourself? It’s only priced at $5.99/7.22 Oz!
